Posted by Join host Olivia Lyle (@olivialyle1) for an exclusive conversation with actress Kayden Tokarski, Independent Shorts Awards alumna and co-moderator of the 2025 Spotlight Q&A Panel at Regal LA Live, Los Angeles. Interview recorded by Kyle Reed (@thekylereed).
First Time at the Moderator’s Table
Though not appearing in a film this year, Tokarski played a key role at the 7th Annual Independent Shorts Awards as co-moderator of the Spotlight Q&A Panel. Reflecting on the experience, she described it as a highlight: “It was very cool. It was my first time moderating. So I was just… honestly having the time of my life.”
An Actress on the Rise
Kayden Tokarski, a 16-year-old American actress and Youth Ambassador for Breaking the Chains Foundation, is known for both her versatility on screen and her growing list of credits across film and television. She gained early recognition playing the young version of Julia Roberts’ character in the Starz series Gaslit. More recently, she has appeared in Lifetime’s My Professor’s Deadly Secret, the sci-fi feature Roswell Delirium, and wrapped production on Bruton, where she stars as Theo Rossi’s daughter. She is also set to appear in Curse of Vandor alongside Dee Wallace.
In addition to her film work, Tokarski has even stepped into the world of Wednesday (Netflix), voicing Wednesday Addams in a national Wendy’s commercial tied to the hit series.
Balancing her acting career with online schooling, Tokarski remains active in creative pursuits beyond performance, embracing a wide range of creative outlets beyond acting.
Balancing Acting and Everyday Life
As a young actress pursuing her career while continuing her education online, Tokarski acknowledged the unique challenges of navigating two worlds. Sometimes, she said, it can be difficult to find relatability with peers who don’t share the same path. Yet she emphasized how grateful she is for the support of her friends: “A lot of my friends that do go to in-person school are so supportive. That’s the biggest thing for me.”
Staying Grounded and Creative
Tokarski spoke about the importance of balancing her love of acting with other activities that keep her grounded. “If you’re an actor, you can’t focus all on acting, because then it becomes an obsessive thing and you don’t find love and joy in it,” she explained. Beyond acting, she enjoys baking and creative hobbies that let her express herself in different ways. Her favorite treat to make? A classic carrot cake with cream cheese frosting — though she admits she’s still perfecting her tiramisu.
A Voice in the Festival Community
Tokarski’s presence at the Independent Shorts Awards underscores the festival’s ongoing celebration of young talent and returning alumni. From performing in films to moderating conversations, she continues to contribute her perspective and enthusiasm to the community of independent filmmakers.
Enjoy the interview below.
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