Hollywood can be a funny thing. There are those who humbly seek fame, all the while promising that once success hits, they will still be the same, grounded person. But rarely does that happen. And when it does, it’s often looked at with a suspicious eye.
Enter The Hunger Games star Karan Kendrick. Not only has she steadfastly maintained her core values while shining in perhaps the biggest movie of the year, but she is doing it in a way that leaves no doubt about the sincerity of her quest. The talented Fort Valley, Ga., native sat down with rolling out to discuss the film, as well as the price of fame.
Tell us about your role in the Hunger Games.
I play Atala, who is the lead trainer. I am the one who is responsible for getting the contestants ready for the competition.
The excitement around this film has been incredible. How did you handle it when you first heard the news that you had been cast as Atala?
To be honest with you, I couldn’t react too much. Everything was so top secret that I couldn’t tell anyone. So it was something that I had to keep to myself for a long time. I can say that I was very grateful that God allowed me the opportunity to be in something this special, and I look back on the experience as something that I am very proud of.
You have been very outspoken about your faith. How do you balance that with the pressures of Hollywood?
My faith is something that I take very seriously. It’s what centers me; it’s what gives me peace; it’s what provides me the confidence to go out and boldly pursue my dreams. So because it plays such a key role in who I am, I have to keep God at the front of every conversation.
The Hunger Games is currently playing in theaters nationwide.
For more information on Karan Kendrick, visit www.karankendrick.com.
