Coral Peña
Coral Peña, Dominican and raised in Harlem, is best known for her role in The Post starring Meryl Streep, Peña landed the role in season 2 of For All Mankind. She is passionate about using her public platform to spread awareness and educate individuals on current social stands such as supporting Black Trans people.
Dress by Mila Sullivan
Where were you born? Do you visit there often? What prompted you to move to the United States? Where do you reside now?
I was born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and moved to the U.S. as an infant. I grew up with a single mom, lots of siblings, and very little money, so going back to visit wasn’t really possible. I grew up in Harlem, New York, and have lived in New York City almost my entire life. At the moment, however, I’m filming the third season of For All Mankind in Los Angeles.
When did you first get initiated into the entertainment industry? Who inspired you to pursue acting?
I didn’t really know that acting could be a real career until I realized I could study drama in college. Then it all slowly started to click. Once I got into NYU Tisch, the rest sort of fell into place. There are so many actors and filmmakers who have inspired me, but in a broader, more important way, I’d say it’s my Mom and my sisters who have inspired (and encouraged) me to be fearless and pursue what I love.
Tell us about your character of Aleida Rosales in For All Mankind. Did you find it easy to relate to her? What were some of the favorite traits you found while portraying her?
Aleida is the daughter of two loving Mexican parents, who came to the U.S. in the hope that living here would provide their daughter with the opportunity. To thrive. I can absolutely relate to that.
Aleida’s family did not have the opportunity to come to this country legally, and legal immigration is a privilege that comes down to at least one of two things: money and/or luck. Mine was luck.
Aleida and I share the immigrant experience, although hers is filled with a certain type of fear and trauma that can only come from her means of getting to this country. Though I empathize with her struggle, to a certain extent, being “illegal” in the country you call home is something no one can fully understand unless you’ve experienced it.
What have been some of your favorite parts about working on For All Mankind? How do you get along with your castmates?
Oh, how I love this cast. Not only was everyone incredibly welcoming when I first joined the show, and not only is everyone encouraging and loving, but the talent in this cast is ridiculous. Every day I get to act on this set, my scene partners blow me away. I’ve really learned so much as an actor from watching my castmates perform.
What future do you see for the show For All Mankind? Has season 3 been confirmed?
We were picked up for season 3 before we even aired season 2, which was extremely exciting. So, I don’t have to tell you much about the future other than you’ll get it when you watch it, ha!
Top by Mila Sullivan
Jewelry by Stylist Own
From your social media, it seems that you are highly active and passionate about spreading awareness about current issues. Tell us about what you stand for and what you as an individual are doing to help make a change?
I wouldn’t call it a passion. I just have to speak up for my own survival.
How have you incorporated your heritage into who you are today, and how you represent yourself?
I don’t have to do much to incorporate my heritage into my work. I am who I am, and that speaks for itself no matter what roles I play and what spaces I occupy.
What do you find most important when being a part of this industry, where it is essential to stand out and be unique?
Just be yourself and don’t lose sight of what makes you happy.
Where do you see yourself five years from now? Is there anything special you would like to see for yourself?
My goal has and will always just be to work. Work is both the goal and the reward. So, in five years I hope I’m working with people who also love what they do.
Who is your inspiration?
As a person, my mom and grandmother. As an artist: Celia Cruz, Regina King, Javier Bardem, Carrie Coon, Ennio Morricone, Anthony Hopkins, Sidney Lumet, Martin Sheen, Boots Riley, Benicio Del Toro, James Baldwin, El General Dolly Parton.
11. Can you link us with your social media?
I can...but do I want to? Just kidding! Social media is a bore and a chore but if you are curious you can find me on Instagram @Coral and Twitter @fakecoralpena.
CREW CREDITS:
Photographer: Kimberly Molina
Talent: Coral Peña
Assistant: Raphael Molina
Stylist: Dustin Connor Ellis
Makeup: Atlanta Kemsley
Hair: Doug Mengert
Tearsheets: Isabella Grieco, Graphic Design, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview: Maya Wilson, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
