Lauren Buglioli is an American actress, known for her work in A Jazzman’s Blues (2022). She is also in the upcoming shows Bad Monkey and Florida Man. Buglioli is from Los Angeles.

Dress by Jonathan Simkhai at Neiman Marcus Roosevelt Field
Earrings by Alexis Bittar
Tie by Stylist Own
Rings by Model’s Own

Was there a specific moment where you knew you wanted to pursue acting?
I was born in Los Angeles and started acting when I was little. I always loved it, but it wasn’t until I took a break from acting to use my degree in early childhood education and special education that I realized that if I didn’t find a way to pursue acting in addition to teaching, I would always wonder “what if” I’d really gone for it. I finally got to a place where I realized I’m an artist and I’m just as fulfilled doing community theatre as I am on a film set. That gives me peace of mind to know I can always find a way to do what I love creatively in addition to teaching. It removed fear from the equation. As actors we’re often told “if you can find anything else you love, do it” because of how challenging this industry can be. I’ve found it’s been helpful to have many passions so I’m never waiting for the next job to sustain or fulfill me.

Your recent release “A Jazzman’s Blues” premiered at Toronto Film Festival. How was the entire process of being a part such an incredible cast?
It was moving to see such incredible talent like Joshua Boone, Solea Pfieffer, Amirah Vann, and the rest of the leads at the helm of this film. Their work in this movie is beautiful, and I felt lucky to witness it. I love to see people’s dreams come true. It shows you what’s possible and you can learn so much from just observing their work and energy on set. It was beautiful to see such talented, hardworking and humble artists in this cast in action, and I can’t wait to see where they go from here.

MANNAT GUPTA vest at Flying Solo
Pants by Dorothee Schumacher
Top by Dorothee Schumacher
Earrings by Ben Amun
Shoes by Aldo
Rings by Model’s Own

Speaking of the cast, what was it like working with Tyler Perry and his specific vision?
It was inspiring to witness Mr. Perry live out a dream and bring a script that was so deeply personal and meaningful to him to life. He’s extremely focused, driven, and kind. He also has a huge heart for creatives, and it’s clear he loves to facilitate people’s dreams coming true in addition to living out his own dream and purpose. It was amazing to see how this film came together and to witness him take it all in at the Toronto Film Festival. It’s a beautiful example of what’s possible when you believe in yourself and don’t give up.

You play Kaitlin Fox in the upcoming Netflix series, “Florida Man.” How did you prepare for the role?
I love this role so much so I admittedly nerded out preparing to play her. I interviewed investigative reporters, and news anchors, in addition to friends and family of news anchors (to get all the tea), and I studied the news. I read a lot of “Florida Man” stories that I unfortunately can’t unread. Things get wild in Florida! I also coached with the incomparable Nicole Sellars, who was a former new anchor, and worked with my coach, Lesly Kahn, and mentor, Richard Warner.

Suit by Heike NY at The Confessional Showroom
Coat by A.L.C. at Neiman Marcus Roosevelt Field
Blouse by Vince at Neiman Marcus Roosevelt Field
Tie Stylist own
Earrings Ben Amun
Shoes by Aldo
Rings by Model’s Own

What goes in your mind when choosing your roles?
I like to ask myself if it’s a story I want to be a part of telling, if it will challenge me and if it’s a team I’d like to collaborate with and learn from.

Who is someone you really look up to in the business?
How much time do you have?! I look up to Reese Witherspoon and Viola Davis. I admire them as artists and businesswomen. I don’t think I’ll ever get over Reese’s performance in “Wild” and Viola’s performance in “Fences.” I also love Sarah Paulson and Zoe Chao. I could go on and on, but I’m lucky that I’m not starved for inspiration.

Shirt by LILYSILK at Flying Solo
Suit by Dorothee Schumacher
Shoes by Aldo
Jewelry by Ben Amun
Rings by Model’s Own

You star in the upcoming show “Bad Monkey.” Do you find yourself particularly drawn to mystery-based stories?
It’s been a happy accident that I’ve been cast in mystery-based stories, as they’re what I personally love to binge watch. I love that “Bad Monkey” and “Florida Man” are both full of mystery and have comedic relief. That’s my favorite balance- when a show can keep you on the edge of your seat and make you laugh for a reprieve.

What’s a show that you have been obsessed with recently?
I love “Abbot Elementary.” As a teacher, it just really hits home for me. The cast is fantastic, and I love the writing. I also absolutely loved “1883.” It’s truly one of the best series I’ve ever seen. I loved the performances and story.

Suit and Hat by Dorothee Schumacher
Necklace + Earrings by Ben Amun
Shirt by Lafayette 148 New York at Neiman Marcus Roosevelt Field
Rings by Model’s Own

Where do you see yourself next in your career?
It’s such a wild and unpredictable business, that, as a rule, I like to keep an open mind and stay unattached to the outcome. However, I’d love to be on a long running, much beloved series, and work in film and do stints on Broadway in my time off. I finally arrived at a place where I have a lot of faith in how things are unfolding, so I’m practicing being present and enjoying the ride. It’s important to me that I look back on my life and feel like I fully experienced and learned from each moment, in a business and society that can encourage us to fixate on the future. Easier said than done, of course, but it’s something I’m always working on. I work to fight the idea that something external is going to be the thing to fulfill me or make me happy. I like to joke that I have to meditate myself into submission. I see myself staying committed to evolving as a person and artist and finding joy in the process. That’s the definition of success for me.

Social Media.
Instagram: @lauren_buglioli

CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz + @mikeruiz.one
Photographer: Dani Sax
Talent: Lauren Buglioli
Fashion Stylist: Alison Hernon
Hair: Luis Guillermo using Oribe
Makeup: Cyler
Fashion Stylist Intern: Chloe Liu
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Associate Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Sahana Srinivasan, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Studio: Egg Studios