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Kyrie McAlpin is already making some of her biggest dreams come true. The young actress, who describes herself as energetic, kind and outgoing, got her start performing and dancing around her house for her family—and now, she's starring as young Deja in the new Cheaper by the Dozen reboot with Gabrielle Union. We *had* to chat with Kyrie to get the deets on everything behind the scenes (plus, to hear her fabulous fashion tips):

Girls' Life: Tell us about filming Cheaper by the Dozen.

Kyrie: It was an amazing experience. I got to play Gabrielle Union's character's daughter. In between scenes, we'd dance, talk, laugh—and dance some more! I actually did a video with Gabrielle [Union] where I taught her how to do a TikTok dance. 

Girls' Life: How'd you connect to your character?

Kyrie: She's a big sister and gaining more responsibility and I can really relate to that.

Girls' Life: What do you hope people love about the movie?

Kyrie: The comedy, of course! But I'm also hoping they learn that you can accomplish anything if you put your mind to it.

Girls' Life: What other projects are you working on lately?

Kyrie: I have a Christmas movie coming up this year called Blackjack Christmas. I'm super excited. I was honored to play the only child in the movie and to work with the rest of the cast. It's one of my favorite films I've ever been in. Also, in the [animated series] Doug Unplugs I play Emma Pine. I help Doug with whatever he's curious about—it's so fun and Emma's personality brings out a different side of me and I love it.

Girls' Life: What do you do when you're not acting?

Kyrie: Dancing, singing and, believe it or not, I love meditating. Meditation calms me down when I just need some "me" time. And cooking! This morning I made oat blueberry pancakes and they were so good. 

Girls' Life: Describe your style.

Kyrie: Vintage aesthetic. Maybe a cute top, some bell bottom jeans and a huge jacket that would lay off the shoulders. Then maybe some layered jewelry. But when I'm at home and just want to chill and relax and meditate, I'd just go for a comfy shirt and some shorts. 

Girls' Life: Dreams for the future?

Kyrie: Act until I'm one hundred! I've got very big dreams about that. I'd also love to be a director and produce my own movies.

Girls' Life: One piece of advice you'd give other young performers?

Kyrie: Never give up. Don't let anyone tell you that you can't do something—because you are you! You've got this.

Check out more Girls' Life celeb interviews:

⭐️ How Ava Michelle manifested her Tall Girl dream role
⭐️ Get to know Secrets of Sulphur Springs star Madeleine McGraw
⭐️ Kinley Cunningham on how she landed a spot in XOMG POP!

Image: Tamara Tihanyi-Knausz/Tihanyi Photo. Parts of this interview were edited and condensed for clarity.

by Katherine Hammer | 4/14/2022