Ashley Seal - A Chameleon in the Spotlight

We speak to actress Ashley Seal about her professional and personal journey.

Photography by Noha Cho – Studio Ambient

Ashley Seal is an accomplished actress known for her dynamic performances across stage, television, and film. Her career spans various genres, and she has impressed audiences on iconic stages such as the Grand Ole Opry, 54 Below in New York City, the Chicago Theatre, and the Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles.

Flip Magazine

Chameleon

With her trademark piercing blue eyes, infectious smile, ever-changing hair colours to fit various roles, and striking features, she is somewhat of a “chameleon,” considered an asset in this profession.

Recently featured on NBC 5, a local news channel in North Texas, she volunteered for the Children’s Cancer Fund’s 35th Anniversary Gala. Walking alongside a child who has suffered from this disease, she portrayed a Disney princess and made dreams come true—a testament to her commitment to helping others.

She effortlessly portrays strength and versatility when you see her in action scenes both on TV and Film. It’s not until you close your eyes and hear her voice that you realise why she is in such high demand.

Photo by Jonathan McInnis / SAG-AFTRA

Ashley Seal – Lyme Disease

Like many, Ashley has faced setbacks and hurdles, with her well-documented battle with Lyme disease being one of the most significant. She would be the first to acknowledge that overcoming these challenges has been a valuable learning experience. It has taught her the true meaning of gratitude and living life fully. A key insight is that Ashley can relate to people’s life struggles, which gives her the opportunity to walk alongside others facing challenges. From an outside perspective, her personality, perseverance, patience, and listening skills equip her with the necessary tools to get the job done. In her spare time, she coaches other actors and supports them on their journeys.

A light-hearted interview

Ashley Seal’s brand has many components, and I can speak to this firsthand, as we met some time ago. If there were an actor’s wish list, she would have numerous accomplishments checked off. Recently, we caught up with Ashley for a light-hearted interview.

If you could only speak in movie quotes for a day, which film would you choose and why?

When I first read this, I wanted to say “Lord of the Rings” because of the line “PO-TA-TOES”, but I realised apart from that, no one would understand the Elvish lines I’d want to spew out, so I think I’ll go the romcom route and say “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days”. Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey are icons. Not only is this my favourite romantic comedy, but I also love laughing and enjoying life. This movie captures a wide range of emotions, perfectly matching the unpredictability of any given day. And if it all ends with me wearing that stunning yellow dress to an event—count me in!

Photography by – Jonathan Stoddard

If you had to survive on only one food for the rest of your life, what would it be, and how would you spice it up?

French Fries, Hands down. Slightly peppered and salted…with ketchup on the side.

What’s the weirdest fan interaction you’ve had that left you scratching your head?

I actually haven’t had one yet. I love meeting new people, and I’m always blown away when others take time out of their day to support or reach out. I believe everyone deserves to be “seen”, and even if an interaction was weird, I would never want someone to feel embarrassed or made fun of. People matter to me.

What’s your secret talent nobody knows about, and can you demonstrate it right now?

I don’t know if I’d call it a talent, but I can lick my elbow and prove that right now.

What’s the silliest thing you believed as a child that makes you laugh now?

When I was little, I truly believed that if I prayed hard enough and left my little “Precious Moments” Bible by the window, Peter Pan would swoop in and whisk me away to Neverland for a one-night adventure. And if he was booked, a ride in the Care Bears’ cloud car would be a great second choice.

What’s the most unusual thing you’ve ever been asked to do in a role?

I once had an audition where I had to convincingly battle and defeat an octopus, all on a self-tape in front of a plain blue background. I got creative and used the noodle-like plastic packaging from my backdrop stand as the tentacles and positioned my couch just out of frame so I could dramatically fall onto it during the scene. Let’s just say that with my roommates watching, I couldn’t get through the first few takes without cracking up.

If you could create a holiday that celebrates all things Ashley Seal, what would it be called, and how would we celebrate?

Everbright Eve

Date: First Saturday of December

Theme: “A night to dream like a child, believe like a hero, and rest like royalty”.

Orchestral versions of Disney classics play in the background. Candles and diffusers fill the air with scents like pine, cinnamon, and peppermint cocoa.

The Evergift

Instead of big gifts, people exchange small, meaningful “Evergifts”—a letter or token of encouragement meant to remind the other person of their magic.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received in your career?

I have a mentor in the industry who’s worked on many high-profile projects, often spending months away from his wife—his high school sweetheart—and family. During one of our meetings, I told him that someday I’d love to have both a successful acting career and a strong, healthy marriage and asked what his secret was to keeping their relationship alive. He said, “No matter how old you get, people will always throw themselves at you once you have status. So you just politely say, ‘No thank you,’ skip the night out, take a cold shower, and call your person.” They’ve been happily married for over 40 years.

What’s your go-to karaoke song, and can you give us a sneak peek of your performance style?

I love karaoke! I usually kick things off with “Alone” by Heart—it’s my go-to warm-up. Once I’ve made friends with pretty much everyone at the bar, that’s when I break out my Broadway favourites and start really working the room.

One time, my friends went all in during “Part of Your World” from The Little Mermaid— they joined me on stage with iPhone flashlights for dramatic lighting, spritzed water in the air to simulate ocean waves, and even pretended I had fins, lifting me at just the right moments. We basically gave the whole place a free show. 10/10 recommend finding friends who’ll go full Broadway backup crew for you.

If animals could talk, which one do you think would have the best sense of humour?

A goose—specifically, I’m picturing the two charming geese from Disney’s The Aristocats.

What’s the funniest miscommunication you’ve ever had while working on set?

My co-star and I were filming the final scene of a movie during a late-night shoot. We were all exhausted and a little loopy by that point. As the crew prepared this sweeping drone pan-out shot, my co-star Rusty Joiner and I, often cracking up behind the scenes, focused on staying in the moment.

Just as the director yelled “action,” another voice randomly called out “cut!” at the exact same time. That was it—we completely lost it. The problem was, we couldn’t move. So we stood on our mark, shaking with laughter, tears streaming down our faces, trying desperately not to ruin the drone shot. I have no idea why that moment hit us so hard, but something about the chaos of “cut” and “action” being shouted at once was more than we could handle at 3 in the morning.

If you could invent a new trend in Hollywood, what would it be, and how would you convince everyone to follow it?

I’ve always wanted to start a trend where actors bring strips of paper with uplifting messages to auditions—little reminders that we’re doing great, even if the “no’s” are piling up, and remind people that they are not alone. A few days before, I found myself in a long line to audition for Broadway’s Wicked; the idea really stuck with me. So, I wrote out 26 different encouraging messages and cut them out 520 times. After my audition, I stayed and walked the line—now stretched around multiple blocks—handing them out.

Some people teared up. Others told me the message they received echoed exactly what they’d been telling themselves, and it felt like confirmation not to give up. Later, a few people even saw it on social media and reached out, asking for the sayings so they could do the same at their own open calls.

That’s why I did it. And that’s what I’d love to see more of in our audition spaces—not competition, but community. Not rivalry, but real support. Cheering each other on instead of sizing each other up.

What would be the plot twist if Hollywood made a movie about your life?

Hitting rock bottom often sets the stage for the most unexpected comebacks. I’ve experienced moments that can only be described as miracles—things I didn’t anticipate and no one else could have predicted or seen coming. Just when it felt like all was lost, the story shifted. I have a saying I hold onto: “Cry then rise.” I’ve learned to do what I can then step back and watch God move in ways that consistently leave me speechless. He gets all the credit. Miracles are the plot twist if my life were made into a movie.

If you had to choose a theme song that plays every time you walk into a room, what would it be and

why?

As much as I love everything romantic and Disney princess-inspired, there’s an adventurous, edgier side of me that I love tapping into. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl is my all-time favourite movie—I saw it seven times in theatres during its first week! No other film has influenced my acting journey more. The epic love story, the adventure, the humour, and that unforgettable score completely drew me in. When I moved to LA to pursue acting, I even took up sword fighting because of it. “He’s a Pirate” song by Geoff Zanelli, Hans Zimmer, and Klaus Badelt, isn’t just my ringtone—it’s the song I’d want playing every time I walk into a room. No matter how often I hear it, it still sends me on a journey.

Ashley Seal – Podcast

Listen to; “Chasing The Lymelight,” a captivating five-part documentary series offering an intimate glimpse into the life of an actor as she navigates through the highs and lows of the entertainment industry. This fly-on-the-wall reality show-style podcast captures the essence of her journey, showcasing the challenges faced, the victories celebrated, and the lessons learned along the way.

Ashley Seal – Passion

Acting is more than just a career for me—it’s a calling. And that calling doesn’t stop when I leave the stage or step off set. One of the greatest joys in my life is helping other actors grow into the professionals they’re meant to be. That’s why I created “Acting With Ash”—a space where aspiring and working actors can receive personalised virtual coaching, mentorship, and guidance rooted in real industry experience and deep care for the whole person.

COACHING

When I’m not performing, I work one-on-one with actors of all ages, coaching them through auditions, helping them define their unique brand, and guiding them to market themselves as professionals in this ever-evolving entertainment world. My current roster ranges from 11 to 52 years old, proving that there’s no age limit to pursuing your passion.

I believe acting is a business, and it’s crucial to approach it with strategy, clarity, and confidence. When working with younger actors, I prioritise involving their parents—helping them understand and navigate their child’s opportunities in a way that keeps the experience both safe and fun.

FLEXIBILITY

I share the lessons I’ve learned from my journey, including early missteps and industry successes, with my clients to help them progress faster, stronger, and with fewer unnecessary obstacles along the way.

Flexibility is key in this industry, so all of my coaching is offered virtually, making it accessible no matter where you’re located. When convenient, I also like to offer in-person sessions. No matter the format, my mission is to show up for my clients with genuine support, practical tools, and industry insight that make a real difference.

Ashley Seal – Coaching

ACTING WITH ASH

But Acting With Ash isn’t just about skill-building. It’s about rising together. I create a space where actors can show up fully—not just as professionals but as people. This industry can be very demanding, and it can take a heavy emotional toll.

My sessions are created to be safe and supportive environments where people can express their true selves, even the parts that feel tired, uncertain, or hurt. I care deeply about my clients’ mental health and prioritise providing coaching and meaningful support. Whether someone needs guidance in dealing with rejection, finding new motivation, or simply reconnecting with themselves during a period of doubt, I’m here to uplift and encourage them.

NETWORKING

I also believe in the power of community. Whether it’s through referrals, networking opportunities, or just having someone in your corner who knows the terrain, I’m committed to helping my roster build the kind of career that’s not only successful but sustainable.

At the end of the day, this isn’t just about landing the next role. It’s about building a life you love, surrounded by people who believe in you, guide you, and cheer you on every step of the way.

CAREER

If you’re an actor looking for a coach, I’d be honoured to help you build your career, protect your spirit, and celebrate every single win.

IMDB

WEBSITE

ACTING WITH ASH

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Ashley Seal – A Chameleon in the Spotlight