Kristi Murdock, an actress recognised for leading roles in romantic comedies, holiday films, and suspenseful dramas.
Kristi Murdock’s recent credits showcase her versatility, from the holiday hit “Furry Little Christmas” to the romantic comedy “Technically Yours,” both of which are available for streaming on UpTV.
Kristi Murdock – Passion For Acting
Kristi Murdock is a versatile actress recognised for her performances in television movies, including leading roles in romantic comedies, holiday films, and suspenseful dramas. Originally from Garland, Texas, and later raised on the coast of North Carolina, Kristi earned her Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. During her time there, she was inducted into Alpha Psi Omega, the National Theatre Honor Society. She discovered her passion for acting while working as an extra on “Dawson’s Creek” during her senior year of high school.
Kristi Murdock – Credits
Kristi Murdock’s recent credits showcase her versatility, from the holiday hit “Furry Little Christmas” to the romantic comedy “Technically Yours,” both of which are available for streaming on UpTV. She has also secured a recurring role in Tyler Perry’s “Divorced Sistas” on BET+ and stars in the independent feature “The Leader”, alongside Vera Farmiga and Tim Blake Nelson. As a proud member of SAG-AFTRA and the Television Academy, Kristi divides her time between acting and creative development in Wilmington, NC.
Can you share more about your experience as an extra on “Dawson’s Creek” and how that moment influenced your decision to pursue acting?
Absolutely. I stumbled into acting in the most unexpected, serendipitous way. I was on a weekend trip with some friends in Wilmington, North Carolina, and we were driving around town when I noticed a bunch of big filming trucks lined up on one street. I asked my friends what they were for, and they casually told me they were filming Dawson’s Creek there. I instantly lit up—I was so excited. I said, “Oh my gosh, I want to be an extra!” They told me I could go to the casting office and sign up, so I did. They took my picture and asked if I could work the next night on an overnight shoot for a fraternity party scene. I said yes without hesitation.
Kristi Murdock – Preparation
I remember going to the mall to buy a few outfits for the scene because I wanted to be prepared. When I arrived on set, I waited for a long time before we were finally brought to set—and the moment I stepped onto it, something shifted in me. I looked up at the actors, the lights, the cameras, the whole atmosphere, and it was like a light bulb went off. I just knew: That’s what I want to do. I want to do that.
I went home to Jacksonville, North Carolina, and two weeks before the deadline, I applied to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. I had already been accepted to East Carolina University. I had even picked out my dorm—but all of a sudden, everything changed. UNCW was a highly competitive school to get into, but I was somehow accepted. I declared a Theatre major before I had even taken my first acting class. It just felt like my path had revealed itself in that moment, and I never looked back.
You’ve portrayed a variety of characters in romantic comedies, holiday films, and suspenseful dramas. How do you prepare for such distinct roles?
Prepping for different genres can be a challenge, but it’s one of the things I really enjoy about being an actor. For suspense or thriller roles, the emotional stakes are incredibly high. You’re often asked to portray situations that most people haven’t experienced firsthand. In those moments, imagination and total commitment are essential. If I’m in a scene where I’m running from danger or reacting to someone I love being hurt, I have to let go of all self-consciousness and truly feel the fear. It needs to be real, both physically and emotionally.
Kristi Murdock – Authenticity
I often draw on personal experiences or emotional parallels to lend authenticity to those roles. If a character is grieving or terrified for someone they love, I think about someone from my own life who has been in a similar situation. When you place a real person’s face onto the character you’re interacting with, the emotional response becomes more layered and instinctive because of the history and relationship you have with them. For me, using something from my real life to connect with the role tends to be more effective than creating something purely from imagination.
On the other hand, preparing for a romantic comedy or a holiday film is an entirely different experience. These roles are light, playful, and often filled with warmth. They’re like a breath of fresh air. While the conflict in these stories is usually more internal, the emotional journey is just as important. The characters often start off in a place where they prioritise work or control over love and vulnerability. As the story unfolds, they soften. They learn to open their hearts and let someone in. That’s the real arc in these stories—moving from living in your head to living from your heart. And that’s something I think everyone can relate to.
You mentioned splitting your time between performance and creative development. Could you elaborate on the creative projects you are currently involved with?
In addition to acting, I’ve recently found myself drawn to the creative side of development, especially within the world of made-for-TV holiday movies. After starring in numerous films over the years, I’ve come to truly appreciate how much people love them, especially Christmas movies. There’s something so comforting about them, and being part of that joy has been incredibly rewarding.
Kristi Murdock – Collaboration
Every Christmas movie I’ve had the opportunity to star in has been a true pleasure. There hasn’t been a single moment on set where it didn’t feel special. There’s a real sense of collaboration, where everyone is working toward the same goal—to create something warm, charming, and heart-centered. That experience, time and again, has inspired me to want to make films like these myself.
I’ve started writing and developing original story concepts with the hope of producing them, ideally right here in Wilmington, North Carolina. The town has such a magical backdrop and a rich history in film and television, and I’d love to help reestablish it as a destination for uplifting, feel-good stories. I’m currently working on building a slate of holiday projects, developing pitch decks, and collaborating with other creatives. My goal is to take the joy I’ve found on set as an actress and pour that into the storytelling process, using my imagination to create films that audiences would genuinely love to see.
What was it like working alongside renowned actors like Vera Farmiga and Tim Blake Nelson in “The Leader”? How did that experience shape your craft and inspire your journey?
Inspiring
Working on The Leader was such a meaningful experience for me. Watching Vera Farmiga and Tim Blake Nelson, two actors I deeply admire and respect, was truly inspiring. What struck me most was how calm, serene, and grounded their performances were. There was nothing showy or forced—just subtle, powerful work that came from a place of deep truth. Their choices were so understated, yet they carried so much emotional weight. It was a masterclass in stillness and presence, and I felt incredibly lucky to witness that dynamic up close.
Being part of an indie film like The Leader also brought a special kind of energy to the set. There’s an intimacy to the process where everyone involved is passionate about the project and fully invested in the storytelling. That kind of atmosphere challenges you as an actor to really trust your instincts and strip away anything that feels performative. It reminded me of the importance of honesty in performance and the beauty of quiet moments.
How did your Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts from UNC Wilmington prepare you for the challenges of the acting industry?
Kristi Murdock – Education
My time at UNC Wilmington was truly foundational in shaping me as an artist. The Theatre Arts program offered so much more than just acting classes. It provided me with a well-rounded education in every aspect of theatrical production, which not only made me a stronger performer but also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling as a whole.
What I loved most was how different parts of me were able to blossom through such a variety of courses. I took a corset and millinery class, having never sewn before, and by the end of the semester, I had made corsets and hats with my own two hands. It was incredibly fulfilling to walk away with something tangible that I had created. I also took scene painting courses, which deeply connected with my original passion for art. I had once planned to become an art teacher, so painting and drawing have always been a love of mine. I went all the way through advanced scenic painting and loved every moment of it. I also studied theatrical and special effects makeup, which was so fun and creative.
Kristi Murdock – Mentors
It really felt like every class woke up a different part of me. Of course, the performance training was equally valuable. I had the privilege of studying with two professors who are still mentors in my life today—Ed Wagenseller and Dr. Renee Vincent. Ed taught me acting for the camera, and Dr. Vincent taught acting technique. Both of them had a lasting impact on my growth, and I still turn to them regularly for guidance. When I moved back to Wilmington from Los Angeles, Ed even invited me to speak to his current students as a guest in his acting for the camera class. That moment felt so full circle and deeply rewarding.
With “Furry Little Christmas” being a recent hit, what do you think makes holiday films resonate so deeply with audiences?
Connections
I think holiday films resonate so deeply with people because they tap into a sense of nostalgia, comfort, and emotional warmth that we all crave, especially during the holidays. There’s something about the simplicity and sincerity of these stories that gives people a break from the chaos of everyday life. They offer hope, love, and a reminder that meaningful connections are still possible, even when life feels complicated.
Furry Little Christmas
Furry Little Christmas was such a joy to be part of. I think what made it especially relatable was its combination of light-hearted humour, romantic charm, and the magic of the holiday spirit, with a sweet little dog to pull on everyone’s heartstrings. Audiences love watching characters rediscover what really matters, whether it’s love, family, or just slowing down and being present. These stories allow people to believe again, if only for 90 minutes, in a world where happy endings are still possible.
For me, being part of holiday films feels like giving people a warm hug through the screen. It’s a reminder that love shows up when you least expect it, and that kindness, forgiveness, and joy are always worth rooting for.
Who are some of your biggest influences in the acting world, and how have they inspired your career?
Kristi Murdock – Emotional Honesty
There are so many actors I admire, but a few have really stood out to me for their emotional honesty and range. Naomi Watts is someone I’ve always loved. There’s something so raw and grounded about her performances, and I think that comes from who she is as a person. She brings a real vulnerability to her characters that makes them feel completely lived-in.
I also tend to watch everything Rachel McAdams does. I love the projects she chooses, and I’ve often been compared to her throughout my career, which is always such a compliment. There’s something so relatable about her, and she has this ability to make every character feel both effortless and layered.
Compelling
Sarah Paulson is another actress I really admire. She has this quiet stillness in her performances, but underneath that, you can feel everything bubbling just below the surface—sadness, rage, fear, even danger. She’s in such command of her emotional instrument, and I find that fascinating to watch. Elizabeth Moss is similar in that way—completely fearless, emotionally raw, and always compelling.
And then there’s Toni Collette, who I absolutely adore. Her range is astounding. She can be the warmest, approachable, and loving character. Then in a heartbeat, she can embody someone filled with rage or heartbreak and let it pour out without holding anything back. That kind of emotional freedom and honesty is something I deeply admire and strive for in my own work.
Can you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects you’re excited about?
Proud
I have a few exciting things coming up that I’m really looking forward to. I have a couple more episodes of Divorced Sistas on BET+ that haven’t aired yet, so I’m excited to see those when they come out. It’s been such a fun project to be part of, and I’m really proud of the work.
I also recently wrapped filming a Christmas movie in Modesto, California, which was a genuinely great experience. I’m hopeful that it will air during the 2025 holiday season, and I’m eager to see how it all comes together. There’s something so special about being part of a holiday film, especially when you’re surrounded by such a passionate and joyful team.
Indie Film
On the indie film side, I had a small supporting role in The Leader, which is expected to be released soon. It was an honour to be part of a project with such an incredible cast and creative team.
And beyond acting, I’m currently developing a slate of my own holiday movie ideas. I’ve really fallen in love with the process of creating these stories, and I’m excited about the possibility of producing them in the near future. It’s been such a rewarding challenge to step into that role and bring my own voice to the kinds of films I know people love to watch.
How does living in Wilmington, NC, influence your work and creative process as an actress?
Kristi Murdock – Wilmington
Living in Wilmington has had a huge influence on me, both creatively and personally. There’s something about this town that has always tugged at my heart. It’s incredibly charming—everywhere you look, there’s beauty and history and a sense of community that’s hard to find elsewhere. I think that’s why so many people who come here to film end up wanting to stay. It has this magnetic pull.
From the cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriage rides downtown to the historic century-old buildings and the peaceful riverwalk, there’s a magic here that you can’t really describe until you experience it. You’ve got local boutiques and restaurants that people have poured their hearts into, each one unique and full of character. There’s even a riverboat that offers dinner cruises, which feels like something out of a movie. And then, of course, you have the beaches and the intercoastal waterway, where boating is a big part of life. It’s beautiful and deeply connected to nature and community.
Kristi Murdock – Storytelling
One of my favourite things is how closely knit everything feels. Local fishermen bring in fresh catches that are delivered straight to nearby fish markets and end up on the menus of local restaurants the next day. That kind of rhythm to life is inspiring. It makes me feel more present, more rooted—and that carries over into my work. Being in Wilmington allows me the mental space to reflect, to create, and to stay connected to what matters. It’s a place that invites storytelling.
What advice would you give to young actors who are just starting out in the industry, particularly those looking to break into film and television?
Momentum
One of the biggest pieces of advice I’d give to someone just starting out is not to look up at the mountain and feel overwhelmed by how far there is to go. It’s really easy to stand at the bottom, stare up, and think, “How will I ever get there?” However, the truth is that it’s just one step at a time. One foot in front of the other. Eventually, you’ll turn around and realise how far you’ve climbed—but it only happened because you kept moving. And sometimes you’ll need a little help—someone to pull you up, or give you a push when you’re stuck. That’s okay too. Momentum is momentum, whether it’s coming from within or from someone else.
Kristi Murdock – Take Action
If you feel stuck or stagnant, create your own movement. Take action. Even small steps matter. If you don’t have a project to work on, make one. Find a monologue that inspires you, something that challenges you, and work on it until it feels like yours. Then put it on tape. Film it in a way that has a cinematic look. Use a friend to sit in front of the camera and create an over-the-shoulder shot so it feels like a real scene. That’s exactly what I did when I didn’t have much footage—I just made my own. And it worked. Whether it’s Shakespeare, a contemporary play, or something you write yourself, just create and put it out there.
Consistent
Stay consistent. Do something every day, even if it’s small. Write a scene. Reach out to another actor. Sign up for a class. Acting classes are so important because your body, your voice, your emotions—that’s your tool. And like any tool, you have to keep it sharp. Practice. Rehearse. Do cold reads. Work on scenes with other actors. Just keep showing up.
And above all, find your people. Surround yourself with others who are just as passionate and driven as you are. This is a tough business, and your support system can make all the difference. When you find people who share your goals and work ethic, hold onto them. Encourage each other. Help each other rise. And don’t ever give up.
Do you have a favourite quote you would like to share?
Kristi Murdock – Favourite Quote
One of my favourite quotes is from the poet Ovid, from his poem Amores. He wrote, “Someday this pain will be useful to you.” That line has stayed with me for years, and it’s something I return to often—especially during difficult seasons in life.
As an actress, I pull so much from my own lived experiences to inform the characters I play and to connect deeply with the story. It’s through those experiences—especially the painful ones—that I’m able to bring truth and vulnerability to my work. So when I find myself going through something that feels incredibly difficult, even unbearable, I try to remind myself that this pain is a tool. That someday, I’ll use it.
Time
It helps me to stop resisting what I’m feeling and just let it move through me. To feel it fully. To trust that there’s a higher purpose for what I’m experiencing, even if I can’t see it yet. In time, I’ve learned that pain can be transformed—it can be alchemised into something beautiful. And more often than not, that beauty shows up in the work. In a scene. In a moment of connection. That quote reminds me that nothing is ever wasted.
Can you share something with our audience that not many people know about you?
Kristi Murdock – Anxiety
Something not many people know about me is that I struggle with extreme anxiety. It’s something I deal with every single day, and honestly, it’s one of the hardest things I’ve had to navigate in my life. It affects how I move through the world, how I experience relationships, and even how I show up for my work. And yet, from the outside, people might never know it’s there.
Mental health is still something so many of us keep hidden. It often feels like a quiet battle, and it can be really isolating. I’ve been incredibly inspired by people like Mark Duplass, who has spoken so openly and courageously about his own experiences with anxiety and depression. Seeing someone I admire be so honest helped give me permission to speak up, too. It made me realise how healing it can be to hear, “You’re not alone.”
Transparent
When I saw this question, I considered sharing something quirky or fun—and I have plenty of those sides to me, too—but I felt like this was an opportunity to share something that’s raw and real. My hope is that by being transparent about my struggles, it creates space for someone else to feel seen and safe enough to open up about their own. The more we talk about these things, the more we normalise them. And maybe, just maybe, it makes us all a little more compassionate toward each other.
We’re all carrying something that most people can’t see. I know I am. And I think it’s okay to acknowledge the imperfect parts of ourselves. It doesn’t make us weak—it makes us human. -Kristi Murdock
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