Mckenna Grace

Mckenna Grace, born on 25 June 2006, in Grapevine, Texas, is an accomplished American actress and singer. She began her professional acting career at the young age of five and moved to Los Angeles with her family to pursue opportunities in the entertainment industry. Grace's first notable roles were as Jasmine Bernstein in the Disney XD sitcom Crash & Bernstein (2012–2014) and Faith Newman in the soap opera The Young and the Restless (2013–2015).

Her breakthrough came with the film Gifted (2017), where she portrayed a child prodigy named Mary Adler. This role earned her a nomination for the Critics' Choice Movie Award for Best Young Performer. Grace's filmography expanded with appearances in projects such as I, Tonya (2017), Captain Marvel (2019), and Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021), where she played Phoebe Spengler, a role that received critical acclaim.

In addition to her acting career, Grace has ventured into music. She signed with Photo Finish Records in 2020 and released her debut single, "Haunted House," as part of the Ghostbusters: Afterlife soundtrack in 2021. In 2023, she released two EPs, Bittersweet 16 and Autumn Leaves, showcasing her growth as a musician and her exploration of different musical styles, including pop rock and folk.

Early Life

Mckenna Grace was raised as an only child by her parents, Ross Burge, an orthopedic surgeon, and Crystal Grace, a medical sales representative. She was homeschooled and trained in various performing arts disciplines, including gymnastics and cheerleading. Grace's interest in acting began at the age of four when she received a collection of Shirley Temple films from her great-grandmother. She quickly began auditioning and landed her first commercial role at five.

The family relocated to Los Angeles to support Grace's burgeoning career, allowing her to audition for significant roles in television and film. By the age of eight, she had secured recurring roles in a notable Disney series and a popular daytime soap opera.

Acting Career

Grace's early roles set the stage for her continued success in Hollywood. She appeared in various projects, including the remake of The Bad Seed (2018), where she portrayed a young girl with a dark secret. Her performance earned praise, showcasing her ability to embody complex characters. In addition to horror, Grace has showcased her versatility by taking on roles in dramas and comedies, continually impressing both audiences and critics alike.

Her portrayal of Esther Keyes in the Hulu series The Handmaid's Tale led to her becoming the youngest actor to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series. This recognition highlighted her talent and commitment to challenging roles.

Recent Projects

Grace has continued to expand her repertoire with roles in exciting films and series, including her work in the ghostly sequel Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, set for release in March 2024. Her ability to portray younger versions of established characters has made her a standout in the industry, leading to significant roles alongside major stars.

Music Career

Grace's passion for music flourished during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading her to write and create her own songs. Her music often reflects her personal experiences and emotions, providing a glimpse into her life as a young artist navigating fame and personal challenges. She aims to connect with her audience through relatable themes such as heartache and personal growth.

Personal Life

Despite her success, Mckenna Grace maintains a private lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of having a normal childhood. She is known to be a vegetarian and has openly discussed her experience living with scoliosis, a condition she has dealt with since the age of twelve. Grace underwent spinal surgery in October 2022, which has positively impacted her health.

Upcoming Projects

Grace has several upcoming projects, including the drama Spider & Jessie and the thriller Anniversary, as well as her involvement in Scream 7. Her dedication to her craft and her passion for storytelling ensure that she will continue to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for years to come.

As a talented young actress and musician, Mckenna Grace is paving her way in Hollywood, and her journey is just beginning.