Rising Stars: Priah Ferguson

Photography by SARAH KRICK

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?
Get on my phone, although I should practice praying first or preparing breakfast.

How would you describe your style in three words?
Feminine, trendy, and comfortable.

What’s a fashion trend you’ll never stop loving?
Crop tops or shark boots (knee boots in general).

If your life were a movie, what would it be called?
“Baby, IDK.”

Who would play your on-screen best friend?
Not sure—maybe someone who’s not really known. If I had to pick someone, maybe Alexa Demie.


What’s the most “Atlanta” thing about you?
My confidence—knowing I can do anything I set my mind to.

What was the first big role that made you think, “Okay, this is really happening”?
FX’s Atlanta with Donald Glover. It was small, but I knew his name, and the project was well respected.

What’s your favorite memory from filming Stranger Things?
I have many cool memories—probably exploring the various styles, outfits, and visiting crafty between takes.

If you could trade roles with any Stranger Things character for a day, who would it be?
Honestly, I wouldn’t want to trade roles with any character. It’s hard to imagine playing anyone else. I’ve always been anxious to see how much potential Erica has or how she’d evolve.

What’s something Erica Sinclair would never do that you totally would?
Erica is more of a homebody, whereas I enjoy my time with friends. Erica also doesn’t feel embarrassed about swearing—I’m the opposite of that and try not to use profanity in real life.

What’s the biggest lesson fame has taught you?
Sometimes it’s awkward meeting people you look up to. Famous people aren’t always who they come off to be online or in the media, which can be a shock or a little disappointing.

What’s your dream role—something completely different from anything you’ve done before?
I don’t have one specific dream role in mind because I believe that can limit the perception of my range. Roles that navigate love, friendship, identity, and class attract me—nuanced characters where the stakes are high.

Comedy, drama, action, or horror—what’s your favorite genre to act in?
Drama.

If you weren’t an actress, what would you be doing right now?
I’d study culinary to become a private chef, or maybe cosmetic science—something in the beauty industry.

What’s something fans would be surprised to learn about you?
I’m very sweet in person—more sensitive than the character I portray.

What’s your favorite movie of all time?
The Notebook.

Who’s your style icon?
Rihanna.

What’s always in your bag?
Lip gloss, hand sanitizer, gum, lip liner.

What’s a beauty product you swear by?
Sephora’s Frappuccino lip liner.

What’s your favorite thing about being a Gen Z icon?
Gen Z has so many icons to look up to that fit everyone and their beliefs. That’s what I love the most about being in this generation—there’s a space for everyone to feel included.

Finally—what’s your motto or mantra right now?
Just do it.