Press Kay enters stage

Media personality Press Kay is stepping into the world of acting after landing her first film role in the upcoming movie, Redeemed.

Produced by Jamaica-born, US-based Jacinth Headlam with co-producer Pastor Otis Manning, Redeemed is a faith-based crime drama about resilience, change and redemption. Its cast mixes local and international talent - including Safaree, Malik Yoba, Cornelius Grant, Prince Saj, and Juliet 'Julie Mango' Bodley.

Press Kay, whose given name is Kaylia Williams, landed a role in the film as a TV news anchor. She says acting was a childhood dream that was rekindled after she met Headlam.

"Acting and singing have always been my passion, but I don't get enough time to explore them," she said. "When Jacinth was here for her first movie premiere - Love After Holidays - we were having a chat and she helped me to realise that once I prioritise and make time for it, it could happen."

A few months later Press Kay auditioned for the role in Redeemed and got the part. The experience not only opened the door to acting but put her on set with international names, including Hollywood actor Yoba.

"To be on a set with Yoba where he's not only playing his role but also giving us pointers, encouraging us to be our best selves, that was a big thing for us on set," she said.

Press Kay, a dancehall artiste and host, credits early training with the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) and the Jamaica Youth Theatre - and the mentorship of the late playwright Aston Cooke - for shaping her professionalism and hunger for the craft. A JCDC gold medallist, she said those foundations made the jump to film feel like a natural next step.

The Jamaican artiste described her acting debut as a "big deal", adding that she is open and ready for the acting world.

"I'm now actively looking around for auditions and opportunities and I like that the space is now growing in Jamaica where we have a lot of movies coming out of Jamaica and a lot of producers/directors coming to Jamaica to shoot their movies as well," she said.

She has advised other aspiring talents who desire to explore their passions to "go for it".

"I want to tell others who know they have the skills or talent to do other things they're passionate about to just do you," she said.

"Believe in yourself and be confident about what you're doing ... put in the work and also listen to the critics because they should help you to elevate, and not hinder you from fulfilling your passion," she advised.