IN CONVERSATION WITH KIARA ROMERO

interview by JANA LETONJA

Kiara Romero is stepping into a breakout moment as one of the rising stars of Descendants: Wicked Wonderland, the newest chapter in Disney’s massively popular Descendants franchise. She stars as Hazel Hook, the daughter of Captain Hook, bringing fresh energy and charisma to a universe beloved by millions of fans worldwide. Following the film’s release, she will join the highly anticipated World Collide Tour alongside stars from Descendants, Zombies, and Camp Rock, marking the next major step for a multi talented artist quickly capturing the attention of a new generation.

Joining the Descendants universe is a huge moment. What was your reaction when you landed the role of Hazel Hook?

It was so surreal. I had gone through five rounds during the audition process and waited over a month before I finally heard I booked it. I was actually on my way to the airport to meet my dad, so I got to tell him the news in person when I landed. It is genuinely a call that has changed my life and I couldn’t be more grateful. The best part about booking this role has been sharing the success with my parents. It is theirs just as much as it is mine. They dedicated so much time and continuously poured words of encouragement over me so that I could make my dreams a reality.

How would you describe Hazel as a character?

When I initially got the audition, I remember reading the description and seeing “British, Scottish accent”. I knew that wasn’t me and I immediately thought okay, I’m going to add some Spanish words and add my New York flair. I didn’t try to be something I wasn’t and I truly feel it’s what got me the role. Hazel is sarcastic and sassy and unafraid to say what she truly thinks. Hazel is also best dressed, but maybe I am little biased.

What do you think makes the Descendants franchise resonate so strongly with fans around the world?

I think kids can look at all the characters and find a piece of themselves in at least one of them. The whole rivalry between VKs, villain kids, and HKs, hero kids, is meant for everyone to realize maybe they aren’t as different as they thought. That is a really important message for kids. I also think music and dance unite us all. Musicals are such a beautiful way of storytelling.

Did you feel any pressure stepping into such a beloved Disney franchise?

Of course. It is such a blessing joining a franchise that people love so dearly. You never want to disappoint anyone, but I tried my best to focus on taking in the whole experience. I knew I was living in a reality I had prayed for. In the past, I hadn’t been the most present because of the pressure I put on myself. I didn’t want to make that mistake again. The support I felt from everyone at Disney also made it so easy to step into this role in confidence. They really welcome you into their family.

Your dance training is such a big part of your background. How did studying at Joffrey Ballet School shape you as a performer?

Joffrey was such an incredible launching pad for my career. Studying there prepared me to adapt in the moment and be disciplined. I was constantly challenged and I learned very quickly that in order to thrive you must be your own biggest motivator. Joffrey taught me how to manage those long rehearsal days and strengthened me mentally. I’ve carried that work ethic into every professional space I enter. I think dancing and performing will always feel like home. It’s the hours of training behind the scenes that allows performing to feel so freeing for me.

Did your dance experience help with the musical and performance aspects of the film?

Yes. I really enjoyed filming all our dance numbers. I think my dance experience allowed me to thrive on those days and push past my exhaustion. I am especially proud of Did You Hear About, my duet with Alexandro Byrd in Descendants: Wicked Wonderland. It is one big dance battle that we shot over two days. I would say it was the most challenging number to shoot, but also the most rewarding.

Do you have a favourite memory from filming the movie?

I couldn’t possibly choose one. Those three months of filming led to friendships that will last me a lifetime and I don’t say that lightly. There are very few experiences in life that can bond you in the way this project has and I am so excited to see everyone carve their own paths in this industry.

How has your Colombian and Puerto Rican heritage influenced your identity as an artist?

I am so proud to be Colombian and Puerto Rican, and thankful to have parents that instilled that pride in me. It is a huge part of who I am as a person and that naturally bleeds into everything I do, including my artistry.

Representation matters so much to audiences today. What does it mean to you to be part of that conversation?

I am so honoured to be a part of that conversation and I think it is so important. Something I am really proud of is showing off my beautiful curly hair on and off screen. I never really saw that growing up and it took me some time to feel confident with my natural hair. One detail many people may miss is that some of the tokens in my character’s hair feature the Taino sun. It is a meaningful symbol of Puerto Rico and I am so grateful Disney let me carry a piece of my culture with Hazel. I look forward to representing my heritage and empowering other young voices to remain true to themselves.

Another upcoming projects of yours, World Collide Tour, sounds incredibly exciting. What are you most looking forward to about performing live?

I always wondered what it would feel like to be on that side of the stage, and now I am about to find out. It is such a dream to be able to go to so many cities and share the joy I have for dancing and singing. I especially cannot wait for the European shows. I have never travelled to Europe before, so I am still pinching myself about it.

How different is performing on stage compared to acting for film and television?

The main difference is that in film and television you get multiple takes, but you don’t get that luxury with a live performance. Performing live means rolling with whatever challenges arise on any given night. You just have to keep going. I see the beauty in both.

How do you stay grounded while stepping into such a high-profile spotlight?

I have an incredible support system around me. I know I can always lean on my family and closest friends. It is comforting to know I have such good people in my corner as I step into these big ventures.

What kinds of stories or roles would you love to explore next?

I really admire the trajectory of Zendaya’s career. She started early on with Disney and went on to produce and find roles that felt true to her as she matured in this industry. I too would love the opportunity to produce myself one day and explore working with Latin filmmakers to uplift those stories. I am excited to see what comes next and trust that the right projects will align.

TEAM CREDITS:

photography JONNY MARLOW
hair CHRISTIAN MARC
makeup CAROLA GONZALEZ