Kat Conner Sterling on Playing Max and Joining the Five Nights at Freddy’s Family
Based on the success of the mega-viral Five Nights at Freddy's franchise, we had zero doubts that the Blumhouse film adaptation would be a hit, but we didn't anticipate it to be the record-breaking blockbuster it's become.
The film beautifully captured the spooky tone of the games while delivering on all of the fan lore we could have wanted, with performances that truly sell the story. Among the standout stars is Kat Conner Sterling, who plays the new character, Max. We got the chance to chat with Kat all about the role, learning about the franchise and being welcomed by fans. Read the interview below for the full scoop.
Sweety High: When did you discover your passion for acting? Was there any specific a-ha moment that made you realize it was the path for you?
Kat Conner Sterling: It has always been this sort of innate thing for me. The first memory I have is when I was about 5 or 6 and acting out the TV shows and movies I had just seen in my room. I'd actually look in the mirror and practice the lines and faces. I was just enamored with the whole idea, which is funny, because I don't have a single family member or anyone in my life who is in the entertainment industry. It was just something I found on my own! My parents were finally like, "Okay, we at least gotta put this kid in some local theatre!"
(Image courtesy of Kat Conner Sterling)
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SH: Were you a fan of Five Nights at Freddy's before you got cast? What has it meant to you to help bring such an iconic franchise to life?
KCS: As crazy as it sounds, I had no clue what Five Nights was! When I auditioned, I didn't have a full understanding of how huge it was. I was just excited to be auditioning for Blumhouse because I am a huge fan of their work! It has meant the world to me that I've been able to play a part in this franchise. It's always been a dream of mine to bring something to life that was already so meaningful to a huge fandom. Although my character is new to the universe, fans have been incredibly welcoming. I've had a wonderful time immersing myself in all of it.
(Five Nights at Freddy's via Universal Pictures)
SH: What can you tell us about your character, Max?
KCS: Max is a friend of Mike and Abby's babysitter. She has a pretty sad and misunderstood life. She has a manipulative brother who forces her into some ethically questionable situations. She and her brother don't have a lot of money, so I think that's why she was placed in the situation she was in. She really has a compassionate heart and cares about the people around her. She just gets wrapped up in some bad stuff.
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SH: How similar are you to Max real life? What would you say are your biggest similarities and differences?
KCS: So the biggest reveal that the fans have loved: I'm a real-life professional babysitter of many years as my day job! I was really able to grasp onto that and share the love and patience that Max and I have for kids. We both love and care deeply for the people around us.
The biggest difference is that I am way more outspoken. I have no problem speaking up in situations, so I'd say I'm not as easily manipulated.
SH: What was your most memorable moment from the set?
KCS: It was pretty cool that I got to wear some pieces of the animatronic suits for my final scenes! It was not very comfortable, but I couldn't help thinking how iconic it was. I also snuck my phone with me inside the suit and watched NBA games to pass the time between takes!
(Image courtesy of Kat Conner Sterling)
SH: What has been your favorite fan reaction to the series? Have you been surprised at how huge the movie has been?
KCS: I did not expect everyone to love Max the way they have. I definitely loved her, but I was just excited to be a part of the franchise. I didn't think people would grasp onto my character too much. I've had so many people reach out with fan edits and comments of the compassion they felt for her!
I also love watching all the viral memes of Max's big scene. I think they're hilarious.
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SH: Where else can we see your work right now?
KCS: I have an upcoming movie called Popular Theory coming out in 2024!
But I'm pretty active on social media, so feel free to follow me on Instagram and TikTok! I've been having fun sharing BTS content! @katconnersterling for both accounts.
SH: Is there anything else you'd like to add?
KCS: I realize the competition for a role in a franchise like this was definitely fierce. I can't imagine the number of submissions they received. I'm just so grateful to Blumhouse, Universal, Emma Tammi and Scott Cawthon for trusting me with it.
(Five Nights at Freddy's via Universal Pictures)
For more insights from our favorite young stars, click HERE to read our interview with One Piece's Colton Osorio.