Kyriana Kratter Talks Joining the Star Wars Family and Playing KB in Skeleton Crew
As lifelong fans of the Star Wars universe, we couldn't be more excited for the big premiere of Star Wars: Skeleton Crew on Disney+ today, Dec. 3, inviting us into a brand new Star Wars story with two thrilling first episodes.
The series follows four kids—KB, Wim, Fern and Neel—who make an unusual discovery on their home planet, learning it's not quite what it seems, and going on a wild adventure through the galaxy on a quest to return home. Its youth-oriented approach is a new take on the beloved franchise, telling telling a coming-of-age story reminiscent of The Goonies and E.T.
It's also got an impressive cast, including Korean American actress and singer-songwriter Kyriana Kratter, perhaps best known for playing Nadine on Disney Channel's BUNK'D. Kyriana takes on the role of KB, a bright young girl with enhanced abilities thanks to her cybernetic implants. Ahead of today's premiere, we had the pleasure of chatting with Kyriana to learn more about KB and everything Skeleton Crew might have in store for us. Read our full interview with her below.
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?
Kyriana Kratter: When I was 8, I started acting in regional theater. My first role was Tiny Tim in A Christmas Carol. I performed 32 shows, and I couldn't get enough. From that moment on, I realized I loved performing. Every minute was exciting, and full of meeting and working with new and incredible people. I especially enjoyed the process of becoming a different character: the costumes, the makeup and acting preparation. It was so cool that in the acting world, you can be whoever you want to be. You could even take on a completely different persona and nobody would blink an eye! Anyways, I told my mom how much I loved it, and we found a local agent to do on screen acting.
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SH: What would you say was your first big break?
KK: My big break was winning the role of Hope in The Healing Garden. It was my first movie, and I was so excited to be on set. Everything was completely new to me!
SH: Were you a fan of Star Wars before you were cast? What does it mean to you to join such a beloved franchise?
KK: Yes! My whole family loves Star Wars. I remember lightsaber fighting with my brothers when I was younger. We had a Darth Vader head that we would play with and make scary sounds. It feels amazing to be a part of the Star Wars world! Now that the trailers are out, everything's coming to life and it's all super exciting and unreal.
SH: Can you tell us about Skeleton Crew? Where does your character, KB, fit into things?
KK: I'm so excited for everyone to see Skeleton Crew! It has the special Star Wars feel and vibe, but mixed with the Amblin movie style. Skeleton Crew is about a group of friends who go on a cool adventure together. KB is super-duper cool. She's a protector and a best friend to everyone in the group. With the help of her visor, she has some extra skills that you'll see in the show! 😉
(Star Wars: Skeleton Crew via Disney+)
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SH: Would you say you're like KB in real life? In what ways are you similar, and in what ways are you very different?
KK: When I started working on creating KB's character, I wasn't sure how robotic or machine-like she should be. Jon Watts gave me a lot of freedom to interpret KB and bring her to life. It didn't seem quite right to make her completely robotic. So, what she really became is a normal girl who is quiet, calm and reserved but will go to any lengths to protect her friends.
A common thing I hear a lot is how actors can start to become their character. The more time I spent as KB, the more I felt connected to her. We're very similar in that we're both a voice of reason and are a little introverted. We're different in that I love joking around and being sarcastic. while KB is very straightforward.
SH: What was your favorite memory from the set? Any standout moments with the star-studded cast?
KK: When we weren't filming, we would make reels of us dancing or pranking famous people on set. We also took random selfies with the coolest Star Wars characters.
(Star Wars: Skeleton Crew via Disney+)
SH: Is there anything you can't wait for fans to see in the show?
KK: I can't wait for everyone to see how KB's story unfolds. And the sets are amazing! We go to some incredible worlds. It's crazy how much attention to detail there is in every single set we were on. And you will love seeing the Star Wars creatures!
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SH: Where else can we see your work right now?
KK: You can follow me on Instagram and TikTok or YouTube for more information on upcoming projects!
SH: Is there anything else you'd like to add?
KK: Stay tuned for Skeleton Crew, premiering Dec. 3 on Disney+!
(Star Wars: Skeleton Crew via Disney+)
To learn more about our favorite up-and-coming stars, click HERE to read our interview with Alkaio Thiele, star of Wizards Beyond Waverly Place.