Isabella Leon, Trey Makai & Curlyhead Monty – Mani

By starrymag | November 16, 2021

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) What is new this season on “Mani” and, tell us about your character?

 

Trey: On Season 6 of “Mani,” the main theme is “body surfing” where two people switch bodies and then try to get switched back. I am a new character to this season playing the role of Tanner. Tanner is a skater boy and is the son of Karen and brother of Monique – all new characters this season.

Isabella: The theme is different from past seasons. My character Monique…Mean is an understatement. There is true meaning for where her meanness is coming from. It comes from the love she has for her brother.

Monty: I’m new on Season 6 and I’m a new character and I’m playing a worldwide rapper known as Rich Rice where I follow in the footsteps of my famous rapper father.

 

Q) What did you add to your role that wasn’t in the initial breakdown?

 

Monty: By reading through the script, I evoked my own emotions to get into character. However, while on set the director helped guide me in the direction for each scene as needed.

Trey: Originally, the character of Tanner was described as a skater/jock type with a big heart, and I feel like I have a similar personality. So, it was easier to play that role. Tanner’s mom, Karen (Heather Alyse Becker), is a pretty overdramatic character, so I made Tanner a bit sassier towards her than was originally written into the script, and I did that mostly through facial expressions and body language. It was a lot of fun!

Isabella: In the original breakdown, I didn’t read that she was a mean girl.

 

Q) What have been some standout episodes for you from Season 6?

 

Trey: The first episode really stood out to me! Other seasons of “Mani” have been great, but in Season 6, people switch bodies, and it’s like “woah”! The first episode really sets the tone for the entire season. There are definitely some twists and turns throughout the season!

Monty: What stands out is the characters switching bodies. I can’t say what happens to me once my character comes into play; however, you’ll have to stay tuned for more!

 

Q) Is the cast as close off-screen as they are on screen?

 

Trey: Yes, actually! All of the cast members are good friends! We are all in a group chat that keeps my phone constantly buzzing, and the group tries to hang out often! I’m not in LA full time right now, so unfortunately, I don’t get to hang out as much with everyone. But I’m hoping to change that!

Isabella: The cast is very close off screen and on screen. We all love hanging out!

Monty: While we were on break everyone was very friendly and out-going. We could talk about anything behind the scenes.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. What kind of fan feedback have you been receiving to Season 6?

 

Isabella: The response from fans has been SO good. They love Season 6! I can’t wait for them to see all the episodes.

Monty: Since my character hasn’t appeared just yet. We’ve only heard about his name in the first episode, and you’ve seen me on the trailer. However, that really hyped up the Mani lovers online. A few people were surprised to hear that I joined the cast!

Trey: Everyone is just so excited to watch the show and are loving it so far!

 

Q) Who would you love to see guest star on the series?

 

Isabella: I would love to see Addison Rae, Charli D’Amelio and Olivia Rodrigo.

Monty: One of my great friends we go way back. We even filmed a commercial together. Not sure if you guys remember the trend about Demi Lovato.  I’d love to see Candy Rain on the show.

Trey: It would be really cool to have TikTok star Markell Washington guest star on “Mani” because he is super outgoing and really funny to be around.

 

Q) What do you think it is about “Mani” that has made it such a fan favorite series?

 

Monty: It’s addicting! The show stays fresh, kids like it, and it’s fun to watch all the way through. I haven’t seen a show quite like it. It has a lot of funny/interesting moments.

Isabella: It’s super funny and definitely binge worthy.

Trey: I think “Mani” has been such a fan favorite for a lot of different reasons. Mani (Lawrence Curry) is such a great character that makes people laugh! The story lines are fun and the other characters/cast members are really likable and relatable to my generation! It’s just a great show!

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of the work you do?

 

Isabella: Thank you for watching and supporting “Mani.” It means a lot to me. Love you with all my heart! ❤️

Monty: It comes with a lot of hard work, but everything comes in due time. Believe in yourself and just do what you do. Don’t let negative feedback creep into where you doubt yourself. You are good enough!

Trey: I want to thank every single one of my fans! Without y’all, I literally wouldn’t be where I am now. I am so grateful for all the love and support! I love creating content for you guys and hope it inspires you to go after your dreams, whatever they are. Don’t ever give up! I believe in you!