Rising actor Kya Stewart – who grew up in Campbelltown – has an interesting take on her chosen profession.
Speaking to the South West Voice ahead of the November 7 release of her latest film, Her Last Laugh, Ms Stewart says acting “makes you more humble’’.
“What I love most about being an actor is being able to walk in the shoes of other people and experience what it’s like to be someone else for a day,’’ she says.
“You get to do things you never experience otherwise, and this makes you humble.’’
Kya Stewart made headlines earlier this year with dynamic performances not in one but two Tropfest films.
She also won the World Monologue Games in the middle of Covid in 2023, and had a small role in the feature film Christmess produced by local firm Brick Studios.
But it looks like 2026 could be the springboard to bigger and better things for the young actor who grew up in and around Ingleburn.
In Her Last Laugh, Ms Stewart plays Taylor, a young woman who becomes closely connected to sisters Willow and Annika Lim as they take on the challenge of keeping alive their late mother’s casting agency Laughing Lims.
At the heart of the film is the relationship between the sisters, their complicated family history and the colourful characters who enter their lives.
Taylor brings another generation and perspective into the story, adding warmth, humour and emotional depth.
“Taylor is such a wonderful character to play because she brings her own energy and perspective into the story,” says the actor herself.
“I loved being part of a film that celebrates family, friendship and diversity while also being fun and entertaining.”
The film was written, directed and produced by Joy Hopwood, whose previous feature films include The Script of Life, Rhapsody of Love, Get a Life Alright, The Gift That Gives and A Clean Start.
“This was the second time I’ve worked with Joy,’’ says Ms Stewart.
“As a director she is very kind, and considerate, and gives actors freedom.’’
Up next for Kya Stewart is a lead role in a new series that will hit screens closer to Christmas.
Unfortunately, she has been sworn to secrecy and can’t say anything else about it, so we have to just wait and see.
But she can confirm that her connection to Campbelltown is as solid as ever.
Do you still have some links to Ingleburn and Campbelltown, and do you manage to drop in now and again, we asked during the interview.
“Absolutely, half the people I grew up with, family and friends, are still there,’’ she says.
