Kylie Cantrall -

Kylie Cantrall

stars in film:

Descendants:

Wicked Wonderland

As Red, the fearless daughter of the Queen of Hearts in Disney’s Descendants: Wicked Wonderland, Kylie Cantrall continues to captivate a new generation of fans. With her new EP, Valley Girl Problems, now out, the actress and singer opens up about confidence, growing up online, creative risks, and finding her own voice.

Jacket and Capri leggings: 3.1 Phillip Lim, Heels: Paul Andrew

Your generation has grown up online. What’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self before posting that very first photo or video?

Well, I truly think I’m the first generation that grew up with social media. I was on TikTok (back then it was called Musical.ly) religiously from age 8 and on. So, most of my childhood memories are focused around posting dance videos during lunch at school, at sleepovers, and pool parties, etc. So, I’ve been aware that whatever you post can potentially live forever (including most of my embarrassing 8-year-old videos lol), but I honestly look back at those younger videos of myself and I kind of admire how shameless I was with sharing so much of myself with the world and never caring about what people had to say about it. TBH, I’m trying to get back to my 8-year-old confidence every day.

Dress: Zimmerman, Boots: Anonymous Copenhagen

Your new single draws inspiration from Sex and the City, a series that became a cultural touchstone for an entire generation. What was it about that world, or those characters, that inspired you to reinterpret it through your own voice and generation?

I was going through my first real breakup around 18 and decided I’d binge the show. Idk exactly what it was that made me resonate with Carrie, but I fell in love with how messy her personal life was, but somehow she always “looked” like she was holding it together. She kind of taught me that if you have the perfect set of heels, you’ll look good running away from all your problems.

Your recent music feels confident, cinematic, and very story-driven. As you continue to evolve as an artist, what themes or emotions are you most excited to explore, and what do you hope listeners discover about you beyond your acting career?

Well, I’m releasing my new EP, “Valley Girl Problems.” It chronicles my life over the past year, from the highs of setting out on a 43-city arena tour to the lows of dealing with heartbreak, all while navigating the streets of the Valley (and life as a now 21-year-old) in my convertible Mini Cooper.

Dress: Stella McCartney

Corset Body Suit: Kelsey Randall

What has been the biggest lesson you’ve taken away from becoming part of the Descendants universe?

I think it’s patience. We shot this movie almost 2 years ago, so I’ve been dying for the world to see it. I feel like the cast and I have been holding onto a secret from everyone, but I can confidently say this film was worth the wait.

Coat: Zimmerman, Tights: Calzedonia, Heels: Larroude

Your fans often see the polished version of your life. What’s something behind the scenes that reminds you you’re still figuring things out like everyone else?

Even though it might come across like I have things figured out when it comes to my career, I truly feel like in every other area of my life I’m an absolute beginner. I still manage to almost set my house on fire any time I try to cook a basic meal, parking still feels like rocket science, and dating is very complicated.

Vintage Stylist’s Own, Sweater Top: 3.1 Phillip Lim, Heels: Betzabe

Jacket and Capri leggings: 3.1 Phillip Lim, Heels: Paul Andrew

Music and acting both tell stories. Which one allows you to reveal the most authentic version of yourself, and why?

It’s definitely music.

In acting, you’re a piece of the puzzle hired to bring your character to life. You work hard and deliver the words written in the script.

But in music, you have to be willing to expose so much of yourself. Sometimes it’s light and fun, sometimes it’s personal and gut-wrenching. But it’s always “you,” so you can’t hide behind a red wig and a cast of hundreds.

Coat: Zimmerman, Tights: Calzedonia, Heels: Larroude

If a young fan walked away from Descendants remembering just one message from your character, what would you hope it would be?

I would have to say “inspiration.” My earliest memories of music all lead back to Disney. I can remember playing Lemonade Mouth CDs in my bedroom, singing at the top of my lungs, dancing in the mirror, and believing I was standing on stage in front of a sea of screaming fans. I get so excited thinking about the next generation of aspiring singers grabbing a hairbrush and belting out “Who I Am.” It makes me emotional.

Dress: Zimmerman, Boots: Anonymous Copenhagen

Looking ahead, what’s one creative risk you’re hoping to take that people might not expect from you?

I wish it was just one, haha. I feel like everything I’m doing is a risk, from my wardrobe to the songs I’m putting out. Everyone on my team is constantly saying, “Are you sure this is what you want to do?” So it all feels like a risk, but I wouldn’t be an artist if I didn’t feel like I had to put it all out there.

Between long filming days, performances, and travel, maintaining healthy skin isn’t always easy. What skincare habits and beauty products have become your non-negotiables, and what advice would you share with young fans who want to build a simple, effective skincare routine while balancing school, work, sports, or other busy schedules?

If there is one thing I would say is a non-negotiable, it would have to be moisturizer. My makeup artist, Robert, put me on to Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Moisturizer two years ago, and it has literally eliminated my dry skin. And now that I’m in my 20s, I’m already putting “keeping my skin looking young” at the top of my list.

Photography

Ali Mitton

Creative Director & Fashion Editor

Deborah Ferguson

Makeup

Rachel Goodwin @ A-Frame Agency

Hair

Ryan Taniguchi

Web layout

Jill Ryan

Thank you

Disney Studios & Jill Fritzo PR