Interview: Lifetime star Regina Bryant talks ‘Pushed Off A Plane and Survived’
An actress as compelling as the title of her upcoming film, Regina Bryant is a vibrant, versatile star with credits across hit series spanning over a decade. From “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Shameless” to “The Wonder Years” and “Hawkeye,” the Ohio native nails each role and is a commanding on-screen presence. Bryant is fascinating to watch, and combined with the always-exciting plots of Lifetime films, we are in for an adventure with “Pushed Off A Plane and Survived.”
The movie premieres Feb. 28 at 8 p.m. ET, with streaming available the following day. In our exclusive interview, Bryant discussed moving from Toledo to Southern California at the age of 13, her role in “Pushed Off A Plane and Survived,” and what’s on the horizon.
LIFE ENTERTAINMENT: Moving across the country at such a young age was an incredible leap of faith. What was the determining factor for your family?
REGINA BRYANT: It definitely was, and I truly have my mom to thank for that leap! I’ve been acting since I was 6, and it became very clear early on that this was my lifelong passion. My mom fully poured into that interest and never once doubted how far I could go with it. I attended an arts school, did community theater, joined a talent agency, and even won awards at a national competition, which led to my first manager and agent, all before I turned 13. That is when it became clear to me that I wanted to pursue acting professionally and was ready to commit to it fully. So my mom packed up our family and drove us from Toledo, Ohio, to California to make that dream possible. I’m still in awe of her dedication and belief in me. That move changed my life, and I truly would not be where I am today without her unwavering support.
LE: How do the opportunities vary for you among the major U.S. TV and film production markets (L.A., NYC, Atlanta)?
RB: While opportunities can differ by market, I have not noticed anything vary drastically for me, aside from the natural differences in what is being filmed in places like Los Angeles, New York City, and Atlanta. I have been fortunate to work across them, and each has been creatively rewarding! I approach every role with the same level of intention. It’s about the honesty and depth you bring to the work, regardless of location or role size.
LE: We LOVE Lifetime movies! What can you tell us about your role in “Pushed Off A Plane and Survived”?
RB: Yes!! My role, “Tess,” is strong, opinionated, independent, fiercely loyal, and serves as a voice of reason within the story. The trailer encapsulates my character being the concerned sister who is “trying to figure out the man who married her sister,” and the persistent pursuit of that is not only relatable, but thrilling to watch as well. I believe the story does a great job at following the highs/lows of intimate and familial relationships, and how that can affect your daily life!
LE: You’ve played such a breadth of characters. What are some stories you would like to tell on screen?
RB: I am intentional about choosing stories that can inspire an audience or leave a lasting impact. Whether it is sharing a story for an underrepresented community, shining light on a subject/topic that not many are aware of, or just giving someone a gut-wrenching laugh that lets them escape into the story, it is all so worth it. Powerful, vulnerable, mind-chilling, inspiring, funny, thrilling stories. Growing up, TV and film gave me hope, laughs, education, and so much more, so it would be an honor to be an inspiration to young artists and continue the legacy of storytelling that can leave an audience feeling changed and/or deeply entertained.
LE: What’s next for you?
RB: I have a few projects coming out this year that I am super excited about and cannot wait to share! I am also partnering with a production company to continue making an impact in independent filmmaking. Beyond that, I am actively auditioning, building connections, and training consistently, staying committed to growth both personally and artistically, as there’s always more depth to explore and improve on.
LE: Do you have a message for your fans?
RB: HUGE thank you to anyone and everyone who continues to support me in any capacity. I have so much gratitude for everyone who pours into me, prays for me, sends good wishes, or whom I have the pleasure of working with! My positive message of the day: Take that leap of faith you have been postponing. If you wait for every detail to be perfect or “ready,” you will never start. Leap NOW! <3
Watch “Pushed Off A Plane and Survived” on Lifetime on Feb. 28 at 8 p.m. ET. Follow Regina Bryant on Instagram @reginaddbryant.
