We were lucky to catch up with Deja Monique Cruz recently and have shared our conversation below.
Deja Monique , appreciate you joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?
The most meaningful project I’ve worked on was my role on Law & Order: SVU. Just a week before booking the show, someone very close to me experienced a traumatic sexual assault, and they became the victim in a situation that deeply impacted me. In the episode, I played a victim who was determined to protect their family, and this parallel between art and life brought a weight and responsibility to my performance. It showed me how powerful storytelling can be, not just as entertainment but as a way to shed light on difficult truths too spark conversations and bring understanding to real-life experiences. That project taught me the importance of showing art to tell difficult stories that need to be told, it gave me a deeper sense of purpose in my craft.
Deja Monique , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
My passion for acting began in high school when I first stepped on stage and discovered the magic of immersing myself in a new world with every character I portrayed. After graduating, I knew I wanted to transition from the stage to the screen, but starting out felt overwhelming. I didn’t know where to begin and was cautious about navigating the industry without being misled. Thankfully, my cousin became a trusted mentor and guided me through the process. She introduced me to the online platforms which allowed me to submit myself for work and book modeling, commercial and TV jobs. This helped build my resume. My first headshot was taken on my staircase at home with my phone, proof that resourcefulness and determination can go a long way! I then prepared monologues, met with agents and managers, and gratefully signed with representation. My manager blessed me with an acting coach who I truly believe brought me where I am today. These early experiences taught me the value of hard work, adaptability, and the importance of having the right support system. Today I am I’m proud to bring authentic stories to life on screen and I strive to inspire others by showing that with dedication and passion even the most challenging goals are achievable.
I have worked as an actress, singer, songwriter and producer having a deep passion for everything I pursue. You can see my acting in television, commercials and feature films.
On the music side I have two songs out: “Free” and “Fighter.” I’m currently working on an album that showcases my versatility across multiple genres. Songwriting is a family affair for me. My mom and I are a songwriting duo and collaborating with my talented family brings a unique and beautiful energy to the creative process. Our goal is to share love, light, and positivity through music with meaningful messages.
Recently I co-produce and starred as the lead actress in a Christmas feature film that is in the process of distribution. I have also produced a music video for my song “Fighter”.The vision for the video concept came in a dream and I was able to bring it to life. The message within the video was so heartwarming and to be able to produce it really opened my eyes to a deeper reality. There’s so much more work in the future I am looking forward to and I’m beyond grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way. There’s no success without support!
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
To me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the process itself. Growing up, I often heard people say, “trust the process,” but it wasn’t until I started putting in the work myself that I truly understood what that meant. There are two rewards that come with trusting the process. First, the opportunity to collaborate with so many incredibly talented artists from all walks of life. You get to connect, learn and create something special to make magic. The second reward comes when the work is finished. Sitting in a theater and/or on the couch hearing and watching the reactions of family, friends and strangers who are connecting with and relating to your work. It’s an indescribable feeling. Those are the moments that remind me why I love what I do and I’ll say it a thousand times…I absolutely love my job!
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
The core mission behind my creative journey is to inspire others and show that anything is possible! No matter where you come from, your background and/or what you choose to do with your life. I want to remind people that their dreams are within reach and that there is always a path to succeed. Nothing and no one can stand in your way if you truly believe in yourself and your vision. Stay true to your authentic self.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dejamoniquecruz/profilecard/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@dejamoniquecruz1674?si=vLwpy11K9qbVzNEq
- Other: IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/name/nm11101956/“Fighter” https://youtu.be/7Zj1-z2hb7k?si=QB2tl6yZe3-mgjjb
“Free” https://youtu.be/K1u-C7hj0X8?si=J5cwBUITg-hSfRJn
Image Credits
Justin Bettman
https://www.instagram.com/justinbettman?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
Amanda Pelkins https://www.instagram.com/amandapeixotoelkins?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==