East: A Journey Through Film and Television
Starting her professional journey at a remarkably young age, East has evolved from a child model into a versatile actress capable of navigating diverse genres. From early appearances in prestige television to roles in high-profile cinematic projects directed by industry legends, her career is marked by a steady progression of challenging roles.
Early Career and Television Beginnings
East entered the entertainment industry at age 9 as a model. By age 11, she transitioned into acting with a role in the HBO series True Blood. This early start paved the way for several other television and film opportunities, including her portrayal of Jessica Darling in the film adaptation of Jessica Darling's IT List.
She further expanded her television presence with a recurring role as Val on the Disney Channel series Liv and Maddie. In 2016, she took on the role of Willow Pierce in the first season of the Audience Network drama series Ice.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Expanding into Drama and Cinema
In March 2017, East joined the cast of the ABC drama Kevin (Probably) Saves the World, playing Reese, the niece of the lead character Kevin. This role aired during the 2017–2018 television season, continuing her streak of visibility in network television.
The following years saw a shift toward more cinematic projects. In mid-2018, she was cast in the dancing film Next Level, which premiered in 2019. She followed this in 2020 with a role as Jenna in the film The Wolf of Snow Hollow.
Collaboration with Steven Spielberg
A significant milestone occurred in 2021 when East was cast in The Fabelmans, a coming-of-age drama directed by Steven Spielberg. Released in 2022, the film features East as Monica Sherwood, the girlfriend of the protagonist Sammy Fabelman. The character of Monica was specifically created for the film to serve as a fictional high school girlfriend for the version of Spielberg that Sammy represents.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Recent Projects and Horror Genre
East has continued to diversify her portfolio with upcoming and recent releases. In 2021, she was cast in the film Going Places, and by September 2022, she completed filming for the family comedy Popular Theory.
In 2024, East starred in the horror film Heretic alongside Hugh Grant and Sophie Thatcher. In this film, East and Thatcher portray missionaries of the LDS Church (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) who are terrorized by Grant's character. Co-director Scott Beck noted that because both East and Thatcher were raised in the LDS Church, they brought a natural credibility to their roles.
Key Facts
- Career Start: Began modeling at age 9 and acting at age 11.
- Breakthrough TV: Early roles in True Blood and Liv and Maddie.
- Notable Film: Played Monica Sherwood in Steven Spielberg's The Fabelmans.
- Recent Work: Starred in the 2024 horror film Heretic.
- Personal Background: Raised in the LDS Church, which informed her role in Heretic.
| Year | Project | Role | Medium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Career | True Blood | Cast Member | TV Series |
| 2016 | Ice | Willow Pierce | TV Series |
| 2017-2018 | Kevin (Probably) Saves the World | Reese | TV Series |
| 2019 | Next Level | Cast Member | Film |
| 2020 | The Wolf of Snow Hollow | Jenna | Film |
| 2022 | The Fabelmans | Monica Sherwood | Film |
| 2024 | Heretic | LDS Missionary | Film |
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age did East start her professional career?
East began modeling at the age of 9 and transitioned into acting at age 11.
What was East's role in The Fabelmans?
She played Monica Sherwood, a fictional high school girlfriend created for the protagonist Sammy Fabelman.
Which horror film did East star in alongside Hugh Grant?
East starred in the 2024 horror film titled Heretic.
How did East's personal background help her role in Heretic?
Because East was raised in the LDS Church, co-director Scott Beck stated that she brought added credibility to her role as an LDS missionary.
What are some of East's early television credits?
Her early work includes roles in the HBO series True Blood and the Disney Channel series Liv and Maddie.