Birmingham native Marcelle LeBlanc shares how she landed roles in Stranger Things, Cobra Kai + more

ICYMI: Birmingham’s got it going on. From Broadway and film icon Jordan Fisher to quickly rising stars like DeMarius Copes and Ianne Fields Stewart, our local theaters are responsible for many “first starts.” Add to the list Marcelle Leblanc— another Birmingham native climbing the ladder to stardom.

Meet Marcelle

Small projects? We don’t know her. An actress for the past six years, Marcelle has made it on screen in big-time Hollywood hits like Stranger Things, Cobra Kai, Criminal Minds and more.

The credits don’t end there, either. At only 17, Marcelle owns her own LLC, runs a scholarship program for underprivileged kids and is the state spokesperson for the Alabama Arts Alliance. As the crown on top, she also currently holds the title for Miss Outstanding Teen Alabama. 👸

That’s a long resume, but it’s just the beginning—Marcelle has several upcoming projects in the works.

Upcoming & current projects

Most recently, Marcelle was kickin’-it with co-stars in season 3, episode one of Cobra Kai. You’ll also be able to catch her in Fear Street 2 this summer on Netflix.

“I think that my favorite project that I have worked on would have to be the upcoming Netflix/20th Century Fox Movie, Fear Street. This experience was truly unmatched. I made the greatest memories and friends on set and played a bully for the first time!

This was probably one of my favorite parts of the project because it was so cool to play a character so opposite from myself. I got to build this character from the ground up, which was one of the coolest creative processes. I can’t wait for everyone to see this movie!”

Marcelle LeBlanc

Breaking Legs in Birmingham

We’re so excited to watch Marcelle’s talent be noticed across the world. But we’re even happier to hear Birmingham is partly responsible for her success.

Marcell started in the arts at Birmingham’s beloved Virginia Samford Theatre (VST). The theatre cast her as Annie in their main stage production of Annie.

“Little did I know that auditioning for this one musical would change the course of my life forever.”

Marcelle LeBlanc

She credits the supportive staff at the VST, such as Roy Hudson, Carl Dean, Michael King and the late Jack Mann who always pushed her to strive for greatness.

“I have never felt more welcomed and loved than I have by the people and community of Birmingham. The people of this city truly have the greatest spirit, and love for their community.”

Marcelle LeBlanc

Performing in Annie opened her world to other mentors and instructors as well, who helped Marcelle pursue Film, Television and Broadway.

“Amy Murphy and Meg Deusner have been my biggest cheerleaders. They go above and beyond to ensure I am ready for every audition, callback, or filming day. Without the training and love I have experienced from my Birmingham Family, I have no clue where I would be today.“

Marcelle LeBlanc

Fast Facts 🤩

• Favorite activity: Watching sunsets at Tip Top Grill
• Best eats: Paramount and Perry’s Steakhouse
• Go-to coffee shop: O’Henry’s

Want to make it to the big screen? Marcelle has advice for that. 🎬

If you’re ready to see yourself on-screen or under the spotlight, Marcelle has some tips. She recommends getting involved with organizations like The VST, Acting Out! Academy and the Amy Murphy Studio.

“The best advice that I have for anyone wanting to enter the entertainment industry is that you have to be in it for the long haul. This is a marathon not a sprint and the ‘nos’ and rejection are way more common than the ‘yes’.”

You have to be in love with the audition process because that’s the one you’ll experience the most.”

Marcelle LeBlanc

Want to keep up with Marcelle and see news on her upcoming projects? Follow her on Instagram for snaps of the city, behind the scenes shots + more!