Michelle Núñez: Fearless in Film, Music, and Storytelling

Photos By Storm Santos

Words By Kyra Greene

Michelle Núñez is stepping into a bold new chapter. Best known for her role as Zane on Tyler Perry’s Ruthless, she has always been a storyteller at heart. Now, she’s channeling that same depth and discipline into music. Currently in production on her debut project, Núñez is fully immersing herself in sound, using melody and lyricism to give voice to new stories. Music isn’t just a new endeavor; it’s a natural evolution of her artistry—one guided by passion, faith, and intuition. As she embraces this next phase, she continues to shape a career that is both fearless and true to who she is.

1 Your role as Zane on Ruthless has gained a lot of attention. What has been the most rewarding and challenging part of playing this character?

It’s been incredible to see how audiences connect with Zane’s journey. The most rewarding part has been portraying her resilience and complexity, especially as she navigates such intense circumstances. It’s also so special when our fans share how much Zane means to them. I am grateful to be chosen to articulate this very intricate human. The biggest challenge has been tapping into her fear and trauma while still showing her strength—it’s emotionally demanding but also deeply fulfilling as an actor.

2. Tyler Perry has built a unique and powerful creative empire with his own storytelling style. What has it been like working within the Tyler Perry universe, and how has it shaped you as an actress?

Working within the Tyler Perry universe has been an incredible experience. There’s a deep sense of purpose in the way stories are told here—stories that resonate with people, especially those who don’t always see themselves reflected on screen. The fast-paced nature of production has made me a more present and instinctive actor, trusting my preparation and letting the workflow. More than anything, it’s taught me the power of perseverance and faith in one’s vision. I feel honored to be part of something that has impacted so many lives.

3. You’ve worked alongside industry powerhouses like Joshua Jackson, Niecy Nash, and Phillipa Soo. What have you learned from working with such established actors?

I get to work alongside actors whose talent is matched by their generosity, and it’s an experience that constantly inspires me. Joshua, Niecy, and Phillipa each bring something unique—whether it’s a deep ease on set, a commitment to truth in performance, or the ability to make everyone around them feel seen. Watching them work has reinforced that the best actors aren’t just skilled at their craft; they bring heart and humanity to every interaction, both on and off screen.

4. You’ve performed in independent films that have earned awards at Tribeca and other festivals. What draws you to indie projects, and how do they differ from larger studio productions?

Indie films have a rawness to them that I absolutely love. There’s something deeply personal about working on a project where every person involved is there out of pure passion. You feel the stakes, the care, the sense of community. It’s often more intimate, more experimental, and there’s a freedom in that—both as an actor and as a storyteller. It’s a privilege to be part of stories that challenge, heal, and reveal something true about the human experience.

5. You’ve trained in music and performed poetry live. How do these artistic outlets influence your approach to acting?

Music and poetry both require deep emotional connection, rhythm, and honesty—just like acting. When I sing or write, I’m not performing so much as I’m letting something flow through me. Acting is the same way. It’s about telling the truth, whether it’s through words, a melody, or a moment of stillness. These different artistic expressions all feed into each other, making my work richer and more layered.

6. As someone who’s been in both TV and theater, do you prefer one medium over the other, and why?

They each hold a special place in my heart. Theater has this beautiful immediacy—you’re breathing with the audience, living in the moment, and there’s no second take. TV, on the other hand, allows for subtlety, for finding the smallest details that might never reach the back row of a theater but can speak volumes on camera. I think I’ll always be drawn to both because they challenge me in different ways.

7. You’ve completed over 550 hours of yoga teacher training. How has yoga influenced your work as an actress and storyteller?

Going through yoga training deepened my awareness of my body and breath, which played a part in shaping my awareness as an artist. Although I no longer practice yoga traditionally, the lessons I learned continue to influence how I approach my work. Ultimately, it is my faith that guides me, and acting, like movement meditation, requires presence—it’s all a practice, just like storytelling. After my initial 200-hour training, I continued studying by trading my time cleaning the studio after class each day. It wasn’t glamorous, but it taught me how to embrace discomfort and stay present in the moment, even when tired or frustrated. That experience reinforced discipline, resilience, and the importance of fully inhabiting my body—lessons that have shaped my work as an artist. These days, I ground myself through my faith.

8. Your meditation practice includes various forms, with non-dual awareness meditation as your focal point. How does this philosophy shape your daily life and artistic approach?

Non-dual awareness is about recognizing the deep connection between ourselves and the world around us. For me, it aligns with Matthew 22:39: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ It’s a practice of surrender and interconnectedness that helps me stay grounded and open hearted in daily life. In my work, it allows me to fully step into a character’s world without judgment—just presence, just being. It reminds me that every story, no matter how different from my own, carries a truth that connects us all.

9. You maintain an active lifestyle with rock climbing, running, and strength training. How do you balance such a physically demanding regimen with the unpredictability of an acting career?

My approach to movement has evolved over time, and these days, I focus less on a rigorous workout routine and more on what feels good for my body. When I do move, it’s less about hitting the gym and more about finding ways to reset and reconnect with my body. Sometimes that might mean a walk, a stretch, or just taking time to be present in the moment. I find that when I’m able to focus on my physical well-being, it supports my work as an actress by keeping me grounded and helping me show up fully for the role.

10. Faith and community play a big role in your life. How do you stay grounded in an industry that can sometimes feel disconnected from spirituality?

I hold onto the truth that my worth isn’t defined by this industry—it’s rooted in something much greater. My faith reminds me that every opportunity, every challenge, and every high and low is part of a bigger plan, even if I can’t see it all right away. There’s a deep sense of peace that comes with trusting that everything is unfolding as it’s meant to. Community is everything. Having people around me who see me beyond just my career, who invest in my spirit and allow me to do the same for them, keeps me rooted in what really matters. It’s this balance of trust, hope, and connection that keeps me grounded and moving forward with faith that what’s meant for me will come.

11. As an Afro-Dominican actress, how do you navigate Hollywood’s portrayal of Afro-Latinx identities, and what changes would you like to see in the industry?

I’m filled with happiness seeing the progress that’s been made, and I know there’s still work ahead. Afro-Latinx identities are so rich and diverse, yet too often our stories get simplified or misrepresented. My hope is that we continue expanding these narratives, showing the full depth and complexity of who we are. I’m excited for the opportunity to be part of this shift and contribute toward a more inclusive and authentic representation.

12. Coming from a military family, you’ve lived in multiple places and cultures. How has that upbringing influenced your perspective as a storyteller and performer?

Growing up in different places gave me a deep appreciation for people—their stories, their struggles, and their joys. It made me adaptable, curious, and open to perspectives beyond my own. As a storyteller and performer, that’s been a gift. It allows me to step into different worlds with empathy and authenticity, embracing the nuances of each character and experience I portray. Living in diverse cultures has taught me to approach each role with a broader understanding, enriching my ability to connect with others through my work. It’s also shaped my music, giving me a deeper emotional range and understanding of different rhythms, sounds, and voices that I weave into my creative expression.

13. Zoe Saldaña recently won her first Oscar. As a fellow Afro-Dominican actress, what does that moment mean to you, and how do you see it shaping opportunities for Afro-Latinx talent in Hollywood? 

It’s such a beautiful and meaningful moment! Seeing Zoe celebrated at that level is incredibly inspiring—it’s a reminder of the progress we’ve made and the journey still ahead. It feels affirming to witness her achievement, and I hope it continues to open doors, not just for Afro-Latinx actors, but for the richness of our stories to be more fully embraced and appreciated in the industry. 

14. You’ve already accomplished so much across different artistic disciplines. What’s a dream project—whether in film, theater, or another medium—that you haven’t tackled yet? 

There are so many dream projects! I’d love to be a part of a period piece that explores rich, historical narratives with depth and authenticity—something beautifully shot and deeply researched. I also have a passion for music-driven storytelling, so a project that organically blends film and music would be incredible. 

15. Beyond acting, you’re also a writer and musician. Do you see yourself stepping behind the camera in the future, perhaps as a director or producer?

 Absolutely. Storytelling is such a multi-dimensional journey—it’s not just about being in front of the camera, but also about shaping narratives from the ground up. Writing has already given me that voice, and right now, I’m really excited about my upcoming music projects. Music feels like the natural next step for me. As for directing, I’ve definitely been exploring it and am intrigued by the intricacies involved. I’ve also dived into my first producing role for a feature, and that’s been so fun. I’m stoked to share that with everyone.

Styling Tabitha Sanchez for The Only Agency

Hair Brian Gaw for Art Department

Make Up Samuel Paul for Forward Artist