Izzie Flórez is a remarkably talented Los Angeles actress, host, model, dancer, martial artist and philanthropist. She is well known for her “larger than life” personality and charisma. Izzie has performed in both lead and supporting roles in short films, feature, theater, music videos and national commercials. She is currently working on two new projects, soon to be announced.
One of Izzie’s first roles included a feature film produced by James Franco. Izzie is widely known for her successful Weekly LIVE IGTV Show, “Weekend Mornings with Izzie”, which focuses on fun and upbeat interviews of a variety of talents and ages. Last year, Izzie was selected by British actress, Ms. Victoria Summer, as a “Next Generation Role Model”; a result of Izzie’s positivity, enthusiasm, philanthropy and kindness.
At the age of 8, Izzie (along with good friend, Ayden Mekus), began a group of industry kids, “The LAkidsBunch” targeted toward support and FUN, amongst the pressures of “the biz.” The group has now reached over 150 members of successful artists. Izzie is also one of the youngest artists to receive the prestigious LA Artist’s Project Organization’s Medallion Award, passed down by accomplished celebrities. This award is presented to talent who demonstrate impressive abilities within their craft. Izzie was recently recognized by the Award Winning Choreographer, Richy Jackson, for her adaptation of his choreography of “Rain On Me” as well as by famed photographer, Bjoern Kommerell, for her work, on a large photography shoot.
Let’s get to know Izzie more: scroll down for her Q&A with TWK!
Hello Izzie, great to chat with you! For those unfamiliar with you, tell us a little bit about yourself and your background outside of the world of showbiz.
First, thank you so much for the interview. Let’s see: Well, people often ask if I’m truly the person I show on my weekend LIVE shows. Lol. The answer is, yes!! I love to have fun. I’m full of energy and constantly on the GO. I have the best time with my friends and I just love life! I love being crazy and goofy. I am really into dance and martial arts. I also sketch and love to make my own costumes. You can often catch me roller skating or at the beach. Oooh..and I am a HUGE foodie! Charity work is also a very significant part of my life.
Tell us why you started Weekend Mornings with Izzie and what’s been the best part about hosting that?
I actually began my weekend show as a way to keep busy, during Covid. I literally woke up one morning and went on LIVE in my pjs, lol. It was a scattered hot mess, at first. I absolutely never thought that it would grow into what it has and that I would love it so much. I find that I’m just in my natural element of being “Izzie” on the show and the guests are so varied in their talents, genders and ages. It’s a really fun way to start the weekend and it keeps me inspired. There are so many people, around the world, doing remarkable things.
Tell us about The LAkidsBunch and how other actors/influencers can get involved?
My good friend, Ayden Mekus, and I formed the LAkidsBunch in 2018. We were both new to the industry and wished to create a group of positive young actors and parents. We each connected with ten of our friends, and began the group with 20. It has now grown to over 150 and is a great outlet for networking and also just having fun; putting aside industry talk. We have members who are extremely successful within the industry and others who are just starting out. No one asks and no one cares. It’s a great atmosphere. Members are referred by other members.
You have such positive energy. What helps you maintain such a great attitude?
Well, thank you. I’m generally just a very happy and on the go person. It’s much more fun to have fun! I do have my “down” moments, of course. This industry is incredibly difficult and full of pressure along with disappointment. I have a great coach, David Tom and a wonderful mentor, Victoria Summer. I look to them during times when I need a “pick me up” because we all do, now and then. I think that it is so important to surround yourself with incredible mentors and friends along with a solid management/agency team, who believes in you. I have an incredibly encouraging team with Schuller Talent and A3 Artists agency. I believe that we all gain positivity from the energy and uplifting of each other.
What has been your most memorable moment in show biz so far?
I was on a James Franco set, at the age of six and kept running out of my mark. Mr. Franco calmly came over and my eyes grew big as saucers looking up at him. He drew a square in the sand, with a stick, picked me up and placed me in it while telling me to not move from that square. I’ve never moved off a mark, since. Lol.
Long-term career goals?
I would love to land a lead on a major network series. I’m not sure what the future may hold for me, further down the road but I do believe that I was made to entertain. We shall see!
Biggest pet peeve?
Although I should be more guarded, after being in the industry for so many years, I tend to wear my heart on my sleeve and think the best of everyone. I give others much leeway but I draw the line when someone shows their true colors to be less than kind. Unfortunately, I recently encountered a situation which absolutely threw me as I would never have thought the person to have been anything other than genuine. It broke my heart and took me a bit to get back on track. I’m still not completely over it. I suppose my answer would be, disingenuous people. I am very supportive of anti-bullying and kindness. It is sad to see others not act with the same values in mind.
What’s your favorite game and why?
I am obsessed with gaming and cosplay. My current favorite game is Genshin Impact due to the in-game visuals and open world game play.
Favorite influencer/TikToker/Youtuber?
My favorite youtuber is Mr. Beast. He is very active in humanitarian work and I find him incredibly inspiring. He gets things done and I love that! I have too many influencer friends to select only one but I admire influencers who actually DO something such as charity work, awareness, etc. Many people are beautiful on the outside. It is much more rare to find those who hold beauty within and use that to better their community.
Secret fear?
Well, IF I told you, then it wouldn’t be a secret. Lol. I never tell others my fears (wink)
What’s your favorite item in your room and why?
My bed!! It’s super fluffy and pink with tons of pillows and I love it!
Tell me something people would be surprised to know about you.
Hmm.. this is a tough one as I’m a pretty open book. I never post about this and most do not know that I am obsessed with being in the kitchen and can pretty much make any dish (with enough attempts, lol). I also love cheese, pate and oysters, to the point of even holding tastings, with my friends. A little unusual, I know, lol. My friends agree but put up with it (wink).
Did you injure your finger at one point—what happened and did you learn anything from that experience?
A couple years ago, I did have one of my fingers partially amputated by a heavy apartment door that was out of compliance and closed rapidly, with enormous force. I was in large bandages and an entire arm splint for many months. I lost my management, my agency and the entire experience was extremely painful, traumatic, along with disheartening. Unfortunately, I’m still dealing with long-term complications from the injury. You learn whom you can count on, during such moments.
The one thing I cannot live without is__________.
Love. Simple answer.
Tell me ONE food you REFUSE to eat and why?
As mentioned above, I am a foodie so I will pretty much try anything. I definitely would NOT eat worms! They are slimy, disgusting and yah.. just couldn’t do that one!
What else are you working on or have coming up next?
I have a couple recent auditions “pending” and two other new projects, in the works and soon to be announced.
https://www.instagram.com/izzie_mcg/
Photo Credits: Charlette Harper Photography, Los Angeles