Growing up on the set of Stranger Things, Priah Ferguson learned early what takes many others years to grasp: the difference between truly living in the moment and performing that sense of living. Her breakthrough came when she joined the cast of Netflix’s Stranger Things in its second season as Erica Sinclair, the quick-witted, fearless younger sister of main cast member Caleb McLaughlin’s character, Lucas. With precise comedic timing and a bold on-screen presence, Ferguson swiftly earned both fan devotion and critical acclaim, evolving from a guest star to a series regular by the fourth season.

Ferguson began acting at 5 years old, and beyond Stranger Things, has worked on many  films including The Oath, The Curse of Bridge Hollow, and voiced in several animated series including Hamster & Gretel and My Dad the Bounty Hunter. Off-screen, Ferguson maintains a grounded perspective. “Having other interests doesn’t take me away from work,” she says. “It feeds it.” Now 18, Ferguson recently graduated from high school and is entering a chapter defined by agency and intention.

You grew up on the set of Stranger Things, which comes to a close this summer. What lessons did you learn on that set that you’ll carry with you for the rest of your life and career?

Working on the set of Stranger Things played a huge part of my life during my younger years. It reflected the values I was taught growing up while also shaping me in new ways. On many sets, younger actors typically have an “adult leader” figure to help guide them, but I came in solo on this series. My experience pushed me to be observant and educate myself beyond the craft of acting.

I use this saying, “You’re not bigger than the program.” There’s a lot of responsibility that comes with being part of something bigger than yourself. And while treating people with kindness was something that was instilled in me as a child, its importance was reinforced on set. Small respectful habits like saying “good morning” when you walk into a room or thanking the driver can really shape the energy around you and how people respond to you, no matter where you are.

How do you find humor in the mundane?

There’s a lot of power in being able to make someone laugh while still saying something that’s honest and real, especially in awkward moments. Comedy is very cathartic. Everybody should have that one aunt or friend who makes the day a little brighter with a good laugh during a heavy time. I live a real life off-screen and try to surround myself around authentic people and conversations, so my delivery comes from a genuine place and naturally connects beyond the lines on my script.

Where do you hope to see change in the world?

Change starts with the heart of a person. That’s bigger than me.

Photographed by  Kevin Amato 

Styled by Michy Foster

Written by Rachel Lee

Makeup: Erika La’Pearl at GKG Management

Hair: Ray Christopher at The Wall Group 

Production Assistant: Zoe Swintek

Location: Amato Studio