Madison Shamoun: From Musical Roots to Hollywood Heights
- adriana
- Mar 17
- 4 min read
In this exclusive interview with Miami Living Magazine, we sit down with the incredibly talented Madison Shamoun, whose star is rapidly rising in Hollywood. Best known for her roles in the Amazon Original Series The Lake, Netflix’s BlackAF, and ABC’s Black-ish, Madison is now stepping into the spotlight as the lead in Tubi's original series The Z-Suite alongside Lauren Graham. From her roots in San Diego’s musical theater scene to her standout roles on stage and screen, Madison’s journey is a powerful testament to her dedication and drive. With a powerful voice and a gift for captivating audiences, she’s taking her career to new heights. In this interview, we dive into her exciting new projects, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and her vision for the future.
Miami Living (ML): Madison, you’ve had such a fascinating journey from musical theater to TV and film! What was the moment when you realized acting was something you wanted to pursue seriously, and was there was something about your childhood in San Diego that sparked that passion?
Madison: I remember telling my dad that I wanted an agent for Christmas when I was about 12 years old, and they took me pretty seriously. My mom enrolled me in commercial acting classes, and I started doing theater locally in San Diego. I knew I wanted to study acting in college, so going to UCLA's Theater, Film, & Television program seemed like the right choice. I think my parents would say I came out of the womb singing and dancing, so in a way I've always been passionately pursuing this.
ML: You’re the lead in The Z-Suite alongside Lauren Graham! What has it been like working with such an iconic actress, and how has your dynamic shaped your character?
Madison: Lauren is so great in this role. It’s funny, I know the show is about the generational divide between X & Z, but I feel that Monica and Kriska are not so different. They’re both ambitious, hardworking, commanding women, and I would say Lauren and I did a lot of little things wardrobe-wise, acting-wise, etc. that played into that dynamic. They both have qualities and skills that if combined would make them a powerhouse duo, and I think that’s how we shaped and evolved our characters over the season.
ML: Your character in The Z-Suite is navigating a generational clash between the C-Suite executives and Gen Z employees. As someone who has worked across different generations in your own career, how do you think this show reflects the real dynamics in today’s workplace?
Madison: I actually think this is one of those ‘tales as old as time.’ The old, ‘we’re not so different you and I.’ You can find yourself in everyone, in a way, in our show. Yes, there’s clashes when it comes to slang and vernacular, but people are just people at every age and stage in life. There’s nothing new under the sun.
ML: You’ve showcased your vocal talents on The Lake with a beautiful cover of “You Gotta Be.” How was your love for singing born and do you have any plans to explore music more in your career?
Madison: I have such a big love for Musical Theater, and did so much of it when I was younger. I think that’ll always be there, and I’d love to do a musical on Broadway. I just saw Sunset Blvd and felt the itch to perform live again. I’m always open to re-exploring that, but it’s a muscle and I’ve been occupied with tv/film. If a role calls for it, I’ll sing and give it my best, but currently no big plans to do so.
ML: You’ve worked with some incredible directors like Pamela Adlon and Catherine Reitman. How have these experiences shaped your craft, and what’s the most memorable piece of advice you’ve received from them?
Madison: This might be a slightly disappointing answer, but I didn’t have much of an interaction with Pamela and Catherine because those days on set were fast and furious. But I got to see them in action directing and I think the biggest lesson I learned was to be kind. Treat everyone on set with kindness, just be a decent human.
ML: As someone balancing multiple roles across TV, film, and music, how do you manage to stay grounded? Do you have any specific practices that help you unwind and maintain a sense of balance in your life?
Madison: I wish! I fear I operate at a pretty high level of stress, so I might not be the best person to ask, but I love a routine. It’s important to cut out time for the gym or a nap. I do make sure that above all else, I eat really well and drink enough water.
ML: With such a strong start to your career already, what’s next on your horizon? Are there any specific roles or projects you’re eager to dive into that would challenge you in new ways?
Madison: I’m ready to return to Drama. I’ve been doing comedies back-to-back and I’m eager to sink my teeth into something heavier and darker. Anything Neon or A24 would be the dream, but I truly want to do it all. Rom-Coms, Broadway, a Marvel Superhero you name it!
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