Xyria D. Barnes (Singer, Actress and Songwriter) was recently interviewed by TheCelebrity.Online Magazine and below is the Q&A session we had with Xyria.

Xyria D. Barnes As Cover Story Interview – January 2026 Magazine Edition

How do you introduce yourself?

My name is Xyria D. Barnes. I am a singer, actress, songwriter, and daughter of the King. As of last May 2025, I am a graduate of the University of North Texas, and I am currently based in Dallas, Texas.

What hardships did you face in life?

Born into a musical family, I fell in love with music and performing at six years old, attending my first audition that same year. Although many early opportunities required money my family didn’t have I refused to give up. At ten, I made my debut with a solo in my church’s Christmas play, and from that moment on, I knew performing was my calling.

In high school, I immersed myself in theatre both onstage and behind the scenes, deciding I wanted to go to school for theatre. I dreamed of attending prestigious theatre programs far from my Texas hometown, but when COVID hit during my senior year, financial setbacks rerouted my path. I began at Dallas College, where I earned my Associate of Arts while building my craft, learning life skills, and forming lifelong friendships.

I later transferred to the University of North Texas, earning my Bachelor of Arts in Acting. While there, I performed in weekly student scene work and acted in three student films. Since graduating in May, I’ve committed fully to the industry—auditioning in person, submitting self-tapes, and pursuing theatre, film, commercials, and independent projects wherever opportunity exists.

What do people usually not know about you?

I’m actually a bit of an introvert, which surprises a lot of people. When I’m performing, I can be whoever I want to be—it’s a safe space where everything is imaginative, and that part comes naturally to me. What’s more challenging is everything that happens before the performance: walking into an audition and immediately presenting myself as a confident, professional actress who knows her worth and her business. That’s where the nerves tend to show up.

I can find myself overthinking—wondering what casting directors are seeing when they look at me, or subconsciously comparing myself to the other women waiting outside the room. It’s easy to let those thoughts creep in and shake your confidence before you’ve even had a chance to do the work.

Lately, though, I’ve been very intentional about shifting that mindset. I’m learning to ground myself, trust my preparation, and walk into rooms as my full, authentic self. It’s about being comfortable and proud of who I am, inside and out, rather than trying to fit into what I think someone else wants.

It’s definitely not an overnight fix, but it’s a journey of growth, self-awareness, and self-trust—one that’s helping me show up more freely, not just as an actress, but as a person.

What sets you apart from others?

I am a daughter of the King. Most people in this industry claim, “Yea, I’m a Christian” or “I believe in God,” or evenhave “God first” in their bios on Instagram, but they do not live like it. Their lifestyles do not reflect the lifestyle of Christ, or even any reverence to God. There is no fruit bared through the roles they play on stage or television. One can argue that it’s just acting, but no, it’s really not. Take horror movies, for example. Those spirits, those demons that are being portrayed are real. The devil is real. Demons are real. And actors, writers, and audiences play around with it like it’s not. However, those who know, know. I am a daughter of the King. And as Matthew 7:16 says, we will be known by our fruit. Meaning a person’s true character, nature, or beliefs are revealed by their actions, behaviors, and results they produce, not just words alone. What I speak and claim to be will be aligned with the roles I take, how I represent God, and the way I live my life daily.

What are your upcoming events?

Last October, I wrapped my first independent film, Pain and Harmony, coming soon. All glory to God, production on my second indiefilm, Willow Drive, has just begun. And just as of today, January 14th, I have been cast in another indiefilm, The Queen of the South, a very new project that has yet to begin production, but I am so excited! After years of persistence, faith, and degree-earning(!), I’m extremely proud of where I am and I know that with God, it’s only up from here.

What would be your Expert Advice?

Take your time, stay grounded in prayer, and trust God’s timing. I’ve had moments where I compared my journey to those around me and questioned why others seemed to move ahead faster. Over time, I’ve learned that life—and purpose—is not a competition. We’re each on our own path, unfolding according to God’s perfect plan. Do everything you can to take intentional steps forward, but always cover those moves in prayer. When you lead with faith and obedience, God handles what you cannot. Remember, no one is racing you, but you.

Social Media & Links?

• Instagram – @xyria.d_actress
• TikTok – @itsxyria
• Youtube – @xyriabarnes103