Photographer: Ben Ritter    Stylist: Michelle McCool  

 MUA Natasha Smee    Hair stylist: Corey Tuttle

Actress Anabella  Raye who will soon appear in Spectrum/BET’s “Long Slow Exhale,” a mystery drama set in the world of women’s basketball. Anabella will play ‘Kate Ford,’ opposite Rose Rollins and Lyriq Bent, in the series that follows the head coach of a competitive women's college basketball team who finds herself in the middle of a career-shattering sexual abuse scandal. “Long Slow Exhale” will premiere exclusively on Spectrum available on-demand, free and without ads.

You are co starring in Spectrum/BET's Long Slow Exhale. Please tell me how you landed this role? What are some of the things you enjoyed playing this character?

My audition was via zoom, and I remember frantically trying to stack books on top of one another to create a stand for my computer. I spent most of the audition hoping that the stack wouldn’t topple over. Despite my stress about my setup, the audition was a lot of fun, and the casting director was wonderful to work with. I enjoyed playing Kate on the show because she is in a very complex emotional state. Not only is she dealing with immensely complicated grief, but she is also questioning who she can trust. 

What was it like off-set for you and the cast members? Where did you film? What was your favorite dish?

All of the actors I worked with were so wonderful, and I really enjoyed getting to know them while filming. We shot in Atlanta, and I loved exploring the city and trying new restaurants. After I wrapped I went to South City Kitchen and had a celebratory dinner of amazing fried chicken and a peach upside-down cake. I may need to make another trip to Atlanta just to go back to that restaurant.

What was your first role ever and how did it make you feel about your career moving forward?

My first professional acting role was a guest star spot on EPIX’s Graves, and I was really nervous. It felt like a baptism by fire, and I realized I had to learn very quickly. My experience on set, though, was very positive and reaffirmed my choice to pursue acting as a career. I remember finishing that first job and feeling so excited about what was to come. 

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

‘Acting in projects that I feel passionate about, traveling, and continuing to spend time with my family and friends. Also, most likely owning too many dogs.’

What's your beauty routine like from am to pm?

In the morning I use a cleanser, toner, moisturizer, sunscreen, and makeup if I am feeling like it that day. I have recently become obsessed with the Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in the shade “Hope”. It’s the perfect natural shade. At night, I take off my makeup, double cleanse (TikTok taught me that was a thing?), and apply toner, moisturizer, eye cream, and retinol. My final step in getting ready for bed is applying a Laneige lip mask, which feels like a lovely little self-care ritual for me. 

How can fans follow and support your work via social media platforms? Are you actually on them?

You can follow me on Instagram! My account name is @anabellaraye. 

If you could be casted in the most perfect project next week, what would it be and who would be your co-stars?

I would love to work on a project similar to the show Big Little Lies. In fact, working with that whole cast would be a dream!