If you've been keeping up with the current season of "Empire" on FOX then you've probably noticed the big Latino presence with incredible guest stars such as Pitbull performing with Jamal (Jussie Smollette), and Becky G as Valentina -- the spicy Latina looking to hit it big with Lyon Dynasty.
But early last month we were introduced to a fresh face in the form of 19-year-old Bronx native Jamila Velazquez, an actress and singer of Puerto Rican, Dominican and Ecuadorian descent. We first met Velazquez as a shy but talented young woman named Laura Calleros who impresses Hakeem (Bryshere Y. Gray) by singing a beautiful spanish cover of Linda Rondstadt’s "Blue Bayou," called "Lago Azul." Now in an exclusive interview with Latin Times, Velazquez talks "Empire," her on-screen romance with Hakeem, her future and much more.
Velazquez has been killing the role as Laura on the series and revealed it has been an amazing experience. "It's been great. It's just such a surprise and blessing to be on the show," Velazquez said.
Like many, the actress revealed she was a fan of the series before auditioning and told us that watching "Empire" is like a family affair.
"My mom actually was the one who told me to watch the show," said Velazquez. "She loves it and she loves Cookie (Taraji P. Henson). She told me 'Jamila you have to watch it.' My dad also watches it and it's like a family affaire."
We already know Velazquez can sing, but in last weeks episode "A High Hope for a Low Heaven" we got to see her perform with the girl group Ménage a Trois. The trio performed a song produced by Timbaland and Velazquez spoke of the experience describing it as a "dream come true." Check out their song below:
As far as her character is concerned, Velazquez will appear in nine out of 18 episodes of the second season and revealed that fans should expect to see Laura break out of her shell.
"Definitely expect some more growth. She's really a good girl. And so far she's been very honest," Velazquez said. "She's definitely a strong and honest young lady and you're gonna see her break out of her shell more in the coming episodes."
Discussing Hakeem and Laura's relationship she revealed that Laura has proven she's there for him and he has definitely noticed. When asked if there would be some Hakeem, Laura, Anika (Grace Gealey) drama on the way, Velazquez coyly answered, "It might be, yes. You gotta stay tuned. The drama is only gonna grow from here."
So what's next for the young starlette? Velazquez says the fans can definitely expect some original music from her and reveals she will be appearing in the fourth season of "Orange is the New Black," which is expected to arrive to Netflix summer 2016.
Make sure to tune in to "Empire" on FOX Wednesday at 9:00 p.m., EDT. Check out the promo trailer for "True Love Never," which will premiere Nov. 11.
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