Janice LeAnn Brown has had quite the start to her acting career with roles that include Young Bow in Black-ish and Young Rue in Euphoria. Currently, she portrays the powerful Billie Russo in Wizards Beyond Waverly Place. Though she’s just getting started, all while savoring the present as millions watch her grow into her own—on and off the screen.

Top & Skirt by Shauna Courtney London
Jewelry by STERLING FOREVER

You play Billie Russo on Wizards Beyond Waverly Place. What about her do you resonate with the most?
I think her love for her friends and family. We both care so much for our loved ones and would do anything for them. Also, her love for lip gloss is just as big as mine!

Early-2000s babies grew up with Alex Russo, and now Gen Alpha are growing up with Billie. What characters have you grown up with?
Well, most characters I watched were older than me, but I think the one I kind of grew up with is probably Zuri from Jessie!

How did it feel to do the iconic Disney wand intro?
It felt so crazy! I used to watch other people do the wand intro and I would’ve never thought that I’d be doing the same. It felt so magical!

Top & Shorts by MASHA POPOVA
Jewelry by STERLING FOREVER

Previously, you portrayed young Zendaya on Euphoria. Who would you want to play an older version of yourself in a project?
I’d love to see Storm Reid play me or Zendaya!

What are you looking forward to in the future?
I’m looking forward to my point of view of the world and people expanding.

When times get tough, what keeps you grounded and going?
Journaling. It helps me understand my feelings and get through the tough times.

What do you love most about the craft of acting?
I love that you can just be anyone. You get to explore new emotions, and it gives you a new insight on life. I love how you can just be free.

**Left:**
Dress by MAISON DE HOE
Jewelry by STERLING FOREVER
Boots by Kate Spade
**Right:**
Top & Skirt by Shauna Courtney London
Jewelry by STERLING FOREVER

What brings you joy outside of acting?
Writing!

What do you want young audiences to take away from Wizards Beyond Waverly Place?
I hope that Wizards Beyond Waverly Place helps people come out of their shell. Trusting people can be a very scary thing for some. Billie was afraid that the Russos would abandon her, but with time, as she got to know them and as they taught her the values of family and love, she is slowly but surely healing! I hope that inspires others.

What is the best thing you’ve learned about yourself since playing Billie?
I learned that it’s okay to take your time with people.

Do you have any advice for young actors who want to break into the industry?
My biggest advice is to lead with your heart. There are going to be so many bumps along the road but just remember who you are throughout the whole way. Don’t let anyone dim your bright light.

Top & Skirt by KIM SHUI
Jewelry by STERLING FOREVER
Shoes by Sam Edelman

CREW CREDITS:
Talent: Janice Leann Brown
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz
Photographer: Aaron Jay Young
Fashion Stylist: Austin Niesner at Exclusive Artists
Hair: Tamara Tripp
Makeup: Sarah Benjamin at Streeters
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Seana Watson, Associate Fashion Editor, PhotoBook Magazine

All Eyes on Janice LeAnn Brown