PHOENIX NICHOLSON: NO CAP, ALL REAL—ON & OFF SET

We are SO excited to be launching our very first edition of Mekka Magazine’s teen issue! And who better to kick things off with than the incredible Phoenix Nicholson? He’s not exactly a newcomer – Phoenix has been lighting up screens since he was an infant, starting with his role on “All My Children” and continuing all the way to his current projects. He’s been in the business for a long time and he’s still a teen! Get ready, because we’re about to dive deep into his journey from soap opera baby to silver screen sensation!

Born on December 23, 2010, in the heart of Hollywood, Los Angeles, this rising star has already made a name for himself in projects like Once Upon a Lifetime (2021), Dhar Mann (2018), and Free Lunch (2023). But his story starts way before that!

Did you know Phoenix practically grew up on set? Both he and his dad, actor John Nicholson (V) (aka John A. Nicholson), appeared in episodes of “All My Children.” In fact, Phoenix’s first gig was at just one month old, playing the baby of Jessie and Angie! “It was wild,” Phoenix recalls with a chuckle. “I mostly just slept, but I remember my dad telling me stories about how everyone on set was so gentle and caring. It was like a big, warm family.”

Remember that adorable kid in the Home Depot Christmas commercial that ran all holidays in 2017? Yep, that was Phoenix! “My earliest memory on set was that commercial,” he tells us, eyes lighting up. “It was like, BAM! This is it. This is what I want to do. I remember the fake snow and all the Christmas decorations. It was like living in a winter wonderland. When I saw it on TV, I was so excited, I couldn’t stop jumping!”

And speaking of family, his maternal grandfather is a jazz musician, adding a whole layer of cool to his already impressive resume. “My grandpa’s always playing something,” Phoenix says. “He taught me a bit of piano, but I mostly just love listening to him. Music is a big part of my life, and I think it helps me connect with my emotions when I’m acting.”

Now, let’s talk about Curse of Vandor. Phoenix is giving us all the feels about his character, Benjamin Miller. “He’s headstrong, logical, and just… epic!” he gushes. “I’ve always wanted to play someone like him. Braving the wilderness of Vandor? Yes, please! Filming was intense. We were out in the elements, and some of the scenes were physically demanding, but it was so rewarding. The hardest scene was probably when Benjamin had to face a creature in the dark. It was all practical effects, and it was genuinely scary!” The sequel, Curse of Vandor: Revenge of the Sorcerer, is on the horizon! Get ready, people, because Phoenix says it’s going to be INSANE.

But let’s be real, balancing school, life, and Hollywood stardom? That’s a whole mood. “It’s all about balancing what I want to do with what I need to do,” Phoenix explains, keeping it real. “Schoolwork first, a little bit of time to relax, then working on my acting craft. If I’m good on both, then it’s me-time!” And what does “me-time” look like for Phoenix? “I love playing video games with my friends.

And who’s been his biggest cheerleader? His dad, of course! Plus, he’s had the incredible opportunity to learn from some of the industry’s finest. “Working with the late, legendary John Amos was an absolute honor,” Phoenix shares, his voice filled with respect. “And David Dastmalchian? He’s a master of his craft. I’ve been so lucky to collaborate with so many talented people.”

His talent hasn’t gone unnoticed! In 2024, Phoenix took home the Best Supporting Actor award from the Young Artist Academy Awards, a prestigious honor recognizing young actors from the US, Europe, and Canada. The Young Artist Academy awards are held at the Directors Guild in Hollywood. This year Phoenix was a presenter at the Young Artist Academy award nominations in Hollywood, a testament to his rising star power! He’s really making waves!

Photo courtesy of John Nicholson via Getty Images

“Working on Dhar Mann has been eye-opening,” Phoenix says. “The stories are so powerful, and I’ve learned so much about empathy and understanding. People have messaged me saying how much the videos have impacted them, and that’s incredibly rewarding.”

When it comes to fashion, Phoenix has a clear vision. “I love a good jacket,” he says. “Leather jackets, denim jackets, bomber jackets – you name it. They can pull any look together.”

As for the future, Phoenix has big dreams. “I’d love to play more complex characters and explore different genres,” he says. “And of course, playing Miles Morales in Spider-Man would be a dream come true! I see myself continuing to grow as an actor and hopefully inspiring others along the way.”

Phoenix: Quick Bites & Cool Vibes

• Born: December 23, 2010, Los Angeles, CA
• Early Start: Made their acting debut at just one month old on “All My Children.”
• Award Winner: Honored with the 2024 Young Artist Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
• On-Set Fuel: Prefers Apple Jacks cereal for a quick energy boost.
• Dream Role: Aspires to play Miles Morales in a Spider-Man film. “Imagine swinging through the city!”
• Soundtrack of Life: Currently listening to a mix of indie rock and chill beats.
• Fashion Essential: Believes a stylish jacket is the key to any great outfit.
• Chill Time: Enjoys unwinding by hanging out with friends and playing video games.

Phoenix is proof that dreams do come true, and we’re totally here for his ride to the top. Keep shining, Phoenix!

Heads up! Phoenix is doing an interview with Jacqueline Valdez on April 11th at 5:30 PM PST. Make sure you tune in! We’re all looking forward to seeing what’s next. Follow him on socials at @actorphoenixnicholson.

Feature Photo and Cover image by Freshlooks Photography