Erigerta Deda is a brilliant Albanian-American actress and producer, known for The Fate of the Furious (2017), Lux in Tenebris (2017), and The Red Queen (2021).

She is the first of 4 children and grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. Her parents are both of Christian descent. Eri’s family moved to Cleveland, Ohio from Albania.  In 2017, she graduated from The Ohio State University with a B.A. in Theatre.

Eri started her modeling career at 15 years old in Boston, MA.  She is a professional voice over actress and commercial model.

In 2019, Eri moved to NYC to pursue her theatre and film career where she lives till this day.

Exclusive Interview with the Talented Actress and Producer Erigerta Deda

NY Elite: What made you pursue film making?

Erigerta Deda: I have loved movies since I was little, and I wanted to be a part of the cinematic world where I can be a storyteller with images. I have always been passionate to bring a story into visual images where I can share my point to view.

NY Elite: You graduated with a BA in Theater from the Ohio State University (OSU). Which acting technique did you find interesting?

Erigerta Deda: I was trained as an interpretive artist. Performance carries a significant creative and thoughtful process. When preparing for a role, I take into consideration the historical and cultural context of the character for a truthful and powerful portrayal.

I have studies mostly the artistic aspect of acting. In my senior year I decided to take come creative classes which would help me integrate cutting-edge film, video and media work into the study and production of live performance.

OSU gave me a comprehensive liberal arts approach to the theatre education. My B.A. degree prepared me in stage and performing arts management. I gained a rich understanding of the role of performance in the public culture.

NY Elite: What do you enjoy the most about the world of theater and film?

Erigerta Deda: In both theatre and film I enjoy the most the beauty of performance. When performing in a live theatre show, it is very exciting for us actors because we get the immediate feedback from the audience. Whereas in the film people can get so caught up in emotion that there is absolute silence and stillness in the movie theater.

NY Elite: How did Covid impact your artistic life and cinema in New York?

Erigerta Deda: Covid has greatly impacted my artistic life. I decided to stay in Manhattan because I was hoping for the city to get back on track after a couple of weeks or so. All theatres were closed, and some remain closed till this day. While in the film industry many productions shut down and some others started production mid covid with very strict precautions.

I worked on set of “The Red Queen” (2021) as Assistant Director (AD) meanwhile doing voice overs for Hulu, Channel, Disney Cruise, Poshmark. During the pandemic my voice over career  has sky rocked.

NY Elite: Which particular film maker has influenced you the most?

Erigerta Deda: I am fascinated by Meryl Streep and Natalie Portman; their performance is great. Meryl Streep is such a great actress and really captures my heart. Natalie Portman’s movies have such a wide range, and she brings a very unique approach to each character.

NY Elite: What are you latest and current movie projects?

Erigerta Deda: During the summer I worked as a wardrobe assistant in “Trial on the Potomac,” staring Rich Little about the impeachment of Richard Nixon.  It was such a great experience, and I had a wonderful time preparing actors for stage.

I recently played Norma Kerr in “The Red Queen,” a dystopian sci-fi thriller that highlights the impacts of technology and those who control it, particularly the possible effect artificial intelligence and brain implants will have on society in the future. The film will be released in 2022.

NY Elite: What was it like working with the director?

Erigerta Deda: It was a pleasure working with director and writer Glen Mitku. I always try to understand the director’s artistic vision and point of view on the film, and I do my best to accomplish that as an actress.

NY Elite: In which movies have you played lead role?

Erigerta Deda: I am still looking for the right movie to play a lead role. I am open to versatile roles with emotional range.

NY Elite: Among all your roles so far, which has been your favorite one and why?

Erigerta Deda: In a theatre production I played Blanch DuBois in “Street Car Named Desire”.

This character had gone through so much. In order to successfully deliver this very complex character I did a lot of research. I found myself drawn into the character.

NY Elite: What other hobbies and interests do you have? 

Erigerta Deda: My hobbies are watching movies, reading plays, and going to museums.

NY Elite: Are you working on your next project now?

Erigerta Deda: Yes, I am currently working on producing an independent film in Puerto Rico this upcoming spring.

NY Elite: What causes/charities you actively support or feel strongly about?

Erigerta Deda: I am a part of St. Jude Cancer Research Hospital, which focuses on children’s catastrophic diseases, including leukemia and other types of cancers. For me it is a great way to give back to our future and community.

NY Elite: What are the things in your life that you’re most grateful for?

Erigerta Deda: I am very grateful for everything that I have honestly. I have put a lot of hard work, dedication, and discipline to pursue my passion and advance my professional acting career. I have grown into a very strong woman, intelligent and a go getter. Additionally, I am very grateful for all the love and support my family has given me throughout the years.