Lights, camera, action! The stage is set for an eagerly anticipated return as April 2nd marks the release of season two of "Lopez v. Lopez.” At the heart of this production stands Mayan Lopez, a multifaceted talent who not only shines as an actress and producer but also serves as the creative force behind the show. Being the daughter of the well-known actor George Lopez, Mayan has embraced acting, particularly by creating a show that, in some aspects, mirrors her relationship with her father and her upbringing. But Mayan Lopez's talents extend beyond the realm of entertainment as she has consistently made space to confront one of society's most pressing issues: mental health. With a commitment to raising awareness and fostering understanding, Mayan uses her platform to initiate crucial conversations and advocate for change. Join us as we delve deeper into the life and work of Mayan Lopez, exploring the intricacies of her creative process, her influences, and her dedication to addressing social issues.

Where are you based?
Los Angeles

What inspired you to pursue a career in the entertainment industry?
I was exposed to the entertainment industry at a young age, but I definitely caught the performing bug when I was five, watching Singing in the Rain with Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds and Donald O’Conner, I just love that movie! I watched it so much, my mom bought me a big stuffed rag doll so I could perform my own version of Make ‘Em Laugh like Donald O’Conner. I would dance with my doll and throw her up from behind the couch like in the movie. I was obsessed. It’s still one of my favorite movies.

In what ways has being raised by your father, George Lopez, influenced your viewpoint on the entertainment industry?
Well, both my parents are in the entertainment industry, and they both work really hard. I saw the long hours and how much work is involved in being an actor and a producer. Growing up and being on the set of the George Lopez show, I saw a group of people coming together, being creative, and making a television show. It was a village of writers, directors, costumers, lighting designers, camera people, actors etc. doing what they love in order to bring laughter and entertainment to people. A great deal of my childhood was spent on that set. I now realize I learned so much while observing various jobs while the show was being made. I also remember listening to my mom on business calls. She would be talking to agents and casting directors, negotiating deals, producing movies, taking about editing and more. By eavesdropping on those calls, I absorbed the business side of the entertainment industry. When my dad was doing stand up or filming a movie out of town, we went as a family. I remember being in San Antonio where he had sold out an arena there. During the day, while my dad was resting for his show that night, my mom took me to see the Alamo and then bought me a pair of pink cowboy boots and a lasso. That night my dad brought me out on stage in front of thousands of people and I did my lasso trick. I was around six. That experience was so much fun, but also very normal to me. As an adult I realize my childhood was far from “normal”.

We loved your series “Lopez v. Lopez.” Can you tell us more about the process of making it?
We have a table read on Wednesday, where all the actors with the director and producers sit around a table and read the script out loud. The writers and the network are also there. After we’re done, we get notes and rehearse the show. We rehearse all day on Thursday. On Friday, we continue to rehearse and do a run through of the show for NBC/Universal. If they have notes, then things are changed. If they don’t, the show is locked and we rehearse a little more. We have the weekends off. Monday, the cameras come in and we have to block for the cameras and make sure all the shots are covered correctly — we also film the show. That whole process takes about 12 hours. Tuesday, we make any adjustments, get into hair, make-up and wardrobe and tape the show in front of a live audience. The next day we start all over again on a new episode.

How would you describe the experience of collaborating with your father on this project?
Collaborating with my dad has been a process. What you see is a comedy version of my trauma. We really didn’t talk for many years. He really wasn’t around for many years. I’m so thankful that we can work on our relationship while making a show that is funny and that people can relate to. There is a lot of healing.

We cannot wait for the upcoming season of “Lopez v. Lopez.” What can viewers expect in the upcoming season?
Season 2 is hilarious. George gets sober and is working his 12-step program. We all have to relate to him in a different way and that is hard and funny. George is feeling his “feelings” for the first time! We have some great guest stars: Cheech and Chong, Jaime Camil, Gabriel “Fluffy ”Iglesias”, Lisa Rinna, and a few others that are a surprise.

As a multi-faceted creator, how do you balance the roles of actress, producer, and writer during the production process?
It was definitely a learning curve — I had never done a sitcom before. I studied at Second City in Chicago , performed onstage and did a couple of movies. So everything was new. But this season I am pacing myself. I try to focus on the one task in front of me and get it done and move on to the next. But that isn’t always possible because sometimes multiple things need an answer at the same time. My mom told me producing is 90% problem solving and that has really proven to be true.

What challenges have you encountered, and how have you overcome them while working on this new season?
I don’t think there are any big obstacles except maybe, time. Everything moves pretty fast and you really have to be focused and on top of things. In spite of that, this is a dream job. We all get along so well and wereally are a family. I’m excited to go to work everyday.

We heard that you also serve as an ambassador for the National Alliance of Mental Illness. Can you tell us more about your work in this organization?
The topic of mental health has always incredibly been important to me, so it was a no brainer. I feel very fortunate now that I get to use my platform to share my own experiences in real life and my character Mayan has insecurities on “Lopez vs Lopez” that people can perhaps see in themselves and feel inspired. I hope people can create their own healing in their own lives if they choose.

How do you see the entertainment industry evolving in its approach to mental health representation, and what changes would you like to see in the future?
I think it has gotten better. We did an episode around anxiety last year and they showed me taking an anxiety pill and educating George on his own anxiety. I think a lot of the teen shows and young adult shows talk about therapy in a very natural way. I would like to see more conversations about how depression, anxiety and therapy are not something to be ashamed about.

What advice would you offer to fellow artists who want to address mental health?
Be honest when talking about your experiences. People crave authenticity, to be seen and to feel like what they say and feel, matters. When you are brave and tell your truth, someone will relate which already is a better outcome.

What advice do you have for someone struggling with mental health?
Give yourself grace. I was someone for a long time who would kick myself through the hard times instead of loving myself through them. When I started to truly give myself the kindness that I was seeking instead of seeking it elsewhere, that is when things started to turn around for me. Just try it. Working and confronting yourself is the hardest thing to do. You’re stronger than those voices in your head.

Are there any upcoming projects you would like to share?
I’m guest judge on Season 16 of “Rupaul’s Drag Race” so look out for me there! I also did a podcast series called “Shaky for Audible”, but I don’t have a release date as of yet. I’ll keep you posted.

It's been a crazy past few years. How have you been staying positive?
Stay in gratitude and realize that life is a journey and the road has twists and turns. You never know what’s around the corner. I also heard a good quote… Instead of saying “I have to” say, “I get to”; I have to go to the gym becomes I get to go to the gym. It’s something to think about: change the perspective.

What is your motto in life? Any final words of wisdom?
Don’t let your hurt child make your grown up decisions.

To learn more about Mayan Lopez please follow the links below:
Instagram: @mayanlopez
TikTok: @mayanlopez

Mayan Lopez - What Goes on Behind the Big Screen