'The Hughleys' Star Ashley Monique Clark Resurfaces in Interview on Growing up as an Actress
In an interview clip posted on Instagram, Ashley Monique Clark, known for her role as Sydney Hughley on the hit show "The Hughleys," recently opened up about her life as a child actor.
Actress Ashley Monique Clark is all grown up. She rose to stardom as a child actor playing the role of beloved character Sydney Hughley on the popular '90s family sitcom "The Hughleys."
Clark, now 32 years old, grew up under the spotlight. Many also grew up watching her on television screens. So, it was a delightful surprise to see the talented actress in an interview posted on Instagram.
Ashley Monique Clark's headshot | Photo: Courtesy of Ashley Monique Clark
HER DIFFICULT TRANSITION
Answering questions on The Shade Room page, the Brooklyn-born actress shared about what it was like growing up as a famous actor and the struggles it entailed. She said:
"A lot of times people don’t want you to grow up."
Like many child stars, Clark went through struggles as she transitioned into a grown-up actress. People around child stars often keep them playing child roles for as long as possible to keep the money going.
HER SUCCESS AFTER "THE HUGHLEYS"
Clark’s success in the entertainment industry was not only limited to her starring role on "The Hughleys," where she starred at 10 years old. She appeared in several other shows.
The show is based on the real life of D.L. Hughley, a stand-up comedian.
These shows include "Moesha," "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," "Sunset Beach," "Zoey 101," and "The Bernie Mac Show." She was also able to conquer the big screen.
Another accomplishment under her belt was starring in the 2003 box office hit "Love Don’t Cost A Thing," a teen comedy film that also starred Nick Cannon and Christina Milian.
A SHOW BASED ON REAL LIFE
But it was in “The Hughleys” that Clark was best known for. She starred in the show alongside Elise Neal, Yvonne Williams-Hughley, Dee Jay Daniels, and D.L. Hughley.
The show is based on the real life of D.L. Hughley, a stand-up comedian. It follows the family of Hughley as they adjust to life in a racially-mixed neighborhood.
These days, Clark is busy offering coaching services to aspiring actors. Living in Los Angeles with her husband John, Clark has a YouTube channel where she offers tips, including line memorization.
Clark, who started as a commercial actress, recently opened up about her life amid the pandemic. She said the current crisis had forced her to slow down and reflect on her life and career.