In the world of rising stars, Kijsa Gifford shines brightly with a unique blend of athletic prowess and acting talent that sets her apart from her contemporaries. At just 19 years old, this Evansville, Wisconsin native has already embarked on a journey that spans diverse landscapes, from the heartland of the Midwest in Illinois and Michigan to the bustling cities of Los Angeles, Atlanta, New York, and Florida.
Kijsa’s story is not just one of geographical movement but also of remarkable achievements in both sports and entertainment. But athletics is just one part of her multifaceted career. Kijsa has been gracing the acting world with her presence since the tender age of four, demonstrating a dedication and passion for the craft that belies her years.
Her recent work includes a variety of roles that highlight her versatility as an actress. From a feature film on the Lifetime Channel set to premiere in 2024 to her participation in the second season of “Dirty Roomies” and roles in short films such as “The Coffee Shop,” “Myra’s Last Hope,” and “The Time is Now,” Kijsa is quickly making a name for herself in the entertainment industry.
Looking ahead, Kijsa’s schedule is packed with exciting projects. She will appear in “A Model Murder” as Maxine, a murder mystery airing on The Lifetime Channel in April 2024, and in “Pony,” a film about women race car drivers filming on the East Coast this summer. Perhaps most thrilling of all, Kijsa is set to star as the Norse Goddess Freya in “The Last Asgardian” and as Arija the Warrior in “The Ice Chronicles” and “The Realm of the Waterfall,” showcasing her athletic talents in action-packed roles that will be filmed in scenic locations across Norway, Sweden, Iceland, The Canary Islands, and the UK.
Kijsa’s production company, Norma Jean Entertainment, is positioned to make a big splash as a woman owned company in Hollywood, that is set out to showcase unique stories and roles for women with superbly developed characters that demonstrate unique depth and relatability. One of her first projects that she will begin filming this year and co-producing alongside Ascension Studios, is a feature length film titled, “Echoes of the Veil,” which is a psychological thriller and murder mystery that will keep its audiences peeled to the screen, to the very last moments.
Kijsa’s extensive training as a collegiate level pole vaulter, elite level gymnast, elite level volleyball player, lacrosse player, surfer, and snowboarder adds to her remarkable set of physical skills that allow her to enhance her acting performances. She also trains with renowned experts in whips, swords, bow and arrow, guns, race car driving and martial arts, adding depth to her characters and bringing authenticity to her action scenes.
Off-screen, Kijsa’s rich multi-ethnic heritage, with roots tracing back to Thailand, is a source of pride and inspiration. She also shares a fascinating connection with Hollywood royalty, being a cousin of the late actress Marilyn Monroe. This lineage is evident in Kijsa’s natural beauty, charisma, and charm, qualities that she shares with her famous relative.
Kijsa Gifford is not just a rising star in acting or a future sensation in athletics; she is a testament to the power of determination, versatility, and the relentless pursuit of one’s passions.
With her remarkable talent and unyielding spirit, Kijsa is poised to leave an indelible mark in the world of entertainment. As she continues to navigate her burgeoning career, one thing is abundantly clear: the world is just beginning to see the breadth of rising star Kijsa Gifford’s extraordinary capabilities and we are eagerly awaiting the release of her newest films.
