Rising Star Kylee Levien Brings Some Intrigue To The Holidays With Apple TV's 'Chrismystery'!

16-year-old Kylee Levien is bringing mystery mixed with hope and cheer to your holiday season in her newest film, Chrismystery, which premiered on Apple TV on November 4. The movie follows former police officer Annie Willows, played by Jen Lilley, who returns to her quiet hometown seeking a fresh start as deputy sheriff after the loss of her husband. Levien plays her daughter, Leia, who serves as an essential figure throughout the mystery of the film and helps her mom find the meaning of "home" and "family" after tragedy. 

Levien said she fell in love with acting after watching her older siblings work as actors, and while they moved on to other endeavors, she continued acting because of how much she enjoyed it. While the idea of ever seeing herself on screen seemed out of reach, when she finally started making movies, she knew exactly this was meant to be her profession.

"I’ve always loved performing," she tells us, "But the idea of being in TV and movies felt like a dream at first; once I experienced it, I knew it’s exactly what I wanted to do."

She has always loved the holiday season and Christmas movies, and is very excited to finally be a part of one. "Moments that make the holidays feel special to me... are making our family favorite cookies, having a Christmas movie marathon in our pjs," she revealed.

She also said she was very excited to work with Lilley, and learned a lot from her. "She’s so kind, professional, and super creative. She’s really reminded me to stay present in the moment and trust my instincts, which is something I try to bring to every project I do." She also credits actresses Phoebe Tonkin, Claire Holt, and Jennifer Lawrence as some of her biggest acting inspirations. She said she admires how these women bring authenticity to every role they play, something that she also strives to do within her work. "I admire performers who can make you feel their characters in a real way."

While her character has to deal with having just lost her father with Christmas coming up, she understands that, just like her character, many people go through difficult times during the holiday season. Therefore, she hopes this film reminds them that it’s okay to feel your feelings while maintaining a hopeful spirit. "It’s about focusing on the little things that make you smile, laughing with friends, small traditions, or giving of yourself to help someone else. It’s totally okay to feel sad sometimes too. It just makes the good moments feel that much brighter." 

In her free time, Levien loves keeping the holiday spirit alive all year long by giving back and improving the lives of others. She is involved with different charities and encourages everyone to seek out philanthropy and to give back in any way they can. "I have a huge heart for my volunteer work," she tells us. "Giving your time, attention, or support can be just as impactful as any material gift." 

She also said that a big part of this film’s message is to show the importance of belonging and inclusiveness. If you’re going through a difficult time, it’s important to find others to lean on for support. "I hope people walk away remembering that love is the greatest gift; not just romantic love, but family, friendship, and forgiveness. Leia’s story shows that it’s okay to grieve, to miss someone and still find joy and connection again. The movie has heart, mystery, and holiday magic, but it’s also about healing and belonging." 

Levien is also a multitalented young woman. On top of her acting career, she is an award-winning figure skater! She revealed to us that her love of the sport has helped her immensely in her acting projects. "Figure skating has continued to teach me discipline, focus, and resilience, all of which translate perfectly to acting. The ability to prepare, perform under pressure, and keep going after mistakes is something I learned both on ice and set," she said. In fact, her athletic abilities led her to work as a stunt double in Zack Snyder's Rebel Moon!

While her career is just getting started, Levien is already making a name for herself in the TV and film industry. Throughout the last few years, she has been nominated for numerous awards, including the 2024 Best Leading Young Actress, Young Entertainer Award. She said, in the future, she sees herself growing as an actress and creative professional. 

"In ten years, I hope to be continuing to tell stories I care about, both in front and behind the camera," she said. "I’d love to be producing and creating projects that inspire and uplift, while taking on roles that challenge me and help me grow as an artist."

We can't wait to see what she does next!

Chrismystery is now available to stream on Apple TV.