Driven by her love of storytelling, Shakira Ja’nai Paye brings the same dedication to every role, whether in front of the camera, at the writer’s desk or behind the scenes
For Shakira Ja’nai Paye, storytelling is the thread that connects everything she does. Whether she’s inhabiting a character on screen, crafting narratives through writing or shaping productions behind the camera, she approaches each role with equal passion and precision.
Acting remains the “heartbeat” of her career—the place where she feels most alive. Each performance allows her to fully immerse herself in a character, a passion rooted in her lifelong love for theater. Yet her artistry goes beyond performance. As a writer and producer, she is equally driven to create new stories and shape the worlds in which they unfold.
Her latest work in the sci-fi comedy “Demascus” reflects that same commitment to layered storytelling—balancing truth, imagination and humor in a way that feels authentic to her craft. In the following conversation with DAMAN, she shares her insights on the project, her creative journey and her vision as a multitalented artist.
DAMAN: Let’s start with your latest project, the sci-fi comedy series “Demascus” on Tubi. Can you give us a brief overview of what this series is all about?
Shakira Ja’nai Paye: “Demascus” is this really sharp, funny and surreal exploration of what it means to be human through technology. It’s like “Black Mirror” meets Donald Glover’s “Atlanta.” The series explores identity, love and the challenges of navigating modern life—but with a comedic twist that makes it both playful and thought-provoking. It’s starring Martin Lawrence, Janet Hubert, Lynn Whitfield and a few other superstars including me.
DA: How did you get involved with “Demascus” and land the role of Naomi?
SJP: My reps sent me the audition, and as soon as I read the sides, I knew I wanted to bring Naomi to life. There was something grounded yet quirky about her that felt like a space where I could really play. The team responded to my take and the next thing I knew, I was on set in Atlanta.
DA: Could you describe Naomi as a character? What kind of person is she?
SJP: Naomi is sharp, no-nonsense and she has this presence where she doesn’t have to say much, but when she does, it lands. She’s someone who sees through the BS and gets right to the truth. But also, as her character description reads, she’s “a walking contradiction.”
DA: “Demascus” is a sci-fi comedy. Was it challenging to balance the two elements in your performance?
SJP: It was a challenge, but in the best way. Comedy thrives in truth and sci-fi thrives in imagination. I approached it by staying rooted in the real stakes while letting the absurdity breathe around that.
DA: Shifting gears a little—what first sparked your interest in the entertainment industry and what made you pursue acting, screenwriting and producing?
SJP: I’ve always been a storyteller at heart. Growing up, I participated in theater at the Arena Players in Baltimore as well as TWIGs at BSA. I watched movies like “Love & Basketball” and “Titanic,” and I wanted to create those worlds that completely pull you in. Acting was the first door but writing and producing gave me the freedom to tell stories from my perspective, especially as a Black woman.
DA: You’re known for being a multitalented artist. If you had to choose just one, which role do you enjoy the most: acting, screenwriting or producing? And why?
SJP: That’s tough! Acting is the heartbeat—it’s where I feel the most alive in the moment. But writing is the foundation. If I had to choose one, acting gives me the thrill of presence but writing is how I build the playground.
DA: Each role requires different skills. What would you say is the most challenging aspect of each?
SJP: Acting: Trusting yourself enough to let go. Writing: Rewrites, rewrites, rewrites. Producing: Herding cats—making sure vision and logistics align. Oh, and MONEY!
DA: Of all the roles you’ve played, which one has been the most memorable for you and why?
SJP: “All Day and a Night” was huge because it was my first lead in a Netflix film. But Naomi in “Demascus” stands out because it let me stretch into sci-fi comedy, which feels like such an authentic lane for me.
DA: Beyond acting, comedy seems to be another big passion of yours. What draws you to comedy and what inspired you to join the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB)?
SJP: A commercial casting director suggested improv to me a decade ago and so I signed up for UCB. But comedy has always been my way of play and connection. At UCB, I loved that I could bring my full self to the stage, improvise and trust that joy and truth could coexist in performance.
DA: Did your comedic skills contribute to the films you starred in, wrote or produced?
SJP: Absolutely. Comedy is timing, rhythm and perspective—all of which help me whether I’m writing a dramatic scene, acting in sci-fi or producing a film. Even the darkest stories benefit from a touch of humor.
DA: Looking back, are you satisfied with your achievements so far or is there something you still feel you want to pursue?
SJP: I’m proud, but I’m hungry. I’ve acted in impactful projects, written and produced my own films but my next big pursuit is getting my feature films made—like “September” and “Chomp Chomp.”
DA: What has been the biggest motivation that has driven you to get to where you are today?
SJP: It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Belief in divine timing and knowing my voice matters. Every time I doubted myself, the reminder came: keep going, because the story you’re meant to tell is bigger than fear.
DA: Can you share what you’re currently working on?
SJP: Yes! I’m developing “September,” a feature dramedy set in my hometown Baltimore, and some vertical style content with my friends. I’m also growing my podcast that blends spirituality, comedy and conversations about the supernatural. And manifesting a booking that takes me on the road.
DA: What advice would you give to young and emerging actors who are just starting out?
SJP: Don’t wait for permission. Train, collaborate and make your own work. The industry will notice when you’re already creating. And protect your joy—it’s your fuel.
DA: Lastly, is there anything else you would like to share with your fans or anyone who is following your journey?
SJP: Thank you for riding with me. I’m excited to keep telling stories that make you laugh, think and feel seen. The best is yet to come.
Photography Lens By Mi
Styling Kimberly Goodnight
Styling Assistant Marc H.
Makeup Faye Lauren at Tracey Mattingly using Hourglass Cosmetics
Hair Tiffany Daugherty for Celestine Agency using CECRED-Nourishing Hair Oil
Production Media Playground PR