We had the good fortune of connecting with Kyal Legend and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kyal, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I was born and raised in Toronto, the eldest of four children in a family of Filipino and Jamaican heritage. My mother, a single parent, worked tirelessly to provide me with every opportunity to thrive in the arts. She put me through Montessori school, enrolled me in countless art classes, and at just eight years old, supported my competitive dance journey, driving me weekly from the GTA to downtown Toronto so I could train with the National Ballet of Canada, never miss an audition, and attend acting classes. I’ve always been an expressive and precocious child, who loved to perform, and connect with people—traits that mirrored my mother, who had her own impressive history in showbiz, from performing at Massey Hall to turning down a chance to tour as a backup singer for Mariah Carey. Her unwavering belief that I could achieve anything I set my mind to instilled in me the resilience to dream big. No matter how many no’s I’ve faced in my career, I get right back up and persevere, knowing that whatever is meant for me will never pass me by.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Getting to where I am today professionally hasn’t been easy, but it’s been deeply rewarding. I’ve learned to be kind and patient with myself, offering the same unconditional love, support, and forgiveness to myself that I’ve always given so freely to others. I approach my craft as a lifelong student, constantly honing my skills and seeking opportunities to grow. For me, it’s about investing my time, energy, and focus into what truly makes me happy while holding a clear vision of my end goal. Even when the path feels uncertain, I remind myself that I am exactly where I need to be—on my highest timeline—no matter how many detours or adjustments I’ve had to make. I affirm that everything is always working out for me, even in moments when it doesn’t appear that way, and this mindset has given me a sense of peace in navigating the highs and lows of my industry. I’ve also embraced the idea that there’s no rush; time is abundant, and there’s room for everyone to succeed. If I didn’t book a specific job, it simply wasn’t meant for me. This belief, paired with an unwavering trust in my abilities, has grounded me in the certainty that every step I take brings me closer to what is already mine.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, we’d kick things off with a day dedicated to wellness and indulgence, starting with a morning meditation to set the tone. Next, we’d stop by my go to coffee spot, Arvo Coffee, to grab an iced matcha before heading to the club for some pickleball drills and competitive games with my favourite girls. There’s nothing like the blend of athleticism, empowerment, and fun in an environment that’s feminine, encouraging, and filled with cute matching outfits. Post-game, we’d head to either one of my two favourite spas in the city. Thermea Spa Village, where we’d immerse ourselves in thermotherapy—a Nordic tradition alternating between saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, and a refreshing cold plunge, followed by rest. And yes, we’d definitely indulge in a charcuterie board or a crème brûlée flight while lounging in robes. Or we’d visit Body Blitz Spa—Health by Water, an all-women’s spa offering a therapeutic water circuit. There’s nothing like floating in the Epsom salt pool with a smoothie in hand.

When it’s time to refuel, we’d head to Miku Toronto, the home of Aburi Sushi. Their Miku roll and salmon oshi, which I first fell in love with while filming in Vancouver, are pure perfection. To wrap up the day, a stop at COPS Donuts on Adelaide Street is non-negotiable. We’d grab a dozen of their fluffy mini cake donuts served in their signature pink box—because no perfect day is complete without a sweet treat.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d love to give a heartfelt shoutout to the man in my life, Eric, who constantly supports and encourages me to be my best in everything I do. He’s my rock, my biggest cheerleader, and my home. I feel so fortunate to share this journey with the love of my life.

Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5374586/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/kyallegend

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kyallegend/

Image Credits
Matthew Bennett
Jamie Miranda

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.