Natalie Smith highlights the importance of LGBTQIAP+ web series

When we talk about independent web series with LGBTQIAP+ themes, characters played by Natalie Smith are always remembered, such as the sweet Juliana in “The Bride’s Best Friend” and the bold Karla Camila in “The Stripper”. Over the years, the actress has stood out for playing significant characters, reinforcing the importance of naturalized stories in audiovisual media.

In 2015, Natalie took on her first role as a lesbian character, becoming a recognized voice and face in the LGBTQIAP+ community. Since then, she hasn’t stopped. Today, she is a partner at Ponto Ação Produções, one of the largest LGBTQIAP+ content producers in the world, with more than 1.49 million subscribers and more than half a billion views on its projects available on YouTube and its streaming app.

“It’s been 9 years since I played my first lesbian character and from the beginning I was very embraced by the community,” says Natalie. At Ponto Ação, the web series are portrayed in a naturalized way, without reinforcing stereotypes. Representing the community through her work is one of the actress’s main professional goals.

“I understood how fundamental my role was when playing lesbian characters. With each project, I connect more with the public and with people in the community. Many women have already thanked me, because, through my characters, they became stronger to live their lives as they wished,” says the actress.

Natalie proudly recalls her career, highlighting that playing Juliana in “A Melhor Amiga da Noiva” (2017) was special, but Karla Camila in “The Stripper” (2019) was one of her most memorable roles. Both projects are produced by Ponto Ação Produções.

“I love Juliana for her beautiful story, but I have a special affection for Karla Camila. Even after 5 years, she is still remembered by the public, showing the impact we have on people’s lives. Karla Camila is the character who left the most impression and touched many souls”, reflects Natalie.

Regarding the current scenario of LGBTQIAP+ characters in audiovisual, Natalie says: “I see a huge growth in LGBTQIAP+ stories that are increasingly naturalized. There is progress and we show that these stories exist and deserve respect. These productions allow people to see and feel themselves represented. Despite still being largely independent, they are gaining more and more space and recognition”, concludes the actress.

By Ezatamentchy