Mikaela Phillips: The Dynamic Force Redefining Film & Television

TRAILBLAZER MIKAELA PHILLIPS IS REDEFINING FILM & TELEVISION IN HOLLYWOOD

From the golden shores of Australia to the glittering lights of Hollywood, Mikaela Phillips has emerged as a formidable, multi-faceted presence in global entertainment. An award-winning producer, actress, and creative force, Phillips has built a career defined by innovation, integrity, and impact. Whether on set, behind the scenes, or in the judge’s chair at major international film festivals, she’s leading by example – and redefining what success looks like for women in film and television.

Her journey began in theater at just six years old, but her big break came as a magnetic entertainment host for the world’s largest online network, AfterBuzz TV. Headquarted in Los Angeles and created by E! Host Maria Menounos, it was Phillips confident presence and one of a kind interviewing style that gained her recognition among audiences and celebrity guests alike. From there, she transitioned into scripted, making waves with Counter Play (2016-2018) – a gripping tv drama series she starred in and executive produced alongside her mother, Writer/Director Chrys Phillips. The mother-daughter dynamic partnership propelled them into the spotlight and solidified Mikaela’s status as a formidable and rising creative powerhouse. The recognition they earned led to a coveted first-look exclusive deal between their production company and major distribution platforms, a first for any production with women at the helm.

Even during the challenges of 2020, Phillips remained impressively prolific producing Madison and the Happiness Jar and joining established actor/director James Pratt on his multiple award-winning indie comedy Malibu Crush as a Producer. Since then, she’s evolved into a producer with global vision and serious industry credibility. Whether it’s bold independent features or multi-platform storytelling, Mikaela brings a rare blend of creative instinct and business acumen to every project she touches.

BREAKING GROUND WITH ZAVIER AND THE NIGHTKEEPER

A major milestone in Mikaela Phillips’ producing career is Zavier and the Nightkeeper – a bold, visually rich fantasy feature that marks the first-ever screen adaptation derived from the world and characters of the bestselling Magic Wars saga. Set as an origin story and prequel to the books, the film stands as a watershed moment for the franchise and a powerful leap into cinematic world-building. Fans of the trilogy can expect an entirely new chapter created for screen, with subtle nods, layered clues, and little Easter egg moments throughout the film that connect to the Magic Wars timeline and universe of the original IP.

Spearheaded by Phillips as Executive Producer, the production boasts a powerhouse team of women in leadership across creative and technical departments. Among them; writer & DGA award-nominated director Chrys Phillips (creator of the Magic Wars saga), executive producer Trish Cook (The Humanity Bureau, Forsaken), as well as female cinematographer Alyson Estrada, sound engineer Michelle Ann Guanga and assistant producers Elizabeth Navello and Sandra Beatrice. Mikaela was instrumental in curating this team, championing both female and diverse voices throughout the development and production process.

Another notable addition to the production is, Shawn Howell Wayans, son of actor-comedian Marlon Wayans (renowned for Scary Movie franchise, White Chicks). Shawn makes his filmmaking debut as First Assistant Director (1st AD) – a major moment not only for Shawn, but for the next generation of the esteemed Wayans family, long celebrated for their cultural impact in entertainment.

With global distribution in motion and a release on the horizon, Zavier and the Nightkeeper is more than a cinematic debut for the franchise – it’s the dawn of a larger universe and proof that female-led productions can dominate genre markets. The first installment for the Magic Wars franchise, Wicked Love, is officially in development with exciting announcements to follow soon!

MASTERING SPOTIFY PODCAST DRAMA: SEDUCTION

As if commanding the screen wasn’t enough, Phillips is also about to make an impact in the podcasting world, with the upcoming release of Seduction – an original podcast series, releasing September 2025. Starring Academy Award nominee Eric Roberts and featuring an ensemble cast of Hollywood talent including Russell Todd, Paola Paulin, Bianca Stam and Jamaal Lewis, the podcast draws listeners into a gripping narrative of deceit and blurred moral boundaries.

Produced end-to-end by Mikaela, Seduction is a testament to her versatility as a storyteller. She oversaw every aspect of the project – from casting and script development to recording and sound design – proving her ability to translate compelling narratives across platforms. In a recent interview with Film Central Magazine, creator Bud Rebel praised Phillips’ as part of his incredible team to bring his vision to life and noted that she could see exactly how the story needed to be told and translate it perfectly into sound.

BUILDING THE FUTURE, ONE STORY AT A TIME

Phillips shows no signs of slowing down with several projects on the horizon and in development. Her slate continues to reflect her passion for storytelling with substance and scale.

Off-screen, Mikaela’s influence is firmly established and only continues to flourish -solidifying her status as a pioneering force in the industry. She has earned accolades like being honored with the 2024 Top Twenty Women of the Year award by Deluxe Version Magazine, and has served as a respected judge for prestigious industry festivals and panels such as the Sydney Web Fest, 16th Annual Lady Filmmakers Film Festival in Beverly Hills and the International Stevie Awards to name a few. Her reputation speaks volumes, hence why she’s become one of the most sought-after and trusted, professionals and respected voices in the entertainment industry today.

One thing is certain – Mikaela’s not just part of the entertainment industry’s present – she’s designing its future.