By Dr. Laura Wilhelm
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 9/30/24 – At just 13 years of age, triple threat Canadian actor Jayd Deroché has already made a significant mark in TV, film, and animation. His latest accomplishment? Landing a lead role in the upcoming Mattel Animation series Barney’s World. Here he will lend his voice to one of the series’ central characters, David, in the highly anticipated reboot of the beloved purple dinosaur franchise.
Set to premiere this October, Barney’s World is expected to capture the hearts of a new generation of young viewers, while still honoring the values of friendship, creativity, and learning that made Barney & Friends a household name. Jayd, with his already impressive voice acting credentials, is the perfect fit for the series, bringing energy and charm to this new role.
Jayd Deroché: A Talent on the Rise
Though young, Jayd Deroché has already built an exceptional resume across multiple forms of entertainment. From animated series to live action TV, his versatility has made him one of the most exciting rising talents in the industry.
In the animation world, Jayd is no stranger to voicing beloved characters. He has starred in high-profile animated series such as Disney Junior’s Dino Ranch as Jon Cassidy, PBS’s Super Why’s Comic Book Adventures as Super Why, and Nickelodeon’s PAW Patrol as a new villain, Boomer. His latest voice role in Barney’s World adds to an already impressive body of work in children’s programming, proving his ability to captivate audiences with his warm and engaging performances.
Expanding His Presence in TV & Film
Beyond voice acting, Jayd has also made a name for himself in both TV and film. His credits include roles in some of the biggest shows and movies in the industry, showcasing his range as an actor. He has appeared in the hit Amazon Prime series The Boys, Netflix’s I Woke Up a Vampire, and Shaftesbury’s Ruby & the Well. He has also appeared in several Hallmark and Lifetime movies, including Falling Like Snowflakes, Christmas with a Kiss, and Miracle in Motor City. Additionally, he starred in OWN’s A Christmas Serenade, further solidifying his standing as a rising star.
A Bright Future Ahead
With a career that spans multiple genres and platforms, Jayd is just beginning to show the full extent of his talents. He has already made waves in live theater and music, adding further depth to his growing portfolio.
Barney’s World marks a significant milestone for Jayd as he becomes part of a franchise that has touched millions of lives. With his natural talent and dedication, this role will undoubtedly add another success to his rapidly growing list of achievements.
Jayd is represented by Jessica Martins Hero Artists.
The Hollywood Times was pleased to conduct the following online interview with Jayd. From the mouths of babes!
When did your many talents first start to appear?
I would say my talents first started to appear when I was about two years old. I would always be dancing, everywhere. We were at a restaurant where people were performing on stage, and I ran up on stage and joined them!
I first started in the industry when I was four years old. My mom found an agent for me, but she waited until I was a bit older to make sure it was something I really wanted to do. When I was seven, I started dancing and singing to Michael Jackson, and my mom’s friend saw me on Instagram and asked if I wanted to perform “Thriller” at an adult Halloween event. I said yes, and from there it all just took off!
A few months later, we went to The Bahamas, where my parents surprised me with tickets to The Jacksons’ concert. Jermaine Jackson brought me on stage, and I danced with them – one of the most incredible moments of my life. That really cemented my love for performing. Soon after, I signed with my first agency and started training and auditioning, and here we are!
What has been your most rewarding accomplishment so far?
My most rewarding accomplishment would definitely be my role of Aiden Henley in I Woke Up a Vampire on Netflix. It was such a fun project to work on, and I put a lot of effort into it. Being able to collaborate with other talented kids and work with special effects was an incredible experience. Plus, it’s exciting to be a series regular on such a cool show!
How do you balance the various areas of your life?
It’s a challenge, especially with how busy the past few years have been. When I was in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, I had rehearsals all day and would have to record for the animated series’ early in the morning before rehearsals. When the shows began, I was performing 8- 9 shows a week, and I was juggling different voice roles, singing live, staying on top of schoolwork, and doing auditions at the same time. It was a lot!
Last year, I switched to an online private school, which helped balance my schedule. Now I’m excited to be back in person this year with a school that can accommodate my schedule. It’s all about managing time and making sure I stay focused on what needs to get done.
Who are some of your biggest influences?
One of my biggest influences would be Jamie Foxx! He’s such an incredible actor and musician, and his sense of humor is amazing. He’s a great example of someone who’s successfully crossed over into different parts of the entertainment industry.
Another one of my biggest influences would be my mom. At the same time as being my super cool Momager, she still handles her own business, she takes care of our whole family including our grandparents who live with us, and she always puts everyone else first. She tries her best so that I can still do all the ‘normal’ kid stuff as much as possible with our schedule.
Whom have you already met and whom would you like to meet in the entertainment industry?
I have already met the Jacksons, Tia Mowry – she’s so awesome and funny, and Smokey Robinson! It was so incredible meeting Smokey Robinson, we worked together in a movie. He was 82 years old, still acting, and singing – wow! I was ten years old at the time he was really patient, friendly and he was super chill. I asked him what Michael Jackson was like at my age, and he said “Jayd, Michael was just like you” …ahhh, I was on cloud nine all day!
There’s something really cool about meeting legends like that who have been in this industry for so long and have so much experience. I would love to meet Bruno Mars and Jamie Foxx and of course I wish I could have met Michael Jackson.
What challenges have you faced in your career so far?
One of the biggest challenges is time. Between traveling for work, last-minute auditions, and school, it can be hard to fit everything in. It’s especially tricky when I have to learn a new accent or develop a complex character quickly.
I’ve also had to deal with the occasional rejection, which is tough—especially when I’ve put a lot of work into a role. In animated series, my voice changing as I get older can also lead to challenges like being recast.
But I’ve learned to keep pushing forward. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, and I love what I do so much that it’s all worth it.
What message would you like to send the world?
The message I would like to send to the world would be for everyone to love themselves and others, because we’re all one big Human Family. Also, to keep working hard towards your goals and never give up even if it takes a long time. What’s meant for you will come.
For more information and to keep up with Jayd, visit: Jayd Deroché Official Site | Singer, dancer, musician, producer and award-winning actor
Follow Jayd on Socials:
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/jayd.vaid/
TikTok: TikTok – Make Your Day
