Christine Lakin, once a child star on the hit show Step by Step, has transitioned from acting to a fulfilling career behind the scenes. In her mid-40s, Lakin shares her journey from early stardom to finding joy in choreography and directing. She reflects on her experiences as a young actress and how her path naturally evolved into a new passion for creating content from a different perspective. Her transition has brought her immense satisfaction, allowing her to utilize her extensive industry knowledge and creativity.
A Journey of Growth: From Acting to Choreography
Lakin's early career began at age 12 when she was cast in Step by Step, playing Alicia "Al" Lambert. Despite being cast last minute, she thrived in the role alongside seasoned actors like Patrick Duffy and Suzanne Somers. The show became a significant part of her life, but as she entered her twenties, Lakin found herself drawn to other aspects of entertainment. Her love for theater and dance led her to explore choreography, where she discovered a new talent. This shift opened doors to various opportunities, including working on popular TV shows like True Blood and Westworld.
The transition from acting to choreography was both unexpected and exhilarating for Lakin. Initially known for her roles in television, she soon found herself assisting renowned choreographers and eventually taking on more prominent roles. Her work in choreography not only earned her nominations but also introduced her to new facets of the industry. Lakin's ability to connect with actors through movement and direction paved the way for her future endeavors behind the camera. As she continued to grow in this field, she realized that her true calling might lie beyond performing.
Finding Fulfillment Behind the Camera
As Lakin's career progressed, she began to feel a strong pull toward directing. After becoming a mother, she sought a role that allowed her to combine her creative vision with the collaborative process of filmmaking. Directing episodes of The Goldbergs and its spin-off Schooled marked a significant milestone in her career. Lakin embraced the challenge of bringing stories to life from a directorial standpoint, which provided her with a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.
Directing offered Lakin the opportunity to apply her decades of experience in a fresh and innovative way. She enjoyed collaborating with writers and directors, contributing her unique perspective to each project. Working behind the camera allowed her to shape narratives while fostering a supportive environment for actors and crew members. Lakin's transition from child actor to accomplished director highlights her adaptability and passion for storytelling. Today, she finds immense satisfaction in creating content that resonates with audiences, proving that sometimes the most rewarding paths are those we least expect.