Actress Mara Hall on Her New Role in “Ambitions”

The Detroit native was born for the drama
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Mara Hall
Mara Hall photograph by Howell Designs

Best known for portraying Nurse Kathleen on Grey’s Anatomy, Mara Hall talks about her Detroit roots and her new role as a series regular on the Oprah Winfrey Network’s Ambitions. The scandalous family saga explores the lives of rivaling legal eagles Stephanie Lancaster (Robin Givens) and Amara Hughes (Essence Atkins) in Atlanta.

Hour Detroit: How has being from Detroit influenced your acting career?

Mara Hall: Growing up in Detroit, I was able to see black excellence every day from every gamut of African-American society. Detroit raised me to be strong and to build something from nothing. That’s what Detroit breeds: survival of the fittest. But in a humble, down-to-earth, Midwestern way.

What can fans expect from the show?

I play one of the Lancasters’ relatives who comes into town amidst a lot of chaos within the family. My character is strong — sometimes nice, sometimes nasty. There will be sauciness, seduction, debauchery, treachery, and wonderful storylines.

What advice do you have for aspiring actors here?

Your current situation doesn’t define your future. You can do anything you put your mind to if you work hard, you’ re respectful, diligent, and consistent.