Aspen Martinez is making waves in Hollywood from Santa Fe to the silver screen. At such a young age, this talented child actress has already worked alongside industry heavyweights like Ayo Edebiri and John Malkovich in Opus and landed a role in the acclaimed series Dark Winds. With a deep love for performance, a passion for storytelling, and strong cultural roots, she’s proving that Native and Latina representation in Hollywood is more important than ever.
Her journey began at home when she watched her older sister audition and fell in love with the craft. Growing up on a 10th-generation family ranch in Santa Fe, she honed her creativity through dance, theater, and opera, all while developing a love for the outdoors and horseback riding—skills she hopes to bring to a future role. Now, as she balances Hollywood success with her deep connection to her heritage, she’s paving the way for the next generation of Indigenous and Latina actors.
Acting Journey & Breakout Roles
What first sparked your passion for acting?
I’ve always loved performance. My mom started taking me to theater and ballet when I was three years old. My sister started acting before I did. I would watch her do auditions and act. One day, she had an audition where she was asked to cry, and I really liked the story and the character. That’s when I asked my mom if I could try acting.
How did growing up in Santa Fe shape your creativity?
My parents have always encouraged creativity. I’ve done a lot of art camps, and opera camps in the summer. I’ve also been in dance since I was 3. Growing up in Santa Fe and on a ranch I’ve also spent a lot time outdoors with my animals, especially my horses. I think all of these creative skills are helpful in acting.
What was it like working alongside Ayo Edebiri and John Malkovich in Opus?
It was amazing! They are both great actors. They were really helpful to me on set, and Ayo gave me some tips on memorizing lines. I had the best time on Opus.
Dark Winds is a major success—how does it feel to be part of it?
It feels great! I watched seasons 1 and 2. I was beyond excited to audition for season 3, and then I got the role. It means so much to me to be part of Dark Winds.
Your character in Opus is described as “sweet but manipulative.” What drew you to the role?
I enjoyed figuring out who Maude was, understanding her, and playing the trickster side. I like a good prank, so I liked this side of Maude.
Representation & Aspirations
As a Latina and Indigenous actress, how important is representation in your work?
It is very important to me. I’m a native New Mexican, and we have a lot of culture here. It means a lot to me to represent my Latin and Indigenous heritage.
You admire Margot Robbie, Angelina Jolie, and Zendaya—what about their careers inspires you?
They are all amazing actors and have played strong roles.
Would you love to use your horseback riding skills in a film?
Yes, that is a dream and hope of mine to ride a horse in a film.
Beyond Acting
How does life on your family ranch keep you grounded?
I get to be in nature and with animals and there’s nothing that replaces that. My family is 10th generation ranchers. Ranching is in my blood and who I am.
Do you see yourself working behind the camera someday?
Yes, my sister and I think of movie and script ideas all the time. That would be awesome!
Check out Aspen in the A24 Sundance success “Opus” (which just released on March 14, 2025) alongside Ayo Edebiri and John Malkovich and in the AMC drama “Dark Winds” (March 9, 2025) as ‘Carmelita’ alongside legendary Native actor Zahn McClarnon.
