Priah Ferguson on Playing Erica, Setting Boundaries, and Growing Up On Screen
Stylist: Emily Martinez | Photographer: Ryo Satos | Hair: April Story | Makeup: Kayla Elysia | Photo Assistant: Kat Koro | Stylist assistant: Alanis G | Shot at Arlo Studios
Jacket: Urban | Glasses: BRU Eyewear | Sweater: Clothing Warehouse (Vintage Shop, Atlanta) | Shoes: Nordstrom
Few actors come of age in the public eye the way Priah Ferguson has. Raised on a series that helped define Gen Z, she moves with quiet confidence—measured, intentional, and deeply attuned to the power of listening as much as speaking.
When it comes to her personal style, she keeps it simple: "Effortless, intentional, and evolving." she tells me. That evolution mirrors the way her horizons have expanded since Stranger Things. "Traveling and stepping into new spaces has definitely changed how I see fashion. Now, I focus on the details and choose pieces that last." For her, style is less about chasing trends and more about curating a wardrobe with purpose.
Jacket: Clothing Warehouse | Bow Tie: Clothing Warehouse | Skirt: Zara | Shoes: Nordstrom
Away from the cameras, Ferguson lets her curiosity lead the way. "I love to cook, travel, work out, and hang out with friends," she shares. "I’m spontaneous, whether I’m jumping into a fun yoga class or picking up a new language. I just love trying new things." She moves through life with a sense of ease, always ready to embrace the next adventure that comes her way.
On screen, Ferguson channels that same sense of purpose into Erica Sinclair, transforming her into a subtle powerhouse. She marks Season 3 as a turning point: "When Erica became a key member of The Scoops Troop, she proved herself as a trusted, reliable part of the team." What stands out most is Erica’s knack for seeing the bigger picture. "I love that she can dream up a plan and make it happen, always working toward something greater."
Erica’s humor, crisp and perfectly timed, seems to come naturally—and that’s intentional. "Her humor feels fresh because I’m not forcing it," Ferguson says. "Comedy is harder than drama because you can’t fake it." For Ferguson, the wit is almost unintentional. "I don’t think Erica even knows how funny she is. She’s just speaking her mind to get things done, and that’s where her charm lies."
That spark feels close to home. "I think that’s what we share—an easy charisma, a sense of humor, and a certain charm that just comes naturally."
Even with her tough exterior, Erica’s loyalty—especially to her family—has always been her anchor, a duality Ferguson embraced fully in the role.
Glasses: BRU Eyewear | Top & Jacket: Clothing Warehouse | Skirt: Rails | Boots: Zara
If she had to sum up Erica’s journey from Season 1 to Season 5 in one word, it would be “Impactful.” Growing up alongside the character taught her how to draw boundaries. “As I grew with Erica, I learned how to define who she represents on screen, but set boundaries on how much of her world meets my own,” she says. “I’ll commit to playing any role with heart, but I can’t let it consume me.”
What she’ll miss most goes beyond Erica herself—it’s the doors the role opened. "A space was made for Erica, and I got the chance, early on, to explore and be curious with this character," she reflects. "I’ll miss those moments of discovery, because I learned so much about myself along the way."
The journey has redefined what endurance means to her. "Playing Erica for four seasons taught me that being prepared, curious, and reliable earns you respect," she says. One word echoes for her: consistency. "Those qualities might seem ordinary, but you have to show up with them every time. Consistency truly is everything."
Jacket: Urban | Glasses: BRU Eyewear | Sweater: Clothing Warehouse (Vintage Shop, Atlanta) | Shoes: Nordstrom
Outside of acting, Ferguson’s proudest achievements are more understated. "What excites me most is my hunger to learn new things," she says. "I’m proud of how I’ve navigated this big opportunity with patience, character, and grace." She’s grateful for her circle. "I owe so much to my family and support system for keeping me grounded and reminding me to always have faith."
Priah Ferguson is in no hurry for what’s ahead. She continues on her path as she always has: curious, steady, and ever more confident in the person she is becoming.

