Since the second batch of Stranger Things season five dropped on Netflix this morning, our feeds, group chats, and yes, even our brains, have been full of Hawkins drama.
Among the town’s familiar faces is Erica Sinclair, played by Priah Ferguson. Lucas Sinclair’s younger sister, Erica first appeared in season two as the clever, playful kid who loved tormenting her older brother.
By season three, her role had expanded, and she was promoted to the main cast - earning fans everywhere with her sharp wit and fearless attitude.
We caught up with Priah, who has played the beloved character since 2017. The 19-year-old filled us in on what it was like growing up as a Black girl in Atlanta, Georgia, and even spilled the tea on which Stranger Things co-star has the best dance moves...
Where do you live and what is your favourite thing about where you live?
I’m born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia and my favourite thing is seeing the success of Black people and people of colour. Growing up as a little Black girl, it made me feel like there’s nothing I can’t do.
What is your favourite way to unwind after a long day on set?
I go to Waffle House in Georgia. It’s open 24 hours a day so I’ll get blueberry waffles, scrambled eggs with cheese, hash browns and sausage or bacon. Then, I go home, shower, take out my hair, do my nighttime skincare routine and I'll either watch a film, read a book or go straight to bed.
What is on your house party playlist?
Anything by Latto and Party Next Door.
Night out or night in and why?
Right now, night out which means going to dinner or bowling with my girls and taking cute pictures. But, I also love a night in with face masks. It depends on my mood and what the homegirls want to do.
What is your go-to takeout option?
I like Caribbean food. Plantain and rice and peas? I’ll eat that all day every day.
What three items in your home would you save in a fire?
My phone, my poodle called Sparkles, and my beauty bag because I can’t be without it. Even if there’s a fire, I have to look on point.
Which of your Stranger Things co-stars is most fun on a night out?
Caleb and Gaten. They love the dancefloor and I’ve seen them let loose a lot.
What are you like as a roommate?
I’m a little selfish! I don’t love to share my space, and I do hog the bathroom. But, I’m very clean and organised.
Where would you love to live next?
I definitely want to consider moving to New York City, but also, I love France, the UK, the Caribbean. I love London, in particular, as it’s like a cleaner version of New York,
What is your go-to post-dinner sweet treat?
Vanilla or butter pecan ice cream.
What is your perfect Sunday?
When I’m not travelling, I like to work out in the mornings and read. I love spending time with my family, too. Sundays are always my days to decompress, relax and plan the upcoming week.
Do you have a comfort TV show or film?
The Notebook, as I’m a lover girl and a sucker for a romance story. It felt so real to the point where I think I’ll meet my special someone on a hot summer’s day. Or, I love watching Hamilton on Disney+ and 'Satisfied' is my favourite song.
What’s your go-to dinner party dish?
I cook a lot, and I love to make Hibachi-style pineapple bowls. I gut out the pineapple and fill it with rice, steak, green beans and more.
What does home mean to you?
Comfort. It doesn’t have to be a place, it’s just something that makes you feel at ease and a space where you can relax and not think. It could be an item, fragrance, place or something that reminds you of a certain point in your life.
Stranger Things season 5, volume 2 is now available to stream on Netflix.
