Johnna Dias-Watson joined Pop Culture Unplugged with Elias to dive into her breakout role as Kiara in the hit Prime Video series Motorheads. The actress opened up about how her life has changed since the show’s release, her deep connection to the character, and the journey of bringing Kiara to life on screen.
On the Show's Impact and Fan Reactions
Johnna admitted life has been “crazy” since Motorheads dropped, with her phone constantly buzzing from cast chats and fan responses. "It’s been a relief that it’s finally out. There’s a sense of pride," she said. TikTok edits and fan videos featuring Kiara and her castmates have become a delightful surprise. “Melissa and I keep sending them to each other,” she shared.
Landing the Role of Kiara
Johnna originally auditioned specifically for Kiara, taping scenes like the Firefly Festival moment that she instantly connected with. “As soon as I read it, I knew I had to be part of it,” she said. She was drawn to Kiara’s layered personality—a mayor’s daughter caught between popularity, personal identity, and quiet courage.
Connecting Kiara to Her Own Life
Johnna shared that she poured a lot of her younger self into the role. “There’s a high school version of me in there for sure,” she admitted, relating to Kiara’s smiling exterior and inner pressure to fit in. “I was maybe popular for a couple months,” she joked, “but I definitely didn’t belong.”
Research and Personal Influence
Growing up visiting small towns in Pennsylvania gave her a direct connection to Motorheads’ fictional setting of Ironwood. “I knew exactly where this place was—I know these people,” she said, making the transition into Kiara’s world feel natural.
On Kiara’s Layers and Relationships
Johnna revealed she would ask herself each day on set, “What part am I playing today?” as Kiara wore many hats: daughter, girlfriend, best friend, and more. Her scenes with Caitlin (played by Melissa) stood out for their emotional authenticity. “Those are the moments where Kiara drops her walls.”
Powerful Moments on Set
She recalled filming the diner scene with her on-screen mother (played by Alex Paxton-Beesley) as a favorite: “It was just two people talking. That vulnerability made it special.” Other standouts included Homecoming and the White Knuckle Run, both filled with energy and emotion.
What She Hopes Viewers Take Away
“I hope people see that Kiara is trying to fit into all these boxes—and that she starts to break free,” Johnna said. She wants viewers to feel the power of dropping expectations and leaning into authenticity.
What’s Next for Kiara (and Johnna)?
While she’s tight-lipped on Season 2, Johnna hopes to see Kiara get bolder—whether that means joining the racing world or finding her voice even more. “I want to see her drop those pretenses and really speak her mind.”
As for Johnna, she teased a new film and is currently enjoying the ride Motorheads has given her. “No breaks,” she smiled. “I’m just auditioning, reflecting, and enjoying this moment.”