Isabela Merced Dives Into ‘Madame Web,’ Spider-Women, and Family Heritage

Isabela Merced, the Peruvian American actor known for her diverse roles, is breaking new ground in the superhero genre with her portrayal of Anya Corazón in the upcoming film “Madame Web.” In an exclusive interview, Merced shares insights into her character’s development and her personal connection to the role.

Merced, whose stage name pays homage to her late Peruvian grandmother, is proud to represent her heritage on screen. She reflects on the importance of diversity in film and comics, noting that growing up, she never felt excluded based on her ethnicity.

“I never thought to myself that there was a prerequisite for skin color or ethnicity or background,” Merced says. “It never crossed my mind because I was just a kid.”

With “Madame Web,” Merced sees an opportunity to inspire audiences and showcase the richness of Latinx culture. Her character, Anya Corazón, joins a roster of diverse superheroes, signaling a shift towards inclusivity in the entertainment industry.

“People think that these characters that were made right around when I was born deserve the screen time, they deserve the spotlight,” Merced remarks. “I think great writing could make any comic book character mainstream.”

Beyond her role in “Madame Web,” Merced’s career continues to soar. From her Broadway debut at age 10 to her upcoming appearance as Hawkgirl in James Gunn’s “Superman: Legacy,” she exemplifies versatility and talent in the industry.

Off-screen, Merced remains connected to her Peruvian American heritage, cherishing the memory of her grandmother. The decision to adopt her grandmother’s last name as her stage name was a deeply personal one, reflecting her commitment to honoring her roots.

“I like how it sounds. I like how it looks. It was personal preference to me,” Merced explains. “My grandmother is so special to me, and to my mother. Unfortunately, I never got to meet her. However, people say I look just like her, I act just like her.”

As “Madame Web” prepares to hit theaters nationwide, Merced’s portrayal of Anya Corazón serves as a testament to the power of representation and the importance of embracing one’s heritage in shaping identity.

Isabela Merced, the Peruvian American actor known for her diverse roles, is breaking new ground in the superhero genre with her portrayal of Anya Corazón in the upcoming film “Madame Web.” In an exclusive interview, Merced shares insights into her character’s development and her personal connection to the role. Merced, whose stage name pays homage…