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Born in Brawley, California, Bella Estrada has been building a career in film and television, fueled by her passion and dedication. Her father, Alfredo Estrada, serves as the Assistant Fire Chief in the City of Montebello, and her mother, Brenda, owns Nana’s Kitchen, a popular restaurant in Imperial, California.
Bella’s love for acting began at the age of five when she appeared in a commercial for Garland’s in Calexico. By 2021, her aspirations had taken her to the national stage. Auditioning for Next Star Productions, Bella impressed talent scouts and earned a spot to compete in Las Vegas.
In an interview, Bella shared insights into her early life in Imperial Valley. “My early life was very family-oriented. Every other weekend, my cousins would come over, and we would go out to eat and run errands together. I spent a lot of time at my mom’s restaurant, either doing homework or watching movies. Growing up in the valley helped me become independent and social because everyone knows each other, which is very comforting.”
When asked about her inspiration to pursue acting, Bella credits her father. “My dad and I are both big-time movie fans. He introduced me to many films, and the idea of acting intrigued me. The biggest influence was 80’s blockbuster movies.”
Bella acknowledges the critical role her family has played in her journey. “They’ve been very supportive, which I’m very grateful for.” Her first realization that she wanted to act came while watching Julia Stiles’ monologue in the 90s rom-com “10 Things I Hate About You.” “I was in awe and very touched by her performance,” she recalls.
Bella’s aspirations within the film industry are ambitious. Her biggest goal is to win an Oscar, but not only that, to be a part of what they call a ‘cult classic film.’ She is passionate about thriller movies and the occasional romantic comedy, and she would love to be a part of The Fear Street movie adaptations.
Handling the challenges and uncertainties of an acting career with grace, Bella says, “I handle it by realizing it’s all in God’s timing. If it’s meant to happen, it will.”
Bella engages in continuous learning by taking acting classes and keeping up to date with the most popular actors and movies. She also finds that watching the Oscars and Golden Globes every year helps her stay informed about industry trends and techniques.
Bella’s filmography is growing, with notable works including commercials for Benjamin Franklin Plumbing and Barbie Color Reveal, and a print campaign with Dick’s Sporting Goods. Her most significant role to date is in the short film “Little Orange Flags,” released in 2024. The 17-minute film, written and directed by Julianna Gelinas Bonifacio, tells the story of Iris, played by Bella, and her cousin Pruey, played by Bella Price. The film also stars Lisa Emery from Ozark. Reflecting on her career so far, Bella cherishes the experience of working on “Little Orange Flags.”
“It was amazing to be an on-set actor for more than a day, and it helped me realize how fun acting can be.”
Bella hopes to inspire other young people, particularly from her hometown. She advises aspiring actors to watch more movies and study the industry itself, adding that she wishes she had known about the complexities of obtaining a work permit earlier.
When she’s not acting, Bella enjoys playing soccer and hanging out with friends, activities that keep her disciplined and grounded. Her love for the 80s is a unique aspect of her personality, complete with posters of Patrick Swayze and Tom Cruise in her room.
