My interview with Ola Ray :)

Like so many kids, of the 80s and beyond, I grew up watching Thriller. I can still remember sitting in front of the TV, heart racing during the transformation scene, completely mesmerized by the energy, the music, and that undeniable chemistry between Michael Jackson and his leading lady. I still remembering watching Making Michael Jackson’s Thriller and really loving seeing clips of Ola, radiant and full of vibrancy, filming the short film that would make history,

Now, as an adult, I look at Ola with a new lens. Not just as “the Thriller girl,” but as a woman who carved out space for herself in an industry that wasn’t always kind, especially to women.

When I finally got the chance to sit down with her, it wasn’t just about nostalgia. It was about honoring her story and holding space for her truth. Ola’s story reminded me that behind every historic image, there’s a real woman who dreamed, worked, and sacrificed. A woman who held strong to her faith after many dark times and is now, sharing her life lessons with the next generation.

I’m grateful for her openness, for her courage to share her story, and for reminding me that legacy isn’t just about what the world remembers… it’s about what we carry forward. Because every time someone watches Thriller, whether they realize it or not, they’re witnessing a piece of Ola’s light — and that light still shines.

Watch our full conversation:

“The Chemistry Was REAL” | Ola Ray Reflects on Michael Jackson, Faith & Life After Thriller