MADISON ELISE ROGERS — A BOOK OF MAGAZINE

PHOTOGRAPHER: SSAM KIM, STYLING: TABITHA SANCHEZ, MAKE-UP: NICOLE BIZER. HAIR: DANNI KATZ

When Madison Elise Rogers steps into a scene, it’s as if she’s been living in that world for years—and maybe that’s because, in many ways, she has. In Taylor Sheridan’s 1923, the sweeping Yellowstone prequel led by Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren, Rogers brings depth and grit to Lindy, a character navigating womanhood in a shifting, often unforgiving America. Directed with epic scope and detail, the Paramount+ series explores generational legacy and survival in the American West—and for Rogers, stepping into Lindy’s shoes was more than period acting. “She exists in a world that isn’t kind to her, yet she finds ways to survive,” Rogers says. And in that quiet strength, she found a haunting familiarity.

From the hush of La Grange, Tennessee to the clamor of Los Angeles casting rooms, Madison's journey isn’t just about geography—it’s about becoming. She credits her early acting classes for pulling her out of her shell, teaching her that vulnerability isn’t a weakness, but a weapon. Off-screen, she bakes, paints, and keeps her roots planted deep in the Southern soil that raised her. On-screen, she delivers performances that linger. Watching Timothy Dalton work, she says, was “a masterclass in stillness,” a lesson she carries into each role. But perhaps the heart of her story lies in this quiet confession: “If I were a book, I’d be The Great Gatsby… there’s ambition, longing, and this deep passion—mixed with a bit of vulnerability.” Consider this your invitation to read between the lines.

Madison, your journey from the quiet corners of La Grange, Tennessee, to the dynamic sets of Hollywood is truly inspiring. Reflecting on your early days, how did those initial acting classes help you navigate your shyness, and in what ways do they continue to influence your performances today?

Acting classes were a turning point for me. They pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me a space to express myself without fear. Over time, I learned that vulnerability wasn’t something to hide but something to embrace. Even now, I carry that lesson into every role.

Transitioning from the Southern landscapes of Memphis and Mississippi to the bustling environment of Los Angeles at 19 is a significant leap. How have your Southern roots shaped your identity and approach in the competitive world of acting?

Growing up in the South gave me a deep appreciation for storytelling, people, and the quiet strength that often goes unnoticed. That background keeps me grounded in this industry, reminding me that authenticity is my greatest asset.

In 1923, you portray Lindy, a character set in a transformative era of American history. How did you prepare to authentically represent the nuances of that time, and what aspects of Lindy’s journey resonated most with you?

I read about women’s lives in the 1920s, studied their mannerisms, and watched films from that time. What struck me most about Lindy was her resilience. She exists in a world that isn’t kind to her, yet she finds ways to survive.

Working alongside esteemed actors like Timothy Dalton in 1923 offers a wealth of experience. Can you share a moment or lesson from your time on set that profoundly impacted your perspective on your craft?

Timothy Dalton gave me incredible advice, but honestly, just watching him work was a masterclass in itself. He has such a deep understanding of his craft. One of the biggest lessons I took from him was the power of stillness. How sometimes, the most compelling moments come not from what you say, but from what you withhold.

Beyond the screen, you’ve expressed a love for baking, cooking, and painting. How do these creative outlets influence your acting, and do they offer a form of expression that complements your performances?

Absolutely. Cooking and painting are just other forms of storytelling to me. They allow me to tap into a different kind of creativity.

The entertainment industry is known for its challenges and unpredictability. How do you maintain resilience and stay grounded amidst the highs and lows of your career?

I remind myself that this industry is a marathon, not a sprint. I focus on the work rather than the noise surrounding it. Living outside of acting, spending time with people I love, and pursuing other creative passions helps me stay balanced.

As you continue to evolve in your profession, are there specific themes or stories you’re passionate about exploring through your future roles?

I’m drawn to characters that evoke deep emotion. Ones that challenge me and feel truly lived-in. I want to explore stories that are raw, intimate, and complex, whether that means diving into psychological thrillers, period dramas, or deeply personal character studies.

Reflecting on your journey, what personal experiences have been pivotal in shaping the actress and individual you are today?

Moving away from home at 19 was a defining moment for me. It forced me to grow up quickly, to figure out who I was outside of where I came from. Every challenge I’ve faced, every setback, and every small victory has shaped me into the person and actor I am now.

In today’s digital age, actors often engage with their audience through social media. How do you approach this interaction, and in what ways do you believe it impacts your relationship with your audience?

I think social media is a great way to connect with people. I like sharing things that feel authentic to me. At the end of the day, I want people to connect with my work more than my online presence.

Lastly, for those who look up to your path from a small town to the big screen, what advice would you offer to aspiring actors embarking on their own journeys?

Keep going. Rejection will happen, doubt will creep in, but if you truly love it, don’t stop. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, work hard, and stay curious.

Lastly, if you were a book, what book would you be and why?

I think if I were a book, I’d be The Great Gatsby. There’s ambition and this longing for something unattainable, which reflects the way I sometimes approach things… with a deep passion but also with a bit of vulnerability, trying to make sense of an imperfect world. It’s not perfect, but I think it’s a journey many of us can relate to.

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