About Iris

Iris began acting at age eight—on the unsolicited advice of her pediatrician. From the time she could talk, Iris treated life like a stage, turning everyday moments into full-blown performances. During her annual check-up, after enduring a barrage of monologues and impromptu skits, her doctor—visibly drained and not exactly amused—muttered, “Perhaps acting would be a good outlet for that.” Iris took the suggestion to heart. And from that moment on, she never looked back.

Within a year, Iris landed her first film role—thanks to Grace Merchant-Brands, who was directing a heartfelt short titled See Her Differently for the Minnesota Chapter of NAWBO, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting women business owners. The project was not only for a meaningful cause, but also marked several exciting firsts for Iris: her first headshots, her first audition, her first time being cast, her first experience on set, and the unforgettable moment of seeing herself on screen.

May 2017: Iris with Grace Merchant-Brands and Landon Brands (cinematographer & Grace's husband) at the Minnesota Chapter of NAWBO where She Her Differently was presented to Board Members.