Karla Mosley, known for her prominent roles in soap operas, has recently taken on the lead role of Dani Dupree in CBS’s daytime drama *Beyond the Gates*. In an exclusive interview with *PEOPLE*, the seasoned actress shared the complexities surrounding her new position, which brought her immense joy alongside what she described as a “sinking feeling”.
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Mosley, who shares two daughters, Aurora Imani, seven, and Willa Josephine, four, with her partner John Rogers, reflected on the challenges of relocating her family from Los Angeles to Atlanta. The actress admitted that the move was a significant adjustment, particularly because it was not just her own life that was changing. “I hadn’t been to Atlanta before; it wasn’t on my radar as a place to move,” she explained. Even though her life as an actor necessitated continual relocation, this was the first time she was doing it with her family in tow.
Having settled into life in Atlanta for over a year now, Mosley noted that her family has acclimatised well. She expressed gratitude for the vibrant community and the positive experiences her children have had at their new schools. “The people are lovely, and my kids love their schools. So I’m starting to think that maybe there’s a bigger plan here that I initially realised,” Mosley remarked, acknowledging the unexpected benefits of their relocation.
The opportunity to star in *Beyond the Gates* represents a crucial milestone in her career. Mosley shared her excitement about sharing the screen with industry veterans like Clifton Davis and Tamara Tunie. She views this role as an opportunity she has worked tirelessly to achieve, a dream that is both fulfilling and demanding. “Seeing my face on the poster alongside them is such an honour. It’s a privilege I never take for granted,” she stated, acknowledging the demands that come with leading a daytime drama.
Navigating the challenges of balancing motherhood with the rigours of acting is no small feat. Mosley articulated the struggles of late nights and the pressure of preparing multiple scripts while still ensuring she is there for her daughters. She described her commitment to delivering high-quality performances, as soap operas are particularly demanding with limited takes. “You have to dig deep to ensure you perform well, and I want to minimise any moments where things don’t go as planned. That’s the responsibility that comes with leading a show,” she mentioned.
As she engages with her character, Mosley increasingly identifies with the storyline’s themes, particularly those that resonate with viewers. She shared that the genuine reactions she receives from fans during her daily activities remind her of the impact of her work. “When I meet people who relate their personal stories and experiences to what they see on screen, it reinforces the significance of our work,” Mosley reflected, noting the importance of storytelling in connecting emotionally with audiences.
As *Beyond the Gates* approaches its second season, Mosley feels confident that her character is evolving in fulfilling ways. She hinted at exciting developments for Dani Dupree, revealing how she settles into the life she has always desired. “Dani is now reconnecting with the life she envisioned with Bill, having given up her career for it all those years ago. She’s finally getting the chance to shape her career on her own terms, all while nurturing a committed and thrilling romantic relationship,” Mosley disclosed.
The character development also dives into familial dynamics, with Dani reconciling her complexities while supporting her mother. “This season, viewers will see Dani embrace deeper connections within her family, contrasting her sister Nicole’s wild nature,” Mosley described. She believes these relatable narratives are what make the series impactful.
*Beyond the Gates* airs weekdays on CBS, and fans can look forward to what promises to be an engaging season, enriched by Mosley’s poignant portrayal of Dani Dupree. With her extensive experience in the industry and a newfound appreciation for her role as a mother and actress, Mosley is determined to excel in her new chapter, both on and off the screen.