Lilly Singh has worn many hats throughout her career — YouTuber, comedian, talk show host, producer, and now leading actress in her upcoming film Doin’ It.
In a candid new episode of Angie Martinez IRL, Singh sat down with the “Voice of New York” for a vulnerable and inspiring conversation that touched on career risks, cultural identity, mental health, and what it really means to bet on yourself.
Singh’s latest project, Doin’ It, is more than just another acting role — it’s her first film as both a star and producer. She told Martinez that stepping into a position of creative ownership was essential, not only to grow as an artist but to push forward much-needed representation in Hollywood. “Progress gets hindered if you don’t showcase diversity,” she explained, emphasizing her commitment to stories that reflect different voices and perspectives.
Throughout the interview, Singh returned to the theme of self-belief. She admitted that in the past she struggled with overthinking what others might think of her decisions. Now, she’s learning to let go of judgment and trust her instincts. “Betting on yourself is scary,” she admitted, “but it’s the only way to grow.” She stressed the importance of giving herself grace — forgiving mistakes and allowing space to evolve, instead of being her own harshest critic.
Martinez and Singh also dug into the tension between ambition and rest. Singh, who has long been associated with hustle culture, said she’s been intentional about finding a healthier balance. “You can’t just hustle — you’ve got to rest, you’ve got to play, you’ve got to breathe,” she shared. She spoke about daily rituals that ground her, from morning practices to mental resets when stress builds, noting that joy is just as essential to success as hard work.
Another highlight came when Singh discussed being in her “daddy bag” — drawing strength from her family roots and cultural identity. She credited her upbringing with shaping her resilience and perspective, and explained how embracing her heritage has given her a stronger storytelling voice. Reflecting on her journey, Singh acknowledged how much she’s grown since her early YouTube days, saying vulnerability has become a key part of her personal and professional evolution.
True to the IRL format, Martinez closed with personal questions that revealed Singh’s deeper thoughts on fear, legacy, and success. Singh admitted that self-doubt still lingers but believes empathy and resilience guide her through challenges. More than anything, she hopes to be remembered not just for her achievements, but for the way she uplifted others and created space for voices like hers in the entertainment industry.
The hour-long discussion underscored Singh’s ongoing transformation from internet star to media entrepreneur and cultural force. By producing Doin’ It and openly sharing her insecurities and lessons, Singh is modeling the very philosophy she promotes — taking risks, embracing authenticity, and finding strength in vulnerability.
