Beautiful star on the rise Mariel Molino shines in the new NCIS: Origins premiering 10/14 as Special Agent Lala Dominguez. It is the prequel to the original series and takes place in the early 90’s. We got to know this gifted young star as we captured some candid moments in our Brooklyn studio. Mariel was glowing even though she was fresh off a red eye from LA. As she sipped her coffee trying on outfits from her wardrobe she shared a few words on her character Lala, 90’s vibes, enjoying some upcoming time off, personal style, skincare and the bare essential of a sunset walk with her dog Kika. Scroll on down!

The Bare Magazine: So glad we caught up with you in nyc thanks for stopping by! how was your trip and seeing the big marquee in times square for the show?!

Mariel Molino: 48 hours in New York after a red eye… You might think I would be completely drained but the city has that ability to completely re-energize you, as cliche as it may sound. Seeing the billboard of ‘NCIS: Origins’ is surreal, it’s a reminder that hard work pays off. I remember when I used to bike through Times Square on my way to work dreaming of making a living doing this.

Bare: Do you enjoy playing Lala Dominguez? were there moments where you felt really connected and inspired by the character?

MM: I am enjoying playing Lala. I have never played a cop let alone a former marine, so it’s been unlike any character I’ve ever played. She’s working in a male dominated field in the 90’s trying to balance her strength with her compassion, it’s been very inspiring.

Bare: can you share some great 90's vibes from the show that were fun ...costumes, hair, makeup, music?!

MM: Costumes have always been one of my favorite elements in shaping a character. Working with Jill, our costume designer, to bring Lala to life has been an absolute joy. Julia Roberts was a major inspiration for me, with her effortless style—casual jeans, vests, and of course, that iconic voluminous hair! I’ve also loved experimenting with the minimalist makeup looks we’ve been able to explore - she’s a female cop in the 90’s so she doesn’t want to stand out. And the music! The era’s blend of moody grunge and transformative rap adds another layer of inspiration—it’s a time period rich with so much to admire.

Bare: you have an upcoming hiatus. how will you spend your time?

MM: I will finally have some time to schedule my dentist appointment lol. I’m looking forward to spending time with my family and hopefully coming back to New York!

Bare: you are such a natural beauty. have you or do you have any skin challenges? any routines/products you can share that help keep it so luminous?

MM: Yes! I have melasma, the dark spots get worse with sun exposure so sunscreen is my best friend - I re apply it every 3 hours! I’ve been a big fan of clean products including Osea and Odacite. I think sometimes less is more. I also think it’s good to change it up - your skin gets used to products so you gotta keep it on its toes!

Bare: we loved what you pulled from your wardrobe for our shoot. can you describe your personal al style? do you borrow some pieces from your mom? do you like vintage?

MM: Many of my pieces are vintage, and I think what I love most about them is their one-of-a-kind quality. There’s something endearing about the idea that these items have lived a life before finding their way to me. My style tends to be quite androgynous, blending feminine and masculine elements—a balance of yin and yang. It shifts with my mood, evolving as I do. Lately, I’ve been embracing a grungy, moody rocker vibe, probably inspired by the music of the '90s that’s been playing in the show!

Bare: What would be a dream project for you at some point down the road? another genre or costar/director you'd love to work on...also anything coming up we should lookout for??

MM: I’m a big fan of Emma Stone - I was so inspired by her role in ‘Poor Things’. I would love to get the chance to play a role like that. To me it was a complete exploration of the female experience and funny. I want to do more comedy and horror. Big fan of extremes as you can tell. My horror film The Shade recently came out in theaters which is exciting! Next year, I will be on HBO Max’s season 2 of ‘VGLY’ which I cannot wait for people to see.

Bare: what keeps you grounded? and what do you enjoy outside of acting...any great escapes or pastimes?

MM: Horseback riding has always been a passion of mine. There's something deeply fulfilling about the connection with the horse and the freedom it brings, the way it connects me to nature. It’s an experience that grounds me and challenges me. I also love to cook - it calms me so much. There’s something special about making a meal for someone.

Bare: Please list your top 5 Bare essentials.

MM:

1. A freshly brewed cup of coffee in the morning.

2. A sunset walk with my dog Kika.

3. The type of laugh that makes you wonder if you peed yourself a little.

4. A farmer’s market haul.

5. A bottle of good wine shared with an old friend.

Photos/Makeup: Tina Turnbow

Hair: Corey Tuttle for Exclusive Artists using Oribe

Mariel wears her own clothing

Shot in bare studio brooklyn