Article Summary: Ola Ray reflects on Michael Jackson, Playboy, and her remarkable journey in an exclusive Runway Magazine interview spanning her iconic career.
Ola Ray and Michael Jackson: Thriller
Q: Ola, you have a very interesting background! You’re a known model and actress; however, your claim to fame is your role in Michael Jackson’s video “Thriller.” I am sure that opportunity opened many doors. Is that true? When you lived in Japan, did you ever think this would be part of your resume?
A: I started my career at the age of 15, singing, dancing, and modeling in Japan. My stepfather was stationed there in the Air Force for three years. It was like a dream come true to work with Michael in the Thriller video. And yes, in some ways the doors were opened.
Ola Ray: Playboy Years
Q: You have graced the cover of the iconic Playboy Magazine and were a Playmate. What was that like? What was it like working with Hugh Hefner? Is the Playboy Mansion as glamorous as people say?
A: Yes, I was Miss June 1980 centerfold for Playboy, and I believe that opened all doors for me. Actually, John Landis saw my centerfold and showed it to Michael. I also became the spokesperson for Johnson & Johnson hair care products called Classy Curl. I worked with George Benson in his video Give Me the Night and appeared in countless commercial ads. Playboy was a stepping stone for me that helped me get back into the entertainment industry.
Q: Circling back to Michael Jackson, what was it like to work with such an iconic performer and musician?
A: When I first met Michael, I was very nervous. He made me feel very welcome and greeted me with a hug. When I went to meet with John Landis, he explained what type of actress he needed and then played the song Thriller on a CD player. I became so excited and told him I was his girl. It was a closed meeting in his office, and although there may have been other girls who auditioned, there was no one there but me. He told me he would speak to Michael and get back to me within two weeks. I was so excited when he called! All I was thinking was that I wanted to make sure I did the best acting job for him.
Q: There is mention in past media that you had “special” chemistry with Jackson. Can you elaborate? What was it like to kiss him? Would you consider this the most exciting kiss on camera? Very few people had close interaction with Michael—was he quiet or outgoing? What was he like?
A: When Michael and I started to work on the scenes, it was like magic—almost as though it was meant to be. We flirted a lot with each other, and when it was time to do the kiss scene, I asked him where he wanted me to kiss him. He laughed and said, “Wherever you want.” I ended up kissing him on the cheek, but if he wanted more, he would have to initiate it—which later he did in his trailer. We had so much fun together. We laughed a lot, and he was so outgoing and full of life.
A Career Beyond Thriller
Q: Your career expanded after the Thriller video. It looks like you had many cameos on television and film. Do you have any favorite genres you would like to entertain today?
A: Working with Michael in Thriller was a highlight of my life, but it came with a cost. There were some films made afterward, but due to many unfortunate situations, I stepped back from the industry for many years. Now I’m back, and it’s only through the grace of God that I got through it. I am currently writing a script based on my book The Thrill of it All, which goes into detail about my life experiences—before and after Thriller—outlining some of the horrors associated with being in the entertainment industry. I have a website, www.olaray.com, and soon there may be an announcement about a new film I’ll be starring in with a major studio.
Ola Ray: Return to Entertainment
Q: Would you say you still have the same aspirations in the entertainment industry as when you were younger? Do you have a favorite experience that matches your time with Michael Jackson?
A: I would say that my aspirations have changed since I began working in the industry. I look at life differently now and want to produce and direct from behind the scenes. I want more control over my destiny. I’ve worked alongside some of the best entertainers in the world, such as Eddie Murphy, Ron Howard, and many others. I’d like to think they all played a part in shaping who I have become and inspired me to grow into the person I am today. However, being with Michael was definitely the highlight of my life.
Interview by Samantha Goldberg
