If you’ve spent any time on the vertical side of social media lately, you’ve undoubtedly encountered the alluring presence of Alissa Filoramo. Her portrayal of Birdie Edwards—the composed acting icon in DramaShorts’ My Sexy Mentor Seduced Me has provided the viral hit with an undeniable gravitational pull…
Now if you’re new to the vertical shorts space, it is perfect for people who want a quick viewing experience and drama stories without long breaks or unnecessary filler. My Sexy Mentor Seduced Me catapulted onto the scene and has already accumulated 26 million views, with no signs of slowing down. Yet Filoramo does far more than just play a sultry, misunderstood romantic lead in this sapphic story, she constructs a character caught in high-stakes tug-of-war between her professional acting career and the terrifying vulnerability of a new, intense connection with her mentee, Vera (played by Eloise Lola Gordon). Filoramo has the ability to balance a sharp sense of authority with a deep, hidden longing for love and connection that has turned Birdie into a fan favorite and a viral sensation.
Long before the “Wild West” of vertical shorts took over our feeds, Filoramo was no stranger to the lens, building a diverse resume in the world of Lifetime thrillers and independent cinema. She moves through the industry with a refreshing level of commitment, admirably protective of her craft and now firm on holding out for stories written with intention, rather than roles merely “checking a box” for any network. Filoramo’s commitment to her characters’ integrity is exactly why her performance feels like a long-awaited milestone for authentic queer representation in a medium that is still finding its footing in 2026. Off-screen, she brings that same energy to her real life. Whether she’s navigating the endearing chaos of vertical shorts or reflecting on her journey from design school, she speaks with conviction and clarity. She isn’t riding a viral wave; she’s curating a career built on self-love, the power of saying “no,” and the belief that even the shortest of stories deserve deep nuance.
Fandomize had the pleasure of sitting down with Alissa to discuss the phenomenon of Birdie Edwards, her plans for the future, and why she finally said ‘yes’ to embracing the spicy, booming world of vertical dramas.