Sam Morelos and their summer of transformation in the new movie: Summer of 69

The ‘That ’90s Show’ star leads ‘Summer of 69’ with authenticity, exploring identity, friendship, and Filipino representation.

The performer who won over audiences in ‘That ’90s Show’ makes their cinematic debut as a lead in ‘Summer of 69’, a film that explores friendship, identity, and the power of embracing what makes us different. For Sam, there’s no bolder look—or character—than being oneself.

Sam Morelos knew that Abby Flores, their first lead role in a feature film, shouldn’t follow the classic teen makeover arc. In ‘Summer of 69’, the transformation doesn’t involve taking off glasses or letting hair down. It’s about something deeper: “a confidence evolution,” as they put it. And in Abby’s journey, Sam found pieces of themself.

“I was also an awkward teen who didn’t have many friends,” they admit. Unlike Abby, they often overcompensated socially, only to isolate once home. “It still happens sometimes,” they confess. But instead of being uncomfortable, that parallel has helped them grow: “Abby and I are both awkward, just in different ways.

What makes this story unique, Sam believes, is its portrayal of female friendship. “I love that Abby and Santa Monica’s bond shows how vital platonic love is in our lives, beyond romance,” they explain. They believe teen films need more stories about real, nourishing connections between women.

Transitioning from a sitcom to an intimate drama also pushed them creatively. “It was my first single-cam project, and I learned how much the camera can really capture,” they share. A particularly intense climax scene allowed them to explore new dimensions of their craft: “I got to show a side of myself I hadn’t had the chance to before.”

Sam had already impressed audiences with Nikki in ‘That ’90s Show’, a new character not tied to the legacy cast of ‘That ’70s Show’. “She was supposed to be the new Jackie, but Nikki is very different—she’s her own person,” they say. The show incorporated their Filipino American identity thoughtfully: “Things like academic pressure and her love for music were personal and included.”

For Sam, representation isn’t a buzzword—it’s a mission. “I grew up watching Filipino actors play other ethnicities. It taught me there was no space to be myself,” they recall. That’s why, when casting calls specifically mentioned Filipino parents for their character in ‘Summer of 69’, they cried. “That’s rare. Usually, they just say ‘Asian’ and leave it vague. This felt meaningful.”

That awareness guides their choices. “If a project misrepresents the LGBTQ+ community, I’d turn it down instantly,” they say. Working with women, queer, or trans creatives has always been a highlight. “When I see female or trans producers and directors on board, I light up.”

Outside set life, their personality shines through their wardrobe. “Fashion has always been part of my identity. I love vintage because it tells a story,” they say. Dressing up isn’t vanity—it’s empowerment: “When I like what I see in the mirror, my whole posture changes.” And about taking fashion risks, they’re sure: “It’s good for the soul. It makes you feel like more of yourself—or a more elevated version of yourself.”

On-screen or off, Sam Morelos doesn’t care for fitting in. They prefer standing out. One outfit at a time. One role at a time.