“I’m Alana, I’m six, and I’m a beauty queen.” These were the first words the world heard from Alana Thompson, a young, spunky girl from McIntyre, Georgia, who called herself “Honey Boo Boo,” drank questionable “Go-Go Juice,” and who would go onto become one of the most widely-recognized reality TV stars of all time. After her debut as a child pageant contestant on TLC’s Toddlers and Tiaras, she and her family almost immediately landed their own reality series, Here Comes Honey Boo Boo, which ran for two seasons — though not without controversy.
The real story of Alana Thompson
Directed by Katie Boland, Lifetime’s new biopic I Was Honey Boo Boo tells the real story of Alana Thompson, played by rising Vancouver actress Vale Cooper (UPCP/ACTRA).
According to the film’s IMDb page, Thompson herself narrated each scene, offering a glimpse into how she was treated by family and producers both onscreen and off.
While she and her “colourful family” were catapulted into stardom for their iconic one-liners and sassy attitudes, what simmered just below the surface was far from light-hearted. Under constant public scrutiny, Thompson had the added stress of frequent struggles with her mother, Mama June, played by Chelsea Larkin.
“Behind closed doors were forced smiles, silent tears, and the lingering sense of uncertainty for what the future held for Alana and her family,” reads the synopsis. “After a series of scandals and legal troubles, Alana’s world was turned upside down and she was ultimately placed in the care of her older sister, Lauryn ‘Pumpkin’ Efird (Georgia Small).”
Now in college, Thompson, 19, is determined to shed light on the exploitative nature of reality TV and child stardom as a whole, forging a new path for herself. Playing the bubbly “Young Alana,” Vale Cooper captivates viewers with her strong on-screen presence and charisma, much like Thompson did when she was first thrust into the spotlight.
Rising Vancouver actress Vale Cooper
A favourite on set, Cooper’s outgoing personality, quick wit, professionalism, and natural comfort in front of the camera made her the perfect fit.
“I had to wait a long time to find out if I got this role,” Cooper shares with Curiocity. “I prayed every night, I really wanted it.”
The Kelowna-born film and television actress previously appeared in various Lifetime, Hallmark, and Paramount projects, including “Young Missy” in Happy Face, “Young Rebecca” in Deck the Halls on Cherry Lane, and “Ryan” in We Need A Little Christmas. Today, she continues to study acting at Kelowna’s Born to Act Studios with Carly Fawcett, and voice with Janel Filipiak and Janel Rae.
When asked about her favourite role so far, she shares that playing “Young Alana” was a dream come true.
“I got to be silly, sassy and have so much fun in the outfits — especially the pink frilly one with jewels!” There’s no denying that dressing up in lavish pageant clothes as a young actress has its perks.
“I just loved all the cast and crew. My tutor, Beth, took me crabbing. The production coordinator, Rosie, and I made bracelets. My favourite person of all was a wild donkey named Ron Weasley near one location. I fed him apples.”
In terms of future projects, Cooper is taking a well-deserved break after being away for nearly a month.
“I’m happy to be home. I am focusing on playing soccer with my team. Go Avalanche!”
Aside from acting and sports, Cooper can be found doing what she loves most: Watching Phantom of the Opera for the 100th time on a Friday night. With a love for dramatic storytelling and bold performances, the budding actress is always ready to bring her unforgettable characters to life.
Lifetime’s I Was Honey Boo Boo premiers on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 8 a.m. E.T.
Recent Posts:
The City of Vancouver is hiring across its departments and most jobs pay over $30 an hour
The world’s longest free ferry ride sails across this B.C. lake into a different time zone
