Lindsey Vertner stars in powerful drama: The Zuri Johnson Story

Evansville native Lindsey Vertner returned home for the red-carpet premiere of The Zuri Johnson Story.

What began as a self-care hobby for Vertner has blossomed into a new career. This is her first as the lead in a powerful drama based on true events.

From Self-Care to Spotlight

Vertner first turned to acting to step away from the cycle of responsibilities as a wife, mother, motivational speaker, and life coach.

“I’m living proof of practicing what I preach about prioritizing yourself,” she says. “I started acting as a form of my own self-care, and I didn’t expect it to turn out this way.”

The philosophy that personal fulfillment isn’t an either/or scenario continues to guide her work both on and off the stage.

The Zuri Johnson Story

In the film, Vertner plays Jackie Johnson, a stepmother whose actions drive themes of betrayal, secrecy, and abuse. The story, based on the tragic disappearance of 10-year-old Skylea Carmack, demanded emotional depth and commitment.

To prepare, Vertner studied a 50-page police report and news footage to understand the woman she was portraying.

“I had to really practice self-care to make sure that I was in that mindset of knowing this is a role. This is not you. But I also had to deliver the role in a way that felt truthful and believable,” she explained.

The film’s director, Richarh Tyson, scheduled scenes with children later in the day to help the cast manage the emotional weight. Still, Vertner says Jackie Johnson didn’t truly come alive until the camera rolled.

“We plan, prepare, and do the work, but we put too much emphasis on the outcome. For me, it clicked once the camera rolled.”

The film premieres on Tubi, September 15th. Check out the trailer here .

Themes That Matter

Though centered on tragedy, the film carries a larger message. Mental health is one of its most important themes, and Vertner hopes viewers leave with a renewed awareness of the need to seek help.

“Whenever we are dealing with depression, grief, or mental health issues — we have to be willing to seek help,” she says.

She also emphasizes the role of community: “If you notice signs in other people, be willing to help them seek help or reach out as a helping hand. Sometimes we don’t notice it within ourselves until somebody else points it out.”

A Premiere with Local Impact

For Evansville, the premiere was more than a movie screening — it was a cultural moment. Red-carpet events are rare in the city, and for local Black artists and audiences, the evening carried extra meaning.

“Evansville, IN — you’ve maybe never heard of it, but we’re here, and we produce great, talented people and amazing leaders,” Vertner says with pride.

That hometown connection is why she pushes to bring premieres back to Evansville. “It gives the community something unique, something to rally around. And it’s a chance to celebrate our own.”

As the lights dimmed and the film began, audiences weren’t just watching a story unfold on screen — they were celebrating one of their own taking center stage.