Fans of the AMC drama, The Walking Dead, will recognize Melissa Ponzio as original Woodbury resident, Karen – the lone survivor of the Governor’s attack on their own army in the third season finale. During season four, Karen met her untimely, shocking and pivotal demise in a turn of events that reverberated through the remainder of the season.
Based in Atlanta, Melissa is also the star of Paramount+'s Teen Wolf: The Movie. Melissa recently wrapped a role in writer/director Ali Scher’s coming-of-age family comedy feature, Popular Theory, with Cheryl Hines. The film is scheduled for a U.S. theatrical release in 2023. Teen Wolf: The Movie is streaming exclusively on Paramount+ on January 26. We caught up with Melissa to find out why she loves living in BuckHaven!
We're so glad to meet you! Tell us about some of your favorite dinner spots in BuckHaven.
I love Lips Atlanta for dinner and a show. The Divas always deliver vibrant performances and the energy is electric. If you are a fan of RuPaul's Drag Race, several performers have graced the stage here as well as many other venues in Atlanta.
Are you a shopper? Where are your favorites?
I'm really big on recycled clothing. If I'm looking for fancy on a budget, I go to Labels Consignment. If I want to support an amazing organization - Lost-N-Found Thrift Store that benefits LGBTQIA homeless youth. If I want to dig and surprise myself with a fantastic find, Goodwill off Roswell Road is one of the best in the city. My vintage spot is a secret!
Where do you like to meet friends for drinks or brunch? I'm an old-school brunch gal: The Original Pancake House off Cheshire Bridge. The buckwheat pancakes with real maple syrup are some of the best. Start with the fruit plate that comes with fresh whipped cream AND powdered sugar!
Your favorite outdoor spaces to walk in this area of Atlanta? The Peachtree Creek Greenway has been wonderful this fall. It's an easy out and back on the trail. A great combo of nature and metro vibes.
What is your favorite thing about living in Atlanta? My grandparents retired here in the 70s, so Atlanta has always been my home in a way. So much personal history here for me. I've seen it evolve and I love the growth of the city over time. Especially with the film & television industry. It's thriving. Atlanta is the place to be!