HIGHLANDER STUDIOS TEAM

‍The Foundations of Artistic Passion

Today this Scottish-American artist is a multifaceted creative force with an award-winning skill set encompassing writing, producing, directing, acting and public speaking. Marion's professional journey has spanned continents and mediums, from the U.S. to Australia to Latin America. Her work includes films, television, radio, and theater to award-winning documentaries, edutainment series, and global advertising campaigns.

In her early years, her insatiable appetite for the arts propelled her to secure a scholarship at the prestigious Strasberg Institute in Los Angeles, where she studied acting and directing with the renowned Lee Strasberg himself and equally distinguished acting coach, Stella Adler.

Marion gained early recognition with leading roles in musical productions such as Celebration and Sondheim’s Company and worked consistently in bilingual theater, commercials, and independent films.

Transitioning to Australia, Marion secured supporting roles in acclaimed films alongside Meryl Streep and Sam Neill (A Cry in the Dark), Colin Friels and Donald Pleasance (Ground Zero), and appeared in popular television productions like House Rules with Jackie Weaver, Flying Doctors with Robert Grub, and Embassy and Chances for the Nine Network and Crawford Productions. As co-star of the musical Pastrana, Marion earned a Green Room Award nomination (Australian Tony Award). She also co-penned and produced the successful theatrical production With This Baggage We Leap!, which enjoyed a lengthy run in Melbourne. Alongside her creative pursuits, Marion co-founded and co-directed The P&M Drama Studios, a pioneering artistic hub where she trained numerous Australian actors and directors in the Method School of Acting.

‍Achievements in Advertising and Environmental Advocacy

In Southern California, Marion's passion for effective communication shone through in her roles as an advertising copywriter and producer, earning accolades such as a Clio Award for the bilingual campaign Find Yourself in Mexico. She went on to host, write, and produce the stylish and popular Straight from the Tap, an environmental stewardship cable television series that garnered six Telly Awards.

Social Impact and Mental Health Advocacy

Yet, it was Marion's commitment to addressing societal issues that truly set her apart. Spearheading the creation of The California Mental Health Initiative, a two-time Telly award-winning web series, she empowered professionals to compassionately engage with homeless and mentally ill individuals, earning widespread acclaim.

Exploring Themes of Love and Romance

Continuing to amplify the power of personal stories, Marion stepped into the faith and family-friendly space with her next endeavor, Winning at Love. As host, writer, and producer, she crafted an uplifting and entertaining docuseries chronicling the wildly romantic, sometimes harrowing and often hilarious journeys of Christian singles in search of true love. With distribution in over 200 countries, the series captured hearts worldwide, showcasing Marion's versatility as a storyteller.

Authorship and Personal Triumph

Marion is also an acclaimed author and speaker, sharing her courageous journey to save her husband's life from cancer using only non-toxic, non-invasive, and immune-boosting therapies. Her book "Healed, Healthy and Whole" has led to media interviews on high-profile outlets around the country, authoring a blog, and helping hundreds with their healing journeys.

Expanding her now great expertise in the health and wellness space, Marion hosted, directed and co-produced Standing in the Gap, a half-hour special featuring world-renowned doctors and nurses who have launched The Nurse Freedom network, an independent healthcare network that provides optimum care without coercion from Big Pharma or special interests. It has been viewed all over the country.

Renowned Nonprofit Work

Marion’s dedication to impactful storytelling also shines in her nonprofit video fundraising work defending the rights of the poor and marginalized in India and Ethiopia. Her adeptness as an interviewer also shines brightly in the celebrity-studded video tribute for the legendary author, Larry McMurtry, featuring A-listers such as Diane Lane, Jeff Bridges, and Jake Gyllenhaal.

Co-Founder of Highlander Studios

Together with her producer/set & lighting designer husband, Russell Pyle, Marion has co-founded Highlander Studios, a full-service, award-winning media production company headquartered in Nashville, TN that produces family-friendly and culturally impactful television, film, web series, and theatrical productions.

A Life Filled with Passion and Purpose

When she's not changing the world through her work, Marion finds joy in a diverse range of passions. She finds spiritual connection and expression singing worship music; enjoys the beauty of the outdoors when kayaking and horseback riding; and loves to share good food and laughter while entertaining at home. Marion also makes time to engage in local politics advocating passionately for causes close to her heart. She has been recognized by both the Tennessee State Legislature and the She Leads Tennessee organization as an extraordinary citizen and Christian woman in leadership who brings faith-based solutions to modern day challenges.

With each endeavor, Marion's exceptional people skills, cross-cultural competency, and dedication to authentic storytelling have left an indelible mark. Whether captivating audiences with her on-screen presence, advocating for important causes, or sharing her courageous journey, Marion MacKenzie Pyle is a true Renaissance woman, effortlessly bridging the worlds of art, entertainment, and social impact.

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