Lena Cardwell is a success story in the making. At only nine years old, she was singing for money to afford singing and acting lessons. Her mother recognized her talent and took her to New York, but the family ran out of money, and for a time they supported themselves by Cardwell singing on subway platforms and in Times Square. She hit it lucky one day when she was "discovered". She has a number of guest appearances to her credit, as well as a small part in the recent film "The Object of My Affection". "Passions" is her first TV contract -- the producers thought she was perfect for the role after seeing her audition. Her "passions" are singing, dancing (ballet, jazz, hip hop), gymnastics, and martial arts.