I have just written my 300 post on my blog. When I started doing this 3 years ago, my posts ranged from aspiring casino workers pursuing a second career to prominent gaming executives whose decisions impacted thousands of people. While my present focus is primarily on sports betting and online gaming, I have an affinity and segment of followers that are enchanted with the progression of my original features. So over the next two weeks, you'll see stories that will revisit and introduce you to people whose drive has resonated vicariously with literally hundreds of admirers. This quote is my encouragement to all that read and share this.
Chapter Three
This is the appropriate title for this post. I have written about Deitra Leak 3 times. She has 3 times the inquires and pageviews of anyone I wrote about initially. This is also her third trip back to her hometown of Philadelphia as you read this. We made an agreement that she would let me keep her fan base abreast of her progression. It's been a little over a year. Here's Deitra!
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| Deitra Leak |
1). It's been a year since we talked. Two years since you moved to the West Coast. Is it what you expected?
“It will be two years, Aug. 1, 2015! Wow do I love the West Coast, it’s beautiful here. Very expensive.....to all of my east coast actors, so be prepared when you move here! L.A. is everything and more than what I expected. So much I’ve learned in my short time...I’ve grown so much since day one, from an actor’s standpoint. Acting is a business and you have to treat it as such.”
2). Compare the challenges in the acting industry in L.A. and Philadelphia.
“It’s not easy as everyone thinks it is, in L.A. I thought that too and boy was I wrong. I just knew I was going to be a superstar as soon as I got off the plane! LOL (jk) In any business...networking and building relationships are pretty much how the acting industry goes. Let’s not forget hustling, doing the work and shining when it’s your time! i.e auditions, meet and greets, parties etc.”
3). Tell the readers your purpose, vision and plan when you decided to go for it?
“Here’s the deal...I’m not trying to be a supermega star. If it happens it happens. I just want to be a working actor for a living. Do what I love and was destined to be. Right now, I have about twenty jobs because the cost of living is so high here! I’m on way, I’m getting closer to my reality. It’s a great feeling to see your dreams become a reality. I have an excellent team behind me....Not to mention, I just booked a national commercial! Soooo excited about that! I truly believe I was put on this earth to entertain and inspire people, amongst a whole list of other great things as well.”
4). Biggest star you met in California so far is ? “Well, I’ve been around some great actors...whether it’s at parties, screenings or on set. I must say they are just like you and me...the only thing is they just have more money, fame and fortune. lol Haven’t been star struck yet, but, I have yet to meet my Hollywood crush Idris Elba. It will happen soon, throwing it out there in the universe!”
5). What steps did you take out there that you did not do here? (Perfecting your craft)“Getting an agent/manager and becoming SAG. Also, taking acting technique classes.”
6). How do you balance the job, the career aspirations and family?
“It’s hard, but I’ve been BLESSED BY THE BEST and I’m making it happen! I stepped out on faith and God has my back in every way! I can’t ask for a better situation.”
7). What do you miss most about Philly? “(Sigh)....my family and friends of course. It’s killing me, but everyone is so supportive of me and knows when I get on everybody gets on!”lol Philly stand up! I love you guys so much! I miss my food too!”
8). Best club you've been to since you've been in Cali?
“I really don’t do clubs...I know, a shocker right? Miss Party USA and no clubs? I’m staying focused and keeping my eyes on that prize! I can’t get caught up in that LA Life. Although, I do dibble and dabble a smidgen.... Lure and The Supperclub in Hollywood are nice. There are a few lounges I like too.”
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| Rihanna at the SupperClub |
9). Okay. Which one. Power or Empire? “Uhhhh....I started watching Power first and LOVED it! Empire came along and I LOVED it too! Especially, my girl Taraji P. Henson. She murders her role every time! Soooo, I will not pick one! Hopefully, I will get the opportunity to audition for one of them, if not both and make an appearance.”
10). The importance of having an agent/manager is ? “It’s very important to have an agent before you get to L.A. I was fortunate enough to get referred to one, by the director of the feature film I did in Philly ,The Church. If you can’t land one before hand you can do showcases where they come to you and see your performance, amongst other things. Agents and Managers can get you auditions you can’t get yourself. TV and Film auditions on studio back lots and negotiate deals on your behalf, etc. They have long lasting relationships with casting directors, producers and directors that you don’t. They are the key to everything. Remember that!”
11). Close with encouragement for those who want the next level. What should they do?
“It’s been almost two years since I’ve been here. I have a theatrical and commercial agent, manager and I’m SAG. I’ve been on a bunch of auditions...I’ve had callbacks, and avails. More no’s than yes, so prepare yourself for that. I’ve booked an indie film and a national commercial. I’ve worked on set, behind the scenes for Warner Bros. It’s no easy feat but I LOVE every minute of it! It’s not going to happen over night, so be in it for the long haul. This is a business, you are a brand, know your type and be the best at it! Always take classes to perfect your craft! Always hustle even after you get representation. Be the best YOU there is only ONE! Lastly, don’t be afraid to take risks!"
Follow Deitra when she returns to California thru the links below.
Deitra Leak - http://www.imdb.com/name/nm4031202/
https://www.facebook.com/deitraleak?fref=ts
You can follow me on Twitter at https://twitter.com/GamingguyM and Facebook
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