Meet MJ Garcia of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to MJ Garcia.

Hi MJ, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started as a theatre kid back in Colombia, where I grew up. A couple of commercials here and there too, but it was the theatre where I really discovered my passion for acting. Rehearsals are where I grew up, where I learned about myself. And even though I love the stage, I always felt a bigger calling for the cameras. I love movies and T.V. series, so it was just something that made sense to me.
I made the decision of moving to L.A. to go to film school at 18. That’s how I was able to step into the Hollywood entertainment world, and where I’m building my path.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, not really. There have been complications, both, outside of myself and deep within me too. For starters, the industry is not a stable one and that creates some bumps on the road. But I’ve taken those as opportunities to work on my craft and create my own art in my own terms.
Life as an immigrant also comes with a lot of ups and downs and channeling all those feelings and not let them affect my professional progress has also been something that I’ve had to learn.
And of course, learning to stay strong through the rejections, the moments of uncertainty and the feelings of self doubt. All of this keeps me in a constant conversation with myself to keep growing and evolving and transforming negative thoughts and feelings into opportunities and art.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an actress!
When I was in film/acting school I learned about the huge industry of commercials. I thought they were just so fun, and so many can be so creative! After school I was lucky to find representation pretty soon and thanks to that, I have been able to work on some amazing commercials that have all been incredible experiences and have let me work with amazing fellow artists including people that I admire. I’ve done commercials for brands like Universal Studios, Toyota, Nissan, Verizon and more.
My passion lies in film, and I’ve been lucky enough to participate in numerous short films that have had a lot of success in national and international film festivals. My two favorite projects are probably “No Se Puede Armar” a story about a woman finding her way after the tragic loss of her sister, and “BBCITOS” a fun story about two best friends who share a day together and talk about the struggles and fulfillments of being immigrant artists in LA.
I am also very lucky to have worked in the feature film “Roommate Wanted”. I am a huge fan of horror films and this one was just a great opportunity to dive into that world!
Oh, I also have a couple of music videos under my name. My favorite is probably “Happiest Year” by Jaymes Young, it has millions of views on YouTube! Which I thought was pretty cool 🙂
Currently I am in the beginning stages of new projects that I can’t say too much about but just know that it’s VERY exciting!

How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Tell me about any film project you wanna work on or are already working on! I’m always happy to collaborate and help you bring your idea to life. If I can help in any way that’s not just acting, let me know too! I just love being on set.

Image Credits
Anton Sinitsyn.