Meet Khalillah Joi of The Dubose Company in Inglewood

Today we’d like to introduce you to Khalillah Joi.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Khalillah. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’ve always had an active imagination. I remember being a kid, playing out all kinds of scenarios in my mind and being completely immersed in them. At the time, I didn’t associate that with acting, but I think that was the start of it. It wasn’t until after college, though, that I actually decided to try the “real thing.” I passed on my acceptance to NYU’s School of Journalism and opted for the Studio Theater Conservatory in Washington, D.C. instead. I started doing theater, background work, industrials–anything I could get my hands on. All while working full-time. I realized pretty quickly that acting was what I wanted to do.

Everything was a learning experience for me. I had no friends or family in entertainment. I literally had to start from scratch. Eventually, I packed up and came to LA. I jumped into theater right away but really struggled trying to break into film and television. I truly believe that it’s been my perseverance, (and maybe my dumb pride,) that’s gotten me where I am now. And make no mistake, there’s still a lot I want to accomplish.

There were so many times I was filled with doubt, times I wasn’t sure if I was on the right path. I even started researching grad schools again two years ago. I had reached the point where I was so frustrated with the lack of progress in my career that I decided to give myself two more years and that was it. In that time, thankfully, a lot changed, and I’m still doing what I love. But I share that because I want other people who may be experiencing that same doubt and frustration to know that things can change…at any moment. But only if we keep going.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
There have been a lot of challenges and missteps along the way. I fell for a couple of those acting scams that you hear about on the radio–the kind where you pay hundreds of dollars to meet agents and industry insiders only to have absolutely nothing come of it. (Twice, guys! I fell for it twice!) The biggest challenge has been understanding how the industry works. There’s no step-by-step guide to getting an agent or finding the right classes. It’s mostly trial and error–trying different things until something finally sticks.

For years in L.A., I could not get an agent. I would send out mailers, emails, ask for referrals, do workshops. No one seemed to be interested. But I just kept plugging away, submitting myself when I could, doing smaller projects and plays, whatever I could. Eventually, I got a manager, who I’m still with today.

There’s also trying to strike a balance between making a living and keeping ourselves available for auditions or bookings. I found myself in a job for years that took me out of town for about six months out of the year. It was completely counterproductive, but it’s how I paid the rent. Eventually, I had to make the hard choice to let go of that job and really bet on myself. It was scary, but I’m so glad I did it!

We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
At this point in my career, I’ve been fortunate to be a part of a lot of wonderful projects. I love both comedy and drama, but I’ve definitely done more drama. I wouldn’t necessarily call it my specialty but it’s certainly where my instincts are sharpest, I think.

At this point, I’d say I’m best known for my work on “Grey’s Anatomy.” I was privileged to be a part of a really powerful episode this past season that centered around consent. It’s one of the most talked about episodes in the show’s history and sparked a 43% increase in calls to the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network, (RAINN.)

I’ve appeared on a number of other shows including “Project Blue Book,” “The Good Doctor,” “S.W.A.T,” and am currently recurring on Season 2 of HBO’s “Big Little Lies.” I start production on another project this week but have to wait a little while before announcing.

I’m most proud of the fact that I’ve been able to maintain my integrity as I journey through this business and of the impact I’ve been able to have as an actor. A lot of times I forget that people are genuinely inspired or empowered by the work I do. This recent “Grey’s” episode is the perfect example of that, and I’m so honored to be a part of compassionate, impactful storytelling.

What sets me apart from others is simply who I am. No one in the world shares my exact thoughts, perceptions, experiences, beliefs, etc. Only I can bring the unique collection of my whole self to a role. And that’s valuable.

What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Ultimately, it’s about being happy and for me that’s about being healthy, working on projects I’m proud of, having the physical and financial freedom to live a full, comfortable life. It’s also about my friends and family being happy as well.

There are some specific markers career-wise. I’d like to be a series regular on an awesome show that I love. I’d like to work on some studio films, and I’d love to play a super villain! I’d also like to step behind the camera. I wrote my first feature last year and hope to have that produced soon. I’d also like to direct eventually. Longevity is my goal. I plan to work in this industry for the rest of my life.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @KhalilahJoi
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/khalilahjoi
• Twitter: @KhalilahJoi

Image Credit:
Joanna Degeneres, Andreas Branch

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