Today we’d like to introduce you to Kandice Gonzalez
Hi Kandice, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My story begins in Del Rio, Texas, a charming border town right next to Acuña, Mexico. Growing up, I was enchanted by the world beyond my surroundings. Movies, magazines, and fashion were my portals to a larger universe and I was so determined to be part of it. My very first role ever was a firefly in “The Frog Prince,” a theatre production by the Missoula Children’s Theatre, a traveling company that visited Del Rio about once or twice a year.
While my love for the arts found a formal outlet in community theatre, it was during my freshman year of high school, when I landed the role of Dorothy in “The Wizard of Oz,” that I knew I wanted to seriously pursue acting. Playing Dorothy was a dream come true. She was my first major role and stepping into her ruby slippers felt like a full circle moment. I had watched The Wizard of Oz over and over growing up. The story of Dorothy, a girl who longs for adventure and finds herself in a fantastical world, resonated deeply with me. The experience solidified my passion for storytelling and I knew then that I wanted to dedicate my life to bringing stories to life on stage and screen.
So, with stars in my eyes and $300 in my pocket, I packed my bags and moved to Los Angeles. I shared a bedroom with two roommates, each of us claiming a corner of the room with our beds, while the fourth corner served as our makeshift wardrobe space. We couldn’t afford cable, so we watched reruns of “Sex and The City” over and over again because we had the entire collection on DVD! I’m not even kidding. It was incredible. We just made it work.
My first acting gig in LA came about in a rather unexpected way. I found a listing on Craigslist of all places, to play a dead body in a feature film. It sounded bizarre, but I decided to go for it. Much to my surprise, it turned out to be an incredible experience. Not only did I have the chance to meet some very well-known actors on set, but I also got my first glimpse into the world of professionals actors at work. I’d say it was a pretty epic kickstart my journey in Los Angeles.
During my time here in LA, I met my husband, a foreign exchange student from Germany. Our connection was immediate, but maintaining a long distance relationship was challenging once he returned home. Despite the miles between us, we managed to stay close, supporting each other’s dreams and aspirations. After years of long distance, we finally got married, and he made the big move to the city of stars. I feel incredibly lucky to have a partner who supports my creative journey and believes in my dreams as much as I do.
Over the years, I’ve honed my craft at various studios across the city. Around 2021, I stumbled upon a hidden gem, Deborah Lemen Acting Studio in the heart of Los Feliz. Meeting Deborah marked a turning point in my journey. Since then I’ve been dedicated to training under her guidance, spending several days a week at her studio. It’s become my home away from home in LA, where I’ve grown tremendously as an artist. Whether you’re starting your acting journey or simply seeking a place to unleash your creativity, I wholeheartedly recommend her studio. It’s more than just a place to learn, it’s a vibrant community where actors are encouraged to take risks and explore their creativity. We are a family, supporting each other through the highs and lows, and that sense of belonging has been invaluable to my growth.
Along the way, I’ve had the opportunity to work on some incredible projects, from indie films to commercial work. The diverse roles and stories I’ve been a part of have broadened my perspective and deepened my love for the craft.
Looking back, my journey has been a blend of determination, resilience, and passion. I’m grateful for the myriad experiences that have shaped me. From a small town girl dreaming big to an actress navigating the streets of Los Angeles, every step of the way has been a testament to my love for the art of story telling.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey has been one wild ride, filled with all sorts of challenges and obstacles, both personally and professionally. Each one has molded me into the person and actress I am today.
The first big hurdle I faced was my parents’ divorce. It was a tough time, and my mom and I really leaned on each other, navigating not just the emotional fallout but also significant financial struggles. Making the decision to leave her and my brothers behind in order to further pursue my acting career in Los Angeles was not easy. As a young Mexican girl with a single mother, I felt a lot of guilt about pursuing an acting career. But my mom always remained steadfast as my greatest advocate, supporter and cheerleader.
Upon moving to LA, I took on a variety of jobs, including shifts at farmers’ markets, babysitting, catering, serving, hosting at restaurants, street and trade show marketing, you name it. I’m grateful for each of those experiences because they taught me the beauty of collaborating with people from all walks of life. Over the years, personal challenges continued to test my resolve. There were times when I lived in my car, a stark reminder of the determination required to pursue my goals. Growing up around my parents’ restaurants instilled in me a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit, traits that would prove invaluable in the years to come.
Navigating the social and professional landscape of LA presented its own set of challenges. In a city full of aspiring artists, it’s easy to get lost in the crowd. You meet countless people and it can be challenging to discern genuine connections. The relentless hustle and bustle can wear you down without you even realizing it. Like many artists navigating their careers, there came a time where I found myself drifting away from the person I knew I was. It took some soul searching, but eventually, I reconnected with my roots. Embracing my true self and staying grounded became my anchor and what has allowed me to thrive amid the fast paced demands of the industry.
The acting industry itself presents its own challenges. Balancing multiple jobs while juggling auditions, classes, and self care is an ongoing challenge. I can’t tell you how many times I have had to rush from a sweaty catering gig to a last minute in person audition or Zoom call. The relentless cycle of auditions and rejections can be somewhat draining. It’s hard not to take it personally, especially when you put your heart into every audition. This is why mental health is so important. The emotional ups and downs, the stress of auditions, rejections, and the uncertainty of the industry can take a toll on even the strongest of us. I’ve really learned the importance of self care, mindfulness, and having a strong support network. The unpredictable nature of acting work requires constant readiness, never knowing when the next opportunity might arise.
The biggest hurdle I have had to endure is losing both my parents. My dad passed away in 2010, and my mom more recently in 2022. Coping with her sudden passing has been the most heart wrenching experience. Their legacy of hard work and resilience inspires me everyday My mother’s unwavering support and belief in my dreams still echos in my heart, guiding me forward even in their absence. Their presence in my journey as an actress is felt deeply and remains a driving force, reminding me to embrace each role with passion and dedication, honoring their memory through my work.
My journey has been far from easy but giving up was never an option. Each role, audition, and even rejection has taught me something valuable, pushing me to become a better artist and person. My deep love for the craft and my unwavering dedication keep going. The future holds immense potential, and I am eager and prepared to embrace it!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I love this question! My work spans a variety of roles in the entertainment industry, but at my core, I am an actress deeply passionate about storytelling. I specialize in bringing complex, multifaceted characters to life, whether on stage, screen or behind a microphone. My range includes everything from dramatic roles that delve into the human condition to lighter, comedic parts that bring joy and laughter to audiences.
Right now, I am super excited for my upcoming film, Don’t Be Scared, directed and written by Saul Espinoza Jr. It’s a powerful story that I am so lucky to be a part of. This film truly tested my acting abilities by pushing me to new depths and challenging me to grow as an artist. I’ve also got two other projects in the works that I am looking forward to: Fawn, directed by Emilie Newell, and The Offscreen Tears, directed by Joy Tan. Both of these films are unique and compelling, and I can’t wait for everyone to see them.
Beyond film, I also dedicate my time to expanding my skills through various avenues. I train in improv at the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) in Hollywood and at the Westside Comedy Theater, which is a blast and keeps me on my toes. I’m also diving into voice-over work for commercials and animations, which is SO FUN and a whole new exciting world for me.
I think what sets me apart is my background and the journey I’ve been on. Growing up in a small border town, facing personal and financial challenges, and moving to LA right after high school really shaped who I am. It gave me a resilience and work ethic that I bring to every role. Also, being bilingual in Spanish and English adds a unique flavor to my performances. I really strive to connect with audiences on a profound level. I want every character I play to feel authentic and every story to resonate. Whether I’m cracking jokes in an improv sketch at UCB, lending my voice to an animated character, or diving into a dramatic role on screen, I bring my whole heart to everything I do.
Life as an actress is a wild ride and that is probably an understatement! It is filled with unexpected twists and turns but I absolutely love it. and who knows? Maybe one day you’ll hear my voice in your favorite animated series, or catch me in a comedy that has you laughing out loud, or a drama that helps you get through a difficult time. I’m here to tell stories that entertain, inspire, and connect with people from all walks of life.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I’m always open to new opportunities and collaborations! There are several ways people can reach out to work with me or support my journey:
1. Social Media:
One of the easiest ways to connect with me is through my social media channels. I regularly update my Instagram and Linktree with my latest projects, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and personal stories. Feel free to send me a message or comment on my posts. I love engaging with my followers and fellow creatives. My social media handles are @kandicefabulous.
2. Contact My Agent or Manager:
For professional inquiries, bookings, or collaboration proposals, you can contact my agent or manager. They handle all my scheduling and can provide more detailed information about how we can work together. Here are their contact details:
Agent: JoAnn Smolen, Rage Talent and Models, [email protected]
Manager: Terrie Snell, Artist Ink Los Angeles, [email protected]
3. Collaborations and Projects:
I’m always excited about collaborating with other artists, filmmakers, and creatives. Whether it’s a new film project, a theater production, or a creative campaign, I’m eager to explore new ideas and partnerships. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have a project in mind that you think I’d be a good fit for.
4. Supporting My Work:
If you want to support my journey, you can do so by following my work, sharing my projects with your network, and engaging with my content. Your support and encouragement mean the world to me and help fuel my passion for acting and storytelling.
Let’s create something amazing together!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/kandicegonzalez
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kandicefabulous/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@kandicefabulous?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Image Credits
Lilly Lilova, Emillie Newell
