Check Out Derrial Christon’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Derrial Christon.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I began my career in the entertainment industry at VIBE Magazine in New York City, starting as an intern and quickly rising through the ranks. My first full-time role was in the Events department, where I helped produce some of the most talked about parties, fashion shows, and brand activations of the time. Working behind the scenes alongside top celebrities and influential executives gave me invaluable experience, but it also sparked a deeper realization: I wanted to step out from behind the curtain and into the spotlight as an on-camera personality.

That defining moment came one night at an event, when I was unexpectedly asked to conduct interviews. Among them was an opportunity to speak with Mariah Carey on the red carpet, my first major celebrity interview. Nervous and unsure of what to expect, I relied on instinct. Mariah, gracious and warm, immediately put me at ease. After our conversation, I shared that it was one of my first interviews. She paused, looked at me, and said, “You are a natural.”

Those simple yet powerful words became a turning point, inspiring me to pursue a career as a television host, producer, and reporter. After continuing my work with publications like Savoy and Honey, I took a leap of faith and moved to Los Angeles to fully commit to my dream. I immersed myself in the craft, taking classes, accepting unpaid hosting opportunities to gain experience, and dedicating myself to growth. Over time, that persistence began to pay off, and the opportunities I had been working toward finally started to take shape.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As exciting and glamorous as the entertainment industry may appear, my journey has been anything but easy. Behind the scenes, I have experienced disappointments, and moments of deep uncertainty. There were times I questioned whether to keep going, moments when I felt on the brink of success, yet still frustratingly far from reaching my goals. I’ve watched people come and go, and I’ve learned firsthand that this path is rarely a smooth one.

There were opportunities I wanted deeply but didn’t get, and promises that never materialized into reality. One of the most defining challenges came when I was in contention for a major hosting role on a top entertainment television show. After multiple rounds of testing and strong encouragement that I was a leading candidate, I ultimately lost the role to someone with a larger social media following. The news felt like a punch to the gut.

But instead of letting that moment define me, I chose to let it strengthen me. I regrouped, refocused, and made a conscious decision not to give up. That disappointment became fuel, pushing me to work harder, stay resilient, and keep moving forward toward the next opportunity.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I truly love what I do, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have built a career as a TV host, producer, and content creator. My work has largely centered on entertainment, celebrity wealth, and lifestyle, spaces that allow me to tell stories that resonate with a broad and diverse audience. Over the years, my work has been featured across major platforms and networks, including ABC, Bravo, NBC, TMZ, FOX, OWN, VH1, Reelz, Spotify, and iTunes. I’ve also had the opportunity to appear on standout programs such as Today, NBC News Daily, Sherri, and Top Story, among others.

Currently, I serve as the entertainment and lifestyle contributor for CBS KCAL News, and I recently wrapped production on Season 17 of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, set to premiere on April 5. Throughout my career, I’ve reported for Entertainment Tonight, hosted my own show, Destination LA on CBS, and produced for The Bachelor, experiences that have continually shaped me both professionally and creatively.

Along the way, I’ve interviewed some of the most recognizable names in the world, including Michael B. Jordan, Leonardo DiCaprio, Oprah Winfrey, and Zendaya, at some of the industry’s most high-profile red carpet events. What sets me apart is my ability to connect with people from all walks of life, bringing authenticity, warmth, and relatability to every conversation.

I take immense pride in how much I’ve grown as a host, journalist, and producer. Seeing my work come to life on screen and knowing it has the power to inspire others, remains one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey.

I’m also excited about a recent partnership, “Black Cinema”, currently in development alongside Fernando Escovar, founder of Fab TV. The project reflects my continued commitment to creating meaningful, culturally relevant content while expanding my footprint as both a producer and storyteller..

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
To stay motivated and grounded, I make a conscious effort to surround myself with daily inspiration. I follow a variety of Instagram accounts, including Instagram favorites like @motivationapp and @idailymindset, which consistently reinforce a positive and focused mindset. This year, I also took that a step further by creating a vision board, a tangible reminder of my goals and the future I’m working toward.

In an industry that can be unpredictable, those small but intentional practices help keep me centered, driven, and aligned with my purpose.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @derrialchriston
• Facebook: derrialchriston
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrial-christon-b38303133/
• Twitter: @derrialchriston