Today we’d like to introduce you to Tristan J. Watson
Hi Tristan J., 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?
The start is an interesting place…for I think I began long before I knew I even started. Sports, friends, family, love, pain, hope; all cultivators to the essence of grace I desire to bring to my work in film and fashion. I am an actor, model, and coach from Bakersfield, CA. The list can go on, but above all things, I am a child of this Universe. I am where I am today because one fateful day in 2017, when my family asked me to make a decision for dinner between the Cheesecake Factory restaurant and Wood Ranch Grill in Los Angeles, CA. I chose Cheesecake Factory. There, I “happened” to sit next to the aunt of a young model who would go on to introduce me to the two amazing women who have and continue to guide me in the world of fashion and film. I truly believe there are no such things as coincidences. For there are key moments in life that are meant to happen, and it’s up to your awareness to be present and spot them. From there, I went to work. I graduated college and finished my degree and athletic scholarship as a Division 1 track & field athlete, then moved to LA in 2019. All the love of my family, the support of my friends, and the grace of God kept me inspired when I felt like giving up. With this love surrounding me, I keep going; and life has taken me everywhere I needed to be and will continue to do so. Everyday, I want to understand a little more than I did the day before. Whether it be coaching behind the camera or performing in front, I want life to radiate from me in a way that inspires those who are across from me. I’m excited to continue this journey of discovery in the craft and help others learn along the way.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
More like a rollercoaster. When I signed in 2018 with my first modeling agency, I booked two campaigns right out the gate. I thought, “Oh this is going to be great,” and then didn’t really book anything for two years. But I am glad that happened to me, because I was not yet full of life. In order to be successful (and have longevity) in this industry, I needed life experience to connect with people and learn how to move in my own flow, and not in the ebb of another. So, I went to work. I washed dishes, catered, helped my dad with videography for weddings, worked as a security guard for events, and bar-backed till I was sore. Through this, I was able to understand and experience many sides of humanity. For me, without this experience of the “lack” of gigs, I would not move with the appreciation for the abundance now. I am grounded firm in my faith that the work that I put in pays off. Let me say to those who sow, so shall you reap. It has and continues to happen to me. Keep going, my friends.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in acting and modeling, and as I mentioned earlier, I work behind the camera with a business I started mid 2024 as a self-tape coach and reader. I’ve been in two movies this year: Nightmare in the Desert on Amazon, and one set to release next year. I’ve been in Estée Lauder campaigns, was the face for an apple product shown around the world, and made a few commercial appearances in stores as well as in Times Square.
What sets me apart is that I think not many people in my field can say they were ranked the 2nd fastest Divison 1-110m high hurdler in California, and in the top 25 on the west coast for collegiate hurdlers. I think my sports background has given me a work ethic and understanding of movement that continues to help me evolve and adapt quickly to scene changes on set or improvise on the spot. I will forever be grateful to my coaches and teammates who helped me stand strong when I felt weak. I take those lessons with me everywhere I go.
I’m most proud of not losing who I am in the chaos. My mother wouldn’t be so happy if I did.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
What I’d like to share is a reminder to myself and those reading. Because I love to encourage others, I’ll leave you with this: When life hits hard and the feelings of discouragement or lack of faith set in, I remind myself, as long as I am breathing and my heart still beats, the opportunity to arise and succeed still presents itself. Let that be the strength you find in you to say, “OK, let’s try again.”
Keep going.
Pricing:
- Coaching Session: $80hr
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tristanjwatson.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tristanjwatson/?hl=en
Image Credits
From left to right excluding the selfies and hurdle picture; Charles Murphy, JR Christiansen, Chris Keller, Alisa Schulz
