Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicolette Noble
Hi Nicolette, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
During the pandemic, my life took an unexpected turn when filmmaker José Padilha asked me to partner with him in writing spec screenplays. We wrote an action franchise and a surrealist art film, and wound up selling both about a week after we finished them, each for seven-figure deals—one to Netflix and the other to Bill Block at Miramax. Our producer Greg Silverman said, “Nic, this never happens in Hollywood. You must have a Buddha belly!”
I had always pursued acting, never considering a career in writing as well, so let me rewind a bit…
As a kid, I was a competitive athlete in gymnastics and diving until, at 14, I faced an eating disorder that caused my weight to balloon from 90 to 160 pounds. I quit competitive sports and experienced bullying and a major depression. But what seemed negative at the time wound up being the most powerful and transformative times of my life. With newfound free time, I discovered the healing power of storytelling. Leading me to the wanting to be an actress.
I took every acting class available in my hometown, Florida. By 16, I was busy with commercial casting, and by 19, I had landed roles in commercials and movies. My first major film experience was in the live-action SpongeBob. I remember pinching myself reading the call sheet and seeing that myself, Antonio Banderas and Slash were the only other actors on it.
With $10,000 saved up, I naively believed I could survive a year in LA, so I shipped my old ’97 Mustang to Hollywood, almost giving my mom a heart attack in the process.
I am forever grateful, for the impact he had on my life. He introduce me to my love of drumming, and to Garry Marshall who would go on to become my mentor.
Garry wound up taking me under his wing and helping me through some very hard times I was experiencing in Hollywood. He truly saved my life and was a rock for so many people, always helping others see the light and remembering to laugh through the shit times.
I was able to shadow him on what wound up being his last film. He wanted me to see the process of making a picture from start to finish. From the writers room, to directing a set all the way to the scoring process. After he passed, me and so many people in his close circle were totally lost without him.
Garry was also a drummer. So in honor of him and for our own healing, his right hand woman, Heather Hall, his son Scotty, and I formed a therapy band where we would jam our feelings out in Garry’s office. I feel very lucky to have been friends with Garry during the last few years of his life.
Through all the ups and downs, I’ve learned that our struggles are not just obstacles—they are the very threads that weave our stories together, teaching us resilience and empathy along the way. I often remind myself of the saying, “Life is what happens to you while you are busy making other plans.” This inspires me to let go of the need for control and embrace the unexpected journeys that lie ahead.
Currently, I just wrapped l a post-apocalyptic pilot called Feral.
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?
The road has been anything but smooth! One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way is that “NO” is a complete sentence, and “YES” can be incredibly expensive. The entertainment industry is filled with pushy individuals who will monopolize your time if you let them.
When I first arrived in Hollywood, I was definitely a people pleaser, allowing the pressure to spread me way too thin. This approach was counterproductive and hindered my ability to excel in anything. It took me quite some time to realize that setting boundaries and saying “NO” doesn’t make me selfish; it’s essential for my well-being and success. Learning to prioritize my own needs has been a crucial step in navigating this challenging landscape.
I also learned the importance of never entering into “drug deals”—in other words, always having a contract before investing my time into a project. I spent years working on projects that ultimately didn’t credit me, which taught me a valuable lesson about protecting my contributions and ensuring my work is recognized.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am the founder of Nic Noble Productions Inc., and I take great pride in being my own boss.
I specialize in writing and co-writing feature films. And have put together a diverse slate of projects that are in various stages of development. From book adaptations, to action films, to horror.
What sets me apart is the understanding that, just as each writer lives a unique life, we all bring distinct perspectives to our work. My unique upbringing, combined with the various mentors I’ve had along the way, has shaped my viewpoint and enriched my storytelling.
In addition to my writing work, I am set to direct my first film this year and have continued to act and play drums in a band on the side.
What does success mean to you?
In today’s digital world, the question of success is more important than ever. It’s in our human nature to compete and compare ourselves to others, and social media has only amplified this tendency for many. I believe that true success lies in staying present with the “why” of our own journey, rather than getting lost in the void of comparison. Focusing too much on others can lead to a superficial experience and ultimately leave us feeling empty.
Success is about maintaining our interest and passion. As Friedrich Nietzsche said, “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.” This reinforces the idea that having a purpose gives us the strength to navigate the challenges along the way.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolettenoble
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@NicoletteLeeNoble
- Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3956035/
Image Credits
First Image: Rie Rasmussen
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