We’re looking forward to introducing you to Melanie Gillott. Check out our conversation below.
Melanie, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
I’ve been feeling super proud and grateful lately because I finally made my first music video/short film, “Summer of ’18: The Short Film” based off of my two songs, “Summer’s in Bloom” and “Summer of ’18” from my debut EP, “Unpredictable.” It’s a project I’ve been dreaming about for about a year and a half, so bringing it to life felt incredible. This wouldn’t have been possible without the talents of Phoenix Medina, Gabe Ibarra, Chloe Renee Gillott, and the most wonderful co-star, Josh Alexander. I can’t thank them enough for all their time, hard work, and for helping to bring this project to life. We shot it in two and a half days, and the first day of filming at Huntington Beach was an absolute blast. When “Summer of ’18: The Short Film” was released on YouTube on August 29th, 2025 , I had a small screening with friends and family, and their support meant the world to me. I also want to take a moment to thank everyone who has watched so far and for all the kind words, love, and support.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Melanie Gillott is a Los Angeles–based singer/songwriter and actress whose passion for storytelling shines through both her music and acting. From a young age, she immersed herself in the performing arts—active in her school’s music department, performing in community theaters and cabarets, and training in voice and acting at the Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera Academy. Melanie went on to earn her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting–Performing Arts from AMDA College of the Performing Arts. Since graduating, she has worked as both an actor and voiceover artist, while also establishing herself as a recording artist. In November 2023, Melanie released her debut EP, Unpredictable, a collection of songs that explore the beauty of life’s unpredictability, the highs and lows of love, and the lessons found in those experiences. Expanding her artistry into film, she released her first short film on August 29, 2025, which she wrote, produced, and starred in. The film features her singles Summer’s in Bloom and Summer of ’18, blending her talents as both a musician and storyteller. At the heart of Melanie’s work is a deep belief in the power of stories to heal, inspire, and connect. She is dedicated to creating art that uplifts and resonates with others, offering a space for shared emotions and human experiences. When she’s not on stage or on set, Melanie can be found writing, making music, running, spending time with loved ones, or with her beloved pup, Luna.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
For me, it’s definitely my parents, as cliche as that may sound. They’re both first-generation college students and have been working since they were young. They’re incredibly hard working and have taught me the importance of setting goals and having a strong work ethic. From an early age, this was instilled in me since my parents never handed me anything growing up. Their resilience and strength have really shaped me as well. They also taught me to never give up and that if you set your mind to do something, you can achieve anything. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be, “You are enough.” While I’m very grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had, my career hasn’t always been sunshine and rainbows. When I first decided to pursue acting professionally, I had a lot of people questioning my decision and criticizing me for it. I’ve had people tell me I wasn’t good enough or that this was too difficult of a career path and that my adult life would be miserable because of it, but I’ve been fortunate to have found the opposite. I spent years worried about what people thought of me, which made me question myself at times: “Am I good enough?” Well, at 25 years old, I can say that I know for a fact that I am more than enough, and I’ve reached a point where I stopped caring what people thought. Once I let go and started believing in myself, I noticed not only growth in my career but also in my personal life. I don’t regret moving to LA to pursue my career because if I hadn’t, I wouldn’t have the friends or life that I have now. I guess it is true when people say that your new life costs you your old life. I know that my teenage self would just be amazed at where I am now.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
A belief that I’m committed to is continually learning and growing as a person. I believe that personal development is a lifelong journey, and I’m always striving to expand my knowledge, skills, and understanding of the world. I’m dedicated to becoming the best version of myself, and I know that’s a process that will never truly be finished.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Yes, I absolutely believe in giving everything your best, even without praise. I’ve come to realize that external validation is rare. I find satisfaction in the process itself. I make art simply because I love to make art, not because I expect applause.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.melaniegillott.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melaniegillott/?hl=en
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-gillott-bb4231216
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melaniegillottofficial/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvrAAMppchyx5WVnxMbWWew
- Other: Summer of ’18: The Short Film – https://youtu.be/D-Hkj0pj4nI?feature=shared
Image Credits
Jeff Ellingson, Gabe Ibarra
