Today we’d like to introduce you to LaKeysha Edwards.
LaKeysha, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’m a computer engineer turned actress who was then dared into stand up lol! I’m originally from Detroit, MI where I grew up drawn to education and sports. I always had a love for acting after just one school play in the 2nd grade but it just never quite fit into my schedule. After high school, I went to college and straight through to grad school but after receiving my Master’s degree and working in my field I just wasn’t satisfied. One night while laying in bed dreading going to work in the morning, I decided I was moving to LA to finally pursue acting… 3 months later I was a California resident & in my first acting class! Oh, but the plot thickens…I’ve always been told I was funny but I never felt that myself, however a dare from a friend landed me on stage for an amateur night doing stand up and here we are 3 years later and I’m on Revolt TV’s new comedy series Funny AF, telling jokes on television!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Ha, the journey is never easy, nor smooth & there is no road map but every bump & every detour is so fulfilling! I originally moved to LA in 2007, thinking I could still work in my field while pursuing acting and I was totally wrong! When my attendance at work became a huge issue due to auditions, I was let go from my corporate job so I did what every actor does when they first move to LA…background work! Let’s just say I wasn’t really prepared for the “struggle” so I decided to move back home where I was then financially comfortable but again creatively drained. 2011 I came back with a new mindset, worked harder & invested more in myself & the craft. It takes a lot of sacrifice including money, time & relationships. I also struggled with patience, questioning when & how it “will happen”, instead of focusing on the “why?” Why are you pursuing this Keysha…because you love it…so let that be enough! In this industry, I learned you have to have a whole lot of faith but your gifts will always make room for you!
Stand-up is a different challenge, it’s a game of proving yourself! People look at you and instantly dismiss you, they think it’s no way you can be funny because you’re a woman (especially if you’re considered a “pretty” woman). I think my biggest challenge though with stand-up is just staying woke, comedy is a lot of late nights at the club for this little old lady!
What are you most proud of and what sets you apart from other?
I would have to say I’m most proud of the fact that I simply followed my dreams and I don’t allow fear to live in my space. I’ve learned to celebrate every win so I’m equally as proud of my role on an unpaid web series as I am on a well paid national commercial or movie!
My personality & character sets me apart from others. We all have things that are uniquely ours and the key is to just own it! I always operate from a genuine place & I think people can see & feel that!
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I have to give the majority of the credit to my parents. I wouldn’t be half the person I am today if it wasn’t for them! Having loving & supportive parents in your corner makes you feel like you can grow up to do & be anything you chose!
My former acting coach, actress Tasha Smith played a big role in my journey when I first moved to LA. She constantly poured into me, she helped make LA feel like home, she coached me for free when I didn’t have the money & her heart is gold!
I’m thankful to have always been surrounded by amazing family & friends…they’ve ALL played a role whether they know it or not!
Contact info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
itskeysha.e - Email: lakeysha.edwards1@yahoo.com
- IMDb: http://imdb.me/
lakeyshaedwards
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