Today we’d like to introduce you to Phillip Andre Botello.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Phillip. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
It was a Friday in my English class. I was failing it, being the class clown, so my teacher made a deal with me so I could pass with at least C- minus. On Monday he’d write a speech of his choosing on the board, I would memorize it, and on Friday I would stand up and recite it for the class. I had gotten up in front of the class a couple of times now and I would usually recite whatever I was given as obnoxious as possible to get a laugh from everyone, which I would. Today was different though… The speech my teacher had me learn was from something called “On The Waterfront”, By Marlon Brando. I had no idea who or what Marlon Brando was but I remember being affected by the words, even though I didn’t completely understand what I was saying. My teacher called my name and I got up in front of the class and….. Everything stopped. When I finished I looked up at my teacher and my fellow classmates as they just stared at me in silence what felt like forever. Did I do something wrong? I thought. My teacher eyes were fixed on me. He just kept nodding his head in silence, never breaking eye contact. Finally my teacher spoke, “Brett take over the class for a bit while I step out, Phillip come with me”, he said. My teacher escorted me to another classroom where another teacher was preparing his curriculum. My teacher burst into his room and he said to me “Do for us what you just did in my class”. I recited the speech again and after I was was done, My teacher along with his colleague took me again to another class and another teacher! Now three teachers in total were watching me recite the speech.
And that was it! That’s how this started. All because a teacher at a public school saw a spark and took the time to ignite it. His name was Mr.Fox. When I relayed to my mother what transpired she took me to audition for an arts high school.
After I got into the school a teacher there told me about a place called Juilliard. When I got accepted into Julliard I went back to say thank you to Mr. fox. I couldn’t have gotten anywhere without the support of mother or family but that is another story that’s much longer to tell. I wanted to focus my story on the importance of teachers who truly care about what they do. They make a difference. I have been a professional actor ever since I left Juillard doing a slew of film and TV. It’s been fun, tough, and always surprising.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Hahaha!! its hasn’t been a smooth road. The acting world comes with uncertainty because you’re always looking for the next Job, not sure when it will come. What sets me apart from others is I learned keep going and not beat myself up in the process anymore. That’s how I got his far. This Quote from Hafiz helped: called the Vintage man. The Difference Between a good artist And a great one Is: The novice Will often lay down his tool Or brush Then pick up an invisible club On the mind’s table And helplessly smash the easels and Jade. Whereas the vintage man No longer hurts himself or anyone And keeps on Sculpting Light.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
Currently, my feature film I’m starring in Pledge was picked up by IFC, released in theaters. And is now streaming on Hulu and other platforms. Its a really solid film. My other feature The Art Of Self defense by Bleecker Street is in theaters everywhere now! I star opposite Jesse Eisenberg, Alesandro Nivola, and imogen poots. Directed by Riley Stearns it’s an amazing film that I’m proud to be apart of. My other feature film Bentley’s Will is coming out soon starring my self and the talented Lana Young, Directed by Zachary Parks Grigg.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I’m excited to share whats coming up next and carving out my own path.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1850901/
- Email: Manager Luke Dennerline at Unbreakable Entertainment
- Instagram: @phillipandrebotello
- Twitter: @PhillipaBotello
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