Today we’d like to introduce you to Russell Dennis Lewis.
Russell, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I grew up in a small rural town in upstate NY. I guess my love for acting started as a young kid. We didn’t have cable and growing up before streaming media my brothers and I were forced to create our own entertainment. We created characters and stories and ran wild through the forest and hills of the county side. I had a hard time focusing in school. My mind often wandered from the lessons in the classroom to the daydreams in my inventive mind. I moved to NYC after graduating High School to attend an acting conservatory. After graduating, I moved to LA and never looked back. It has not been an easy journey. There have been more downs than ups. The industry can be unforgiving when it comes to your mental and physical health. But when you reach the high points, it is all worth it. I can’t imagine anything else that I would rather be doing.
Has it been a smooth road?
The obstacles are countless. It has not been a smooth road. Like I said before, the industry can beat you down. The rejection, the demands of keeping a certain aesthetic, the self-criticism, the insane odds. It’s expensive. Not only a life in LA but you quickly realize you’re going to spend a lot more money in the beginning than you’re going to make from acting. And one of the hardest lessons, learning you can’t trust everyone. You learn though, and you learn fast. It’s not impossible, but it can be a long road.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I mostly pursue a career in tv and film. Having a recurring role in the Emmy award-winning limited series “Godless” and in Netflix limited series “The Queen’s Gambit” coming late this year are two of my most favorite experiences.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
LA is the heart of the entertainment industry! Of course, it’s a great place to start out. Plenty of resources, plenty of opportunities, and the weather certainly help in keeping a positive mind and healthy body!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: imdb.me/russelldennislewis
- Other: instagram @Russelldennislewis
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