Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jesse Lewis IV. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jesse, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today One of the toughest things about progressing in your creative career is that there are almost always unexpected problems that come up – problems that you often can’t read about in advance, can’t prepare for, etc. Have you had such and experience and if so, can you tell us the story of one of those unexpected problems you’ve encountered?
The most disappointing aspect of working with filmmakers is when the funding is not secured. Actors spend so many years and, or even careers preparing for that perfect role and furthermore the opportunity to be accepted to play the role. Years of studying, self doubt and financial instability just to be finally accepted and the funding is not secured. Working in Atlanta the last few years, I’ve had 2 instances were indie filmmakers have retained me and either knowingly or due to a lack of business acumen had funding fall through during filming. The most important aspect of a successful and hopefully enjoyable entertainment career is “relationships”. I would strongly encourage every beginning filmmaker to carefully crunch those numbers and secure your funding before you secure contracted talent. Being known as a difficult producer who doesn’t pay their talent and or crew; either by malice and or carelessness is never the type of reputation that lends itself to a long and more importantly, respected career. I’ve been formidable enough to understand how to “shake the appropriate trees to get my money” but many go quiet out of fear of retribution. Speaking to the talent/crew who have gone through this, I encourage you to stand up and speak out for yourself as well as those who WILL come behind you. Release yourself from this unspoken “fealty” of not being paid for your talent. Stand the line and demand that you are paid! You are not alone and the power is greater in numbers. Stand United!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I began my career in 1997 hosting a show for Warner Bros while still in high school. My next role wouldn’t be until 2007 when I graduated university and moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting full time. I started in reality on the Vh1/51 Minds show “Americas Most Smartest Model” as a contestant then later booked 20th Century Fox’s feature film “Meet The Spartans”. I worked on multiple shows and filmed pilots for MTV/Vh1 when they were with Viacom, then began landing roles on some popular reality dating shows, daytime court dramas and guest correspondence for daytime talk shows including The Dr Phil Show, The New Ricki Lake Show and Tyra Banks. My true break came when a friend Anna Rosenbaum got me a background role on Michael Jai White’s feature “Black Dynamite”. A chance meeting with Michael Jai White on set, and in which he gave me some great career advice and upgraded me to a more featured role. My career has been colored and more so cultivated by strangers like Michael Jai who saw a kid with a dream and drive and allowed me to audition and book roles that would allow me to be seen in a different light. I am proud to have made an impact on the good people of Hollywood, who support my career and always leave me with outstanding industry knowledge to continue once the project has wrapped. I’ve worked with wondrous indie as well as studio filmmakers who I’ve learned something from on every set. The take away from this is not about my resume but rather my tenacity and unwavering commitment to work in equity and fairness. I learn more every project and I have a very long way to go but I appreciate the journey because entertainment is an inexact science and the goal should never be comparison. Extend yourself grace and when the journey is over you will remember it and appreciate the choices you made.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
Being an amazing creative or business owners starts with being an amazing human being. If you treat yourself “truly good” you will undoubtedly treat others just as good. Being selfless is not a weakness, being vulnerable is not a liability and reminding people how you expect to be treated is not “being difficult”. More importantly remember behind every “sweet person” is a dog on leash type waiting to break the chain and protect that good person at all costs. I’ve learned that evil appreciates good just as much as good does, its balance. Always aim to keep the scales in your favor. For every dog on the leash that has spoke up on my behalf whether directly or indirectly. I truly thank you!
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
Everyday for me is a pivot. Life, business and people are constantly changing, that’s the constant. The pivot is being honest with what’s around you and how that makes you feel but more importantly navigating more effectively with every new encounter!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Imdb.me/JesseLegendary
- Instagram: @JesseLegendary
Image Credits
Photographer; Corey of Alabama A&M University