FACE OF THE WEEK
Face of the Week: Gentel Sharrie an award winning actor & Model
Tell us about yourself
- Born in Orlando, Florida and raised in Lexington, Kentucky I always had a dream to live in LA to start my acting career. While living in Kentucky I started modeling and acting at the age of four years old, at Images Model and Talent Agency, but as I was growing up I ended up doing very well in track & field and received a scholarship to run at St. Augustine’s University. While running track in college I also majored in Mass Communications with a concentration of broadcasting and became the university’s sports reporter and our athletic conference reporter for the CIAA along with interning with USA Track & Field and NBC Sports. During my 4 years at SAU I pledged, Nu Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. and served as the Nu Chapter President. I also served as Miss SAU, the Queen of the University. As graduation approached I had the opportunity to speak to my graduating class and received my degree with honors. Right before graduation I was offered a position to work at Fox News In New York and was accepted into grad school at Ball State University. During my time at Fox News I received a job offer to produce the news at ABC57. While producing the news was cool I was still trying to figure out how to make my dreams happen in LA. So I went on Facebook and started searching for a roommate. Luckily I found the best one ever and booked my ticket to LA. Once we signed the lease to our apartment I flew out to LA to pursue my real dream in acting. When I landed I realized I’ll be starting from the bottom. I’m in a new environment and I literally don’t know anybody and I have no job or car, just my savings. So I had to start job hunting by Uber and foot to see what restaurants would hire me as a waitress. Luckily after two weeks I found a restaurant that would hire me. When I found my job I started focusing on my acting. I got into classes, took headshots, got an agent, and started booking. Even though it sounds easy.. it wasn’t exactly in that order. Since being in LA, I have become an award winning actor, I’ve done a TV special with NBC for the Jonas Brothers, I was apart of Kanye West’s first Opera, I’ve booked two really big National Commercials, I’ve filmed multiple feature films and short films along with starring in the Film “Mary” that premiered at the Cinemark in Culver City and winning the “Best Horror Short Film.”
What is your favorite thing about yourself?
- My favorite thing is that I’m down to earth and a go getter. I love to be there for the people I love and I’m always going to go after my dreams regardless and make them come true.
What separates you from others who do what you do?
- My work ethic is what separates me from the others. When I’m committed to a job I like to go above and beyond… small or big, I treat every job the same. A win is a win.
How long have you doing what you do?
- I started modeling and acting at 4 years old booking Crest toothpaste commercials, Southern Belle commercials, print work, along with other gigs. I got more serious about my acting when I moved to LA 4 years ago.
If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be? Explain why.
- Resilient, Kind, Honest. The reason why I picked those three words is because life can be crazy but at the end of the day I am still strong and can conquer anything, along with spreading love and positivity.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
- I would change not being so hard on myself. Life is a journey and things are going to happen.
Describe your daily routine.
- Monday through Friday I work a corporate job as a property manager over 6 buildings in the Miracle Mile and Beverly Hills area. I also audition frequently and book gigs when I can.
Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
- 5 years from now I see myself as a series regular on different tv shows and starring in movies.
What are your hopes and dreams for yourself in the coming 10 years?
- My dream is to become an established actor and be able to give back to my community.
If you could give a bit of significant career advice to your younger self, what would you say?
- Don’t overthink and worry too much. The more persistent you are, the more success will be in your corner. Things will workout, you just have to trust the process and keep going.
What has been your career highlight until now?
I’ve had a few career highlights that I’m still in shock about.. the two National commercials I booked and the film that I starred in playing at the Cinemark was an absolute dream come true. Sometimes I have down time in acting but when I get achievements I’m proud of it makes it feel worth it.
What is that one life lesson that you learned a little too late?
- Going through hard times and pain can be beneficial.
What is your number one goal for 2023?
- My number one goal is to book a series regular on a tv show or Star in a major network movie.
Do you have a favorite quote? What is it?
While you’re waiting.. Gods working.
Describe your perfect vacation.
- My perfect vacation is no phone, on an island for a whole entire week with great views and excursions.
What do you think is your worst quality?
- I’m too hard on myself. Sometimes I just need to trust the process. My story is already written.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
- I’ve never been to Greece but I love the scenery and would love to live there if I could bring my family and friends.
What is your philosophy in life?
- I am somebody and I will let nothing stand in my way.
Pop or Hip-Hop?
- I would have to go with Hip-Hop. Ain’t nothing like real hip hop music.
New York or L.A.? Why?
- I lived in both cities but I have to say LA is the best city for me because of the weather, opportunities, and vibes.
What makes you feel most confident?
- When I’m working and making a difference. I feel like I’m serving my purpose.
If you could thank two people for everything you achieved in life so far, who would that be?
I would like to thank my mom and god. My mom has always been there for me since day one and has loved me unconditionally. I would like to thank God for always having my back and teaching me lessons.
What is your biggest dream?
- My biggest dream is to become the most decorated Hollywood actor and entertainer.
What is your new year’s resolution?
- To uphold a healthy lifestyle and stay connected to my craft and job.
THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!
