Meet Angel Rose

We were lucky to catch up with Angel Rose recently and have shared our conversation below.

Angel, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with us today. We’re excited to dive into your story and your work, but first let’s start with a broader topic that might be stopping many of our readers from pursuing their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. How have you managed to persist despite haters and nay-sayers that inevitably follow folks who are doing something unique, special or off the beaten path?

For fourteen years of my life, I willingly put myself in front of thousands of people and asked them to judge me. My life as an actress was continuously putting myself in front of a panel or crowd and saying, “Here I am. Tell me the unedited version of exactly what you think of me.”
Needless to say, I have encountered all kinds of people during my time as an actress and convention panelist. Some who admire me, some who think I am kind. Others who think I am overrated or actively pray for my downfall. No matter what your industry is, you will encounter those who wish nothing but the worst for you. The sooner you accept this fact, the more powerful you will become.
I truly believe my haters are in part responsible for my success and persistence. An anecdote from my own story where walking out led me to greatness was in 2022, a month after I graduated with my Master’s. I started my new job, excited to begin my professional career. After seven weeks, I was struggling. I approached my boss for advice, and instead of encouraging me to persist, she snapped at me. She called me worthless, telling me I would never get anywhere and, “cared too much about others.” I walked out, and within 24 hours had an interview request from a company that shared my values. Our company culture was surrounded by support for one another and a healthy company culture. I do not tell this story to shame the boss from my past. Instead, I thank her. Without her, I would never have arrived at the place I truly belong. Sometimes, it is a brave thing to close the door and walk away. It is not quitting, it is exploring the path you were meant to be on.
No matter the nature, negative criticism will always be among the hardest parts of being creative. We are human, and it is in our very biology to seek approval. There are many times when those who speak negatively about you are merely jealous of your accomplishments. They may mimic your creations or career moves. They may attempt to become closer to your loudest supporters. They may advocate for your removal from opportunities you’ve been given. While their actions are hurtful, try to reframe them from an outside perspective. It may seem that they are breaking you down, but they are rather showing their hand. In the visual and performing arts, it is seen as unprofessional to attempt to steal the spotlight from another. If you focus on the work and keep looking forward, your resilience will grow.
To be resilient you must first be vulnerable, and learning to not fear failure or criticism will make you unstoppable no matter what challenges you face. I never knew I would play roles I have, paneled at high-level conventions like Anime NYC, asked to judge competitions, or been invited as a Cosplay Guest for events. Not everyone will like you. Welcome that. Learn from it. Listen to other’s experiences. Keep pushing forward, tune out the nay-sayers, and you will reach where you are going.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

My name is Angel Rose. I am a cosplayer, model, actress, and convention panelist. I am also the Collaborative Director and Operations Manager at the magazine Lights, Camera, Cosplay. I have been cosplaying since 2015, starting out as a cosplay model as a side project to my acting career. Since then, I have built an independent platform through my love for anime, horror, gaming, and media analysis. I have been a panelist at many conventions throughout the Eastern United States, including Anime NYC and Katsucon. I traveled to Japan in 2019 to further study the origin of my craft and the media I represent. I am a major advocate for thrifting materials to build cosplays sustainably and supporting other creators. Later this year, I will be a Cosplay Guest at Garden State Anime Fest, SugoiPOP Con, and BX Anime & Comic Expo! You can learn more about my current projects on my Instagram, @angelrosecosplay.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

I encourage everyone on their professional and creative journey to develop their resilience, perseverance, and self-confidence. Learning to push forward no matter what criticisms or challenges you face will get you far. Being comfortable with hearing negative comments and knowing they do not define you will make you unstoppable. These are not the easiest skills to develop, but once you hone them, they will help you in every area of your life. When you encounter these challenges, listening to positive speeches or completing exercises in a guided journal can be helpful. One of my favorite speeches to listen to when facing negative criticism is Demi Moore’s acceptance speech from the 2025 Golden Globes. There is so much we can learn from one another.

Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?

I have certainly become overwhelmed before important moments in my career. A big audition, a panel with an at-capacity audience, and an important interview were moments where I experienced this with a finite amount of time left to process. I could suggest breathing exercises, as they are helpful, but many of us know this. Would you like to know what I really do? I put on a motivational song and absolutely rock out. Hearing Taylor Swift sing, “’Cause I’m a real tough kid, I can handle it. They said, ‘Babe, you gotta fake it ’til you make it’ and I did.” takes me far. Find a song that energizes you, stand up, and dance. It truly works.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @angelrosecosplay

Image Credits

Fresco Alessandro
Angel Rose