Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to James Austin Kerr Actor/Filmmaker. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
James Austin Kerr, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
That’s a tough one. I was fairly reserved growing up and afraid to be “seen”. My first experience with performing was being a drummer in several bands. That then led to me feeling more confident to put my self out there and take risks. In my opinion, risk taking is fundamental for growth and only improves one’s strength as an artist and finding identity. I also do all sorts of wild hobbies that the majority of people are often fearful of – I’ve never been afraid to jump out of a plane or dive into the depths of the ocean. I learned to enjoy the feeling of the unknown… instead of an experience being scary, I try to view it as something exciting!
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Actor & Filmmaker. I joke that I’ve been on pretty much every prime-time show that’s playing in a dentist office waiting room (NCIS, Criminal Minds, Bones, Scandal, etc.) It’s been and exciting yet strange journey. I moved to LA in 2009 and the industry/town has changed immensely since then. I had super long hair at the time, nearly down to my chest, and was scooped up by a modeling agency. I was grateful to snag some decent gigs with them which lead to me getting my first manager, which lead to co-stars, guest stars, and bigger roles in the years to follow. I learned that I loved the creative process of filmmaking as a whole just as much if not more than acting and I began writing, producing, and directing as well. I hope to be a part of the new generation of filmmakers that’s being ushered in right now – there’s so much fresh talent out there with incredible stories to tell and we’re all itching to be giving a chance. You can currently find me on the new show “Ballard” – all episodes are now streaming on Amazon Prime. If you visit my imdb page, where everything is listed that I have up and coming as well as my past work!
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Just narrowing it down to 3?! Jeez… Well as mentioned, #1 would be TAKE RISKS. Anyone who ever did anything exceptional took a risk. #2, DON’T COMPARE yourself to others on their journey… this is probably the hardest one to learn because it’s so difficult not to when being a creative. There’s no “right path” to take when working on anything creatively so try and trust that if you’re putting yourself out there and finding your voice, success with come. #3 HAVE FUN. That’s the whole point right?! Don’t forget that!
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
My parents. That goes without saying. They’ve been my support since day one of this journey and continue to be. I’m forever grateful for them. I’m originally from Oklahoma and the film and creative community there has given me so many amazing opportunities over the years. There are so many talented voices and leaders in my home state. My friend group in LA has been everything – they consist of industry professionals, photographers, writers, doctors, and teachers. I’ve learned so much from all of them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.demoreel.com/james-austin-kerr
- Instagram: @jamesaustinkerrofficial
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.a.kerr.14
Image Credits
Headshot (Flannel Shirt) Cameron Radice Photography @cameronradicephotography
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