Please introduce yourself, what you do, why you do it, and what you want people to know about you.
Hello, I’m Amanda Rea from Long Island, NY. I’ve been an artistic creative person all the way back to my youth. The music industry is what brought me into entertainment in my early days in NYC. Although I put more focus into my acting career, I still write and record music for myself and other up and coming artists. As like most artists, I’ve dabbled in a bit everything and have stayed persistent on the slow climb in Hollywood. Working in the restuarant industry since I was 14, as well as a licensed cosmetologist.
Landing recurring roles on HBO Ballers and Netflix Girl Boss helped me to get wonderful representation by Untitled Management. My role on Ballers initially was set to be a one episode co-star, but turned into a recurring role playing opposite one of the main cast members. I continue to live as an artist because it’s who I am. I don’t look at it so much as a job, but a life style.
It’s a tough road, yet rewarding one when done the right way. It’s not for everyone but it’s certainly a calling that stays within me, as I feel I have something to give. That’s what I would tell anyone, if you have something to give it would be selfish not to.
What qualities make you different and unique from everyone else in the industry?
I love boxing, stunts, military roles and cop dramas. Although I’ve become more recognized for playing the girlfriend and the model, but I want to take on the complete opposite. I think my uniqueness comes from being able to write a pop song, go the studio, record it and then choreograph the music video but deep down I have a G.I Jane personality.
Describe THAT moment when you realized you wanted to do what you do now. Who did you tell first? What has it been like since that moment?
The moment when I realized that I wanted to do what I do now, was when I was very young.
Around 6 years old. I was always performing at home, dancing, making up plays, wearing wigs.
The whole nine! I remember begging my mom to join performing arts school at an early age. It was just in my blood.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve had to face and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge I’ve had to face was my Father’s death. Also, not having enough finances to get by once I moved to LA. I was working as a waitress, but still not making enough. I remember not eating some nights, and had to live out of my car for 1 month.
That was very tough for me. I remember showering at the gym, and then asking friends if I could sleepover. It was so embarrassing. My family didn’t come from money, but my Mom would always help me out when she could.
I finally got enough to move into another apartment after working for airbnb as a side job.
If you had to pick the TOP 3 people you’d want to meet that could take your career (or business) to the next level…who would those 3 people be?
Julia Roberts, Michael Bay, Steven Spielberg.
