Meet Ambra Ferraris

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ambra Ferraris and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ambra, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I decided to pursue an artistic career because I had no choice. It was more of a need than a decision. There came a moment in my life when nothing was ever enough. I couldn’t be satisfied with any achievement because I needed to follow this path, and I knew that until I did, I would feel like something was missing.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Since I was a child, I was told that I had too much imagination and that I dreamed too much. I was told that my sensitivity and empathy were flaws because, in life, you have to be strong to make it. Many times, my integrity and honesty were seen as weaknesses because it’s harder to make it without taking shortcuts. And yes, maintaining integrity and honesty can make success more challenging, but I want to reach my goals knowing that I deserve them, and that I can look in the mirror and recognize the person I see. But when I started acting, I realized that all those traits that defined me were considered qualities, and I understood that I had found my path. It wasn’t easy. I had to fight against societal expectations—especially in Italy, where artists are often seen as losers and art isn’t considered a real job. I also had to fight against my family, as my mother always insisted that I should have a ‘real’ career and that acting should be just a hobby. But I felt deep inside that I had to act, and I didn’t give up until I started to see the first signs of success. I can say that I’ve learned many things on this journey—about acting, society, life, and myself. But above all, I discovered that I am resilient.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to Westwood, starting with a tour of the UCLA campus where I studied, followed by a visit to the Hammer Museum where I once worked. I’d have them audit a technique class at Stella Adler, allowing them to experience firsthand the training environment. We would then stroll along the Walk of Fame and hike up to the iconic Hollywood sign. After hitting the Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, and all the major tourist attractions in L.A., including Disneyland, I’d introduce them to my favorite spots.

We’d explore The Grove, take a leisurely walk through the neighborhoods of Beverly Hills, and spend time at Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach. We’d catch the sunrise in Topanga and enjoy s’mores at Dockweiler Beach. To balance relaxation with fitness, we’d take a hot yoga class, followed by evenings at the best rooftops in Downtown LA and a night out at a karaoke place.

As a foodie, I’d make sure they try all my favorite restaurants and taco trucks. We’d savor muletas at El Venado in North Hollywood, indulge in Ajarski and desserts at Lilit’s Bakery, and grab the famous potato balls at Porto’s. We’d experience a real American breakfast at The Original Pantry Café and enjoy a Dim Sum brunch. We’d visit SomiSomi to try Ah-Boong, enjoy ice cream sandwiches at Diddy Riese, savor fried chicken at Gus’s, and grab cheeseburgers at In-N-Out. We’d wait for freshly made donuts from Krispy Kreme, have a Korean barbecue, and enjoy freshly made noodles at Lanzhou Beef Noodles.

By the end of the week, they would leave having experienced the L.A. that I know and love, with its diverse food culture, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
So many people have helped me on my journey: fellow actors who share with me the joys and pains of this profession; longtime friends who listen to my complaints and whining; some teachers who became friends; and a book, The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. It really spoke to my inner artist and helped me harness my creativity, finding the motivation and courage to embark on this journey filled with discoveries and obstacles. I received a lot of support from my best friends, who always believed in me, my dad, who has always been there for me, and my fiancé, who moved to the U.S. for me. I am so grateful for the love and encouragement I’ve received. A special mention goes to my acting school, Stella Adler, for believing in my talent and giving me the opportunity to grow as an actor.

Website: https://ambraferraris.wordpress.com/

Instagram: ambraferraris

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ambra-ferraris-5a618b1b3/ 

Image Credits
Domenico Bruzzese – HEROShot team Los Angeles performing Art Conservatory – LAPAC Sean Kara – SeanKaraheadshots