Meet Chris Levine | Actor and Storyteller

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

Hi Chris, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
One decision that stands out, though I’m not sure if it was the *most* difficult, it definitely brings to mind the challenges and consequences tied to it.

So about ten years ago, just after moving to LA, I had produced a short film and was in the process of writing another short about bodybuilding and steroids. That short eventually evolved into my first feature-length script. I was thrilled when my acting coach loved it and offered to help me assemble a team. Soon, the team was raving about the script. “I couldn’t put it down,” “There’s nothing like this out there!” and “This has to be made!” were just some of the reactions.

But then came the tough decision. The director and producer I had attached, with over 20 years of combined experience, wanted to rewrite the script. As someone new to the industry, I trusted their expertise despite the praise my script had received.

The choice I faced was whether to allow them to rewrite the movie, ensuring it got made, or to stand firm on my original script, risking the possibility of it never being made at all. I opted for the rewrite, and the movie did get made, but to this day, I still wonder if that was the right decision to start my career as an actor and writer. As the movie didn’t meet expectations as the original script had inspired to those who read it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I consider myself a storyteller above all else. Early in my career, I realized that simply wanting to be an “actor” in an industry full of “just actors” wasn’t enough. This realization led me to expand my skills, writing, producing, and even editing my own content from the very beginning. This evolution has been key to my journey and sets me apart from the rest.

A majority of my work is self-created. From *Anabolic Life* to my upcoming movie *Saint Nick*, you’ll always find my name in the producer and writer roles. This ability to write, produce, and bring entire projects to life—not just memorize lines and show up—keeps me moving forward and makes me unique in this industry. That said, I do enjoy being on a set with my only responsibility having lines to memorize, but that happens less often than working on my own creations.

I’ve also expanded my storytelling to children’s books, specifically dinosaur-themed ones, with two titles out this year: *Dinosaur Discoveries* and *Jurassic Terrors*. None of this has been easy. From producing my first short film to recently handling a big-budget national commercial, it’s been a constant learning experience and definitely not for the faint of heart. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
There are a few nostalgic must-dos in LA that I always recommend. For activities, catching a Dodgers or Lakers game is a must. Attending a concert at the Hollywood Bowl or the Greek Theatre and seeing a stand-up show at one of the many comedy clubs around town are also quintessential LA experiences. I’m a fan of the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, and a stroll along Santa Monica Beach, while not the nicest anymore, still holds a nostalgic charm.

I’d definitely make them join me for a workout at The Mecca, Gold’s Gym in Venice. An overnight trip to Temecula for some wine tasting and possibly a hot air balloon ride would be on the agenda as well. Renting something fun from Turo and driving up the PCH to Malibu, where we’d eat at Nobu and then grab something from the McDonald’s across the street, sounds like a perfect day. If they’re into cars, we could head a little further north to Neptune’s Net for some fried shrimp and to re-enact that iconic *Fast & Furious* scene.

As for nightlife, I’d take us to a few small bars around Hollywood, but I have to say, our clubs don’t impress me much—Vegas is better for that scene. I’d also see if a few friends in the Hills could host us for a drink to show off a real Hollywood Hills view.

When it comes to food, aside from Neptune’s and Nobu, I’d take them to King Taco, Gyu-Kaku, and one of those fancy Hollywood Italian restaurants with four dollar signs on Yelp. Finally, we’d spend a day at the Porsche Experience Center LA (PECLA) for some high-octane fun and a great lunch at their restaurant.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many people along this journey who deserve recognition in this shoutout series. First and foremost, my family. My mom and dad, who have always supported me—even when I suddenly decided to quit my job and move to Los Angeles to pursue acting. My brother Mike, who sent me his laptop so I could write *Anabolic Life* when I was struggling to support myself financially. My grandparents, who remind me every time they see a white guy in his 30s on screen that I could do a better job.

My girl Michelle has been by my side since the premiere of *Anabolic Life*, enduring all of my ups and downs. She’s put up with me through months of being “in character,” whether I was playing a crooked detective, a vampire, or even a serial killer.

And lastly, I want to thank my bosses (even the bad ones) over the years for allowing me to miss work, show up late, use their printers, and for understanding where my heart truly lies.

Website: https://onlychrislevine.com

Instagram: @onlychrislevine

Twitter: @onlychrislevine

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@onlychrislevine

Image Credits
David Muller Photography