We had the good fortune of connecting with Danielle Renee and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Danielle, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
When I was younger, I would constantly write in journals. Whether I was writing poems, songs, stories or simply writing down my feelings, it was always my go to coping mechanism. I had a hard time communicating my emotions when I was little and I found that writing was my only way to express myself and to get through all of the challenging times I was going through. It gave me a voice. I didn’t realize it at the time but I was creating and it was what I felt connected to the most. Then I discovered acting and knew I wanted to do that for the rest of my life. Till this day I choose to pursue a creative career because I feel that’s what I’m meant to do. Art is healing in so many ways and I just want to be apart of that. Art brings people together from all areas and backgrounds. No matter how different we may seem on the outside – art reminds us that we are all connected. It’s the closest thing we have to magic. Art saved me when I was a little girl and it continues to save me everyday. It makes me feel alive and it makes other people feel good too. There’s nothing I want more than to have a positive impact on the lives of others. Art allows me to do that while also bringing meaning and purpose to my own life as well.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve always loved telling stories whether I’m using myself and my personal experiences to tell a story through acting or using my imagination to create stories on paper. I’ve been writing my own songs my whole life and it’s exciting to see my growth and to finally be able to be in the studio recording them. My art is all about being vulnerable and honest. I strive to learn and discover more about myself and life every day so that I can contribute all of that to my art. My art is unlike others because my soul and unique experiences are mine and mine only. I started with no knowledge on how to begin but thankfully we have this wild creation called the internet. I researched anything and everything that related to being an actor as well as reading many books. From there it was trial and error. Over time, God has placed so many wonderful people and opportunities on my path that have pushed me to grow and learn tremendously. I’ve been actively pursuing my dreams over the past five years and have built a solid foundation for me to now launch my career from. My recent accomplishments I am most excited about are filming my first pilot and signing my first talent manager with The Robb Company. I’ve learned so much since the day I decided to put my dreams first. I’ve learned that art is a collaborative experience that looks different for everyone. I’ve learned that putting in the work IS the shortcut. I’ve learned that being myself and being professional will always lead to great success and beautiful relationships. I’ve learned that being brave and getting out of your comfort zone is the only way to get to where you want to be and to become who you were meant to be. One thing I want the world to know about me is that I’m here to stay because I’m a fighter. I’m here to make a difference, to inspire, to lead, to empower, to give back and to love with every ounce of my being. To make every moment count and to shed light on the things that truly matter.
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 Newport Beach because that’s my favorite beach. I’d also take them to a rooftop bar or restaurant in LA and a vegan restaurant! I’d take them to Heroes Restaurant and Brewery in Riverside because they have amazing food and drinks. We would most likely head to Palm Springs for a day where some of my family resides. We would definitely go to a fun brewery like Luchador Brew Co in Chino Hills or Brewery X in Anaheim. I personally love going to art museums, concerts, Broadway shows and sporting events which I can’t wait to attend again once covid gets better. 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?
I haven’t really had many mentors in my life. My mom was always my biggest teacher and greatest supporter but she didn’t know anything about the entertainment industry so I was kind of on my own when it came to finding my way creatively. When I think about who deserves recognition at this point in my journey, two names come to mind. One is my mom’s family friend and successful actor/producer, Karl Wright, he has been beyond supportive and helpful with any questions I’ve had about the business over the years. He inspires me to work hard and is proof that I can be a successful working actor as well. The other person who comes to mind is Acting Coach/Actor, Ernie Grunwald, who I’ve trained with for a couple years. He has always been so encouraging and insightful and has offered plenty of guidance to me along the way. Without these two incredible people, I wouldn’t have had some of the important support and knowledge that has prepared me for numerous opportunities. To them I am forever grateful and hope to make them proud. I’d also like to shoutout every artist who is out there going after their dreams. The road to being an artist is not easy in the slightest, but this is not necessarily a path that we chose – but one that chose us. I am inspired by different types of artists every single day and you are the ones who keep me going and who keep that burning passion alive inside of me. So thank you for your work, thank you for not giving up, and thank you for being authentically you.
Website: TheDanielleRenee.wix.com/Artistry
Instagram: Instagram.com/Danielle.Renee
Twitter: Twitter.com/TheDaniRey
Facebook: Facebook.com/daniellefarrahi
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvnaOJXPNpMmR3SEe7lJf3w
Other: IMDB.me/DanielleRenee
Image Credits
Ruslan T Photography, Daniel Deitch, Craig Bennett