Meet Dorly Jean-Louis | Actor, Model, Journalist & Fashion Stylist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dorly Jean-Louis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dorly, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Well, I’ve always had an innate interest in the arts. To me art is life! I possess and lean on my God-given talents and gifts and apply them in my professional life. I also pursued a creative career because as a child I was fascinated and in awe of the artistry of filmmaking. To me the entire process was so magical. In short, my entry to the film business was fueled by my passion to tell visual stories. I was enchanted by the cinematography; the glamorous costumes, set decor, vocals and dance routines. I was especially enthralled by those happily-ever-after stories of old Hollywood movies. I used to pretend I was the heroine and imagined myself on stage or in front of the camera reciting my lines. I kept quiet about my dream until I graduated from high school. That’s when I decided that my post-graduate studies would be concentrated in the arts; fashion design, broadcast journalism and acting. So, passion and action propelled me to where I am today.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As an actor I love to bring main characters to life on camera. As a fashion stylist, I work closely with clients behind the scenes advising them on appropriate clothing options, visual aesthetic while educating them on various trends and wardrobe building. I’m grateful that I can practice two fields I love professionally and generate a source of income from both.

What sets me apart from the rest is my self-assurance, resilience and ambition. My journey in the film business has not always been easy. Breaking down barriers and proving my talent is an ongoing mission. I train, I hone my craft and I’m eager to learn new skills. For example, I’m not a dancer by trade. Yet I’ve taken hip hop and heels dance classes to grasp a better understanding of rhythm, choreography and sharpen existing movement skills. I love to explore new disciplines. I aim to consistently show up as the best version of myself. I’m excited for the work projects I’m receiving this year. I’ll be able to expand on that at a future date. There is still much more I want to accomplish and experience. I am where I am professionally because I don’t quit. In good or bad times I kept going, I kept doing, I kept improving.

To be honest, I’ve had many proud moments; from landing my first actor role many moons ago to landing another supporting role in a Christmas movie. I also speak three languages which is a valuable asset to have. So working on foreign language productions is a niche I intend to continue to explore.

A valuable lesson I learned over the years is that you cannot grow, succeed or thrive in this business unless you first believe in yourself. It sounds cliché but it’s a powerful truth. Sometimes I have to be my own cheerleader. Especially when the crowd around me goes silent. Self-love, self-acceptance and self-respect are paramount. Acknowledgement or even validation from peers may not come when expected. Some will even pretend they don’t see your progress or accomplishments. That’s why I’m the first person who should have faith in my talent, abilities and gifts before I expect anyone else to recognize them. I may get scared at times but I don’t back down. In film I’m usually branded as a professional woman in a position of power; a lady boss, an entrepreneur, a business owner – roles I’ve assumed as well in my personal life. What I want the world to know about me is that as a multidisciplinary artist my portfolio is diversified in the arts. I also manifest what I want because I’m fearless in taking risks and I’m an expert at creating a masterpiece with the bare minimum.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Well the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the iconic Hollywood sign are an absolute must! No friend of mine is leaving the city without visiting these two staples. I would then take my bestie to my favorite spot for coffee; Café Sheera on Bedford Drive in Beverly Hills. They are known for their authentic Arabic coffee. The first time I tried it I was instantly hooked. The taste to me is eerily similar to Haitian hot chocolate, so you know I fell in love right away! Also, be prepared to indulge in their delicious baklava pastries and sweets. You’ll be wanting more!

An entire day would be dedicated to shopping on Rodeo Drive. I refuse to be rushed! You know my girl and I would dress up to the nines à la Pretty Woman movie; sunhat, gloves and all. Why not serve our best street style looks for the lurking paparazzi. Half the fun is pretending to be famous and watch them catch on. The next day would be set aside to explore the famous Greystone Mansion. It’s a very popular film location so it makes sense to drop in. This landmark is fascinating not just for its grandeur and architecture but because it’s been featured as a backdrop in many popular movies. I know my bestie would appreciate seeing it up close and in person.

Cool nightlife spots to hang out include La Cita Bar Latin dance club and Melody Lounge for a fun night of Karaoke. Of course since we’re bound to run into a celebrity or two during our travels, I have no objections in following their trajectory for as long as we can, without being detected, and God willing, crash whatever venue they land at too. Last but not least, we’ll head over to Easy Street Burgers in Studio City, the home of crispy beef patties and filthy fries. The joint serves one of the best burgers in town. First we eat then burn off the calories at Lucky Strike bowling alley.

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?
My first shoutout will always go to my brother. He’s my biggest fan. He’s been very supportive, encouraging and over the years never ceased to cheer me on and I’m grateful for his unwavering help, love, support and approval. He sends me online articles, motivational literature and books about the biz, anything to keep me driven. Speaking of books, I found Breaking and Entering by Philip Carlson very stimulating. It provides actors with invaluable insight about navigating through the film industry while giving advice on taking charge of your career and ultimately your destiny.

Another individual I must also acknowledge is my previous talent agent Rachel Neville-Fox who added me to her roster in 2019. She really inspired me to thrive and to be an accomplished actress. She provided me with constructive criticism, uplifting conversations and reason to trust her experience and strategies to take my career to the next level. When she retired I was crushed. I was so sad to lose her as a mentor. I felt that I had so much more to accomplish with her guidance. This was the actor-agent relationship I had longed for. She wanted me to succeed and she believed in me. In gratitude I wanted to make her proud. So, you really don’t need a big entourage. One person in your corner is enough to make a world of difference.

Website: https://www.dorlyjeanlouis.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dorlyjeanlouis

Twitter: https://twitter.com/dorlyjeanlouis

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DorlyJeanLouis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dorlyjeanlouis

IMDb: https://www.imdb.me/dorly

Image Credits
Twelve Pence Photography – Jonathan Grills