Meet Emmett Preciado | Actor, Model and Trans Activist

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

Hi Emmett, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I think that everything in life comes with a risk, right? Love is a risk. Walking out your front door is a risk. Transitioning is a risk. Everything is risky. So why not go after the things in life that you truly want? I’m so passionate about telling stories and helping people de-stress and heal through TV/Film. Yes, it’s a stressful career path but the risk has been so rewarding and worth it. And I feel it’s really important to be visible as a transgender actor, especially now when we’re being actively targeted and organizations and governments are trying to erase us. I cannot be silent and I am grateful for the platform I have to be visible and vocal for my community.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m really grateful for the experiences I have had so far in my career and the opportunities to be on set with incredible talents like Andy Garcia, Katey Sagal, and Freddie Highmore. I was so excited when I got to play a patient on my mom’s favorite show, The Good Doctor. I just remember my parents being so proud and that meant a lot because I know they were less than thrilled when I said I wanted to pursue acting. But I get it, they just want me to be successful and this business is not easy. I’ve learned that if you’re only in it for the money and fame (which are not bad) but if that’s your main focus, you will burn out so much quicker than if you have a true passion for your craft. And I am passionate about telling stories, especially queer stories. I think it’s important for people to see Trans artists in mainstream media, not only for representation and visibility, but to educate. That’s why I’m very open about my “Transness.” I’m here, and I’m here to represent.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh we would be outside in nature as much as possible! I’d take them up to Fryman Canyon and do a morning hike before it gets too hot out. Then, because I’m absolutely crazy, we’d hit up the gym. I’d take them to an amazing pizza place in North Hollywood. And the rest of the week would be: BEACH. All the beaches. I know the good spots. 😉

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 have met SO many incredible people on my journey. Getting to where I am today would have been impossible without the support of my family and friends. Early in my transition, I had so much support from The Mama Dragons, a nonprofit that supports LGBTQ children and their mothers. While I was dealing with a lot of negativity from the world, Mama Dragons came in and made me feel loved and supported. I was able to safely transition, which led to me feeling more comfortable in my body, which led to me finally pursuing my dreams. I will never forget what they did for me in those very early and scary days.

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

Image Credits
Martin Salgo Lucas Pool Azra Bello Martin Salgo Martin Salgo