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

Hi Gio, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I have always felt like a creative person that wanted to express and share my ideas. I started off studying fine arts as a painter and ceramist. When I started modeling and acting in NYC is when I got the bug for the entertainment industry. The collaborative and elaborate nature of making films and television was something I knew I wanted to do for the rest of my life. As my career has grown I not only work in front of the camera as an actor but also behind the scenes as a director and producer. Being able to tell stories that entrain, move people or make them laugh is something that is very fulfilling. And the process to create these projects is something that is so much fun to me.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Most recently you can see me acting on Season 2 of Hacks as Ned and on ABC”s – Home Economics as Dustin. I have also recently completed two short films as a director/producer, which are proof of concepts for larger projects. These films have been official selections in many international film festivals. I am trying to tell stories in an entertaining way that also have a deeper meaning. It has not been easy to get to where I am today. I have gotten here with a lot of studying, hard work, dedication and luck. The way I have been able to overcome many of the challenges has been with support from family and friends and the mentality that I will not give up.

A project I have directed and produced “A Killer Service” is an official selection in Dances With Films Festival. This project is a proof of concept for a TV series I currently have in development. DWF is a highly established film festival held for the past 26 years here in Los Angeles. The festival takes place at the historic Chinese Theatres in Hollywood from June 22- July 2. Our project is playing in the Pilots section on July 1st at 1:15pm.

 

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There is so much amazing stuff to see here in LA. I would start with the super touristy things like Griffith Observatory, LACMA, checking out a movie at the legendary Chinese Theatre, the Santa Monica pier. Then I would get to the more local spots to dine from cuisine around the globe. There are tons of fantastic escape rooms and other museums to see. The hiking destinations really are unmatched if you are outdoorsy. Some of may favorites are some trials in the Pacific Palisades and up in Malibu, with city and ocean views combined. If you happen to be here while there are music shows going on at The Hollywood Bowl or The Greek that would be amazing to see.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are many people that have helped me get to where I am today. Pursuing a career as a creative is not something for the faint of heart. You need to show initiative, determination, grit and positivity along the journey. My families story is something that has inspired me and laid the track for what I have been able to accomplish. My family came to the US from Italy with very little to begin with. They now own and operate successful Italian restaurants and pizzerias on the east coast. Despite moving across the world and not knowing the language they were determined to succeed. I had never visited LA before moving here and I also did not know anyone in the industry. But after 10 years I have had some success and am determined to keep hustling to achieve my dreams. I have been so fortunate to meet very supportive friends and a partner who are all in the industry and help me in so many ways, even producing my recent projects. My partner Cynthia really goes above and beyond with her support.

Website: www.giorandazzo.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gio_randazzo8/?hl=en

Image Credits
Paul Smith – Headshots Tatu Mantovani – (Final image sitting at table)

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