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

Hi Jerry, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Diving into acting in my 50s was like deciding to jump, blindfolded off of the Cliffs of Insanity. The fear of failure was huge because, let’s face it, in the cutthroat world of business and even among friends, failing gets you sympathy at best. Getting into acting flipped the script on what I thought about failing. It might sound crazy, but failing is the secret sauce to getting ahead – it taught me that I can start again from a higher place and reach for something higher still. It’s in the reaching that we learn, that we create. And once you discover that power in you, you become unstoppable.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Booking roles really boils down to playing the numbers, so auditions are pretty much where I live and breathe. Michael Keaton once said, “that’s the job,” and I couldn’t agree more. When I’m not on set, I’m totally committed to perfecting my acting, putting in at least five to six hours a day. I dive deep into analyzing scenes, creating backstories for my characters, reading books about the cinema, the film business and watching loads of movies. I do a lot of research on who is developing what tv series and movies that way I get a sense of the type of roles I might be up for. That kind of industry knowledge is key to developing a strategic relationship with my reps who are key to finding me opportunities.

Writing’s also a big part of my routine—it really sparks my imagination. Plus, I make sure to get out and soak up some inspiration from the world around me. Whether it’s trekking through the hills above LA, strolling the beaches in Malibu, Santa Monica, or cruising around the South Bay, or even spending a lazy afternoon in a museum, it all feeds into my creative vibe.

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?
I’m lucky in enough to live in Westwood, so I would undoubtably take them for a walk around the Village and up through UCLA’s beautiful campus. The Sculpture Garden is so peaceful and harmonious, it’s one of my favorite spots in the city to sit and meditate or read a book. Little Osaka on Sawtelle with its variety of ramen and noodle shops, is unbeatable for people (and car!) watching. I love to walk around DTLA, day or night, especially Central Market with its crazy energy and its serene counterpart of the Hauser & Wirth gallery space in the Arts District. Lately I’ve been exploring the late nite, and speak easy bars of Koreatown (Break Room 86) and Chinatown (General Lee).

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would never have made it this far without the support from community of creatives and friends that surround me. The teachers that guid me, the invaluable lessons I’ve absorbed from fellow actors, who inspire me through their own journeys and the unwavering encouragement from friends who constantly push me to explore, create, and refine my craft—these collective forces have been fundamental to my growth. Their belief in me and their support has been a driving force, empowering me to push beyond my limits and continue developing my skills and artistry. This community has not just supported me; it has been an integral part of my journey, shaping me into the artist and person I am today.

Instagram: @Jgureghian

Linkedin: Jerry Gureghian

Twitter: @JerryGureghian

Facebook: @jerrygureghian

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