Meet David McManley from Cumbria who moved to LA three months ago to pursue acting and modelling.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA ?
Before moving to LA, I was in NYC modelling and making my transition into acting. In New York, however, it’s a lot more theatre and I had aspirations for film and television. I finally reached a point where I asked myself, ‘If not now, then when?’ and so I signed with LA Models, packed my bags, and moved to Hollywood!
What do you miss most from home?
How much time do you have? No, really- the first things that come to mind are: a proper kebab, Camden Town, Robinson’s squash, and Rugby.
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since? If so why?
It was like a dream. The sun, beaches, and palm trees. It’s a climate and lifestyle I grew accustomed to after living in Brasil and one that I definitely prefer! So far, my impressions haven’t changed at all. I take the good with the bad but, for me, LA has had so much more good to offer. It’s been an incredible experience.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus Barrow?
Quite a lot, actually but, namely, I think the people are quite different. I think this is true of all the north country, in fact– not just Barrow– but I find that people in Barrow are more genuine and honest. In LA, as an English transplant, I think one can be easily misled by the grandiose stories, because we tend to take people at face value.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
I don’t think I’m Angeleno enough to say I’ve found anything hidden here just yet, however, I can’t recommend enough The Getty Centre and The Griffith Observatory.
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
Save your pennies, keep your wits about ye, and network like it’s your source of oxygen!
Lots of our members join our group Brits in LA seeking out words of wisdom – what is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Brits in LA has been such a wonderful community to me in so many ways. Probably, the best piece of advice I’ve received is – ‘It’s not what’s happened, it’s how we react to it.’ I think it offers great perspective, especially in stressful times.
Lastly, how can we find out more about you? Are you working on anything at the moment?
You can catch me on all social media for modelling and acting. For my copywriting and journalism work, check out my LinkedIn. Thanks for reading!
Instagram: www.instagram.com/davidmcmanley
Facebook: www.facebook.com/davidmcmanley
Twitter: www.twitter.com/davidmcmanley
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/davidmcgmanley
