Meet Jimmy Akingbola who moved to LA 2 years ago to pursue acting in the US and to set up the US arm of TriForce Creative Network (TCN). Jimmy says TCN ‘was built on a strong ethos of inclusion and access, opening up the industry to people from all walks of life and providing a trusted and viable avenue for the industry to discover diverse talent. We provide opportunities for actors, writers, directors, producers and crew through the following initiatives’.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
I chose LA because I am a sun baby! I love the sun and the vibe and spirit of LA. I first came out here in 2010 for 3 months and even though I had zero auditions, I still loved being here. I just enjoyed living in North Hollywood for three months, plus I met many Brits that had successfully made the move such as Treva Etiene, Darren Darnborough, Eileen Lee and Craig Young.
However, the main reason I chose LA, is that it is like the Champions League of acting. The best of the best are here… Like most actors, I always dreamed of working in Hollywood and so when I saw how possible it was I just made the jump. You get one life, right? A part of me wanted to test myself to see if I could actually work in Hollywood, like my peers and friends Ashley Madekwae, Eamon Walker, Aml Ameen, David Oyelowo, Marianne Jean Baptise, Lenny James and Idris Elba. Also there was the growing issue about the lack of good roles for actors that looked like me in the UK. Apart from Luther, I rarely saw good lead character’s for actors that looked like me. So instead of staying in the UK and risking my career hitting a ceiling and then falling away I came to LA.
What do you miss most from home?
I miss my family, friends and my nieces and nephews the most. Plus certain food dishes like Pie & Mash, Jollof Rice and a good Indian Curry. Oh and of course going to see brilliant Theatre.
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since?
My first impression of LA was that it’s beautiful, and anything is possible and there are no set rules. You have to be creative, driven and hard working. I suppose what has changed is that I did not really understand how tough it is out here. There’s a big difference from being in LA for 2-3 months to living here full time. I love this place but some people just think it’s sunny and easy… that’s far from true. We’re all on the sunny hustle out here.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus London?
Biggest difference is the lack of good public transport. You could be filming in Santa Clarita or Topanga but getting there is a challenge. No matter how many times I am told LA is a car town, the lack of good public transport always surprises me. Oh and fashion here is more laid back. Wearing a white t-shirt underneath a blazer out here is seen as too much.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
A few actually… dinner at Republique …. Breakfast at Blue Jam Café, and Tacos at Pinches Tacos… I’m a bit of a foodie.
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
If you’re coming here to live and work then I would say do your research and then get Green Card first. It will make things much easier for you. But do your research it’s a big commitment and it affects you financially in the UK.
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?
Cliché but… find your LA Family, keep it small and tight.
Lastly, how can we find out more about you?
You can find out more about me via Twitter and Instagram: @jimmyakingbola and via Facebook at Jimmy Akingbola. Or via www.jimmyakingbola.co.uk.
I’m also involved in WriterSlam UK, a platform supported by Channel 4, ITV, Sky and the BBC for writers looking to break into TV (visit thetcn.com/writerslam) and the TriForce Short Film Festival (TFSFF) which showcases talent in contemporary filmmaking and helps emerging filmmakers develop skills and access opportunities to further their careers. For more information go to: tfsff.com
