Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Simone.
Hi Samantha, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am an actor, producer, and college professor! As an actor my journey started from a very young age. As a little kid I would have my parents act out scenes from all my favorite movies in our living room. In my opinion my Belle at age 5 was Oscar worthy! My parents enrolled me in classes and my love for acting grew. At the age of 10 I was cast in my first television series titled “Planet Cook” on the BBC. I got my bachelors degree to Ramapo College in NJ in Acting and Elementary Education. I immediately went on to get my MFA in Acting at Columbia University. Since graduation I have been cast on CBS “Blue Bloods” and “FBI.” I have also done several feature films, commercials, and theatrical productions. At the moment I am also a professor at Ramapo College, Rider University and Bergen Community College. Teaching brings me so much joy – I love helping young artists achieve their goals! When I am not performing I am either at Alpha Fit Club working out, spending time with family and friends, or with my husband Alex our adorable dog Ned. I love to travel, be outside, and try new things! My favorite food is tacos!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The path to success in the arts is never smooth. For every victory, there are 100’s of losses. We face constant rejection and throughout the years opportunities have become fewer and further between. Sometimes our wins are also not visible to someone outside of the arts. For example – you get a callback for a role you love but don’t book the job. To someone not in the arts they just hear that you didn’t get the job, not all the little wins to just get the callback! I have always been a big believer in you should do what you love – I love acting so I will always chase my dreams. I have been fortunate to be very supported by family and friends in my journey, but sometimes staying positive when things are slow can be a challenge.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in on camera acting, teaching and coaching. As an actor I am most proud of being cast in CBS “Blue Bloods” – my character was originally only supposed to be on for 1 episode, but it turned in to multiple! I was so excited, it was a dream come true! The entire experience was excellent and one I will cherish forever. As a coach – one of my clients, who I had been working with for a few years booked two big jobs back to back! Now we have been working together for 7 years and watching her confidence, and consistency grow has been such a joy! As a professor – I am most proud of being hired at Rider University. When I started off in higher education I was invited to teach at my alma mater – which was an honor! Rider was a place I knew no one and had no connection to, so I am very proud of how I interviewed to obtain the job, and over the years developed my courses. I love working in higher education and excited to see what comes next!
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice comes from my grandfather, and it was his key to success in the arts. “Trust that you are talented, and never take yourself to seriously, because what is meant to be yours will never pass you by.” There is so little we can control in the arts that getting in the habit of positive self talk, and just having fun will bring so many opportunities your way! My grandpa was a musician, had his own business and a family! My goal in life was to be like him, and I can honestly say that I am living a life he would be extremely proud of!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.samanthanicolesimone.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samsimone30
- Facebook: Sam Simone
