Models have a stigma that they can't act. You're also, to be quite blunt, you're tall and not a lot of actors are tall and when you are starting out you're obviously not the first one cast, so you're trying to fit into a mold. You're quite often not cast as the quirky best friend, but you don't have the experience to be cast as the lead. So it can be really tricky. One of the biggest things is just to get your people, so to speak, your agents and managers to take you seriously. That's one of the issues I had when I came out to LA.
Tricia HelferI'd rather play an ass-kicking destroyer or a super strong spy or agent than some meek, vulnerable character.
Tricia HelferWe only have this one planet; we got to figure out how to live on it without destroying it. So much of cultures not getting along is because of religion. If each religion's deity is the right one to them, then whose is right and whose is wrong? No one has the proof, so we need to figure out how to work through it
Tricia HelferI am still learning, myself, but I guess I would say to be aware of what is around you. Do not expect anything; there is more to be gained by earning it. Work hard, play fair, be kind to all living creatures, and take a moment to just sit back and breathe.
Tricia HelferI've never gone for the smooth, suave Latin or French lover. That usually makes me think they're trying to pull one over on me.
Tricia HelferYou just have to be persistent. I think that's one of the biggest things about the model industry and this career is being persistent and believing in yourself and also being ready when the timing is right. So much of it is about timing and luck, so to be ready when you get the opportunity.
Tricia Helfer