DJ QUALLS: Reality Checks, Hiding in Hollywood & Crazy Supernatural Moments!
Digest
This podcast episode features DJ Qualls and Ryan Hansen, two actors who have navigated the complexities of Hollywood and the entertainment industry. DJ Qualls shares his experiences with acting, his preference for appearance work, and his decision to prioritize personal well-being over fame and fortune. He also discusses his struggles with anxiety and depression, highlighting the importance of mental health in the industry. Ryan Hansen shares his experiences with dealing with demanding directors, overcoming trauma, and finding compassion in a competitive environment. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and prioritizing well-being in a demanding profession. Both actors offer valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of working in Hollywood, providing listeners with a glimpse into the realities of the entertainment industry.
Outlines
DJ Qualls' Perspective on Acting and Career Choices
DJ Qualls discusses his experience with acting, revealing his current preference for appearance work and his reasons for turning down many acting roles. He emphasizes the importance of feeling comfortable and valued in his work.
Finding Belonging in Hollywood
DJ Qualls shares his initial experience in Hollywood, feeling like he belonged in the work environment but struggling with the business side of the industry. He recounts a conversation with Alfred Woodard that changed his perspective on acting and the importance of being present for people.
Defining Personal Values and Goals
DJ Qualls discusses the importance of defining personal values and goals, particularly in the context of Hollywood. He emphasizes the desire to be perceived as a kind and good person, prioritizing personal growth and well-being over fame and fortune.
Aging, Health, and Mental Well-being
DJ Qualls shares his experience with cancer and its impact on his health and perspective on aging. He discusses the importance of physical activity and mental well-being, highlighting the challenges of dealing with anxiety and depression.
DJ Qualls' Experience with Cancer and its Impact
DJ Qualls discusses his experience with Hodgkin's lymphoma, the impact of chemotherapy on his body, and his current perspective on health and well-being. He shares his struggles with anxiety and depression and the importance of seeking help.
DJ Qualls' Childhood and Coming Out
DJ Qualls shares his experience with being bullied in high school and his decision to come out as gay in 2020. He discusses the challenges of being closeted in Hollywood and the importance of owning his space and demanding respect.
Ryan Hansen's Experience in Hollywood
Ryan Hansen shares his experiences with dealing with demanding directors, overcoming trauma, and finding compassion in a competitive environment. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and prioritizing well-being in a demanding profession.
Keywords
Appearance Work
Acting roles that primarily involve physical presence and minimal dialogue, often in supporting or cameo roles. These roles are typically less demanding and can be more lucrative.
Mental Health
A state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to their community.
Hollywood
The entertainment industry in Los Angeles, California, known for its production of films, television shows, and music. It is a highly competitive and often demanding industry.
Audition Process
The process by which actors are evaluated for roles in films, television shows, and other productions. It typically involves reading lines, performing scenes, and demonstrating their acting abilities.
Supernatural Actor
A supernatural actor is an actor who specializes in playing roles in supernatural or fantasy genres, often portraying characters with magical abilities or otherworldly powers.
Hollywood Medium
A Hollywood medium is a person who claims to be able to communicate with spirits of the deceased. They often conduct séances and provide readings to individuals seeking to connect with loved ones who have passed away.
Altruism
Altruism is the principle of selfless concern for the well-being of others. It is characterized by acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion, often without expecting anything in return.
Appalachia
Appalachia is a mountainous region in the eastern United States, known for its distinctive culture, history, and natural beauty. It encompasses parts of 13 states, including West Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
Q&A
What are some of the challenges DJ Qualls has faced in his acting career?
DJ Qualls has faced challenges with self-doubt, navigating the business side of Hollywood, and dealing with the pressure of fame. He has also struggled with anxiety and depression, highlighting the importance of mental health in the industry.
How has DJ Qualls' perspective on acting and career choices evolved over time?
DJ Qualls initially prioritized securing roles and building a successful career. However, he has since shifted his focus to prioritizing his own well-being and choosing roles that align with his personal values. He now prefers appearance work and turns down many roles that he doesn't feel comfortable with.
What advice does DJ Qualls have for aspiring actors?
DJ Qualls emphasizes the importance of defining personal values and goals, prioritizing mental health, and being true to oneself. He also advises aspiring actors to be mindful of the business side of Hollywood and to avoid unnecessary social obligations.
How has DJ Qualls' experience with cancer impacted his perspective on life?
DJ Qualls' experience with cancer has made him more aware of the importance of physical activity and mental well-being. He has also become more open about his struggles with anxiety and depression, advocating for mental health awareness in the industry.
What are some of the key takeaways from DJ Qualls' discussion about mental health?
DJ Qualls highlights the importance of seeking help for mental health issues, recognizing that anxiety and depression are common experiences. He emphasizes the need to break the stigma surrounding mental health and to prioritize self-care.
How has DJ Qualls' experience in Hollywood shaped his perspective on fame and popularity?
DJ Qualls has learned that fame and popularity are fleeting and often come with a price. He has come to value authenticity and genuine connections over superficial appearances and social status. He now prioritizes his own well-being and happiness over chasing fame and fortune.
What was the most challenging aspect of Ryan's experience working on \"Legit\"?
Ryan found it challenging to work on \"Legit\" because he had to dip into his savings to support the show, and it ultimately got canceled. He also faced criticism for playing a character with a disease he didn't have.
How did Ryan's confrontation with the director on \"The Man in the High Castle\" impact him?
Ryan's confrontation with the director on \"The Man in the High Castle\" was a turning point for him. It made him realize the importance of speaking up against injustice and standing up for those who can't defend themselves.
What is Ryan's perspective on the entertainment industry?
Ryan believes that the entertainment industry is a complex and often challenging environment, but he has found both pettiness and altruism within it. He emphasizes the importance of giving respect to receive it and staying true to oneself.
Show Notes
DJ Qualls (Supernatural, Hustle & Flow) joins us this week to share his experience coming out of a strict rural South upbringing, having to hide who he truly was while on sets in Hollywood, and eventually carving a path of success that allows him to operate on his terms without any curated persona. DJ opens up on why he hid his sexuality when he came out to LA along with his opinion of changing dynamics on sets today and the context needed to be given to those in the past. We also talk about his rise during the birth of the TMZ era, how he got roped into Supernatural, and the importance in redirecting childhood trauma to make yourself a better person.
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