Today we’d like to introduce you to Joshua T. Shipman.
Joshua, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I caught the acting bug during childhood. Watching TV shows, commercials and movies sparked a fire inside of me. I knew that I wanted to pursue a career as an actor. It was literally my only career interests… well, other than News Media. I began my journey in the 10th grade. I let go of my shyness and auditioned for a theatre production entitled “Once Upon A Mattress.” Long story short, I won my first award for best cameo. At that moment, I knew that I found my passion. Several theatre productions followed. Skipping ahead to my continuance of theatre at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. My first production was “The Crucible,” where I played the main role of John Proctor. The production lasted over a span of six days with the outcome of 600 attendees. It made the local newspaper. I was introduced to film while majoring in Mass Communication/Broadcasting.
After graduating from UNCP, I began my journey with BG work on several major film and TV productions around Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas. My eyes were on the bigger plan to become the main or principle actor that I watched while doing stand-in or BG work. After years and years of good and bad, constant learning and networking, I held on tight to my dreams and goals. Now my resume contains principle credits in major feature films and tv shows such as Focus Features, Harriet, Showtimes, The Good Lord Bird, and CBS (title I can’t mention). Not to mention lead roles in indie films such as Kindom Men, Hair, Love & Racism and Complexions, ALL currently on Amazon Prime. Plus, major commercial brands including Lowe’s, VA Lottery, RITZ, Discover, Edible Arrangements and many more.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has NOT always been a smooth road lol. There were many times where I had a few pennies in my account, trying to figure out how I was going to make it to my next gig. I’ve had major disappointments on projects that I’ve worked on. Sacrifice is definitely a must in this career so I let go of my safe job, aka 9-5 so that I could have a clear focus on my journey. I’ve even shed tears on my way to a gig because I was at that mental space where I questioned is this even worth it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
When you watch my work, you’ll see the product of over ten years of ups and downs, those 1000 no’s, determination, focus and pure God-given talent. My work has gained the attention of heavy hitters and I’m starting to gain a fan base. I’m super proud of that. At the end of the day, I’m proud of the fact that I can influence others to chase their dreams despite of the obstacles they face. My parents weren’t rich and no one in my circle knew a thing about the entertainment industry so I was led by God to get to where I am today.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
First and foremost, being able to provide for my son and help my family by pursuing my dream makes me extremely happy. This career is deemed almost impossible to many so being a success and actually making a living from it is mind blowing. Other than that, peace and prosperity as well as helping others succeed.
Contact Info:
- Email: Shipman.joshua87@yahoo.com
- Instagram: joshua.t.shipman
- Facebook: Joshua T. Shipman
Image Credits
Headshot by Kim Garand Other image credits to various sources
