Today we’d like to introduce you to Nydell Nalls.
Hi Nydell, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Nydell Nalls, but I go by Dell. I’m 25 years old and I was born on February 16, 1998. I grew up in Jersey City, New Jersey. I’m the youngest brother of three, so I always had a blueprint in front of me of what I should and shouldn’t do. Growing up, I lived between both my Mom, Dad and also my Aunt Kim. I learned young that life was what you make it and that everything that happens in life is a direct reflection of your mindset, actions, and decisions. I never quite knew what I wanted to do or be I always knew I wanted to have an influence or an impact. Since young (4th grade), I would memorize speeches such as Martin Luther King’s “I have a Dream” and grew a love for entertainment.
Fast forward to 8th grade I did a play on stage which solidified that I was capable of being in the face of the public. I later went to high school and took a drama course where I learned techniques, stage placements, etc. Fast forward to college, I took some public speaking courses that helped with diction and I had to perform in front of the class. After college, I attended Catherine Russell’s Acting Studio for six weeks to improve my acting and improve skills. Throughout this experience, I was able to get introduced to background acting and extra work but I knew there was more for me out there. I got a few featured roles here and there which got me noticed by people. For instance, Raising Kanan Episode 6, a few commercials and photoshoots etc. All of these avenues have led me to where I am now. Recently, I landed my first lead role in my first feature film “Antwan” Antwan is a kid who comes from the struggle who eventually takes matters into his own hands. The film is set to release in early 2024 and will be shown at 2 movie theater premieres (Atlanta & Washington DC). Until then, I am enjoying the moment and ready to execute these next few months in taking my career to the next level.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road to my current success hasn’t always been easy. Ya know, sometimes you really have to make sacrifices in order to push yourself in a different realm. I’m one of those people who have had to adjust to being uncomfortable so many different times in order to get myself to where I am. Because essentially, if you remain in your level of comfort… what changes? I’ve had to ask myself plenty of times. What are you so afraid of? What are you scared to leave behind? Why? You have to ask yourself these things because once you realize that your life and journey is important and those who love you will always be there to support you… Nothing else matters. I had to learn that. Go live, be free. My grandparents have lived, my parents have lived, hell even my older brothers have lived. Now, it’s my turn. And when you capture this mindset. You will be free, and you will elevate. It takes time and grace within yourself to overcome this, but believe me when I say it… The life you desire will come when you have fully come to terms with your execution to your evolution!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
So I’ve been in acting for about five years now. Like actually hands-on in the field. I was always in love with the craft since I was young and would binge-watch ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ every day after school in middle school. I recently attended Catherine Russell Acting Studio in Times Square before moving out NJ in 2021 to strengthen my techniques…But let’s rewind… When I went to college I had the opportunity to be a part of the film ‘Harriet’ starring Cynthia Arivo as a background actor in 2019. Shortly after, they asked me to come in for a ‘stand in’ job. For me, I remember juggling between having to go to class and wanting to go be on set so bad. One of my teachers even said she would drop me a whole letter grade if I went to set one day. I still went. That’s the type of love, dedication, and sacrifice you have to make sometimes. I don’t come from a silver-spoon family. I’m not the poorest, but I’m damn sure not the richest.
So, for me every opportunity I viewed as a portal to greater opportunity. This mindset has proven to be true every single time. I’ve done work on Raising Kanan, BMF, HBO, Netflix and more. Seeing myself and recognizing that I’ve done the groundwork and that I’m ready for more has been my new thing. I’m very excited for my first feature film ‘Antwan’ to release. I feel like the other projects were me gathering the sticks, but now I’m ready to ignite the flame! I’m ready to show the world what I’m capable of on my own. It’s a great feeling… Truthfully, my mind is always, “What’s next? What new reality will you create for yourself next?” But right now, I’m actually content. I think the film will be good and this is definitely a strike toward my career progression. I’m waiting, just like everyone else to see it unfold!
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
Yes. Covid has really just shown me that life is a rat race. Life is short. And you should experience as much as possible in life because you never know when the reality will change. We are just a vessel. God has sent us here with a job and a duty. We may not know what that job of duty is but there is definitely a plan greater than us. I say this to say that while you’re here, living and breathing that you should maximize every part of your life and journey because misfortune can happen at any time. I couldn’t walk at college graduation, I couldn’t go shopping in New York. Nothing. So, Covid just showed me to live and appreciate things while they are in front of me.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CzHwfo0rRzn/?igshid=YjVjNjZkNmFjNg==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nydell.alonzo
Image Credits
@foolwiththecamera @slimthirtyfive @painfully_gifted_visuals
