Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Jasmin.
Hi Crystal, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born in Oakland, CA. My mother was a single mother raising myself and my older brother. My grandfather is an actor and was always in my ear, but I never considered acting or modeling until my second year in college. I skipped my sophomore year of high school, so I had just turned 18. I did my first photoshoot, and the next day I was asked to be the lead in my first music video. Each set I went on, I was offered more work. A few years later, I met one of my older cousins on set at 21 (crazy right), and she started submitting me for acting and showing me the ropes. Years later, I’m in Atlanta, still going strong. “Mr. & Mrs Ellis,” a short film that I played Mrs. Ellis, is currently nominated for the 52nd Annual NAACP Image Award.
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 definitely not been smooth. I’ve been homeless in my car twice due to steep tuition increases, as well as working less hours to find more time to focus on my craft. Quitting my job as an operations manager at a bank on salary to fully focus on acting and believing in my dream was the scariest thing I’ve ever done. I get up everyday to figure out how to get booked to pay my bills or find other odd jobs in between. I’ve gone without food so I can get myself to auditions and opportunities. My schedule stays pretty full so I don’t get to see my family in-person very often. It gets hard, but I refuse to give up.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Acting is my focus. Once I started in my craft, I fell in love with being able to express my emotions and create different characters. So far, I’ve booked more dramatic roles because I can cry on cue. I’ve been an athlete since I was four and currently do Cross training and boxing so I can stay sharp for an action film in the future. I still model as well for different clothing brands. I’m most proud of all the obstacles, trials and tribulations that I’ve overcome time and time again throughout my life. What sets me apart is my personality. I’m so bubbly, outgoing, energetic, tenacious, loving and giving. No matter how short the interaction, I make people smile.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I like that Atlanta is so diverse, as well as opportunity for different types of work and networking. I don’t like the drivers here at all. I’ve never seen so many accidents on a consistent basis.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: www.Instagram.com/CrystalJasmin_
Image Credits
Dedric Ramsey Photography
T. Patton Photography
