Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexis (Lex) Lanae Gamble.
Alexis (Lex) Lanae, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
“I think you know what you need to do, Alexis. You’re just scared because not everyone’s doing it”. Wise words from my wise mom. She was so right! It was nearing the end of high school, and I had a decision to make. I already had the college decided… but I was still torn. I had just auditioned for a nation-wide showcase called AMTC. It’s where contestants and industry professionals from all around the nation come together for a week of non-stop performances in acting, dancing, singing, music, modeling, stand up comedy and more.
I was torn because here I was, thinking I’d just settle for the normal traditional route after high school and go to college, yet my mom was encouraging me to do otherwise! I’ve always been drawn to the spotlight whether it was singing in the kid’s church choir, dance teams, sports, or winning awards in high school theater, I was in all of it. Now was my chance to actually see what I was really made of. Full of fear, I decided to go with my mom’s advise, and the peace she felt like God was giving her- and I took the big “leap of faith”.
From the showcase, I won 3 top finalist awards in my categories, gained quite a few connections with agencies in Atlanta and L.A., and I won two $20,000 scholarships to conservatories in New York. Crazy, right?! I was super grateful! But, because of financial hardships and other setbacks, my plans to live in the Big Apple got thwarted, and I had to stay in Atlanta. I was heartbroken. My dreams had just started to blossom and they were already crushed. So it seemed.
Little did I know- Atlanta was quickly becoming the “Hollywood of the South”. After picking myself back up and entering into a local showcase, I gained the attention of a top talent agency here in Atlanta and signed with them. From there, things took off. Since then I’ve been booked a variety of commercials, movies, industrials, plays, dancing, singing and modeling jobs including clients such as NBA TV, BET, Emory Healthcare, Monster Audio, 21st Century, and more!
Has it been a smooth road?
Anyone in the entertainment industry has the unfortunate reality of experiencing the “not so glamorous” side of entertainment. It’s definitely been a challenge for multiple reasons. Whether its wondering when that next “big break” will come, or having to find other day jobs just to pay the bills in between gigs, or tearfully cheering on your friend who just booked a huge TV role as you watch from your room, or comparing yourself to others and wondering if you’re enough as you’re surrounded by beautiful, talented people every day with this career- it’s always something there to challenge your determination, and possibly make you lose focus. But that’s only if you allow yourself to.
I’ve found that I have to be persistent with where I set my hope and my attention. As long as my focus is on my circumstances, opinions of others, whether or not I’m enough, or what doesn’t seem “fair”, I will always always ALWAYS be depressed, unstable, and hopeless. But if I set my gaze on God, the One who has proven to be a good Father time and time again in my life, then I have hope. And hope produces joy. And joy produces strength. And strength produces the tenacity to give today my all, my very best. And wake up and do it all again tomorrow.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I am a bit of a mixed bag. I’m an actress, singer, dancer, model, hostess, fitness instructor, and most recently I’ve begun to share my poetry and my raps! I’m also going to pick up photography as soon as I can get my hands on the perfect camera! But most importantly, I am a worship leader, influencer, and mentor to kids, teens, and young adults in various areas. Yes, there are a lot of actors, singers, etc. But I know that I was created to use whatever platform I’m given- whether fitness or acting, whether big or small- and influence, edify, and inspire others to become the best version of themselves.
I also use my platforms as a means to open up deeper, meaningful thinking and conversation. Ever since I was a child, I’ve always gravitated towards the outcasts, the ridiculed, and the underdog. I love seeing the potential in everyone. And as a strong-willed girl from the moment I was born, I also love challenging what so many believe is “the norm”. I’ve never been a fan of going with the crowd, and I’ve always had a big heart for standing up for what’s right, even if I had to stand alone. And I’m in no rush to change that now.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I love that ATL is continuously growing in the film industry. It’s a great springboard for people like me who need to get there name established. The entertainment field can seem so big and intimidating, but it’s actually quite intimate once you start meeting the right people.
Contact Info:
- Email: thelexlanae@gmail.com
- Instagram: @Lex_lanae
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