Today we’d like to introduce you to Zack Whyel.
Hi Zack, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started skateboarding and making videos around 2002 in Concord, NC. Having a tumultuous home life at the time pushed me to really dive into these two passions. I also started acting and doing traveling theatre in High School. Since then, I have been on a wild journey to pursue those dreams. Things really started with skating in and helping produce a skate video “this is reality”. After that, I moved to California. In California, I was featured in well-known TV Shows, Movies, and Commercials for Skating and Acting. Once joining SAG-AFTRA and gaining representation on both coasts, I decided to come back to Charlotte to Direct and Produce my first film. Which I also wrote and star in as well. This film “Skateshop” has taken me over 2.5 years to write the script. Once starting production, it took us 2 years (with COVID-19) to shoot and get through post-production. We are now finishing up a deal to distribute the film Internationally and will be releasing it later this year. I have done so much on this journey so far, but seems like it’s still just beginning!
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?
It has absolutely not been a smooth road! From uncertainties, risks, losses, haters, betrayal, setbacks, going broke, breakups; you name it I have experienced it during this wild ride. I wouldn’t change it for anything though. Every single hardship along the way has only sharpened my sword and created a stronger more resilient person out of me.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an Actor/Producer who was also a sponsored skateboarder for 15 years. In addition to writing & directing music videos, short films, and a feature film “Skateshop”. I am extremely proud of all of my work, but the latest film “Skateshop” was an extreme feat to pull off. I am tremendously proud of this film and everyone who helped bring it together.
I believe what sets me apart from the pack is my perspective. I am working to create characters or films that show people another perspective and shed light on the struggles of humanity. Creating works that will stand the test of time and bring people closer together is my goal.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My parents Pam and Mark Hofer have always been a big support. Friends and associates have definitely helped light the way and blaze the trail too. For my recent project “Skateshop” specifically Jerod Jacobs of Six-Foot Kitten has played a major role in helping bring this project to life. Too many to name along the way but you know who you are!
Contact Info:
- Email: zwhyel@gmail.com
- Website: zackwhyel.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/zackwhyel
- Facebook: facebook.com/zackwhyel
- Twitter: twitter.com/zackwhyel
- Youtube: youtube.com/zackwhyel
- Other: creoskateco.com – wfproductions7.com – skateshopthemovie.com
Image Credits
Steve West
Ben Allison
Sarah Braden
Tory Silinski
Travis Karr
