My biggest tip to avoid burnout would be to have hobbies and interests outside of the industry. Create an escape for yourself when the pressure/rejection feels overpowering.
As a part of our series about pop culture’s rising stars, we had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Paige Mobley.
Paige Mobley is an American host, actress, TV personality and producer. Most recently Mobley was seen in Love Virtually with Stephen Tobolowsky, Kidnapped to the Island on Lifetime, and the newly revamped Americas Next Top Model on VH1 and MTV. Off camera Paige is the cofounder of Eastend Entertainment, a film and television production company that champions female storytelling. Up next Mobley stars in Instant Dream Home on Netflix, premiering worldwide in August 2022.
Mobley is originally from Birmingham, Michigan and went to college for musical theater at Pace University in New York City. She now lives in Los Angeles.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Can you tell us the story of how you grew up?
I was born and raised in Birmingham, Michigan. My parents, who are both artists, raised my sister and I in a very creative environment. We both went on to pursue creative careers.
Can you share a story with us about what brought you to this specific career path?
While I don’t have a specific story, I have always known I wanted to be in the entertainment industry. I have been involved in theater from a very young age. I went to college for Musical Theater in NYC, and then eventually made my way to Los Angeles.
Can you tell us the most interesting story that happened to you since you began your career?
One of my favorite stories from early on in my career is when I accidentally tripped Ed Westwick on the set of Gossip Girl. It was my first job, and I was bumped from a background extra to a small, featured part. I was playing his date at a party. I tripped him with my foot, causing him to fall in front of everyone. He was such a professional, he just stood up and kept the scene going. I was mortified, but he was so sweet about it.
It has been said that mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
While I can’t think of anything specifically, I have to say that mistakes/failures are the catalysts for growth. Every mistake or setback that’s happened has always pushed me to the next opportunity. If you view it that way, it really changes your perspective.
What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now?
Love, Virtually is a rom-com I’m starring in that’s coming out next year. I’m also working on some exciting projects with my production company, Eastend Entertainment.
You have been blessed with success in a career path that can be challenging. Do you have any words of advice for others who may want to embark on this career path, but seem daunted by the prospect of failure?
If you love it, go for it. All things that are worthwhile will come with challenges but try to not let those scare you away from your passion.
We are very interested in diversity in the entertainment industry. Can you share three reasons with our readers about why you think it’s important to have diversity represented in film and television? How can that potentially affect our culture?
Representation is wildly important in all aspects of media. I feel strongly about championing storytellers and film makers who care about inclusivity.
Which tips would you recommend to your colleagues in your industry to help them to thrive and not “burn out”?
My biggest tip to avoid burnout would be to have hobbies and interests outside of the industry. Create an escape for yourself when the pressure/rejection feels overpowering.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
A movement I hope to inspire would-be more female representation and storytelling in film. We have great momentum right now, but I’m excited for more in the future.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?
My parents. They have supported and championed my dreams from the moment I was born. They have always made me feel as though I could accomplish anything. I’m very grateful.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
“The harder you work, the luckier you get.”
Is there a person in the world, or in the US whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. ☺
Shonda Rhimes. To spend even 30 minutes chatting with her would be a dream come true!
How can our readers follow you online?
@PaigeMobley
This was very meaningful, thank you so much! We wish you continued success!
Rising Star Paige Mobley On The Five Things You Need To Shine In The Entertainment Industry was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.