Rising Star Neil Bentley Fierro On The Five Things You Need To Shine In The Entertainment Industry

As a part of our series about pop culture’s rising stars, we had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Neil Bentley Fierro.

Neil Bentley Fierro is not only a handsome individual with a charismatic presence, but he is also an incredibly hardworking and dedicated professional. His commitment to excellence and his willingness to go above and beyond in every task he undertakes truly set him apart. By K.S.

Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Can you tell us the story of how you grew up?

I am Neil Bentley Fierro, a Los Angeles native deeply rooted in the vibrant Asian community, with Italian and Spanish heritage. Passionate about exploring new cultures, I’ve journeyed extensively through Asia, indulging in diverse cuisines and embracing the thrill of travel. With a penchant for acting Action, Samurai etc., I’m driven by a deep-seated passion for storytelling and adventure.

Can you share a story with us about what brought you to this specific career path?

Growing up in LA’s diverse melting pot, my love for acting was sparked by action movies. Inspired by both Jason Statham’s electrifying performances and Hiroyuki Sanada’s poignant portrayal in “The Last Samurai,” I discovered a deep passion for storytelling. Now, I strive to embody the passion and dedication of my cinematic heroes as I carve out my own place in the world of film.

Can you tell us the most interesting story that happened to you since you began your career?

During my acting career, one of the most fascinating experiences was forging diverse friendships. Collaborating with talents from various backgrounds enriched my journey. Moreover, the opportunity to film a drama provided a profound learning curve, allowing me to delve into complex characters and explore diverse narratives. Additionally, hosting a cooking show for Lee Kum Kee was an unexpected delight, merging my passion for food with storytelling. Interacting with chefs and sharing culinary tales created a vibrant, communal atmosphere. These experiences not only shaped my career but also enriched my life, highlighting the beauty of cultural exchange and the power of storytelling to connect people worldwide.

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?

I zealously pursued perfection, unwittingly suppressing my natural instincts. During a pivotal audition, my rigid adherence to scripts resulted in stilted delivery and lackluster performances. Frustrated by my inability to connect authentically, I faced rejection after rejection. It was a humbling realization that forced me to reevaluate my approach. Embracing vulnerability and spontaneity, I shed the constraints of perfectionism. Through trial and error, I discovered the beauty of imperfection, learning to trust my instincts and infuse my roles with genuine emotion. It was a transformative journey that reshaped my perspective on acting.

What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now?

Being a part of “Fight for Love” currently streaming is an exhilarating experience, and I’m thrilled to announce my involvement in “Operation Dark Waters,” an upcoming action-packed film that promises to captivate audiences with its high-octane thrills. Additionally, “A Murder in Oakland” offers a gripping narrative that delves into the depths of intrigue and mystery. Excitingly, I’m also in the development stage of an action thriller alongside a renowned Asian actor, promising an electrifying cinematic experience for audiences worldwide. Stay tuned for more updates on these thrilling projects!

As a rising star, you’ve likely faced challenges along the way. How do you stay motivated and overcome obstacles in your career?

Embrace each dawn with fervor, leaving no stone unturned in your pursuit of greatness. Every sunrise heralds a fresh canvas, an opportunity to paint your destiny with bold strokes of action and determination. Refuse to dwell on past setbacks; instead, channel your energy into relentless forward momentum. Let each day be a testament to your resilience and unwavering resolve. Remember, it’s not the circumstances that define you, but the actions you take in response. With each step, you carve your path to success, fuelled by the unwavering belief that tomorrow holds boundless possibilities. Seize the day, for greatness awaits.

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?

Diversity enriches my actor career in myriad ways. Firstly, my Latin heritage imbues my performances with authenticity, offering unique perspectives and narratives that resonate with audiences. Secondly, my knowledge of Asian culture enhances my versatility, allowing me to portray a wide range of characters with depth and sensitivity. Finally, embracing diversity fosters connection and understanding, enabling me to collaborate seamlessly with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. By embracing the richness of cultural diversity, I not only elevate my craft but also contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant entertainment industry that reflects the tapestry of our global society.

What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why?

1 . Being natural is most important: Embrace authenticity in your performances. Your genuine emotions and reactions will resonate more deeply with audiences than any forced expression.

2 . Have fun: Enjoy the process of acting and immerse yourself fully in each role. When you’re having fun, it shines through in your performances and makes the experience more fulfilling.

3 . Embrace the diversity of your characters: Don’t limit yourself to one type of role. Explore the full spectrum of characters, embracing diversity in ethnicity, personality, and background.

4 . Never be shy: Confidence is key in the entertainment industry. Don’t be afraid to take risks, speak up, and showcase your talent boldly.

5 . Always be engaged with your surroundings: Pay attention to the world around you, as inspiration can come from anywhere. Stay curious, observe people, and draw from real-life experiences to enrich your performances.

Which tips would you recommend to your colleagues in your industry to help them to thrive and not “burn out”?

- Prioritize having fun: Remember why you fell in love with acting. Enjoy the process and the journey, rather than solely focusing on the end result.

- Embrace naturalness: Authenticity is key. Trust your instincts, and let go of rigid expectations. Allow your performances to flow organically.

- Don’t fixate on outcomes: Focus on the present moment and the work at hand, rather than worrying about future success or failure. Stay grounded and committed to the process.

By incorporating these principles into your approach, you can cultivate longevity and fulfillment in your acting career while avoiding burnout.

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. :-)

My passion for short films fuels a fervent desire to see this industry flourish. Short films offer a unique platform for storytelling, showcasing diverse narratives and amplifying underrepresented voices. They possess a remarkable ability to evoke emotion and provoke thought in a condensed format, making them accessible to audiences worldwide. By championing short films, we can foster creativity, nurture emerging talent, and challenge conventional storytelling norms. With their capacity to inspire, entertain, and enlighten, short films deserve greater recognition and support within the industry. Let us champion this vibrant medium and pave the way for a future filled with compelling, thought-provoking stories.

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 father, a beacon of strength and wisdom, has profoundly shaped my life. His unwavering love, guidance, and support have been my constant companions through life’s highs and lows. With boundless patience and kindness, he instilled in me values of integrity, resilience, and empathy. His selfless sacrifices and unwavering belief in my potential have fueled my aspirations and empowered me to overcome challenges. Grateful doesn’t begin to encompass the depth of my appreciation for him. My father’s enduring presence continues to illuminate my path, reminding me of the immeasurable impact of a great parent on shaping the person I am today.

Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?

“Are you willing to take the hits, get up, and keep walking in your purpose?” This profound life lesson quote encapsulates the essence of resilience and determination. It reminds us that challenges and setbacks are inevitable on the journey towards our goals and dreams. However, what truly matters is our willingness to persevere, to rise each time we fall, and to stay committed to our purpose despite adversity. By embracing this mindset, we not only develop strength and resilience but also stay aligned with our deepest passions and aspirations. It’s a powerful reminder to keep moving forward, no matter what obstacles we face.

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. :-)

A private breakfast with Jason Statham, Tom Cruise, and Hiroyuki Sanada would be an extraordinary opportunity to glean insights from three titans of the film industry. Jason Statham’s charisma and action prowess, Tom Cruise’s dedication to his craft and fearless approach to stunts, and Hiroyuki Sanada’s depth of emotion and versatility would make for an enriching conversation. Their collective experiences, wisdom, and passion for storytelling would undoubtedly inspire and motivate, offering invaluable lessons on resilience, creativity, and the art of filmmaking. It would be a breakfast filled with laughter, camaraderie, and profound discussions about the magic of cinema.

How can our readers follow you online?

Instagram & IMDb, Neil Bentley Fierro

This was very meaningful, thank you so much! We wish you continued success!

About The Interviewer: Eden Gold, is a youth speaker, keynote speaker, founder of the online program Life After High School, and host of the Real Life Adulting Podcast. Being America’s rising force for positive change, Eden is a catalyst for change in shaping the future of education. With a lifelong mission of impacting the lives of 1 billion young adults, Eden serves as a practical guide, aiding young adults in honing their self-confidence, challenging societal conventions, and crafting a strategic roadmap towards the fulfilling lives they envision.

Do you need a dynamic speaker, or want to learn more about Eden’s programs? Click here: https://bit.ly/EdenGold.