NSLS Blog | News, Articles & Information for Students

Navigating The Entertainment Industry

Written by The NSLS | July 15, 2024

TRANSCRIPT

Subscribe to Motivational Mondays on your favorite podcast platform!

Sammy Peralta is a multifaceted talent based in New York, known for his work as an actor, musician, songwriter, and vocalist. Sammy is someone who epitomizes versatility and creativity, having navigated the evolving landscape of television and film with resilience and innovation. Sammy recently penned thought-provoking essays on the impact of AI and streaming services on the acting world, making him a perfect guest to discuss these hot topics.

Sammy's Musical Beginnings

Sammy’s journey began in the music business at the tender age of 11. He toured for three years, balancing his burgeoning career with education. His early years were filled with working in clubs, music retail shops, and record stores, constantly surrounded by the music scene. Sammy’s passion for literature and well-written film and television shows also played a significant role in shaping his artistic sensibilities.

The Leap into Acting

Sammy decided to venture into acting, driven by his photographic memory and love for well-crafted stories. He recounted an early experience where he mistakenly sat with union actors on set, eventually using that mistake to his advantage. Through perseverance and a strategic approach, Sammy became a union actor within three months, a remarkable feat given the usual lengthy process.

Building Connections

Sammy’s method of connecting with industry veterans is noteworthy. Instead of fanboying, he approached actors like Glenn Close and Richard Gere with genuine conversations about their work, demonstrating his knowledge and respect for their craft. This approach helped him build meaningful relationships and establish himself in the industry.

The Future of Background Actors

Sammy revealed that in recent years he’s seen the onslaught of AI present challenges to the acting profession. AI replacing casts and crews could eliminate thousands of jobs. This paradigm shift affects actors, writers, special effects artists, and other behind-the-scenes professionals. He stressed the need for the industry to adapt thoughtfully to these changes to protect livelihoods and this sentiment drives his advocacy for regulating AI in creative industries.

Sammy Peralta’s journey from musician to actor is a testament to adaptability and perseverance. His thoughtful reflections on AI's impact on the entertainment industry offer valuable lessons for aspiring artists and industry veterans alike. As the landscape continues to shift, embracing change while protecting the essence of human creativity remains crucial.

Listen to this episode to learn about...

  • [8:00] Failure is a gift that teaches us what NOT to do
  • [14:48] The challenges AI is presenting to the acting profession 
  • [21:00]Learning to coexist with AI in creative professions 

Listen to the bonus episode to learn what’s Sammy’s next creative project

Resources: