Vertical actors Nicole Mattox and Kiki Fragnoli chatted about coaching the Top Mister USA finalists for “The Next ReelStar” competition on ReelShort. They both chatted with #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos.
Nicole Mattox
On serving as a judge for “The Next ReelStar,” Mattox said, “My experience was a blast! It was a super quick shoot however ReelShort made sure we had a blast the whole time. It was such a new and high-energy concept and everyone brought such amazing enthusiasm to the project.”
Regarding her favorite part of the process, Mattox shared, “I really enjoyed getting to watch the boys go up and do their final auditions. Then, getting to go in and cold read with the winner was such a fun experience! It was great to see everyone get to work on their acting chops after all of the fun and whacky challenges we put them through!”
On the lessons learned from this experience, Mattox reflected, “Well, this was filmed so quickly I didn’t have time to have much growth in this process but I did learn that I don’t like giving people any sort of notes or criticism, even though it’s constructive.”
“Being a judge or an acting coach is very difficult and takes a definite skill-set that I respect immensely. I wouldn’t be where I am without my own coach and it’s a hard job,” she noted.
For young and aspiring actors that wish to go into the vertical space, Mattox said, “One of the most important things I’ve learned is to just focus on consistency over speed, it isn’t about overnight success, it’s about showing up and doing the work.”
“There will be rejection and moments of doubt but that doesn’t define your talent or future. I’d also say to focus on your craft, there are a million vertical auditions coming in so just keep putting your best foot forward each time, but it’s also important to focus on your own character,” she elaborated.
“This is a small world and people take notice of other good people. So overall, I would say focus on yourself and just don’t compare your path to anyone else’s, everyone’s journey looks different and that’s okay,” she added.
Kyle “Kiki” Fragnoli
Actor Kyle “Kiki” Fragnoli spoke about hosting “The Next ReelStar” competition, and making the two groups that consisted of 12 contestants each.
“My experience as a host for ‘The Next ReelStar’ so surreal,” he said. “I’ve gotten to work with ReelShort on several occasions, so when they asked me to participate as a host for Mister USA‘s reality TV show, I was delighted to get to work with such powerhouse actors as Nicole, Maddox and Jesse Morales.”
“You try your best to rise to the occasion to match the energy that they bring and you don’t want to settle for anything less. Additionally, making ReelShort proud has always been something that I strive for since they’ve changed my life,” he noted.
“My favorite part of the process was getting to meet the young gentleman who I share a lot of common with across United States. Each state representative was unique and refreshing beyond compare. I wish I met many of them at a younger point in my life because I feel as if they have always been a part of me our camaraderie, similarities, and strive for greatness. These are things that I hold very dear to me,” he explained.
On the lessons learned from the experience, he stated,”Keep pushing when you’re with high functioning men who do not settle for anything less than greatness, you yourself must strive for the same thing.”
For young and emerging actors that wish to go into the vertical space, Kiki remarked, “Push yourself. Be the best version of yourself. Don’t doubt yourself do know that the vertical space is incredibly competitive. You will be going against men who appear to be like gods.”
“These men are Eric Guilmette, Noah Fearnley, Jarred Harper, Kasey Esser, Jake Hobbs, Tim Stein, Cayman Cardiff, Cameron Porras, Tyler Scherer, Sam Myerson, Aaron Russell, Jeff Violette, Lukas Silva, Eric Brody, Mark Vega, Mark Ponterelli, Mark Herman, Seth Edeen, Gabe Armentano, Elijah Van Zanten, Fabian Arnold, Tate Doppler, Nick Ritacco and so many others. What these men have in common is their ability to take care of themselves and perform at an incredibly high level,” he elaborated.
Shane O’Brien
Mr. World USA winner Shane O’Brien, who competed in “The Next ReelStar” competition for ReelShort, remarked about his experience, “Overall, the reality show was a great experience. The judges gave us constructive feedback, which helped us in turn grow!”
