Today we’d like to introduce you to Shawn Fitzgibbon.
Shawn, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
As goofy as it sounds, it started when I saw Star Wars. The original. I made my dad take me 3 more times to see it. I asked all sorts of questions like “How did they do this? How did they make that?” I was completely amazed how they made it all real. I wanted to be a part of storytelling. My dad is a set medic. So when they started filming in Boston, I’d go with him. I loved it. I watched the actors during each take and thought “I can do that. I want to do this!” I took local classes, did theater. For me, my education really started with the great acting coach, Peter Kelley at The Harrison Project. .
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Just like any goal or dream, it takes time, practice, and dedication. Unfortunately, it’s a much longer process with film and television. There isn’t always an “I’ve made it!” moment. Plus, I’m not very tall or traditional “good looking”. There aren’t many roles that fit my physical description. You have to get use to constant rejection and fully realizing it’s not personal. It’s very easy to get discouraged. There’s been a lot of times after multiple callbacks, it comes down to you and someone else. And they’re the ones who get the part. But if it’s what you truly want to do, you can’t EVER give up.
Shawn Fitzgibbon – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I’m mostly a film or television actor. In the last few years, I’ve been a little more behind the camera with writing, producing, and very soon I’ll be directing something. We’re in an age where if you can’t get work, you make your own work. And hopefully people will see it and enjoy, which could lead to other projects. I got my first speaking part in Mystic River. I was the funeral director. It was just me and Sean Penn. I was so nervous but it went absolutely perfect. It was surreal to have my first on screen with someone like him and being directed by Clint Eastwood. I think my most noticeable one is The Equalizer. I was Little John Looney, the Irish mob boss. It was with Marton Csokas and David Harbour. Very dramatic and physical. Theybwe tree e fantastic and I had an absolute blast doing it. I was sad when we wrapped. Wanted to keep doing it. It might be one of my favorite scenes I’ve done. I’ve had a few more TV and film roles hopefully coming ok it soon. Right now, I’m working on two projects with my friend Dave Curtis. He’s a local actor, writer, producer extraordinaire. Recently did some work with another local artist Chris Burke. There’s a lot of untapped talent in Boston waiting to be seen.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
For me success would be the ability to act, write, and produce as a full time occupation. I’m working two day jobs now. It’s tough. I don’t have to be rich or famous. If I could make enough to make a decent living while doing what I absolutely love to do, that to me would be success. And it doesn’t have to be blockbuster films or hit TV. Just doing anything related to this medium. I would consider that I be a personal success.
Contact Info:
- Email: shawnfitzgibbon1109@gmail.com
- Twitter: Twitter@shawnfitzgibbon
Image Credit:
Shawn Fitzgibbon
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