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Check Out Marcus Louscious’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marcus Louscious

Hi Marcus, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m an actor and model now, but growing up in the Mississippi Delta, working in movies felt like it was a world away. The first chance I got to feel the rush of performing came in 9th grade when I landed a supporting role in a murder mystery play called, Ten Little Indians. The desire to become someone else on camera intensified, but so did the fear. It would be another five years before I would act again—this time in the form of formal acting classes. After several months of learning how to break down scripts, become a character, and racking up a few theatre credits, I got my first chance to be on camera in 2013 on the set of the feature film Greater, filmed in Fayetteville, AR. Soon after wrapping, I relocated to Los Angeles with hopes of making it big.

And what a humbling experience that was. In Los Angeles, I deepened my appreciation for the art of acting when I enrolled at the William Alderson Acting Studio and studied the Meisner technique. My teacher, William Alderson, had studied acting under Sanford Meisner when he lived in New York City, and I felt honored to be learning from him. While in LA, I was also introduced to the world of commercial acting through a national commercial for Nokia, which opened up an entirely new realm of acting for me. It was there that I also got to see large LA television sets for the first time, as I booked background gigs for a few hit shows. I even got headshots from Josh Hutcherson’s photographer. Despite these move, God showed me there was more work I needed to do to make it in this business. So, I had a decision to make…

Alas, after a year of Meisner and commercial classes, I decided to return to Arkansas to finish my degrees. This proved fruitful for my film journey as I immersed myself in the independent film scene and began collaborating with other creators in the region. I was able to act regularly, hone my skills in cinematography, and break into the independent film festival circuit which is a learning experience all its own. This exposure helped me compile footage and network with creatives, which I used to approach agencies. I am thankful for for those connections because they led to me being cast in season 3 of HBO’s True Detective, in 2018. While it was my biggest job to date, it was not my first time on a big LA style set. It was, however, my first encounter with film production crew from Kansas City. Once True Detective wrapped, I knew I had to capitalize on this momentum, so I signed with one of the top talent and modeling agencies in Kansas City later that year.

Since working in the Kansas City market, I’ve truly been able to flourish in film and tv. I’ve shot with some of the largest brands in the country right here in Kansas City, I landed my first starring role on a dramatic series in KC too; which has led to consistent bookings in Chicago. Today, I split my time between Chicago and Kansas City, working on film, television, commercials, modeling campaigns, and hosting events. I most recently worked with Fox Network on a broadcast television show for 9 episodes! It’s too early for me to divulge which show it was, but I am excited to talk to KC and Missouri about it early next year. Kansas City has not only been a place of growth but also the springboard that has allowed my career to expand into new markets and opportunities.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The path between what we desire and obtaining it is anything but straight. In this business you have to be prepared to be rejected and told no… a lot. I have definitely heard my fair share. I started with no knowledge of the industry at all and no one close to me to emulate. By being willing to learn and persisting, I’ve learned how to take myself from the bottom and to navigate through the entertainment world completely on my own. It hasn’t been the fastest route, but I feel well equipped and empowered now.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am an actor, model, host, and stunt person. I am most proud of my starring role as Major General Aaron Harold in the dramatic series, The General. I also really liked my national commercial spot for Car Mart. I have worked on HBO’s True Detective, The American Dream on Bloomberg TV, done SAG commercials for large companies/brands, modeled for Gap and Hilton Hotels as well as other advertising spots like Hyvee, H&R Block, and Blue Cross Blue Shield all across the country. I most recently wrapped a national television show for Fox that is set to premier early next year! More information to come on that.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Don’t be afraid to work for free or collaborate with the intention of learning and creating! Especially early on when you are proving yourself. Showing what you bring to a story or idea is more impactful than what you get paid. I have worked for free just to get the chance to be around the creative process and it has been the relationships forged from those projects that have provided me the best opportunities now.