What does it take to get your career started in entertainment? Beyond the traditional elements of talent, grit, and charm, a huge part of what makes or breaks people is timing. Before landing his star-turning role as Mr. Johnson in “Abbott Elementary,” actor William Stanford Davis spent over 40 years in Los Angeles keeping himself ready for his shot, even at a moment’s notice.
“You can’t come to Los Angeles claiming that you want to be an actor and live in places like Rancho Cucamonga or Palm Springs or up in beautiful Santa Barbara,” he said on the most recent episode of “What No One Tells You.” “You got to be able to be available.”
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Davis shared that more than a bad audition, not being able to show up when casting needs you “can cost you not only a job, but possibly your career.” Though self-tapes have expanded the pools from which talent are sourced, ultimately roles are more likely to go to those who are closest to the action and willing to drop everything should an opportunity come along.
“I have friends who call me, ‘Can you help my daughter can you help my son?’ First thing I ask where do they live,” Davis told Future of Filmmaking, “because a lot of people come out here with stars in their eyes and it just doesn’t work that way.”
Most importantly, Davis preached patience in all endeavors as great things come to those who wait. He often waited years between roles, taking on jobs as a limousine driver and telemarketer, but never lost his footing as a performer and always remained prepared. He even went on to teach acting classes in LA after racking up years of experience.
“You gotta put in your time, you gotta pay your dues,” said Davis. “And part of that is you might get a job today and you may not get a job until 2030.”
Watch Davis’ episode of “What No One Tells You” below.
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