Dorly Jean-Louis is a Canadian Actress who continues to make a name for herself in film and television. A versatile performer with an appeal that exudes confidence and elegance, she is credited for appearing in several award-winning television series including The Umbrella Academy, 12 Monkeys, and Salvation. Over the years, Dorly has also been recognized by community leaders and her peers with several notable awards. We had the pleasure to speak to Dorly about her career, current projects, and more!
Thank you Dorly for agreeing to catch up with Occhi Magazine. Congratulations on your career to date. How did you get into the industry?
Thank you so much for this interview and for allowing me to share my journey with your readers. Well, my career as an actress began once I graduated from my journalism program at Humber College in Toronto. I sent countless demo tapes, as most alumni did, to news stations hoping to secure a job as a reporter. It was during an internship at the Weather Network that a producer hinted that I should consider getting an agent to represent me since most on-air talent working there booked additional hosting gigs through their agent. Coincidentally, I had been looking for other options to get my foot in the door. So I took his advice and ran with it. I researched online what to include on my one-page resume. I also signed up for a beginner acting class for six weeks. Then I scheduled my first headshot session with a photographer. The latter had a wealth of knowledge and industry experience. He suggested I submit my interest to a talent agency that repped both actors and models. He was convinced that I would be a good fit on their roster. So I took that recommendation as well. I emailed my package. Got signed and booked the first go-see I attended for a print job. This really impressed my agent and It wasn’t long before I started booking journalistic roles. I enjoyed all of it: modeling in fashion catalogs as well as on-air on the Shopping Channel, landing national commercials, television series, and feature films. So my entry into the film business was fueled by my passion to work on screen and the advice I took from mentors. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have friends, family, and acquaintances who have also helped and encouraged me in my journey. Many times, I’ve had to rely solely on my intuition and gut feeling to guide me and they haven’t failed me yet!
You have a Bachelor of Arts Degree with Honours in Mass Communication, a Post-Graduate Diploma in Broadcast Journalism and a Diploma in Fashion design so was a career in acting ever in doubt?
Well, my academic studies are definitely concentrated in the arts. I have two loves in my life: film and fashion and I generate income in both fields. A career in acting was never in doubt because I set my intentions to pursue it. As a child, whenever I used to watch old Hollywood movies I used to be in awe of the artistry of filmmaking. To me, the creative process was so magical. I was fascinated by the glamorous costumes, set decor, dance routines, and of course the characters that became household names. Ten years ago I took a short break from the film industry to open a designer boutique. Once I got that entrepreneurial obsession out of my system I returned to acting with a business mindset, thick skin, and the confidence I needed to take my acting career to the next level. It hasn’t been easy but it’s worth it. I’m here to stay.
Who are your biggest industry influences, and why?
I have to acknowledge these iconic trailblazers: Angela Bassett, Viola Davis, Halle Berry, Ava DuVernay, Denzel Washington, and Samuel L. Jackson, to name a few. As a Black woman, I’m inspired by what they’ve accomplished in an industry that hasn’t always been inclusive, diverse, or representative. Times have changed, of course, yet there’s still progress to be made. It’s a tough business to pursue. Yet they continue to thrive with grace, success, and well-deserving recognition for their craft and their commitment to philanthropy.
Undoubtedly every project contributes to your career trajectory, but is there an experience that has significantly changed your approach to acting?
There isn’t a particular show or project I can think of at the moment. That said, what I’ve often experienced on set is that work days are never the same, that’s because acting is not static. As an artist, you have to be capable and skilled to switch things up during multiple takes of the same scene. Secondly, always be ready for last-minute script changes which can be daunting at times. A switch of one word or phrase can easily amount to an entire page of edited dialogue while the camera is rolling. I’ve taught myself not to panic, stay in character, be present and breathe! I got this!
You’ve appeared in several award-winning television series including The Umbrella Academy, 12 Monkeys, and Salvation. To date, as an artist, what would you say is your proudest industry accolade, and why?
To be honest, I’ve had many proud moments; from landing my first actor role many moons ago to recently landing my first supporting role in a romantic drama. Secondly, we have two official languages in Canada so the majority of projects I work on are in English. However this past year I landed a recurring role on the French television series ZIK which is a show that explores the world of music, its history and culture, with humorous and entertaining skits. It’s been a joy and a pleasure to work with a creative team in my mother tongue. Being trilingual has its advantages! My mom would be proud of this accomplishment as well. She always insisted I keep up with my French language skills because it’s an asset I could always rely on when needed. So working on French productions is a niche I intend to continue to explore.
You received the distinction of Role Model at the Black Canadian Women Awards issued by the Canadian House of Commons and the Diversity Advancement Network, an Inspirational Woman by Soulful Image Magazine, and listed as one of Canada’s top 100 Black Women to Watch by CIBWE the international Black Women network of excellence. Congratulations to you on these achievements. Can you tell us more about these initiatives and the importance they play in today’s society?
Thank you so much, each of these awards featured and highlighted various individuals making a difference or a mark in their respective fields. These nominations were initiated by peers and voted on by the public. It was such an honor to be nominated to begin with and receive these accolades at the award shows. There’s so much talent, creativity and meaningful work that goes unnoticed and uncelebrated. These initiatives were put in place by culturally-driven organizations and Black community leaders to showcase the pool of talent otherwise ignored by mainstream platforms. These undertakings ensure that a performer like myself making strides in a cut-throat industry is seen and valued. It’s important to applaud the influence, impact, and significance we are making as we are the ones inspiring the next generation of Black entrepreneurs, artists, and creatives within our community.
Is there a possibility we’ll see you working behind the camera as a director or producer?
One of the things I love about the film business is that it’s not limited to just acting. There are a number of performers who eventually work behind the camera, produce, write and even finance their own projects. Right now my focus is on acting. Certainly, there will come a time when I can explore and expand my skills and repertoire in different departments. I’m a woman of many talents. Let’s see how it plays out, no pun intended.
What projects are you currently working on?
I recently wrapped a co-starring role in a romantic film set for release next Spring. I have a number of exciting projects coming up as well. One of them is Fellow Travelers; a new romantic thriller produced by Showtime, which I’m excited to work on this Fall. I’m also looking forward to bringing new characters to life in Season 2 of ZIK which is currently in development.
Where can our readers find out more about you and your projects?
It’s pretty easy to find me on social media platforms. My user handle bears my name: @dorlyeanlouis. Thank you again for this interview. I really appreciate you allowing me to share my links with your readers!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dorlyjeanlouis
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dorlyjeanlouis
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dorlyjeanlouis
Website: https://dorlyjeanlouis.com
IMDb: https://www.imdb.me/dorly
Photos Pharaoh-Photography (Main) and David Chang Photography
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