Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Paredes.
Hi Emily, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, and discovered my passion for acting the summer after sixth grade. Acting immediately gave me a way to express myself and, most importantly, to be fully myself without boundaries. I continued pursuing it through high school, where my drama teacher, Mrs. Matamoros, became one of my earliest and most meaningful supporters. My parents also believed in me and encouraged me throughout my journey.
After high school, I attended college but eventually stepped away from acting. I became discouraged and joined the military, which gave me confidence, direction, and experiences that shaped me in ways I never expected. I’m incredibly grateful for that chapter of my life.
After nearly 20 years away from acting, I found my way back to it about eight years ago after a major life transition. I realized that the passion had never really left—I had simply allowed fear to get in the way. That transition taught me that I’m more resilient than I ever thought, and that I can survive tough times. Since returning, I’ve taken classes, built wonderful friendships, and grown not only as an actor but also as a filmmaker. I’ve had the opportunity to work behind the scenes as a Production Assistant, 2nd Assistant Camera, and 2nd Assistant Director, and most recently stepped into my first role as a Director and co-writer.
I’m excited to continue growing, creating, and seeing where this journey takes me next.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road. As an actor, rejection is inevitable, and there have been times when it’s been discouraging. Balancing acting with work, family, and everyday responsibilities has also been challenging, But I’ve learned that it really comes down to balance and priorities.
Having a strong support system of family and friends has helped tremendously, especially surrounding myself with others who understand the ups and downs of this industry. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that acting is something I do, but it isn’t all of who I am. I have a life outside of acting—family, friendships, hobbies, work, and simply enjoying being home.
I love acting and filmmaking, but keeping that perspective helps me navigate the rejection and challenges without losing sight of the bigger picture. This acting journey is an important part of my life, but it is not my entire life.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My work is centered around storytelling, both in front of and behind the camera. I’m primarily an actor, but over the years I’ve also had the opportunity to work in several areas of production, including Production Assistant, 2nd Assistant Camera, and 2nd Assistant Director. Most recently, I stepped into directing and co-writing for the first time, which has opened up an entirely new exciting side of storytelling for me.
As an actor, I love getting to know a story and put my own spin on it. I’ve learned to make it my own, and there really aren’t any limits in that arena. You can explore and have fun with it! The more you have fun and are honest, I feel like the audience will have fun too. Behind the camera, I’ve discovered that I enjoy understanding how all the pieces come together to create that story. I’m excited to create more as an actor and filmmaker.
What I’m most proud of is how much I’ve grown since returning to acting after nearly 20 years away. I didn’t just come back—I challenged myself to learn, take risks, work in different areas of production, and continue creating. There’s always more to learn on every set and from every role.
I think what sets me apart is the perspective I bring from having experienced filmmaking from multiple sides. I understand what it’s like to be an actor, but I also understand the different departments and the hard working people that make it happen behind the camera. Ultimately, I genuinely love storytelling and am always looking for an opportunity to learn, grow, and create something meaningful.
Any big plans?
My plans for the future are to keep on going in this challenging journey. With some years of experience behind me, I would like to make another short and continue creating!
I’m working on my first short podcast called, “Warm Treats and a Cozy Seat”. I’ll be going over movies that give you that feeling of being cozy and watching a feel-good movie. The first episode I’ll be going over is the movie, “Ever After”.
It’s going to be a little rough, so give me some grace, haha. I’m still learning. It’ll be out soon! I don’t have an exact date, but I’ll be putting that out on my YouTube channel. It’s something I’m doing on my own for now, so I can learn that side of creating. Trying something new!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emily_paredes_actress_official/?hl=en%2F
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNdNiM2Fl9RTX_15qR14ZhQ
