SAM MILBY
Sam Milby admits that he never had to audition for roles after getting the boot in “Pinoy Big Brother” seven years ago. Films, TV shows, albums—they were all pretty much handed to him on a silver platter.
Thus, after three and a half months of hopping from one TV network to another in New York City, in pursuit of an international career, Sam returned last May with a newfound respect for actors in the United States who submit themselves to grueling auditions.
“Here, you don’t need to audition if you already have a name,” Sam said at his recent launch as the endorser of Diana Stalder skincare center by Dermaline. “I was spoon-fed, and everything happened quickly. I was very lucky and blessed that I didn’t have to go through much hardship. In the United States, even big stars still try out for roles.”
He added that the US experience had boosted his confidence and fueled his drive. “The competition is tough out there, but the process is fair. There’s a lot of gifted artists in the country, but they’re not given the chance to show their skills.”
In the Big Apple, Sam auditioned for pilot TV shows of top networks CW, ABC, CBS, NBC, HBO and Fox. And while he didn’t snag any roles, Sam was optimistic that he left a good impression.
He said: “One of my aims was to meet casting directors and establish relationships with them. I got some very nice feedback from some networks. I think it was just a matter of finding a role that would suit me.”
He revealed that he received an offer to do an indie film, “but nothing’s final.”
Sam noted that racial diversity in American show biz is growing. “That’s why now is the best time for me to go out there.”
The 28-year-old Kapamilya star said that he never really planned to try his luck in the United States until an ABC Network executive saw one of his shows and decided he had potential. Sam is currently represented by the renowned talent agency Gersh. “Any actor’s ultimate dream is to make it internationally,” he said. “I don’t want to waste opportunities and live a life of what-ifs.”
Sam stressed that success never came overnight, adding that he had been trying out for only a little more than three months.
The peak month of auditions in New York is February. Sam plans to be there.