Podcast Summary: In Search Of Excellence – Episode E130: Sasha Pieterse: How to Thrive in the Spotlight
Release Date: September 24, 2024
Introduction
In this enlightening episode of In Search Of Excellence, host Randall Kaplan engages in a profound conversation with Sasha Pieterse, a multifaceted talent known for her roles in Pretty Little Liars, her entrepreneurial ventures, and her contributions as an author and podcaster. The discussion delves deep into Sasha's journey from a child actress navigating the tumultuous waters of early fame to her strategies for maintaining excellence in both her personal and professional life.
1. Early Life and Entry into Acting
Sasha Pieterse shares her unique beginnings in the entertainment industry, attributing much of her early success to her family's background and supportive upbringing.
- “I got my first taste of Vegas very young and I fell in love with the industry kind of by accident.” [02:11]
Born to international acrobatic dancer parents, Sasha's introduction to showbiz came at a tender age. Living in Nevada after immigrating from South Africa, her parents prioritized her passion for acting over their own careers, allowing her to immerse herself in the world of photography, commercials, and eventually television roles.
2. Dealing with Rejection and Big Breaks
Sasha recounts the rollercoaster of emotions that accompanies early success and subsequent setbacks.
- “I had to deal with that rejection, went straight back to auditioning for things.” [00:07]
At 11, Sasha landed a promising role but faced sudden replacement the next day. Instead of letting this setback derail her, she swiftly auditioned for and secured a role in Pretty Little Liars, highlighting her resilience and adaptability.
3. The Importance of Agents and Managers
Randall discusses the critical role of agents in an actor's career, especially with Sasha's experience.
- “When you have a decent social presence, you'll have a much easier time getting somebody to pay attention to you.” [13:58]
Sasha emphasizes the evolving dynamics of securing representation, noting that while getting an agent was more straightforward in her early years, the proliferation of social media has transformed the landscape, making visibility and an online presence increasingly vital.
4. The Changing Landscape of the Entertainment Industry
The conversation shifts to how the rise of social media has both democratized opportunities and introduced new challenges for aspiring actors.
- “The game has changed. In some ways it's unfair for people that have been trying to get there for so long.” [15:57]
Sasha discusses how platforms like TikTok have become new avenues for talent discovery, allowing individuals worldwide to showcase their skills beyond traditional auditions, albeit making the industry more competitive.
5. The Emotional and Social Impact of Acting
Sasha reflects on the intoxicating experience of being on set, balancing passion with the emotional demands of the role.
- “There's something about being on set... it's really just... this group of people that are passionate about something cool.” [16:14]
She describes the camaraderie and sense of accomplishment that comes from collaborative creation, juxtaposed with the inherent uncertainties of how projects will be received by audiences.
6. Respect and Relationships on Set
A significant portion of the discussion centers on the importance of respect and healthy relationships within the entertainment industry.
- “Respect for me is the bare minimum.” [27:22]
Sasha underscores that every role on set is vital, from actors to crew members, advocating for mutual respect to foster a positive and productive working environment.
7. Handling Failure and Rejection
Addressing the inevitability of rejection in acting, Sasha shares her strategies for coping and moving forward.
- “Failure's part of it and it is that textbook answer.” [34:27]
She emphasizes the importance of habitually distancing oneself from rejections, viewing each setback as a learning opportunity rather than a personal defeat.
8. Insecurity and Its Role in Acting
The conversation delves into how insecurities influence an actor's craft and personal life.
- “Everybody has some sort of insecurity.” [38:29]
Sasha explains how vulnerabilities can enhance performances by allowing actors to deeply embody their characters, while also acknowledging the mental toll that public scrutiny can take.
9. Education and Homeschooling
Balancing education with an acting career, Sasha discusses the benefits and challenges of homeschooling.
- “We would learn the history about that place and incorporate it into our curriculum.” [56:19]
She highlights how homeschooling provided flexibility to accommodate her acting commitments, allowing her to travel and receive a tailored education that enriched her worldview.
10. Dealing with Fame and Staying Grounded
Sasha shares her approach to handling fame, maintaining normalcy, and avoiding the pitfalls faced by many child stars.
- “I think it's about environment. It's about the way that you respond to things.” [63:28]
Rooted by her parents' grounded approach and her own conscious efforts, Sasha underscores the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals and setting personal boundaries.
11. Intimacy on Set
An intimate discussion unfolds around the complexities of performing intimate scenes professionally.
- “There's a lot of different layers to this as well.” [67:20]
Sasha elaborates on the importance of trust, the role of intimacy coordinators, and the challenges of maintaining professionalism during vulnerable performances.
12. Advice for Aspiring Actors and Parents
Concluding the episode, Sasha imparts heartfelt advice to young actors and their parents navigating the demanding entertainment industry.
- “If you truly want it, it's going to mean sacrifice of a lot of things.” [78:33]
She encourages perseverance, self-awareness, and the pursuit of passion with realistic expectations, while advising parents to support their children's dreams without imposing undue pressure.
Notable Quotes
- “I would not have been available for Pretty Little Liars if it wasn't for getting kicked off that show.” – Sasha Pieterse [00:07]
- “Respect for me is the bare minimum.” – Sasha Pieterse [27:22]
- “Everybody has some sort of insecurity.” – Sasha Pieterse [38:29]
- “Failure's part of it and it is that textbook answer.” – Sasha Pieterse [34:27]
- “If you truly want it, it's going to mean sacrifice of a lot of things.” – Sasha Pieterse [78:33]
Conclusion
This episode of In Search Of Excellence offers a candid and comprehensive look into Sasha Pieterse's journey in the spotlight. From the exhilarating highs of early success to the sobering realities of the acting profession, Sasha provides valuable insights and lessons on resilience, respect, and the relentless pursuit of one's passions. Her experiences serve as both inspiration and guidance for aspiring actors and professionals across all fields striving for excellence.
Be sure to tune in next week for Part Two, where Randall Kaplan continues his in-depth interview with Sasha Pieterse, exploring further facets of her illustrious career and personal growth.