4 years ago…
Almost 4 years ago I created this fundraiser in hopes to take a job in Los Angeles. I was at my lowest to date with nothing but a fairytale offer to work a short-term Production Assistant gig in Hollywood and a chasm to cross regarding becoming a working actor. It seemed insurmountable. To me, this sounded like such a typical "West Coast Pipe Dream" that asking for support for it seemed silly. I didn’t know whether people would take part or just laugh.
But 31 donors believed…
And less than 4 years later it turns out the 32 of us aren’t crazy after all. With the funds raised right here, I accepted the PA job and drove across the country alone to take on the West with nothing but a job offer and an Airbnb for 2 weeks.
From 2019 to 2022 I never said "no" to a PA gig if I was available. No matter the pay or the task, rain or shine, I did the work...even through the pandemic when "the work" was at a grocery store called Publix and moving boxes for FedEx Ground.
Then last Thanksgiving the years of hard work finally culminated in my theatrical debut in JD Dillard’s war epic DEVOTION starring Jonathan Majors, where I had an intimate scene with the star himself. Though short, it was the validation of a lifetime to see my face on the big screen with my family and friends beside me.
Since then, I have booked similar roles in over six upcoming projects. Not because I’m the best actor, but due to my hard work and daily dedication as a Production Assistant on each of the very shows in which I would come to be cast (even if just for a day).
Though fruitful, the road has not been easy, and I could never have done it without the aid of my friends, family, and these 31 people with vision and faith in me, and now the opportunity to join in support is back!
I truly wish booking roles meant instant success so that I could immediately show my gratitude to you, but I’m afraid that’s not the case. As we have all heard, actors must often survive with minimal means for YEARS before being able to land even a minor role, then once we do, the payout often doesn’t come until long after the work is done. To meet the increasing desire for my time as a newer Hollywood actor, I have been forced to stop accepting all long-term PA jobs, and am once again asking for the support of my community to help close the gap in the final moments of this chapter in what I believe is the story of one of the most skilled actors to ever live.
Joining this legacy through donation will assist with the cost of:
• Paying immediate and recurring SAG Union Entry Fees and Dues
• Continued Housing and Living costs in LA between acting jobs
• Coaching and training to stay competitive in the fiercest market
• Travel and lodging for theatrical opportunities out of state
As with the original campaign, a donation of any amount will earn you a signed, personally addressed "Thank You" note written on one of my unique, original, unpublished, GOOFY LOOKIN headshots, as well as induction into my private update channel where I continuously interact with my closest friends, family, and those interested in the inner workings of my trek through the industry at the close of this campaign. I can’t promise that my signed headshot will be worth millions one day, but no matter the color of the carpet I’m standing on, you’ll be there with me to join in the celebration as donors and friends.
And I’ll forever have your back like you had mine.
Thank you. Bless you.
Best,
V. Akil Jackson
An Actor
p.s. Click the link below for a sneak peek into some of what I've done over the last 4 years and a quick glance into the future...
Organizer
Akil Jackson
Organizer
Los Angeles, CA