Meet Jill Penfold From Essex who moved to LA ten years ago to pursue Acting in TV and film.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
I came to Los Angeles specifically to study Acting at The Lee Strasberg Institute for Film and TV. I had been working as an actress in London for a few years and wanted to see where the ‘movie stars’ trained. I researched the different schools and found Lee Strasberg. I knew there was a school in New York but I was drawn to the added bonus of year-round sunshine.
What do you miss most from home?
I miss my parents and friends a lot. I also miss ‘black jacks and fruit salads’. You can’t get those at World Market. LOL. I miss the British sense of humor and depend heavily on Phoebe Waller-Bridge for her amazing writing (Editor’s Note: Waller-Bridge is the hugely talented British writer responsible for, among other shoes, Fleabag and Killing Eve). I also call home almost every day to listen to my mum and her day-to-day goings on.
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since?
When I first arrived I was living in a hostel, cleaning toilets in exchange for a bunk bed. I did that for a year as I didn’t have any spare cash for a hotel room or anything fancy while I was studying. That was a pretty rough first impression on the living aspect. On the social and cultural side, I couldn’t believe that hardly anyone used a knife. And if they do it’s to completely deconstruct their meal, put the knife down, rest their elbow on the table, and only then enjoy their meal. L.A has changed, it’s a lot more expensive to live now. But that’s the same the world over. I absolutely love that it’s a melting pot of people from all over the world.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus your home town?
Well, let’s chat about Essex for a second, and Southend. It is a fun, seaside town. Everyone’s been there. Most people know it for the pier and fish and chips. It’s a fast-paced town compared to my high school town of South Woodham Ferrers, in Chelmsford. The opportunity here is the biggest difference. It’s easy to find your calling and be encouraged to fulfill that.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
Sample Sales are going on all the time. Just internet search Sample Sales L.A and you’ll find them. This week is Ted Baker on Melrose. You get fabulous outfits for $10. WHAT???
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
My favorite quote is ‘Live your best life’. If you think and feel that is here, then jump in with both feet. What’s the worst that could happen? You go home. Come here with a plan. Be sure of yourself and be brave.
Lots of our members join our group Brits in LA seeking out words of wisdom – what is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
If you don’t ask, you don’t get. If a life here is what you want, move heaven and earth to make it happen. An overnight success takes 15 years. Be patient but do the work. Don’t expect life to fall into your lap. And enjoy the sunshine.
Lastly, how can we find out more about you ? Are you working on anything at the moment?
I am currently working two jobs. My survival job is as a Personal Trainer. Which I love. And as an actress. I am on the look out for theatrical representation. If anyone is looking to add a Brit to their roster…let me know! You will also see me on Home Depot ads etc. I’d love for you all to connect via Instagram @averybritishactress
