Today we’d like to introduce you to Gil Garcia.
Hi Gil, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Having grown up a lifelong KISS fan, it became surreal to start hearing people tell me almost daily that I resembled the lead vocalist Paul Stanley. As I got older, I believed that I could recreate his character better than anyone else, and I set out to do just that. Since then, I’ve earned recognition from the band, done television, radio, modeling, podcasts, autograph signings, and most recently, Cameo.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Any real obstacles have come from fake bookings, people who reach out as event organizers promising good payouts, and other perks for a nonexistent event. On the other side are people who have no regard for the amount of time and money that it takes to pull off the character and want your services for next to nothing in compensation.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
While the word “impersonator” is used most often, I’m actually a “Tribute Artist” as I don’t try to be the character I portray, but rather I recreate the look of the artist to provide the most accurate version possible. I’m proud to have been selected to live model during KISS’ 1st ever appearance and signing at the 2015 SDCC. However, nothing makes me prouder than seeing the smiling faces of appreciative KISS fans, both young and old, as I bring the best “Starchild” recreation that I can.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
To stay humble. Sometimes my confidence in what I do is misconstrued as being boastful, but if I don’t believe in myself, no one else will. At the end of the day, the makeup comes off, and I come back to my family, thankful for all I have and never taking my next breath for granted. I’m not a religious person, but I will always thank God for what I have… although I’m not wealthy, I’m rich in many other ways and always count my blessings.
Contact Info:
- Website: Starchildaz.com
- Instagram: Starchildaz_gilgarcia
- Facebook: Gil Garcia
- Linkedin: Starchildaz
