Today we’d like to introduce you to Erik Carpenter.
Hi Erik, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up on a ranch on Palomar Mountain herding cattle, riding horses and surfing. Up until eighth grade I attended school in a one room schoolhouse. My family relocated to Coronado when I started high school as I excelled in sports , Captain and MVP of the football team I also participated on the track, baseball and swim team, though surfing is my passion. I obtained a Design Degree from Platt College, and went to work for the family business. a marine construction company established in 1938 by my Grandfather, helping shape San Diego’s waterfront. My modeling career started when I was discovered as I was doing pullups in Mission Beach and was scouted by a production company. My Jockey Underwear Times Square Billboard can be seen in the Tom Cruise movie Eyes Wide Shut, full circle over 20 years later was cast in Top Gun Maverick. As a world traveler chasing the waves, I appeared in a Frosted Flakes commercial in Australia, there is statue of me, Monumento del Surfista, located in Montanita, Ecuador welcoming surfers and during the Baywatch Days, was cast on a show in Chile. I even had a fan club, they would wait outside my hotel for my autograph.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Obstacles in life are inevitable challenges, for me overcoming obstacles include cultivating a positive mindset, taking action, staying connected with others, and learning to adapt to setbacks. There is always a fear of failure, success, or the unknown can prevent action. Questioning one’s own abilities can lead to inaction. Without a clear drive or interest, it’s hard to pursue goals. Perfectionism and procrastination: These can create self-imposed barriers and delay progress or everyone. Once you find your passion and follow it all of the things that hold you back fall to the wayside. You cannot do this on your own, seek the advice of those that have the knowledge and expertise. Be open to criticism. Surround yourself by those that have already paved the path and then follow your own. You may think you know everything but take it from me you do not, always be open. I always wanted to be an actor, I would sit around watching TV saying that could be me but had no idea how to do it, but thanks a friend that referred my to a local talent manager, who then changed my life and helped me making one of dreams come true.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a local SAG-AFTRA actor and model. I have appeared on such TV shows as; American Housewife, How to Get Away with Murder, Sneaky Pete, Pitch, The Rookie, Playing House, Glow, Ingobernable and currently streaming on Netflix Animal Kingdom. I am busy with local indie film circuit. Was named Mr. San Diego Film Awards in 2019 and named as a local Emerging Actor. I have appeared on commercials for Loews, Valley View Casino, Viejas Casino, Honda, Consumer Cellular, Shady Rays, Hilton, WD40, San Diego Tourism. Along with music videos, the video game Red Dead Redemption. Like many actors I began my career modeling, have been on the cover of San Diego Magazine, clothing catalogues, health and fitness products, outdoor sporting products, editorial work, fashion shows, swimwear, underwear. I am also a specialty hand model. For those of you that remember Playboy’s Wet & Wild, yes that was me.
What matters most to you?
What matters most to me in life is a personal and evolving concept, but generally includes meaningful relationships, personal health and well-being, a sense of purpose, and living in alignment with my core values to achieve happiness and fulfillment. True importance to me is found in my experiences, growth, my passions and contributing positively to others, rather than material possessions, though it would be nice to have Jay Lenos car collection.
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