Pilar Holland: Smashing Doors In Hollywood
You may have spotted Pilar Holland (actress/producer/host) in some of television’s top rated shows such as Grey’s Anatomy, Vice, NCIS, Criminal Minds, or Scandal. I, however, was introduced to her through the vast yet small world of Instagram and I was immediately drawn to her bright personality and unique look. I appreciated that she, like me, could not be defined at first glance. Having a diverse and rich ethnic background is such a blessing but it can also be a road block in the acting and modeling industry. Pilar graciously let me pick her brain a little on how that has affected her career as an actress in Hollywood.
Who were your female role models growing up?
My Aunt Rosie was one my female role models growing up. She always looked at life with such positivity. She exuded joy and happiness and it seemed like nothing could keep her down. I was in awe of her zest for life. It was as if she didn’t care what anyone thought of her way of being. She embraced all of her quirky, fun, crazy and wild behavior. When we stayed with her she would wake us all up by blaring Chiquita Banana through the house wearing the most absurd Carmen Miranda headpiece as she danced from room to room. She continues to bring so much energy and light into her life and those around her and is still an inspiration to me.
What would you like to say to marginalized women in your industry or any industry?
Some would say keep pounding on the door. I would say grab an ax and start swinging at that door. The wood is old and weakening. There is a new voice coming through. We are starting to see changes in all arenas for equality and inclusiveness. Don’t give up on achieving what you set your mind to do. You can create the world and reality you want to live in. We can and will all rise together.
If you were a part of the female body what would you be and why?
I would be her feet. I would want to support her by keeping a sturdy foundation to stand upon. I would know when to shift in order to create balance in times of unsteadiness. I would keep her moving one step at a time, one foot in front of the other, towards the vision she has for her life. Plus, foot massages are the absolute best and what girl doesn’t like a pretty nail color on her toes? ;)
How do you think your ethnic background affected or affects your success in Hollywood?
It’s been a grind making a name for myself in the business. I do appreciate every hurdle I’ve come across, and oh what fun it is jumping over them. There are still a lot of stereotypes present with casting in Hollywood. I’m a mixed mutt, Mexican, Japanese, and White. It’s been hard because they’ll want to put me into a category or a box, and sometimes I just don’t quite fit into what they believe I should be. So, I started creating my own content for them to see what I have to offer and what I can bring to the table. It’s been a blessing because it’s allowed me to see that I can create the stories I want to tell in the world.
What projects are you working on now?
I am in post-production on a short film “Like Nothing Happened” that I am the Executive Producer and star of. It’s a story about a married couple, Johanna and Bryce, who when their past interrupts their present, have no choice but to face their recent trauma head on and confront each other’s silence. We will be making all the festivals this coming year. So, stay tuned for that to premiere.
Also, I’m so excited to tell you about my travel/food show “L.A. Happy” that I created with my co-host and best friend, Katina Nikou. It’s a food show that allows you to escape from your work life before you head back to your home life and where you can break free during those transition hours.
Follow us @lahappyshow and get away with us during the happiest hours of the day.
Pilar and I grew up in the same era where there were very few ethnically ambiguous female celebrities including actresses, models, and musicians. Not until the past few years has Hollywood started pursuing multi cultural, ethnically or racially ambiguous talent in their casting calls (albeit mostly for supporting roles). I am excited to see that things are changing and to see women like Pilar Holland pushing back on Hollywood typecasting. Who knows, maybe I’ll live to see the day Disney portrays a Princess with a mixed racial heritage!
You can follow Pilar on Instagam @pilarholland & @lahappyshow for updates on her upcoming projects and the hottest Happy Hour spots in L.A.!
**Special thanks to Symposium for letting me take up a little space while working on this blog!
