Makers & Movers Series: Darryl Chambers
Today, you will be learning more about Darryl Chambers. Let’s get it started!
1. Introductory Insight
What is your name and your primary profession (musician, actor, athlete)?
Darryl “D.C.” Chambers — Model, Actor, and Host
Briefly describe your career and any entrepreneurial ventures or side projects you’re involved in.
Originally from Valley, Alabama, I’ve been in the entertainment industry since 2009. I’ve built a multi-faceted career, from modeling for brands like Nike, AKOO, and Adidas, to acting in indie films and national TV shows, and hosting red carpet events. I’ve also been a recurring face in music videos and comedy skits with Kountry Wayne, while building an ever-growing brand presence through networking and self-promotion.
How long have you been active in your primary field?
I’ve been active in entertainment for over 17 years.
2. Career Journey
What inspired you to pursue a career in your field?
Funny enough, modeling wasn’t on my radar. One of my mom’s co-workers saw my senior prom photo in 2008 and suggested I give it a try. I did — and it turned out to be a path worth taking.
Can you share the story of how you got your start?
Modeling came first. After a few years in front of the camera and on the runway, I got curious about acting. I began with background work on productions like The Game (BET), Jumanji, The Quad, and FOX’s Star. That helped me understand how things worked on set, and from there, I started landing indie roles and even lead characters in TV reenactment shows.
What were some early challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?
Coming from a small town, it wasn’t easy breaking into such a massive industry. I had to create opportunities, invest in learning the craft, and build a professional network from scratch.
3. Daily Practices & Strategies
What does a typical day look like for you?
My schedule can vary — sometimes I’m on set, filming, or prepping auditions; other times I’m managing my brand, working on skits, or creating social media content.
How do you prepare for performances, competitions, or roles?
I take time to fully understand the script and the character. Audition prep involves script memorization, self-taping, and sometimes in-person callbacks. Confidence and professionalism go a long way.
What tools or techniques do you use to enhance your skills and performance?
Watching myself on playback helps. So does studying other actors, participating in workshops, and staying physically and mentally fit.
4. Financial Insights
What was your initial investment in your career or side projects?
I started by investing in photoshoots, travel, acting classes, and promotional tools. It takes time and money to establish yourself in this business.
How have your earnings evolved over time?
As my experience and exposure grew, so did my opportunities and earnings, especially after booking national TV roles and hosting engagements.
How do you manage income streams and financial planning?
I approach my brand like a business. I save, reinvest, and seek out ways to diversify my income through acting, modeling, hosting, and promotional campaigns.
5. Audience Engagement & Personal Branding
What strategies have you found effective in growing your audience or fan base?
Consistency and authenticity helped me connect with my audience. Over time, people started reaching out to me for projects — a shift from me chasing every opportunity.
How do you utilize social media and other platforms to engage with your audience?
Platforms like Instagram have been essential. I use them to showcase my work, network, and stay visible to casting agents and collaborators.
Can you share a memorable experience where audience interaction impacted you?
Being recognized from a music video or a skit and hearing how someone was inspired by my grind means the world. That feedback keeps me going.
6. Challenges & Lessons Learned
What significant challenges have you encountered in your career?
Breaking out of background roles and getting people to see me as a serious actor. Also, COVID hit hard, halting productions and gigs across the board.
How did you navigate these challenges?
I stayed ready and visible. I took small opportunities and turned them into stepping stones. Resilience and adaptability are key.
What lessons have you learned that you’d share with aspiring professionals in your field?
There are no shortcuts. Study the craft, research who you work with, and build strong networks. And don’t get distracted by the glitz — focus on your growth.
7. Future Aspirations
What are your short-term and long-term goals?
I want to have major roles on hit shows, own businesses, and be recognized globally. I’m aiming for longevity and legacy.
Are there any new projects or collaborations on the horizon?
I’m continuing work with Kountry Wayne, booking more acting roles, and hosting new events. There’s always something cooking.
How do you envision the next phase of your career?
Expansion — more screen time, more visibility, and more impact behind the scenes as well.
8. Personal Insights
How do you balance your professional and personal life?
It’s about boundaries. I prioritize rest, time with loved ones, and mental health just as much as career moves.
What motivates you to keep going during tough times?
Knowing how far I’ve come — and how many people are watching, hoping to follow in my footsteps.
If you could collaborate with any professional in your field, who would it be and why?
I’d love to work with Tyler Perry. He represents everything I strive for — creative control, multi-talent success, and empowerment.
9. Advice for Aspiring Professionals
What advice would you give to someone starting out in your field?
Start where you are. Use what you have. Don’t wait for the perfect moment.
What do you wish you knew before starting your career?
That rejection is part of the process — and sometimes a blessing in disguise.
How can one stay resilient during challenging times?
Stay connected to your “why,” surround yourself with solid people, and don’t let setbacks define your story.
10. Fun Rapid-Fire Round
What’s your favorite way to unwind after a performance or competition?
My favorite way to unwind is to listen to some music or watch a sitcom with one of my favorite beverages.
If your career had a theme song, what would it be?
If my career had a theme song, it would be Jay-Z‘s “A Star is Born.”
What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
A fun fact about me that most people don’t know is that I have OCD (I’ma neat freak).
How can people follow your work or get in touch with you?
Instagram: Onenonlydc
Facebook: Darryl Chambers
