Meet Nikki Banner | Actress & Model

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nikki Banner and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nikki, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I’ve always been a risk-taker since I started in the entertainment business. In my creative career, I’ve never limited myself and have always aimed outside the box. Ever since I started in 2009, I have gotten to experience so many opportunities because of the risks I’ve taken. My college and entertainment experiences have led me to be in commercials, movies, music videos, DJ for events such as Big Machine Label and Armani, modeling campaigns, and become a published author on various media outlets, as well as being given the opportunity to interview globally known artists. The word, “no” has never held me back. Anything I put my mind to I can and will get done. In May 2020, I moved across the country from DC to LA to pursue acting. Within one year I was able to join SAG-AFTRA and sign with a talent agency. It was a possibility that I could have come out to LA and never booked a job. You hear a lot more no’s than yes’s in this city, and it’s anything but easy to navigate your way as an upcoming actress. Most importantly I’ve uncovered unforeseen opportunities and have grown so much which has shaped my career into what is today.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets me apart from others is how adaptable I am. I’ve transitioned my career from modeling to full time acting – which I’m so incredibly grateful for. I’m so proud of the portfolio I have built and the amazing clients I have been able to work for. Moving across the country with no expectations was not only a huge risk but was not easy considering LA is an extremely hard city to make it in.

I’ve learned to do my own thing at my own pace. I’m only competing against myself. I want to continue pushing myself to do more and dream bigger. Anything is truly possible as long as you believe that you will succeed.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Luckily California is filled with delicious restaurants and cool spots to hang at. I always like to switch it up and never repeat the same restaurant. Unless it’s something like Sugar Fish, Nobu, Avra, or my favorite pizza spot DeSano Pizzeria Napoletana. I’m such a homebody it’s nice when my out-of-town guests come so I can do the typical LA things my friends from here are probably bored of. I also enjoy nice touring wineries which aren’t far to travel to from the city.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to thank each and every person that has helped me get to where I am today. From every college professor to my mentor Scotty Abrams, to my close friend Louis Lombardi for all his acting advice and words of wisdom, and most of all my family – for encouraging me to pursue my dreams. Lastly, I want to thank Baron Entertainment Talent Agency for signing and believing in me and my future.

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikki

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-banner-11233a73/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/nicolerileyb