From Odd Jobs to Leading Roles: The Brandon Sklenar Story

In this candid conversation with Esquire, actor Brandon Sklenar reflects on the unconventional path that led him to his current success. From the physical toll of manual labor to the high-stakes world of Hollywood auditions, Sklenar offers a raw look at what it takes to build an acting career in an industry defined by instability.

The Early Grind and Career Missteps

Before finding his footing in front of the camera, Sklenar worked a series of unfulfilling jobs. He recalls a particularly negative experience at a moving company in Los Angeles, where he felt the company’s unethical practices—specifically their tendency to "break people's stuff and then not report it"—clashed with his own values. His frustration peaked during a move involving a "giant credenza," leading to a "meltdown" that prompted him to quit on the spot.

Another significant lesson came from his time at the Magic Castle. Initially, he enjoyed the autonomy of the job, but as the workplace became more "corporate," he admitted to "showing up hungover" and "fucking off." When the General Manager eventually let him go, Sklenar acknowledged that it was the right decision, noting, "It's pretty clear, you don't want to be here anymore."

Auditioning: The Good, the Bad, and the Bizarre

Sklenar’s journey through the audition process has been far from smooth. He describes a mortifying experience during an indie film audition where he attempted a "twisted" character choice: bringing women's underwear to the set and sniffing them. He believed it was "brilliant" and would "get me the role for sure," but instead, he found that it had the "opposite effect," leaving the casting team "weirded out" and "disturbed."

Despite such lows, he emphasizes that the career gets "easier" as one gains experience. He notes that he certainly "doesn't miss doing 20 self-tapes a week," a common struggle for aspiring actors.

The Breakthrough: Landing 1923

One of the most pivotal moments in his career was landing a role in 1923. Sklenar credits his casting director, Jon Papsidera, for being instrumental in his success, stating, "I would not have a career without that man." After reading for the role and flying to Jackson Hole to meet with Taylor Sheridan, Sklenar recalls a memorable piece of direction: "He told me not to get arrested." Upon realizing he had booked the role, Sklenar felt the weight of the opportunity, noting that the character was of a type "you would have seen 50 years ago, 60 years ago," and that such roles are rarely written anymore.

Navigating the Challenges of Acting

When asked about the hardest part of the profession, Sklenar points to the isolation that comes with success. He calls the acting life a "double-edged sword," explaining that while it is a "blessing" to have work, the constant travel can make one "get lost in the sauce pretty easily." Unlike many, Sklenar never had a "backup plan," believing that having one is a distraction. He maintains that in an industry with "no stability" and "no guarantee," you have to "go all in" and fully believe in yourself.

Ultimately, Sklenar’s story is one of perseverance. Whether he is reflecting on his early days as an extra on Glee or discussing his recent work in The Housemaid, he remains grounded, acknowledging that while his job is far from the hardest in the world, it requires a unique dedication that leaves little room for hesitation.