By Jeremy Kinser
Photography by John Skalicky
www.skalickyphoto.com

David Rankin-Gunning is an actor/model who is currently seeking theatrical representation. You can catch the handsome lug doing his best Tom Cruise-in-Cocktail impression behind the bar on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday nights at Eleven restaurant (8811 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood). To contact David for possible modeling or acting assignments, send an e-mail to melanie_sharptalent@ca.rr.com.

David, where are you from originally?

Philadelphia. I graduated cum laude from Temple University with a broadcast journalism degree and minor in theater in 2004. I worked as a traffic reporter, then I moved to New York for two years.

How’d you get started acting?

My first acting was in various plays throughout grade school. I played football and baseball in high school and injured my shoulder, so instead of playing football my senior year, I broadcast the games locally. That’s how I wound up on TV the first time. I started to do small background parts that every young actor has to do to start understanding the business.

You’ve worked on stage, as well as both TV and film. Is there a medium you prefer?

I love being on camera and on sets. It’s all a rush. Once the director calls action, you’re off. There’s no better rush than when the red light comes on. That’s what I love about TV and film.

How do you find living in L.A.?

L.A. is totally different from New York, more spread out and slower and more laid back. You can’t beat the weather, obviously. The people are different and the culture is different. I’m out here for a reason—to make things happen for myself.

What do you miss about the other coast?

The food! I was raised eating cheesesteaks in Philadelphia, and now they are nowhere to be found! I also miss being able to take the subways in NYC instead of sitting in traffic here in L.A., and I also miss everything being open 24 hours, whereas in L.A. everything seems to close early, but, like I said, you just can't beat the weather out here!

Eleven is one of our favorite restaurants. How do you like bartending there?

Bartending is the best networking tool for an actor. You meet new people every single day and build relationships with regulars. This town is filled with people in the business and they introduce themselves and ask you to give them a call. What’s also great about bartending is you learn to adapt to people’s personalities, which helps in front of the camera because you’re listening and responding. Bartending is a like an ongoing improv class.

Where are you usually found in L.A. when you’re not auditioning and working?

I try to relax, maybe take a ride to the beach.

That must be why you’re in such great shape.

I also go to the gym and work out. I’m the kind of person who has to be constantly moving.

Where do you hope to be five years from now?

Within five years I’d like to be a lead in a TV series or be in a blockbuster movie. I realize that’s everyone’s goal, but I know it’s going to take baby steps and persistence. I brainstorm on how I can improve as an actor. I have to keep working hard and hustling until the opportunity comes along. I’m in this for the long run.