≡ Menu

Why I Turned Down My First Movie Role

A few years ago, I had been going back and forth via email with some producers that saw me perform at the request of another comic. They wanted to put me in their movie. Some of you are thinking, “was it porn?” No. I never turn that down. Also, no one offers.

Unfortunately, the shoot dates happen to coincide with my tour dates. I asked if they could send over the script so I could see my part. Maybe I could make it worth my time to fly back, shoot the scene and get back on the road? Here was the script. My character’s name was Rufka:

I sat back and laughed out loud. This is what I had been patiently waiting for? I thought it could not get any worse but it did (cool that I had more than one line):

I had to entertain the idea of taking this role because I wanted to know how much they were willing to pay me to sell out other cultures along with my own. Also, they said they felt this role was perfect for me. What about me said “likes to bang goats?” I didn’t ask. Sometimes the satisfaction comes in not knowing.

The producer said they would pay SAG minimum plus a little more. The total would be a whopping $300. I politely declined. I went on tour. I didn’t come back with $300 to my name after the tour but the experience was priceless.

I had heard of comedians/actors being offered these kinds of roles but I didn’t think it still happened. I was never mad the comic or the producer for the offer because they didn’t know any better. Also, I have a tendency to believe that people are good in their intentions but it made my wonder why they weren’t so forthcoming with the script. It didn’t matter.

I heard the movie tanked.

Anyone get any offers like this? Sound off in the comments!

 

 

{ 4 comments… add one }
  • Frank Collins January 27, 2019, 3:01 pm

    No offers, man. But your story made me laugh out loud. We heard your show in Leesburg, VA last night and enjoyed it immensely. Thanks for a great evening. Wishing you and your career the best!

    • Kunal March 8, 2019, 7:44 am

      Haha.. Thank you Frank! That’s really kind of you to take the time and comment about coming to the show. I’m happy you enjoyed yourself. It was a fun time.

  • Gabriella February 11, 2019, 8:05 pm

    I get this stuff as a Spanish actress all the time. The worse part is watching other actors (white actors) get all “dressed up” when auditioning for the same roles as me. They see “spanish” in the role description and out come the larger-than- my- cankle hoops and brown lip liner. Cool to hear you turned it down.

    Saw you perform down in AC back in November. My boyfriend loves your stuff. Planning to come see another show. He wants to get the 2019 pin.

    • Kunal March 8, 2019, 7:41 am

      ABSOLUTELY!! It’s frustrating when you’re constantly viewed in a single way. People are facets. Thank you for coming out and for commenting. I’ll keep one for him. A calendar of shows will be available soon.

Cancel reply

Leave a Comment