The queen of cool is finally set to be crowned. After finding fame on TikTok through creating high quality fashion, beauty and lifestyle content, Ellie Zeiler began making a name for herself off the platform. She landed a multitude of partnerships with major brands and even got the Presidential stamp of approval, having been selected by President Biden and The White House as one of the top creators to help stop the spread of false information on social media amidst the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Now set to star as Ari in Brat TV’s 3rd season of Crown Lake, the fashionista is changing things up by putting herself in someone else’s stylish shoes. Ellie Zeiler joins Schön! with help from our friends at G-SHOCK to talk about embarking on her newest journey: acting.
Congratulations on both your first acting role and first apartment in LA! Do you feel like this is your most exciting year yet? How has this year been for you?
Thank you! This year has definitely been exciting so far. After two years of working hard to build my platform, I feel like I’m able to focus more on trying new things now. I’m really enjoying the challenges that come with living in a new city and exploring new opportunities for my career. Every day I meet someone new and experience something different.
You’re embarking on your acting career and about to star as Ari in Brat TV’s 3rd season of Crown Lake. How did this shift from creator to actor begin? Is acting something you’ve always wanted to do?
I have always wanted to pursue acting but it’s obviously not an easy industry to break into… Actors work so hard to perfect their craft. Brat is such a great first step into gaining acting experience because they embrace creators and their ability to perform on camera. I loved every day on set because I learned so much about not only acting, but also production.
Can you introduce our readers to your character?
Ari is one out of three Lee sisters on Crown Lake. In the show, her family has a long legacy in the school. In this season, Ari shows a new and brave side of her personality. She is strong, emotional and extremely loyal to her sisters and friends.
Crown Lake is the start of many more acting projects to come for you. What kinds of roles are you interested in for the future?
I am so excited for new projects in the future and would love to work on a movie at some point. Just being on set, in any role, is such a great opportunity to learn and get better.
Do you feel a responsibility or pressure with your following to use your influence for good?
Yes, I absolutely feel not only a responsibility but a need to be a positive influence. I try to mix relatable, aspirational, and meaningful content into what I post. The idea that millions of people are watching how I show up online comes with certain pressure, but also the opportunity to lead by example.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
I think a mix of advice about not giving up, not backing down to adversity, and working hard is what motivates me every day. Working in social media can be extremely vulnerable and overwhelming at times. On the other hand, it has given me so many opportunities at such a young age. I never take the opportunities for granted and on the hardest days I know that quitting isn’t an option. There is too much I have yet to achieve and give to the world.
Who in the entertainment industry are you dying to work with?
There are so many to list, but any opportunity to learn from a director or an experienced actor would be amazing.
What has been your biggest ‘pinch me’ moment to date?
Attending events with some of the most accomplished people in fashion and entertainment has been so incredible. Recently, I attended a Future of Hollywood event with Lancome and Vanity Fair Magazine. I could not believe I was standing in the same room with actors and business leaders I have looked up to my entire life.
You were the director of your high school’s television department and admittedly enjoy editing videos more than anything. If you had to choose, would the ultimate goal be to direct a movie or star in one?
I think the “ultimate” goal would be to do both! I absolutely love being behind the camera and editing is so artistic. Being on camera and getting to express myself is also just as interesting to me now. I’m in awe of actors who make the shift to directing and really see myself doing both in the future.
You’re well known for your fashion and beauty content. With Crown Lake being set in the 1990s, what’s your favourite 90s trend that’s been resurrected by Gen Z?
I am loving the comeback of 90’s fashion! I think baggy pants, jeans, and oversized suits are some of my favorite trends. I also love seeing bigger hair, bolder eyes, and more color in both fashion and makeup.
You have been a competitive golfer and basketball player during your childhood. Do you think your natural competitive streak has helped you succeed to where you are now?
There is no doubt that playing competitive sports has influenced my work ethic. When you are part of a team you can’t let other people down, so quitting isn’t an option. And similar to being a content creator, golf is an individual sport that requires you to rely solely on yourself. Intrinsic motivation and perseverance is at the core of being a creator.
Follow Ellie Zeiler on Instagram and TikTok.
Discover the GMAS2100PG1A4 on G-SHOCK’s website.
photography + direction. Mynxii White
production. James Kristofik
fashion. Chris Barberena @ Celestine Agency
talent. Ellie Zeiler
hair. Sophia Porter @ Exclusive Artists
make up. Caitlin Krenz @ Exclusive Artists
words. Charlotte O’Neill
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