“Treat your craft like a calling, not a convenience because the moment you only create when it’s easy, you stop growing when it matters most.”
Quick Facts
Level of Education: Undergraduate School
Years of Experience: 14 Years
About
Deak J. Smalls’ love for acting stems from the imaginary characters he created throughout his childhood, cultivating a bubbling passion for theater. When he arrived at Spartanburg Methodist College, he decided to transform his love for the stage into the screen. His most recent appearances include the TV Series, Tax Season, and the 2025 film, Legends of the Highway.
“Acting is always unique and unusual. That’s what makes the craft so beautiful,” Smalls says. “Exploring and channeling different perspectives of life and giving the audience your best interpretation is so fun and exciting for me. It’s like playing on a playground in imaginary worlds.”
Smalls, who views himself as a ‘vessel of truth’ in his practice, fully immerses himself into each of his characters to allow the audience to “forget where performance ends and humanity begins.” He encourages aspiring performers to consistently devote to their craft, and that “what’s for you, won’t miss you.”
