Lee Tyler is an American actor and filmmaker, starring as George Barrow in the romantic comedy “Townhouse Confidential” (Best Actor Nominee & Best Feature Winner, New York Independent Film Festival 2022). He can be seen in the short films “Female Narrative” and “While He Talks,” as well as multiple true-crime TV shows. New York theatre work includes playing Jack London Off-Broadway (Marvell Rep), Richard II (Pearl Theatre), and ongoing public readings with Naked Angels. Lee is a founding member of the Bad Guru film collective, and created the award-winning documentary series “Stirrup.” Lee was born in Atlanta, GA, and grew up in Kalamazoo, MI. He graduated with highest honors from the University of Michigan (BFA Acting).
Follow Lee @leetylersee
Describe yourself in a few words.
I’m a learner, a listener, and a lover of language.
How did you get started in entertainment?
I got cast as Animal #7 in the Lion, the Witch, & the Wardrobe by the Kalamazoo Civic Youth Theater in 1999. I then secured a BFA in Theatre Performance from the University of Michigan and have been acting professionally in New York since 2007.
What is the best and worst part of being an actor?
The best part is having an excuse to speak on impulse. The worst part is gamifying the craft for social media.
When did you start creating your own projects?
As an actor, I’m mostly a hired gun. But I’ve been shooting indie films my whole life, including an experimental documentary series composed of chance encounters with strangers.
Tell us about your latest project “Townhouse Confidential.”
It’s a lighthearted rom-com inspired by Pride & Prejudice, set in the West Village and chock-full of seasoned New York archetypes. It’ll be available on demand and digitally now.
How did you get involved with the project?
I auditioned from scratch: I sent in a self-tape on Monday and had two Zoom callbacks by Saturday. I booked the film just in time for July 4th fireworks, 2021.
What was your favorite moment when working on the film?
Every scene was a joy to shoot. Our director, Patrick Perez, maintained a playful atmosphere on set and encouraged the cast to be extra-theatrical. It’s rare to get that kind of green light for a film. I’m used to playing smaller for the camera; this was an extravagant exception. Cheers to our writer and EP, Rosalind Resnick being cool with all the improv.
What’s your advice for people wanting to be part of the entertainment industry?
Don’t let the competition get you down. Stay hydrated. Breathe with awareness through your nose. Fight anxiety by turning your phone off for 24 hours. Having a secondary artistic channel as a pure hobby; helps balance out the business aspects of your primary channel.
Where can we follow you online?
On Instagram at @leetylersee