Based in Los Angeles, Adrian Favela is an actor that should be on everyone's radar. Adrian's evolution is more than apparent when discussing his newest project, "Under The Stadium Lights." This sports/drama film highlights a severe issue for minorities: People of color have to work 10x harder to make their dreams come true. However, as an Asian American actor, Adrian proves as long as you put your everything into your goals, you are sure to achieve them! "Under The Stadium Lights" exhibits black and brown teens pushing themselves and succeeding. This portrayal is critical in today's political and social climate, and Adrian did an excellent job representing our youth. Not only is Adrian a great actor, but he is also devoted to environmental protection and cleanup. Adrian's childhood in Hawaii and Santa Barbra has heavily impacted his perspective on the importance of kindness and consideration to the earth. These very values prompt him to be in cahoots with "The Surfrider Foundation" for occasional beach cleanups. Adrian's goal is to educate others, whether it's through acting or service to our planet. Jejune is excited to speak with Adrian about "Under The Stadium Lights, his goals for humanity, and how he was affected by the pandemic. For more on Adrian Favela, please continue reading below!

Where are you based
I’m based in Los Angeles.

How did you know acting was something you were passionate about?
When I was younger acting wasn’t something on my radar at all! I remember having to take a drama class in middle school, doing a monologue in front of the class, and being absolutely terrified. My hands were shaking, I was probably sweating, and I couldn’t get the words out. It wasn’t until later in life when I was scouted for a commercial audition that I gave acting another shot. After that, I really fell in love with acting and being able use it as an outlet for my passion for storytelling.

What was your first acting gig and what did you learn from it?
My first acting gig was a film called Requiescat. I think I was bout 19 years old when I booked the movie, and it was also my first leading man role. It was an amazing period piece western film where I got to ride horses, shoot guns, and work on incredible locations. I learned tons from working with my castmates and director SJ main-munoz. The biggest thing I learned was the art of commitment and also to have fun regardless of the “mood” of the script. Who knew being covered in dirt and trying to survive a manhunt would be so fun!

Can you tell us a bit about your newest project “Under The Stadium Lights”?
Under the Stadium Lights is a true story of how the underdog team the Abilene Eagles made it to the state championship regardless of their at home adversities.

Your recent movie “Under The Stadium Lights” is very informative about adversity within inner city communities, and rising above hardship. How does this apply to your life, specifically as an Asian American man? Asian representation is finally becoming a thing in Hollywood. What are your thoughts on this? Do you feel like enough is being done?
Growing up as an ethnic person there wasn’t much representation in film and television. If there was, it was very stereotypical and made me feel that my options were limited as a performing artist. Today we are seeing more representation for Asian people and greater stories with more depth than the previous stereotypes. I absolutely love that Hollywood is making a change for the better. My hope is that more will be done and more Asian artists will be recognized for their passions and talents.

What do you hope the audience gets from “Under Stadium Lights”?
I hope the audience feels inspired! I hope someone watching at home can see themselves in the film, and know that with hard work anything is possible.

You have now worked beside the likes of critically acclaimed actors such as Lawrence Fishburne… are there other actors that you dream to work with in the future?
I would love to work with Florence Pugh or Timothee Chalamet. Both of them produce such raw performances it would be a dream to act with them.

Can you describe your character Anthony from “Under Stadium Lights” in 5 words?
Generous, focused, hardworking, humble, loving.

How have previous acting experiences prepared you for the role of Anthony?
One thing I had to do to play the role of Anthony was to learn how to play football on the fly. We did our own stunts and ran our own drills throughout the film. Before filming I didn’t have any football experience besides playing games in the park with friends. Filming Under the Stadium Lights was a huge exercise of commitment, which is something I learned early on playing the role of Pepe in Requiescat.

Do you see yourself in the character of Anthony?
I do see myself in the character of Anthony. He lived a very generous and loving life. I try to lead my life in the same way. I love to help people and inspire them as much as possible. You never know how much a simple act of kindness can impact someone's life.

Why do you believe movies such as “Under Stadium Lights” are important to underprivileged youth, and teens as a whole?
Movies like Under the Stadium Lights are important because underprivileged youth need to know that their stories matter. Not everyone can relate to the shiny polished lives we see portrayed on tv. Telling stories of inner-city kids succeeding in life can inspire them to be the best that they can be.

You are passionate about the environment, how has growing up in Hawaii and Santa Barbara impacted your hope for a green and sustainable future?
Growing up in Hawaii and Santa Barbara meant I grew up by the ocean. My family would take us out to the water often. In Hawaii I was on the canoe paddling team. With all of my experience around the water it made me realize how precious our oceans are, and how much humans can negatively impact the water without even realizing it. The ocean produces 50-80% of the oxygen on our planet. Pollution can severely compromise the oceans ecosystem, warm the water, and ultimately cause a restriction on the oxygen production we all breath. My hope is to bring awareness of how simple acts of kindness like reducing plastic waste can help our planet.

You participated in beach cleanups with “The Surfrider Foundation” as well as on your own accord, was there a significant event/realization that prompted you to be gracious towards the earth, or was it always something you were passionate about?
When I was a young kid I had to do a research project on humpback whales. I remember being so excited to start my research and jumping on Google to find out everything I could about the subject. One of the top images was a whale whose stomach was full of plastic: forks, water bottles, plastic bags, etc. I was mortified, I couldn’t believe the waste we thoughtlessly leave behind could affect the ocean so deeply. From that moment on I decided to volunteer for beach clean ups and reduce my plastic waste as much as possible.

What would you like to see more people do to help take care of our planet?
Do random acts of kindness for the earth. Simple things can make a huge difference like picking up any waste you bring to the beach, use reusable water bottles (they’re trendy), even switching to paper straws can make a difference. They aren’t life changing acts but they make a positive impact on our environment.

How has COVID affected your work and personal life?
COVID was a hard hit for everyone, but I try to find the silver lining in every situation. During quarantine I was able to reconnect with my family and spend quality time with them without the pressure of having somewhere else to be. Which is the biggest blessing of all. As far as work, meetings, and auditions have changed quite drastically. We no longer meet in person and hold everything virtual. The best part of this is I’m able to put my best work forward for every opportunity.

If you could have one wish what would it be?
If I could have one wish it would be for universal equality. A wish for a world where everyone is treated and respected equally regardless of race, gender, religion, and sexual orientation.

Any upcoming projects fans should know about?
I’m actually taking a 180 from the drama films and I’ve been filming a new comedy film called Bromates. It’s such funny script I can’t wait for everyone to see the movie!”

What is your life motto?
“You can, You will, and You must"

To stay up to date on Adrian’s latest projects, please follow him on the platforms below:
Instagram: @adrianrichardfavela

Photography by Catherine Asanov.