Young local actor Matteo Ray is witnessing his star rise | Entertainment

9-year-old Mateo Ray has seen his star rise, he’s an Orcutt native ralph dunlap elementary schoolwon the “Best Young Actor in a Short Film” The 43rd Young Artist Academy Award Gala in Hollywood last month.

He won the award for his short film “Daily War,” which aired on PBS last year during Hispanic Heritage Month.

Despite his on-screen appearances, Mateo says his life is typical of an ordinary kid. A major factor in his early success was getting his parents involved in supporting his creative vision, thereby bringing opportunities to the entertainment industry.

Parents Christopher and Sarah of Mateo, from Orcutt, said their son was an example of a creative child exploring his talents and an example of hard work paying off.

“Even if you think you don’t want to get it done, do it,” Mateo said. “You can still get the job, and it’s going to be fun. You might even get nominated for it, so take the chance and always do your best.”

Even at a young age, Mateo has connected with many people on film sets and enjoys making new friends. “I love meeting new people, it’s my favorite thing,” he said.

The young actor’s average week is full of learning. This includes online and in-person piano, school, karate, football and acting lessons. His methodical schedule still gives him free time to relax and explore his mind.

“His friends would come over, they would do YouTube videos, they would work together, and he would create characters. I think one day he could be a director,” said Mateo’s father, Christopher.

The movie set has many opportunities for Mateo, and there was even a time when he and his sister Kelly ended up on the same set. He was acting and she was part of the crew. Mateo’s parents are proud of their children.

When asked what happens next, Mateo said, “You’ll have to wait and see,” though he shared some details of the projects he’s been involved in.

“A game show, an ad for everyone’s favorite store, and I’m waiting for a call back for the movie,” Mateo said.

Talking to the young man, it’s clear he has a real passion for acting and film. He plans to continue his career for a long time. Throughout his young career, he was surrounded by a supportive family that put his safety, creativity and well-being first.

“My family motivates me, I love doing it, my parents helped me audition and they believed in me,” he said.

April Chavez is a Santa Maria correspondent for the Santa Maria Times.If you have a message or story idea you’d like to share, please send an email to AChavez@SantaMariaTimes.com.