La Dani: Actor, Barber, and TV Presenter
- Title: "Rewinding & Cutting: La Dani's Journey from Actor to Barber & TV Presenter"
- Malaga-born Daniel Fernández Pozo, 33, has not been one for labels.
- Last year, La Dani, as they are known in the music industry, made history by becoming the first non-binary person to win the 'Best Supporting Actor' Feroz Award...
Title: "Rewinding & Cutting: La Dani’s Journey from Actor to Barber & TV Presenter"
Malaga-born Daniel Fernández Pozo, 33, has not been one for labels. Once a self-proclaimed "shop assistant" given it was their primary job, they’ve since added "singer" to their résumé, and now, they’re set to introduce themselves as a "barber" and television presenter at the 2022 Feroz Awards.
Last year, La Dani, as they are known in the music industry, made history by becoming the first non-binary person to win the ‘Best Supporting Actor’ Feroz Award for their debut film, "Te estoy amando locamente". This Saturday, they step back onto that stage, ready to present the ceremony and, with scissors in hand, carve a new path.
When asked about last year’s award leading to more work, La Dani is honest: "I can’t complain; I wasn’t doing this professionally before. I’ve had some gigs, but two series a year aren’t enough to live on. I started studying hairdressing over a year ago and have been working from home. Now, I’m opening my own barbershop in Malaga."
The journey to becoming a barber started early for La Dani. "Since I was a kid, I wanted to be a hairdresser, fashion designer, and actor. I loved many things, but I was a terrible student and never had a clear calling. After the movie, I realized I needed a skill."
Their circle of family and friends, whom they credit with instilling their values, has stood by them every step of the way, supporting their eclectic career moves.
As for the inspiration behind their new profession, La Dani says, "The makeup and hair department on set was always my happy place. If I shine in my role, it’s thanks to them. Actors aren’t as vulnerable as people think; we’re not gods."
Despite offers to become a film set barber, La Dani is focused on their community shop. "I can’t peel or dye hair, and I don’t want to. I want a local barbershop. Acting is amazing, but if I don’t do another film, it’s okay. I’m grateful it helped me open my own shop."
From local entrepreneurship to presenting major TV awards, La Dani is embracing it all. "My barbershop grounds me. It’s incredible to stand before Pedro Almodóvar and crack a joke, then sweep the floor the next day. It brings me closer to people."
Last year’s backlash from some feminists for identifying as an ‘actor’ stung, but La Dani remains unfazed. They believe in equality but aren’t pushing for category changes just yet. "Women have fought hard for their category; it’s not time to take it away. I’m happy occupying male space now. People fret over my gender, but I’m at peace knowing who I am."
As La Dani cuts a path through the entertainment industry and opens their new shop, they remind us that life is about discovery and change. "We’re sold the idea that we must know what we want to be before we’re adults. At 33, I’m just now learning I want to be a barber. Imagine the boredom if life was any different!"
Conclusion
La Dani’s journey is a testament to the power of embracing labels fluidly, defying expectations, and pursuing individual passions. From shop assistant to singer to award-winning actor and now, an ambassador for the art of barbering and television presenter, La dani continues to redefine boundaries and inspire others to do the same. They stand as a beacon of inclusivity in the entertainment industry, proving that talent and dedication can shine beyond any perceived limitations. As La Dani prepares to embark on this new chapter, one thing is certain: their story is far from over, and the world eagerly awaits to see what remarkable roles they will take on next.
A Versatile Force
La Dani’s journey demonstrates that talent and determination can weave a tapestry of success, even when it embraces unexpected turns. From a captivating performance on screen to a skilled hand behind the shears, La dani continues to redefine boundaries and shatter expectations.
This multifaceted individual, excelling as an actor, singer, and soon-to-be barber, embodies the spirit of reinvention, reminding us that passion can lead us down exciting and enriching paths, even those furthest from our initial aspirations.La Dani’s story is a testament to the power of embracing change and pursuing one’s passions, no matter the form they may take.
