Taylor Polidore is an actress, Texas native, and proud alum of Clark Atlanta University. Most recently, she was seen on The CW’s “All American: Homecoming” and FX’s No. 1 show, “Snowfall.” Taylor is also a voice-over artist on various cartoons on networks like Nickelodeon and Disney Channel. She is passionate about the welfare of young people and is a court-appointed special advocate for youth in foster care.
Polidore was honored at CAU’s second annual 40 Under 40 Young Alumni Achievement Awards.
Briefly describe what you do and the area you work in.
I am an actress, voice-over artist, and children’s rights advocate.
What did your career path look like?
I started doing theater when I was a young child. Then, I transitioned into film and television when I was in junior high school. I was in my first feature film when I was in 8th grade, and I fell in love with making movies. Once I got to college at CAU, I started connecting with independent filmmakers and acting any chance I could. After graduating, I booked small roles on television, which grew into progressively larger roles in movies.
What has been your biggest career high and your biggest career low?
I’ve loved every job, every twist and turn, but landing a recurring role of three seasons on “Snowfall” was one of the most affirming experiences in my career at that point. It gave me the confidence, the reassurance, and [it] galvanized my drive to continue pursuing my field.
I’d say a low was when I had just graduated. My grandmothers both unexpectedly passed away; I was a little lost, to be honest, post-graduation. I moved to L.A. to take a class, only to have to move back to my parents’ house. I felt like a failure. But it’s part of the journey, and sometimes setbacks actually set you up for success. I learned how to find peace and a daily routine that I’ve needed to grow and learn.
Describe how you set goals and evaluate your success.
I work backward. I think of who, where, and what I want to be, and then I create a plan of how to get there. I evaluate my success by my fulfillment. I also write down my goals for the year on my birthday, and I love to check them off and see what I’ve done for the year.
Name your favorite industry role models for success.
Regina King, Angela Bassett, Charlize Theron, Jamie Foxx, Kerry Washington.
What other role models do you look up to in different industries and why?
Beyoncé! We are girls from Houston chasing dreams. She’s always inspired me that you can work hard, stay connected to your roots and family, and rise to the top. It doesn’t have to be gimmicky or about popularity; your work can fulfill you.
If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?
For Black people to be valued. For women to be seen. For children to be cared for.
