Originally from Birmingham, Michigan, actress and Instant Dream Home star Paige Mobley got her start on the small screen appearing in television staples like Gossip Girl and 30 Rock. America’s Next Top Model later marked a turning point for Mobley. Though the 10th episode of Cycle 23 brought the end of her time as a contestant, she went on to become one of the faces of Netflix’s newest home design series, a co-founder of LA-based production company Eastend Entertainment, and is slated to star in an upcoming feature film, Love Virtually.
Ahead of the film’s release, we caught up with Paige to talk Instant Dream Home, running a production company that recognizes the importance of women’s stories, and how she manages to balance it all. Read our interview with Paige Mobley below.
Can you tell us about what life was like at home growing up in Birmingham?
Growing up in Birmingham was picturesque. The town is about a half hour north of Detroit and it’s beautiful.
How did your family inspire your current passion for home design?
My parents did home renovation projects my entire childhood. I essentially grew up in the field. I was constantly surrounded by either construction or home design professionals.
How did you get your start in the entertainment industry? Can you share some highlights from your first major gigs?
I started my career as a background extra in NYC on shows like 30 Rock and SNL. I truly started at the bottom and worked my way up.
How did you end up getting cast for Instant Dream Home?
I originally auditioned for a different home makeover, and somehow producers/casting found my tape and called me in. I eventually did a chemistry test with Erik, Nick, and Adair. It was magic from the moment we met, and we were all cast a few days later.
What do you love most about the Instant Dream Home series?
Doing good things for good people. We make the impossible possible for these deserving families.
How did going to Pace in New York City for musical theatre influence your professional career? What was behind your decision to pursue a musical theatre degree?
Musical theatre was my first love. I have always had Broadway dreams and I knew from a very young age that was what I wanted to study in college. My time in NYC was really special and I hope to someday go back and pursue theater again.
What did you take away most from your experience on America’s Next Top Model?
ANTM was such a fun and unique experience. I really did enjoy my time on the show and have great memories from it. The biggest takeaway would have to be how much I loved being on a tv set.
Can you share details about your role in the upcoming film Love Virtually?
I play Kimberly, the main love interest.
Are you hoping to pursue more acting projects in the future, and if so, what would be your dream project?
I love classic 90’s/early 2000’s romantic comedies. Anything in that genre would be so fun.
Who are some of your biggest inspirations as a performer?
Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Garner, Charlize Theron, Jessica Chastain… So many more!
Can you tell us about your production company, Eastend Entertainment, which focuses on female storytelling? How did you launch it, and what projects have you done so far or are working on?
Eastend Entertainment is a film, television, and theatrical production company that champions emerging female filmmakers and female storytelling. I co-founded the company with my producing partner, Carroll, back in 2018. We love the entertainment industry and we wanted to be a part of the future of TV and film. The Redo, starring Emeraude Tobia, was just announced in Deadline. We also have some other really exciting projects in development for next year.
What do you look for in the projects that Eastend produces?
I create a lot of the concept material for Eastend’s projects. My concepts are truly bits and pieces of my imagination.
With so much going on, how do you balance your work and personal life? What do you like to do when you have time off?
I love to watch live theatre or any live entertainment. I could immerse myself in creativity daily.
What’s next on the radar for you? Any other upcoming projects you can share?
A few, but they’re under wraps at the moment. I’ll keep you posted! 🙂
For more from Paige, follow her on Instagram
