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Interview by JOSEPH
G. NAZEL, JR.
Q&A:
Q: Among
your challenges were there racial barriers
when you sought employment in the film industry?
SHELBY: Not so much racial barriers,
just a great deal of nepotism. It’s
about who you know. There are not a lot
of us (blacks) in the industry, so it becomes
a racial thing. But, it’s basically
about relationships. The more of us that
get into this industry, the easier it will
be for us to get in. But when I was coming
up, I didn’t know anybody, so it was
a brick wall.
Q: Do you see race as an obstacle
for future success?
SHELBY: I don’t feel that
way at New Line Cinema. I’ve always
kind of looked at it—maybe to the
point of being a little naïve—but
I’ve always felt that I was being
judged on the merit of my work. And, so
far, I think that has served me very well.
I have not personally faced the glass ceiling.
Q: What advice would you offer
those who would follow you in the film industry?
SHELBY: It is perseverance. There
are highly coveted jobs and everybody wants
them. Just don’t take “no”
for an answer.
If this is your dream, if this is your goal,
go after it with unrelenting tenacity. Be
prepared. You have to be prepared and have
something to offer.
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