Meet and connect with Television Producer and Film Director, Esteban Serrano, and discover what makes Philadelphia, his Philadelphia.
Name: Esteban Serrano
Occupation: Television Producer and Film Director.
Born and raised or imported to Philly? West Philadelphia, born and raised… You know the rest!
What is your connection/relationship to Philly? Whenever I meet a person for the first time, within the first three sentences I’ll tell you, “I’m from Philly.” It honestly organically works its way into the conversation every time. I’m a product of my environment and the things Philly is known for make up who I am. I love music: Hip Hop, Soul, R&B, and Salsa. I love sports. I grew up playing basketball and baseball. I love food: strombolis, soft pretzels, and water ice! I have an appreciation and an interest in cultures because of the different people I was able to meet and become friends with in Philly. The work ethic and the diversity of Philly prepared me for the world.
Favorite restaurant in Philly? Since I moved to New York some 16 years ago, whenever I come back to Philly, I “b-line” to Overbrook Pizza! I eat good in New York but when I’m home I want comfort.
Camellia Brown: Connected
Best place to shop in Philly (food, clothes, gifts, jewelry, etc). Select one? I’m a streetwear and sneaker lover so for me, it’s about South Street for the kicks.
What is your one favorite “best kept secret” about Philly? Something that you and only a few others know about but everyone should… On the low, we run a lot of your favorite entertainment industries… from music to TV and film to fashion. If you look close enough you’ll see a Philadelphian in a position of power and influence. Being from Philly is like being part of an exclusive club. We look out for one another when we are doing business in LA or NYC, etc. That’s my favorite part. I wish we were more supportive of each other at home!
What makes Philly your Philly? What I personally love about Philly, being in TV and Film is Philly was part of some huge moments in my profession. When you think of films like “Trading Places” and “Rocky”, or you think of TV shows like “Fresh Prince” or “Boy Meets World”, even now with “Abbott Elementary”… we’ve always been an important location or backdrop. I’ve traveled the world and when I mention Philly abroad there’s always a point of reference for people. That makes me proud. I’m glad I get to be part of that.
Contact Esteban Serrano:
Images: Jesse Vargas, Joe Panlilio, Jesse-Knish
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