Today we’d like to introduce you to Leland Mergillano.
Hi Leland, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Thank you so much for having me! My love for the performing arts began at a very young age. Growing up, my mom surrounded my sister and I with the arts and creative experiences. Early piano lessons taught me discipline and expression, while singing in chorus helped me understand harmony and teamwork. Participating in musical theatre nurtured my imagination and confidence. I also had the privilege of growing up in a local, family-owned theatre —The staff there are dear to my heart, and I’m so grateful for the support and inspiration they’ve given me throughout the years. Each of these experiences laid the foundation for my artistic journey.
In my early teens, I began taking classes at an acting school, which led to the opportunity to sign with an agent and start working in film, commercials, and print. I later pursued additional training in voiceover through coaching, workshops, and classes then eventually signed with a dedicated voiceover agent in Los Angeles. Voiceover has since become a strong passion of mine—it’s such a unique and powerful form of storytelling, and I’ve really enjoyed diving into that world. Today, I continue to work professionally in film, voiceover, theatre, and commercial/print.
Music also plays a meaningful role in my life—whether it’s playing piano, ukulele, or Tahitian drumming. I was honored to learn ukulele and Tahitian drumming from the legend Uncle Fili, a humble, beloved and influential leader in the Polynesian community. His mentorship left a lasting impact and deepened my appreciation for the culture. Performing in different spaces over the years—whether through music or theatre—has taught me how art can create deep, human connection across communities.
Since 2021, I’ve had the privilege of working on over 30 film projects, each one bringing unique creative experiences and valuable lessons. I continue to work professionally across film, voiceover, theatre, and commercial/print, and am grateful for the support I’ve received along the way,
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Balancing school with auditions has definitely come with its challenges. Juggling tests, deadlines, and audition schedules hasn’t always been easy—and there have been times I didn’t get the roles I was hoping for, even after many auditions. But instead of letting that discourage me, those experiences have motivated me to work even harder on my craft. I remain grateful for the journey and committed to keep going, growing, and moving forward with perseverance.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Working as an actor across film, voiceover, theatre, and commercial projects, I enjoy bringing diverse characters and stories to life—whether on set, on stage, or behind the microphone.People have said I’m known for my distinctive voice, which I take as a real compliment. Recently, I’ve been grateful for opportunities to audition for roles in anime, video games, and other exciting projects. I’m truly thankful for every opportunity and remain fully dedicated to my work.
In July 2025, I was truly honored to receive the Best Leading Performance in a Short Film award at the 46th Young Artist Academy Awards, held at the Directors Guild of America in Los Angeles, California. It was a deeply humbling experience, and I’m incredibly grateful for the recognition. In that same weekend, I was also humbled to be named Best Actor at the Hard Faith Film Festival, which was also held in Los Angeles.
What I am proud of is my family. And maybe being able to hold my own in the kitchen 🙂
I’m not sure if anything sets me apart—I focus on staying grounded, working hard, and putting my heart into every project. I truly enjoy telling meaningful stories, and I hope that passion shines through in my work.
How do you think about happiness?
Happiness, to me, is rooted in the simple yet profound blessings that surround my life each day. My faith in God is at the center of it all—it gives me purpose, strength, and a deep sense of peace.
My family means everything to me. Just spending time with them—talking, laughing, or even just being in the same space—makes me feel loved and supported. They know me better than anyone, and that kind of connection is something I truly cherish.
I also get so much joy from my pets. They have this way of making any day better, whether they’re being playful or just curling up next to me.
Aside from acting, I really enjoy cooking—especially for the people I care about. I’m often in the kitchen messing around with new ideas and recipes, and if I come up with something good, I love sharing it. There’s something really fun about creating something from scratch and seeing others enjoy it.
I like helping people. Even little things can make someone’s day, and that good vibe just spreads.
Good health allows me to enjoy all of these things fully. Being able to move freely, to breathe deeply, to wake up each day with energy—these are gifts I never take for granted. And finally, laughter is truly good for the soul. It lifts the spirit, and It can turn a bad day around and bring people closer together.
All of these things are what make me happy. It’s not about big or fancy moments—it’s the meaningful, everyday things that make life feel full.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.LelandMergillano.com
- Instagram: @Leland.Mergillano
- Facebook: Leland Mergillano
Image Credits
Framing Brevard Photography
@cheyframesbrevard
and
Nilo Juaneza
Photographer-Los Angeles, CA
www.nilojuaneza.com
