Meet Travis Ketelsleger | Actor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Travis Ketelsleger and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Travis, what inspires you?
When I watch an incredibly moving performance I feel inspired. That could be a one person show, a student film, a musician, or a Hollywood film. I feel inspired when I see people pouring their hearts into their craft and having it translate into an incredible performance. When a performance can move me to tears or give me goosebumps, that is what inspires me.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
At this point in my career I am mostly a film actor, though I performed in theatre when I was younger and have done some recent work on stage. Being a film actor, everything is very nuanced. The audience sees every little expression, shift, and can tell what you are thinking/feeling through your eyes. Much like in real life, except obviously as an actor you are pretending. I pride myself on my character development. I think that is one thing that sets me apart from other actors is how much I will develop a character, which translates into a better performance because you feel like you are living in that little world. Instead of having to think about how your character feels about, say an apple, you already know because you have built their entire life. I think it is fascinating. Having a former career in law enforcement has given me a unique advantage as well, because I have seen and experienced so much of the human existence.

I decided to get back into acting several years ago, with absolutely zero direction. I paid for some headshots, found a few casting websites and set off on my journey. Along the way I had some fantastic directors and fellow actors who I was able to learn a great deal from. I eventually found myself in acting classes and private coaching, which has been tremendous for my development. I just treat every minute on set as a learning experience and to be as humble as I can be. Recently I signed with an agent for representation in all major film markets, which has been a huge step!

It has been quite the challenge to get to where I am now, with a lot of hard work. I think the biggest thing that helped me was my persistence. I just kept submitting myself for roles until I started booking, then I was able to build up my resume and my demo reel. Acting is certainly very humbling, but it is also very fun and rewarding. I’ve had the opportunity to play some very fun and interesting roles so far, and every one is a unique challenge.

I think I would like the world to know that I just absolutely love entertaining people. I get such joy out of it.

Look for me in “Lottie’s Girl,” a feature film by Star of Magnolia Productions coming Summer 2025, where I play Roy. Some other recent projects include playing Doug in Avalon Station, a spinoff series of LOST. I played a murderous hillbilly in “Hunter’s Stew” and a confused and unsuspecting hiker in “You Wake to Find Yourself Alone in the Woods,” which just won best comedy short at the Austin Horror Film Festival.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Assuming that my friend packed an extra empty bag so they can go shopping, I would start off in Castle Rock at the outlet mall. Even if you don’t buy anything, it is just a fantastic way to spend some time walking around in the open-air mall. I’d then take them to happy hour at the Office in Castle Rock, have a few drinks and maybe some guac (it’s really good there), and end the night with dinner and drinks at Block and Bottle or Union: an American Bistro. Both are fantastic options with great staff. Shoutout to Pablo at the Office, Savannah and Natalie at Block and Bottle, and Olivia at Union. They are all fantastic at their jobs.

I would definitely want to take them to a concert in Downtown Denver somewhere, possibly at the Summit, or the HQ. I just saw Deadlands at the HQ, and it was so much fun. Also, shoutout Deadlands. Great band.

I think on the itinerary would also have to be a play or musical at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. They put on some fantastic shows. My wife and I saw Wicked there recently and it was unreal.

Some other food options we would have to go to would be My Neighbor Felix in Centennial, Seasons 52 in Lone Tree, and Blue Island Oyster Bar in Lone Tree.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
A huge shoutout goes to my beautiful wife, Molly Malarsie, who has been very encouraging and supportive of my creative journey. Without her, none of this would be possible. Molly was also my default reader when I had a self tape-audition for many of my early projects, so thank you!

Lauren Karaman, my private acting coach, has been paramount in my acting development.

Peak Acting Studios, where I have made some fantastic connections and continue my growth as an actor.

Julie Strassman, my agent, and the entire team at Natalie Lynn Talent for seeing my talent and believing in me!

My family and friends for watching and supporting my work! Specifically my mom and sister.

Website: https://www.travisketelsleger.com/

Instagram: tea_kettle96

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Travisketelsleger/