Today we’d like to introduce you to Elijah Fullwood.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Life is a journey filled with dead ends and detours, and sometimes it doesn’t come with a GPS. I’ve been blessed to move through it with what I call a skeleton key, an ability to unlock doors I never imagined for myself. The path I’m on now isn’t the one I originally planned. I had a different vision for my life, but I’ve learned that everything truly does happen for a reason.
I once believed I would simply be an artist. Growing up, creativity gave me freedom, especially through drawing. That foundation led me somewhere much broader than I ever expected. Today, I am a published model, model coach, special effects makeup artist, haunt actor, drag performer, chef, and a brand ambassador for the couture fashion line Fin Fatale Fashion, as well as for the makeup company Ten Cosmetics.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunities that have come my way and for those that continue to unfold. Each step I take leads to the next opportunity for growth and self-development. When I look back, I know the Eli of the past would be starstruck and would see the Eli I am today as a role model.
That perspective is what drives my work within the Black and queer communities. Growing up, I didn’t see people who looked like me or represented themselves the way I do now on the platforms I’m part of. I want others to know that it’s okay to be exactly who you are. Just because someone doesn’t understand or accept how you show up in the world doesn’t mean you’re wrong and it should never stop you from reaching for your goals.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has definitely had its share of construction, but those moments are necessary to create a better path forward. One of my biggest struggles has been learning that my self-expression can make people uncomfortable. I used to want to be liked by everyone, but I’m learning that it’s okay not to be. Whether someone approves of who I am or not, they’re still watching, still paying attention, and still engaging with the work I put into the world.
Another ongoing challenge has been finding balancemanaging everyday life, personal relationships, and personal commitments alongside the hectic and demanding schedule that comes with working in the entertainment industry. It can be a tough and sometimes unkind space, but I’m incredibly grateful to have found the right people to surround myself with both professionally and personally, people who support me, respect me, and love me for all that I am.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am best known for my modeling career and my work in the haunt industry as a scare actor. I’ve been modeling professionally for ten years and working as a scare actor for seven. During that time, I’ve walked countless runways nationwide and am actively working toward adding international runways to that list. I’ve also been published in several magazines and have signed and continue to sign contracts with clothing and makeup companies.
Through my work in the haunt industry, I’ve built a strong reputation and following for my main haunt character, which has opened the door to traveling and scare acting at haunted attractions across the country.
I am especially proud of my connection with Melissa Bailey, the owner of Fin Fatale Fashion, where I now serve as the Lead Brand Ambassador, as well as with Stan Lucas, the owner of Ten Cosmetics, for whom I am also a brand ambassador. Both brands saw something in me that is unique, authentic, and different, and their values strongly align with that authenticity.
Through my work, I hope to show others that it’s okay to be yourself and that embracing who you are will take you much further than trying to fit into a mold.
My creativity and work is limitless, bold, and unique. Three attributes you should always carry with you.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Risks should always be taken…when they make sense! If something feels suspicious or a little off, that’s your sign to pause, do your research, and make an informed decision. But as great minds have said, you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. One of my favorite quotes comes from Halloweentown: “How are we supposed to grow up and explore the world, try new things, if we can’t take some risks?”
Every choice we make carries risk. Choosing to become a model and stepping into the haunt industry without prior professional experience were both major risks for me. Some of those risks paid off in incredible ways, while others came with hard lessons but all of them shaped who I am today. Those experiences taught me that you’re capable of more than you think. You just have to take the leap.
Pricing:
- Invest in yourself.
- Support each other
- If purchasing Fin Fatale use code: Amethyrion, when placing the order
- If purchasing Ten Cosmetic use code: BX10-ELT94X at checkout
- Any work you do, you should be compensated in some form.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.instagram.com/the_papa_legba
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/that_model_eli
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DMjPUTDpb/
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elisfx
