The Media Lounge Talent

Discover Our Talent Roster

Award-winning performers, on-camera personalities, and creative forces available for film, television, commercial, and media projects.

The Media Lounge represents a curated roster of multi-hyphenate talent rooted in authentic storytelling. Our talent brings cultural depth, on-camera experience, and undeniable presence to every project. For casting inquiries, representation, and availability — connect with us directly.

Selene Montijo

Selene Montijo

Host · Director · Actress · Producer

Chicago, IL
Non-Union / Union Eligible

Award-winning Director and Actress, Selene Montijo is a first-generation Mexican American creative force from Chicago's Logan Square and Humboldt Park. With over a decade of on-camera experience as host of The Media Lounge, she brings commanding presence, cultural authenticity, and storytelling depth to every role. She also serves as Producer and Director for the Chicago Film Alliance.

Selected Credits

  • The Media Lounge — Host (200+ Episodes)
  • Chicago Film Alliance — Producer & Director
  • Award-Winning Short Films
  • Music Video Director

Skills & Abilities

On-Camera HostDramatic ActingBilingual (English/Spanish)DirectingProducing
Carlos Torres

Carlos Torres

Actor · Writer

Chicago, IL
Non-Union

Height

5'9"

Eyes

Brown

Hair

Black

Carlos Torres is a Chicago-based actor and writer with a sharp creative instinct and a natural on-camera presence. His dual background in acting and writing gives him a unique edge — he doesn't just perform a story, he understands how it's built. A compelling addition to any project looking for authentic, grounded talent.

Selected Credits

  • Acting
  • Writing

Skills & Abilities

ActingWriting
Jacqueline Valdez

Jacqueline Valdez

Actress

Chicago, IL
Non-Union

Height

5'5"

Eyes

Brown

Hair

Black

Jacqueline Valdez is a bilingual actress with a commanding presence and natural on-camera charisma. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she brings cultural authenticity and emotional depth to every role — a versatile performer ready for film, television, and commercial projects.

Selected Credits

  • Acting

Skills & Abilities

ActingBilingual (English/Spanish)
Merrick Smith

Merrick Smith

Actor

Chicago, IL
Non-Union

Height

5'11"

Eyes

Brown

Merrick Smith is an award-winning actor and the star of his own show, Nell's Way, streaming on Tubi. A 4-time festival winner, Merrick brings leading-man presence and proven range across film, television, short films, and national commercials. His credits speak for themselves — this is a talent built for the big moments.

Selected Credits

  • Nell's Way — Star / Series Lead (Tubi)
  • Feature Films
  • Television
  • Short Films
  • National Commercials

Skills & Abilities

ActingSeries LeadFilmTelevisionCommercials

Casting Inquiries Welcome

Looking for authentic, culturally grounded talent for your next project? Reach out to discuss availability, rates, and representation.

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