Let’s dive into Red PaSH’s version of a super fun mini-series that’s all about celebrating a few cool entrepreneurs! PaSH, our sister magazine is centered around sharing inspiring stories, breaking down stereotypes, and sharing the authentic, behind-the-scenes moments that make entrepreneurs so amazing, we are too. Let’s dive into, “From Daytime Emmy to Prime Time Powerhouse – Meet Matt Borlenghi.”
Meet Matt Borlenghi
Matt Borlenghi is well-known for playing Lyle, the Pawnshop Guy, on the Netflix production “Cobra Kai” and has become a fan favorite supporting character. He first came to the attention of audiences on “All My Children”, starring opposite Kelly Ripa. While playing this role, he was nominated for a Daytime Emmy and won the Soap Opera Digest Award. Borlenghi then went on to star in several prime-time TV shows such as “The Jeff Foxworthy Show”, “Pig Sty”, “Party Girl”, “Police Academy: The Series”, and a pilot for a “Married with Children” spin-off titled “Enemies”, opposite Nicole Eggert.
Matt recently wrapped filming on a total of three new TV series pilots: “Townsend”, in which he plays the title character – along with serving as Producer. Matt is a supporting series regular in “Letters to Addy” and “Daddy’s Place”. In the latter, he plays the best friend of Big Daddy Kane’s character. On the film side, Borlenghi’s recent works include, “Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story”, “The Bobby DeBarge Story”, “Divine Influencer” and “90 Days Past Due”.
Matt is also a multiple award-winning producer and has spent several years on the development of TV shows with and for production companies and networks. One of his shows, a crime investigation named “Postmortem in Vegas”, was co-produced by NorthSouth Productions and A&E Networks and aired as a one hour special on LMN. Further, Matt created, wrote and is prepping another proposed TV series entitled “ATF”. This drama is based on the life work of his good friend who spent twenty-five years working as an undercover ATF agent. As to vocal acting, Matt is the voice of Sergio Morello in the remake of the uber-successful video game “Mafia”.
Let’s Dive Into The Q &A
What’s the most unexpected lesson you’ve learned since starting your business?
Nothing lasts forever. Be grateful and graceful throughout.
What’s the craziest idea you’ve ever had for your business that worked?
I was in my late teens when I had this thought. It was the idea of manifesting having my face known to millions of people. Although it felt crazy, it did happen.
What’s your go-to mantra or quote when the going gets tough?
Keep putting one foot in front of the other.
What’s one piece of advice you wish you could give your younger self before starting this journey?
Open the IRA when it is suggested to you, knucklehead.
How do you keep your creativity flowing when motivation is low?
“Remember, bucko. You have a family that is counting on you”.
What’s one misconception people have about your industry that drives you crazy?
That being on television means one is driving on Easy Street. It is a hard life/career that offers more No’s and heartache than anyone could understand without living it.
Can you describe a moment when you felt like giving up and how you pushed through?
In 2021, I had a near-death experience resulting from bad decision-making while drinking alcohol. While I prefer not to get too specific with this, I nearly lost my wife and kids because of it. I did not see the point in anything anymore if I were going to be without them. So, I changed my way of living, with earning back my place in their lives and being the husband and dad I had not been for a while as my goal. It took time and commitment, but I got there, and more acting gigs came my way as well. Sobriety is cool because it represents Being Present.
More details on Matt Borlenghi can be found here:
Check back in each month for more cool additions to our mini series.
Red PaSH Magazine is a lifestyle publication. Our slogan is “all your tiny obsessions.” We are strong advocates of self-love, self-care, body positivity and supporting minorities, especially women, people of color and communities not highlighted in mainstream media. Please send pitches to southernpashmag@gmail.com. Please note that we sometimes use affiliate links. If you purchase anything from a link we have provided, we may receive a small commission. This money is used to help support our efforts at PaSH Inc. Check out our sister magazine, PaSH Magazine and Exploregeorgianow.com.
