Pursuit 365 Day 47: Janet Walmsley

There is a saying that life begins at 40; my life is living proof of this phrase. Never let being older be a factor to stop whatever you want to do, go for it.

I dreamt of being an actor when I was young, however, my parents said, no, you have to get a real job. Then, at age 41, my dream became a reality as I went back to acting in theatre, directing and on the board. To joyful surprise of going on to film, TV, commercials and VO. The highlight was receiving a nomination for Best Supporting Actress for a Comedy at the ISA Awards in Los Angles. And of course, Ewan MacGregor coming up to me and having a chat while we were both on set for Fargo.

I have spread out in other avenues of the industry, one being my class, ‘Shifting Lanes’, which I love, as it came from a vision I had for paying it forward for individuals 40 + who want to get into acting as life got in the way and senior background and theatre actors crossing over to speaking roles in Film and TV. It was an honor being Co-chair of the Ageism Committee with UBCP, helping and guiding senior actors.

My book, The Autistic Author and Animator, is about my daughter’s journey with Autism through my eyes. We’re known as the ‘Book Signing Queens’ at Indigo, Chapters and Coles bookstores. There have been many conversations and crying sessions shared with families we meet, with instant bonds made. I won the Woman’s Award for Creativity at the Unlimited Woman’s Awards. Doing speaking engagements of our Autism story is dear to my heart in giving hope, shining a positive light and shedding the stigma box. While writing my book, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, had a double mastectomy and reconstruction. Despite this, I got my book done for the deadline. I participate in events to be there for others diagnosed with breast cancer.

Live, love, learn, play and explore. Life is what you make it. My true happiness is being a mom to Chris and Jenny and being a Nana to Maverick and August!