"So, my background’s always been creative, really, explained actor, comedian and film maker Chi Lam.   "Growing up, I was constantly involved in school drama clubs, film clubs, anything like that. I just loved storytelling — performing, writing, being part of a creative space.      

That carried on into my late teens, where I started picking up small screen roles — bit parts in feature films, including playing one of the side villains in Cookster: The Darkest Days, and working as an extra on the BBC series Phoenix Rise. I also joined the New Earth Theatre cohort, which was a big moment for me, and later took part in some of their Move Midlands sessions, which really helped shape how I saw theatre and community storytelling.      

From there, I went on to study screen acting at MetFilm School London, where I eventually graduated. After that, I wrote and finished a web series called Noir, and more recently completed a short film called Pak Choi in collaboration with the NHS, which was a really meaningful project focused on community and mental health.      

Alongside the filmmaking, I also started freelancing through my own company, Chi Lam Pictures — doing photography and videography for local businesses and organisations. Some of that work’s been featured on BBC and ITV, which was a nice surprise and a real confidence boost.      

But interestingly, while I was at MetFilm, I realised my biggest enjoyment wasn’t actually acting — it was comedy. Writing comedy, performing comedy, figuring things out live in front of an audience. Since then, I’ve prioritised stand-up, spending most evenings travelling around, gigging wherever I can, trying to get better one set at a time.      

That said, I’m at a point now where creativity isn’t my main career priority anymore. I still love it — and I still do stand-up — but I’m treating it more as something I do because I enjoy it, not something I’m relying on financially. Right now, I’m focused on going back to university, moving towards a more stable, mainstream job, and helping out my family more. I’ve realised I need to be more responsible and start thinking properly about money and long-term security — while still keeping creativity in my life in a healthier, more balanced way.”    

Chi Lam will be on The Ian Henery Show on Black Country Xtra

Sunday 29th March at 4pm

Monday 30th March at 6pm