DMF Episode 301 — Assistant Director and Author Tommy Burke (Part 1): ”You Won’t Believe What I Faced in My Film Career - A True Story of Survival”

Welcome to the DMF! I'm Justin Younts, and today I have the pleasure of introducing Tommy Burke, an assistant director with 30 years of experience in the film industry. In this episode, we dive deep into Tommy's incredible journey, which he chronicles in his book, 'Not Just Sunglasses and Autographs.' From his humble beginnings in Boston to his rise in Hollywood, Tommy shares the ups and downs of his career, including the challenges he faced while working on major productions like 'Chicago PD' and 'Mermaids.' 

Tommy's story is not just about the glitz and glamour of the film industry; it's also about resilience and determination. He candidly discusses the obstacles he encountered, including his battle with cancer and the recent diagnosis of early-onset Parkinson's disease. What stands out is his unwavering spirit—when faced with adversity, Tommy's response was to keep moving forward, proving that passion and perseverance can lead to success. 

Throughout our conversation, we explore the importance of adaptability in the film industry, the value of experience in hospitality, and how humor can lighten the load on set. Tommy's insights are not only inspiring but also serve as a reminder that every setback can be a setup for a comeback. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes world of movies, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and entertaining anecdotes. Join us as we uncover the secrets of Tommy's journey and learn how you can achieve your dreams in film. Don't miss this engaging discussion filled with laughter, wisdom, and a touch of Hollywood magic!

00:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:00:29 - Guest Background and Early Life

00:01:30 - Career Beginnings and Interest in Movies

00:01:50 - Experience with St. Elsewhere and Becoming a PA

00:02:14 - Working with Directors and Adapting to Challenges

00:06:18 - Career Progression and Dealing with Robberies

00:09:57 - Experience on the Show 'Skin'

00:10:19 - Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

00:11:50 - Working During Cancer Treatment

00:13:24 - Emotional Breakdown on Set

00:14:12 - Revealing Cancer Diagnosis to Colleagues

00:15:00 - Experience on Chicago PD

00:16:05 - Parkinson's Diagnosis

00:16:36 - Parkinson's Diagnosis and Learning Experience

00:16:53 - Experience with the Partridge Family and Red Sox

00:18:05 - Working on the Pilot for Desperate Housewives

00:18:47 - Reflecting on Chicago PD and Parkinson's Impact

http://www.tommyburke.com/

https://store.bookbaby.com/book/not-just-sunglasses-and-autographs