By Lyndsey Kees
Pasadena ISD Staff

From cheerleader and homecoming queen to Hollywood lights and major motion pictures, Audi Resendez has proven there are no limits after graduation.

After graduating from Dobie High School in 1999, Resendez obtained two degrees from the University of Houston in theater and psychology. With a few years of acting in various Houston community theaters and landing small roles in local commercials under her belt, Resendez decided two years ago it was time to pack up and move to Los Angeles to pursue her dream of acting.

Upon arriving in Los Angeles, Resendez realized it was important to obtain her Screen Actors Guild card and become a member of the actor’s union. She began working on various productions in order to build her resume.

Within a few months, Resendez began performing stunts for Eva Longoria on the show “Desperate Housewives.” When first offered the role, Resendez was asked only a few times to take the fall for Longoria, but now, she is the regular double. Resendez is honored to have obtained the role, however, it does come with a small price.

“Ms. Longoria is so tiny and her clothes are so small that I can’t wear pads when doing the stunts. Once, I had to fall down the stairs six times in a little dress with no padding,” she said.

For all aspiring actors, networking is a key component in being successful in Hollywood. Many beginning actors become swept away in the social aspect of Los Angeles, but for Resendez, it is all about the acting.

“I would rather be working on a Friday night than out on the town,” Resendez said. “I have a lot of close friends and surround myself with positive people who support me with my acting.”

When she first moved to L.A., Resendez found it beneficial to ask for insight from her peers who had made the transition from home to Hollywood.

“I talked to everyone I knew who made the move out to L.A. to see how they handled the change,” said Resendez.

One of her contacts was able to help her score a role in the newly released “Indiana Jones” film. Resendez’ part in the movie was to participate in the first big action scene. They cast people who were able to perform the stunts as well as act. With her theater background, this role was a sure fit. For Resendez, one of the most rewarding experiences of the film was meeting Steven Spielberg.

“When I first met Spielberg, he introduced himself as Steven. I was stunned,” Resendez said. “He is a great director and gives crystal clear instructions on everything he wants for his films.”

To an audience, exhilaration and excitement of action scenes are all that is seen, however, bruises and pain are often overlooked. In an upcoming children’s film by Disney, Resendez had to run through cars doing 180 spins in reverse while fireworks were being aimed and shot toward her.

“It was the scariest thing I have ever done, and it is ironic because it was for a children’s movie,” said Resendez. “The scene was the biggest thrill of my life, and when it was over, I had to ask myself if I was still alive.”


Although stunts are a priority, Resendez has recently focused much of her time to acting. She spends her free time in acting classes and talking with her agent about her future career in acting.

“I’m good at getting banged up, but I want to expand my career beyond stunt work,” said Resendez.

Recently, with the help of her agent, Resendez made it through three callbacks and was second pick for an acting role on the TV series, “CSI.” Although she was not cast for the particular role, there is a chance she will be called to do the stunts for that character on the show.

“Even though I didn’t get the acting role on the show, I still might get to take part in doing the stunts. Either way, I am happy with the outcome,” she said.

For Resendez, the transition from Pasadena to Los Angeles has been as smooth as one could hope. In two short years, she has achieved more than many aspiring actors ever dream of accomplishing.

“I am so thankful for all the opportunities that have been presented to me during this short period. Hopefully, if I keep praying and surrounding myself with positive people, there are many more good things in store.”