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Untamed Magazine
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Meet the Mature Model and Actor
Stephen Mackintosh
-Age Knows No Boundaries
Discover More About Him
Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you started your modelling career?
• I started my acting and modelling career shortly after recovering from a serious health scare back in 2022. Before this event, I had no modelling or acting experience. 4 years on, and shortly will be celebrating my 63rd birthday, my life and career are so different; I am in good health and a recognised actor and model with several good experiences to my credit.
• I was born in 1963, in Manchester, UK, and had the privilege of experiencing decades of iconic style.
• In the 1970s, the “hippy” movement, together with expressive fashion, from miniskirts to flared trousers.
• In my youth, yes, I had the long shaggy permed hair with highlights, bright-coloured tops, Oxford bags, and, of course, the mandatory moustache.
What inspired you to become a model?
• Pre-health scare, a 20-stone unhealthy male with little motivation, winning the battle and weighing in at 15 stone, a different outlook on life, I wanted to be challenged. I started volunteering at the hospital that looked after me, and I was asked to do some publicity work through photographs and interviews, which changed my life as I received so much positive feedback on the work.
• I paid for my first portfolio and was fortunate to be taken on by an agent, and modelling work offers started coming in.
• The world of modelling continues to excite me. Each photo shoot brings a mix of emotions—happiness, adrenaline, and focused energy.
Was there a defining moment that made you realise modelling was your true passion?
• My very first shoot will always be close to my heart. I received positive feedback not only on the work but also on my cheerful demeanour in front of the camera and my willingness to follow the photographer's direction.
• I knew from that moment that modelling was my first love, and age is no barrier!!
What has been the most exciting or memorable shoot on which you have worked?
• My most interesting and memorable shoot was for a Tailor based in London. The clothes were fantastic, the location perfect.
• London was part of the shoot, which took place on a busy road full of people, with people watching, and we received a small round of applause and lovely comments.
Have you faced any challenges in the modelling industry? If so, how did you overcome them?
• Rejection was hard to take at first and did affect me; however, talking to other models, you realise it is not personal, it is all down to the client's vision and the potential market.
How do you prepare for a big shoot or runway show?
• As I do when I am acting, I get into “character” for the shoot, read and understand the brief, and draw on my experiences from other shoots, whether good or not so good; every shoot is different and requires solid, positive focus always.
How would you describe your modelling style?
• My style is relaxed, classic, and considered elegant. I try to do the simple things well without over-the-top extravagance. Although age is “no barrier” to modelling, I must acknowledge my maturity.
Do you prefer editorial, commercial, or runway modelling, and why?
• Editorial is my preference. Why? The most creative. It is where I become a character, an idea, a mood, and not just a face.
What role do you think storytelling plays in modelling?
• Storytelling gives your images feeling, purpose, and a moment. It changes a pose into a moment, a look into a character, and a photoshoot into a storyline people can experience and recognise.
Are there any models, photographers, or designers who have inspired you?
• Remember, I can reflect to the 1980s; I have always admired Madonna, Naomi Campbell and, of course, the one and only Dame Lesley Lawson - Twiggy.
• The photographer and male model whom I admire is Jeff Marano.
How do you stay motivated and continue growing as a model?
• I continue to stay motivated in both modelling and acting, given my stage in life. Although age is no barrier, you must be realistic. I have set a goal of still being a model when I reach 70.
• I will always celebrate and acknowledge my achievements, however small, and stay motivated and continue growing as a model.
• I have recognised that you must have practical goals; the modelling industry is extremely competitive.
What are your biggest career goals for the future?
• This interview and being part of this exciting and popular magazine. Inspire others to “go for it,” become a model, the buzz you get is WOW, when you see published photographs of you!!
• I have a catwalk experience soon, which is exciting, and I have a shoot for sunglasses in early July 2026.
Do you have any dream collaborations or brands you would love to work with?
• I am more than happy with the work I am doing now, although I would love to appear in a NEXT (my favourite clothes shop) promotion campaign; you never know, it may happen.
What advice would you give to aspiring models looking to break into the industry?
I would strongly advise:
• Aspiring models to focus on building a strong portfolio, networking with industry professionals, and staying active on social media to highlight their work
• Try not to take rejection to heart; it is all part of learning in an extremely competitive industry.
•Always be professional, positive, and set realistic goals.
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