Tommy Burke - Not just sunglasses & autographs

A graduate of Boston College, Burke started out in television as a production Assistant while working other odd jobs, from bar bouncer, golf caddy to factory assemblyman, to sustain the meager TV industry income. 

His height and physical build came in handy, scoring him a gig loading grip trucks for Powerhouse Films, which further exposed him to commercials and films in and around the New England area. He soon became the ‘go to’ guy of Production Assistants in Boston, working every motion picture produced in Massachusetts. 

After a move to Los Angeles in 1990, Burke quickly moved up the production ranks, working as First Assistant Director on an independent film with Johnny Depp. Nicknamed “the Irish Bull” by his west coast colleagues, Burke went on to secure Assistant Director credits including, Jerry Bruckheimer’s acclaimed TV series Skin, Close to Home, CSI Miami, and the pilot for Desperate Housewives. He spent his last five years on Chicago PD. 

In 2003, Burke was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Three years of doctor visits, nine operations and chemotherapy treatments were all included in part of his rigorous 14-hour shoot day routine. To no surprise, given his well known tenacity, Burke conquered the disease into remission mostly by himself. 

The experience empowered him to take inventory of his life, specifically his trade, leading him to approach his career from an alternative perspective that was better aligned with his personal values. Best known in the industry for his talent, perseverance and respectful collaboration with colleagues on all levels.

Socials:

Website: https://tommyburke.com/

LinkedIn: Tommy Burke

Insta: Tommy Burke @tommy_burke_dga

Podcast: Not Just Sunglasses & Autographs podcast 

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