Up Close with Patrick Deandre

Photographer Anka Garbowska and 28-year-old Patrick Deandre teamed up for this NYC editorial. The dog days of summer.

Please call me Deandre. I’m a mix of black, white and Jewish descent. My life’s a whole book —that’s how long it’ll take to describe it. Went from working in the kitchen as an 18-year-old to modeling and doing fashion shows at 28. Everything happens at the right time, right? I’m a gym rat. To keep the athletic cut look, I do a lot of calisthenics, core and balance work but also heavy weights. Basketball is my favorite sport: love to hoop —I’ll never turn down running fives with the boys!

Whom do you most admire?
My mom and my grandparents. They’ve always been there for me. They taught me to be confident but also humble.

What is the accomplishment you’re most proud of?
Coming here to New York and pursuing my modeling career. Biggest step I’ve taken thus far.

What is your favorite movie?

The Breakfast Club. I know every line: Mom raised me on the 80s’ culture, so I just have a connection with that era.

Where would you like to live?

I’m a Southern California guy: anywhere near LA is great. Keep me by the beach, please!

Your favorite singer?

Michael Jackson. So much soul in his voice —you can hear the love for his craft when he sings. Gives you goosebumps.

What is it that you dislike the most?

When people have no manners —like disrespecting others and mistreating workers. I’ll call you out if you are doing that around me —so be nice!

Now onto relationships…

My girl and I have been dating for 8 months now, and it’s been the best time of my life. I’m so thankful for her being by my side.

What is your favorite travel destination?

Italy so far. I’ve visited once and fell in love with the culture… and the food. Venice was crazy to see in person. Straight out of a movie. Bellissimo!

If you could change one thing about your body, what would you change?

Honestly, I wouldn’t change anything. Sure, I’d rather not wake up to back pain, but I just need to stretch more and maybe start doing pilates, I don’t know. Or maybe it’s me getting older lol.

What do you like and what do you hate about modeling?

I love choosing the music that sets the vibe for the shoot. I love seeing the photos after edits. And the clothes, c’mon now. The thing I hate the most… sometimes things pop up last minute and I have to work around it. But it all works out eventually.

Your favorite cuisine?

Definitely Italian, Asian and Mexican —in that order. I have a soft spot for pasta —gotta watch out for the carbs, but it’s just too good.

Who are the fashion models you look up to the most?

Ashton Kutcher and Channing Tatum, because they transitioned into acting. They were big hits doing both and that’s exactly what I’m going to do.

Tell us something we don’t know about you.

Remember the Guitar Hero game? I’m a freaking legend, have been playing it since 10. Call me an old soul, I love old classic movies and Hollywood legends like Paul Newman, Robert Redford and Dustin Hoffman. I’m big on the 80s: The music, the movies… I know more than most people my age about them. I was inspired by Sylvester Stallone to get fit, but Michael J. Fox is my hero.

Instagram: @mrpatrickdeandre

More of Patrick on PLAYGIRL+