From modeling to photography and cultural advocacy, Ellis McCreadie opens up about his personal growth, new passions, and what excites him about the future

Ellis McCreadie by Ronald Liem for DAMAN February 2025 001.jpg — Briefs by Tom Ford; necklace by John Hardy

With over two decades in the modeling industry, Ellis McCreadie has earned a reputation for his striking presence and dedication to personal growth and creative exploration. Now, as he embarks on new ventures, he continues to inspire with his commitment to authenticity and passion for fresh experiences. In this candid conversation, McCreadie reflects on his career, the evolution of modeling and what excites him about the next chapter of his life.

Ellis McCreadie by Ronald Liem for DAMAN February 2025 002.jpg — Briefs by Versace; necklace by John Hardy

Ellis McCreadie by Ronald Liem for DAMAN February 2025 003.jpg — Outfit by BIASA; briefs by DSQUARED2; ring by John Hardy

DAMAN: Hi Ellis, great to have you with us again. You’ve had such a multifaceted journey. So, we’re wondering, what’s something new or exciting in your life that you’re passionate about lately?
Ellis McCreadie: Thank you for having me! Photography is a new hobby, it’s fun experiencing the creative process from the other side of the camera. I’ve also joined the City of Everett’s Cultural Arts Commission.

Ellis McCreadie by Ronald Liem for DAMAN February 2025 004.jpg — Pants by BIASA; necklace by John Hardy

Ellis McCreadie by Ronald Liem for DAMAN February 2025 005.jpg — Outfit by BIASA; necklace by John Hardy

DA: If we go back to the beginning, when you were just starting out in modeling, did you ever imagine that decades later you’d still be thriving in the industry?
EM: Honestly, when I first got scouted at 17, I didn’t even see myself as a model—I thought it might be a scam! Now, after 20 years, I’m incredibly grateful for every client I’ve worked with. It’s a competitive industry so each booking feels like a blessing.

Ellis McCreadie by Ronald Liem for DAMAN February 2025 006.jpg — Outfit by BIASA; bracelet by John Hardy

DA: What has been the key to maintaining your longevity as a model in such a competitive field?
EM: Staying in shape is definitely a big part of it! But, other than that, I’d also like to think that my personality helps keep me in demand. At the end of the day, it’s the relationships and the people you work with that make all the difference.

Briefs by Versace; necklace by John Hardy

DA: Do you have any modeling goals or projects you still want to achieve?
EM: A fragrance or jewelry campaign would be amazing. I’m also thinking about integrating my travels with brand partnerships, so that I can combine my passions for exploration and creativity.

DA: Speaking of which, how do you keep challenging yourself creatively after all these years?
EM: Creativity comes natural for me. With the industry constantly evolving, it keeps things fresh and exciting.

Briefs by Versace; necklace by John Hardy

DA: How has your perception of the modeling industry evolved from when you first started to now?
EM: I think the industry has changed more than my perception of it.

Briefs by Versace; necklace by John Hardy

DA: What are some of the changes that you think will be most significant in the years to come?
EM: Unfortunately, I think the rise of AI will change the landscape of modeling, but I’d love to be wrong about that.

Briefs by Versace; necklace by John Hardy

DA: Your travels around the world are well-documented on your social media accounts. What are some of your favorite destinations and why do these places hold a special place in your heart?
EM: I love visiting places rich in culture. Uganda holds a special place in my heart, as it gave me a deeper understanding of my wife’s work in global health. We also went on a safari there—talk about an incredible experience. For sheer beauty, Cape Town. The wine country there is also a must-visit. I love Franschhoek.

DA: Do you have any bucket-list destinations you’d love to explore?
EM: Basically, anywhere in France. Bali is at the top of the list. We had such a great time, we didn’t want to leave and there’s still much more to see. Somehow, I haven’t been to Spain. I definitely need to change that.

DA: Can you tell us what your state of mind is like right now?
EM: Driven. Every day feels like a new opportunity to grow and create.

Briefs by Versace; necklace by John Hardy

DA: What do you consider to be your greatest virtue?
EM: I’ve experienced a lot of loss and pain, so I hope everyone can find peace and happiness while being true to themselves. I pride myself on being honest and respectful. “It’s free to be nice.”

Briefs by Tom Ford; necklace by John Hardy

Briefs by Versace; necklace by John Hardy

DA: Which talent would you most like to have that you don’t already possess at this moment?
EM: I’d love to be able to fly, though I tend to sleep through most flights. So maybe it’s better I leave it to the pilots! Playing basketball is my favorite thing to do. I can hang on the rim, but I can’t dunk—yet. I’m working on that.

Briefs by Tom Ford; necklace by John Hardy

Outfit by BIASA; briefs by DSQUARED2; ring by John Hardy

DA: What do you consider your greatest achievement so far?
EM: The relationships I’ve built along the way—both personal and professional—mean the most to me.

Relationships I’ve built along the way—both personal and professional— mean the most to me

DA: What’s a piece of advice you’ve received that has stuck with you through the years?
EM: There’s this great quote by Michael Jordan that resonates with me. “I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life, and that’s why I succeed.” It’s all about persistence and learning from failure.

DA: If you could relive one moment from your journey so far, whether personal or professional, which would it be and why?
EM: Super Bowl XLVIII—my hometown team, the Seattle Seahawks, won! The next morning, I trekked through a snowstorm to a Ralph Lauren shoot. Unforgettable experience, great memories.

DA: Looking ahead, what excites you most about the next chapter of your life and career?
EM: I’m most excited to share the next chapter of my life with my wife and son. The future is full of possibilities, and that uncertainty is what makes it so exciting.

The future is full of possibilities, and that uncertainty is what makes it so exciting

DA: Lastly, what would you like to be remembered for?
EM: I’d like to be remembered as being humble, always full of life and a great friend.

Photography & Styling Ronald Liem
Model Ellis McCreadie/ Soul Artist Management, Heffner Management
Location Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach Jl. Camplung Tanduk No.10, Seminyak, Bali +62 361-2099999

Embracing Change with Love: Ellis McCreadie’s journey beyond fashion

Ellis McCreadie,

Heffner Management,

Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach,

Ronald Liem,

Soul Artist Management