Tarek McCarthy, a multifaceted individual, was born to an Irish mother and a Colombian father. His fascination with film began at a young age, sparked by his experiences in acting and modeling. As he grew older, he transitioned behind the camera, embarking on a successful career in directing and producing documentary films that focused on humanitarian and environmental issues.
In 2003, Tarek received a life-altering diagnosis of Von Hippel Lindau Disease (VHL). The subsequent surgeries he underwent to restore his health had a profound impact on his perspective, deepening his appreciation for the beauty and simplicity in life. After his recovery, he returned to college, earning a degree in Film. During this time, he co-created, co-edited, narrated, and starred in a short film titled "The Beautiful Wind," which was inspired by his life.
The film went on to win the Best Short - Audience Choice Award at the New York International Film Festival. Shortly after, Tarek received his degree and began working with clients such as the Discovery Channel, the History Channel, and independent entities. Throughout his career, he has worn many hats, serving as a director, producer, editor, writer, cinematographer, host, and actor.
In 2010, Tarek's work took him to the remote jungles of Northern Brazil, where he directed a film about two indigenous tribes struggling to survive. A few months later, he boarded a NASA DC8 and flew through the eye of Hurricane Earl six times, directing a film about the destructive nature of hurricanes.
In his free time, Tarek has been working on a feature film screenplay titled "Fall From Grace." Upon completing the script, he produced a short film adapted from the screenplay, titled "Purgatory," to garner attention for the prospective feature film. From the pages of "Fall From Grace," he brought to life the character Dave, a serial killer within "Purgatory," the short film. "Purgatory" was accepted to the Cannes International Film Festival 2011, as well as the LA and New York screenings of the New York International Film Festival 2010/2011.
