Arlene Rodriguez-Lopez

Arlene Rodriguez-Lopez’s journey into the entertainment world was inspired by her love of classic movies, but it was a foundation in the performing arts through ice skating and dance that helped Arlene transition into acting. As she deepened her understanding of storytelling, Arlene ventured into writing, co-producing and co-directing.

Tragically familiar with the pain of watching someone struggle with addiction, Arlene channeled her experience into her art during a challenging recovery from a severe foot injury. During this period, she wrote “17 Bones,” a screenplay showcasing functional healing without opioids. This work set her on a path to produce and direct a short film designed to foster compassion and patience for those overcoming adversity. Currently, Arlene is working on three screenplays, driven by her belief that steady, daily efforts can turn dreams into a reality. Her diverse experiences in the entertainment industry have not only honed her professional skills but also positioned her as a storyteller deeply connected to human resilience and recovery.

How would you compare your experiences with First Entertainment with other financial institutions that you have banked with?

“I never [have] to deal with ‘fees’ like I did at other banking institutions.”

What has your experience been like using our digital banking? 

“I use digital banking daily. It is part of how I stay organized and up to date about my financial information.”

Tell us something about yourself you would like the entertainment community and First Entertainment CU family to know.

“We all see the beauty, glitz and glam of our industry, however, there are many moments of rejection that go unaddressed. Having the ability to bounce back after experiencing difficulties is a sure way to flourish in this industry and in life.”

First Entertainment Credit Union membership is comprised of the people in entertainment whose individual stories are as unique as they are inspiring. Our Member Stories series* highlights these extraordinary stories. Building a network of supportive partnerships contributes to your story and can make all the difference in feeling a sense of genuinely belonging. At First Entertainment, you belong here and Your Story Matters^™.