Meet Franck Pedretti | Director of Film

We had the good fortune of connecting with Franck Pedretti and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Franck, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Since I was little, I’ve always felt the need to be creative in everything I did. I fell in love with the camera when I was around 15 years old. Back then, there was no editing software—you had to shoot your film “à la gachette,” meaning if you messed up a shot, you had to rewind and record over it to make it work. I started skateboarding when I was about 10, and watching all the skateboard VHS tapes from Bones Brigade gave me so much inspiration. When snowboarding arrived, I was fortunate to jump on my first board (which was not really a snowboard at that time) in 1983 thanks to my dad, and this moment completely shaped my life. From being a professional snowboarder, I transitioned to becoming a TV host, then a film director, and later a TV producer. Ever since, I’ve always needed to create something new. With the technology available today, like the iPhone Pro Max, my creativity feels limitless, always in my pocket!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is rooted in storytelling and the thrill of capturing moments that inspire, move, or challenge people. What sets me apart is my background in action sports and television, where I blend the raw, fast-paced energy of sports with cinematic storytelling. From skateboarding and snowboarding to producing TV shows and films, I’ve always pushed the boundaries of creativity. I’m most proud of how my journey has allowed me to evolve from being an athlete to a TV host, director, and producer.

Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy. I faced countless challenges, from learning to navigate the technical side of film to adapting to the fast-changing landscape of media. The hardest part was earning trust in industries where people often prefer to stay in their lane. But I overcame these obstacles by embracing the unexpected—learning on the go, taking risks, and staying adaptable. I’ve always believed in the power of perseverance and in the importance of surrounding myself with people who challenge and inspire me.

The lessons I’ve learned are simple but essential: patience, resilience, and always being open to learning. Every setback has been an opportunity to grow, and every success has been a reminder to stay grounded and focused on what’s next.

What I want the world to know about my story is that creativity is limitless. Whether it’s through sports, filmmaking, or TV, I strive to blend innovation with authenticity. My brand is about staying true to who I am while constantly evolving. I want to inspire others to follow their passions, embrace their individuality, and create without fear.

I can’t wait to pass the baton to my younger son Cruz, who’s 10 years old and dreams of becoming a YouTuber! I started my YouTube channel back in 2007, but unfortunately, I never fully embraced or understood the power of digital, mainly using the platform to store my videos, films, and creations. Seeing Cruz’s passion and the possibilities today, I’m excited to support his dream and learn from him as he steps into this new digital frontier.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If I had a week to create the best memories with my best friend, it would be my wife, of course—along with our kids and our pup. It would be an adventure filled with love, laughter, and moments we’d never forget. We’d rent a cozy RV that feels like our little home on wheels and pack it with everything we need for fun—fishing poles, skateboards, bikes, hiking gear—and set off with no fixed destination in mind. The thrill of the unknown makes it even more exciting, knowing that every stop could be a new discovery.

Our days would be a perfect mix of excitement and peace. We’d hike through breathtaking landscapes, marveling at the beauty of the world while our pup runs ahead, full of energy. Every step would feel like a reminder of how lucky we are to share these moments together. By afternoon, we’d be back at the RV, casting lines into a quiet lake, hoping for a catch while the kids and dog splash around nearby.

As the day fades into evening, we’d gather around a crackling campfire. My wife, the love of my life, would be nestled close, the warmth of her presence matching the fire. The kids would be roasting marshmallows, their faces glowing with joy as they tell stories. Above us, the stars would stretch endlessly, reminding us that in these simple moments, time seems to stop. The whole world narrows down to just us—family, laughter, and love under the vast sky.

It would be the perfect blend of adventure, romance, and family bonding. Every day, we’d feel the freedom that only comes with being in nature, with laughter echoing through the wilderness. And at the heart of it all, the deep, pure happiness of being surrounded by the people—and the pup—that mean the most.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My stepdad! He adopted me when I was 30, probably the greatest gift in my life besides my kids. He’s the one who gave me the opportunity to become who I am today. He put me on skis at 7—I didn’t even know what snow was back then—and then on a snowboard at 11. I’m also deeply grateful to the French Snowboard Association, and Gerard Rougier, who first believed in me as an athlete, then as their ambassador, and gave me my first chance to appear on national TV. A few true TV legends have also shaped my journey, like Charles Bietry, a true mentor, who gave me my first interview and hired me to help launch beIN Sports, where I brought my expertise in action sports.

The Simpsons were also a huge source of inspiration for me. When I first saw Bart Simpson in 1990, it sparked something inside me. Later, I had the privilege of producing the 20th anniversary, meeting the French voice actors who are now my friends, and Matt Groening, the creator.

Since I was 6 years old, I’ve always been inspired by the character “Nobody” from the movie My Name Is Nobody, starring Terrence Hill. The story of a lonesome cowboy who’s nobody, striving to become someone but ultimately embracing being nobody, has always resonated with me. It’s a reflection of my life. I’ve probably watched that film hundreds of times, always with the same smile on my face.

And of course, last but not least, my wife… she’s the one who gave me wings to fly toward all of our opportunities. She’s the one who made me a dad!

Website: https://www.dsideprod.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_pedrett

Other: https://www.instagram.com/dsideprod