Today, singer-songwriter and rising actor ROLE MODEL (aka Tucker Pillsbury) takes center stage as the latest VMAN Magazine cover star—and honestly, it’s about time.
The feature, titled “Rock ’N’ Role: The Summer of Role Model”, gives us a gritty, intimate look at the artist we’ve come to know for vulnerable lyrics, dreamy pop tracks, and that effortlessly cool energy. Shot in sun-soaked, smudged denim and cowboy boots, the editorial sets the tone for what’s clearly a new chapter in his creative journey.
🎬 From Filmmaking Dreams to Global Tours
Before the sold-out shows and fan-favorite EPs, Pillsbury was just a film student from Maine making hip-hop mixtapes in his dorm room. That DIY mindset stuck—he started producing and singing on his own tracks, and what began as late-night bedroom sessions eventually turned into his breakout EP Arizona in the Summer in 2017.
One major turning point? A chance meeting with Mac Miller’s crew. They flew him out to L.A., and Tucker says, “That was the coolest moment of my life. It was the start of everything.”
🎤 The Name? Yeah, It’s from That Movie
Yes, “ROLE MODEL” is a reference to the 2008 Paul Rudd comedy, and no, he didn’t think the name would stick. He tells VMAN, “The movie thing needs to die… You forget that’s your name forever.” But honestly, it fits him—self-aware, slightly ironic, and impossible to ignore.
💥 A New Era: Acting, Collabs, and More
ROLE MODEL is stepping into acting with a major role in Lena Dunham’s upcoming Netflix rom-com Good Sex, starring alongside Natalie Portman and Mark Ruffalo. It’s a bold move—but one that feels like a natural next step for an artist who’s always told stories from the heart.
On the music side, he's just announced a re-release of his track "The Longest Goodbye"—this time featuring the gorgeous vocals of Laufey. That new version drops tomorrow, July 9.
He also just wrapped up a leg of tour dates with Gracie Abrams, including a final show in Mexico City, and now he’s setting the stage for something bigger—and more personal.
📸 The VMAN Cover Shoot Vibe?
Think: dusty denim, sunset haze, and that quiet intensity Tucker always brings to the table. Photographed by Richie Talboy and styled by Alexander Roth, the shoot mirrors the same emotional honesty he’s known for in his music.
It’s not just a cover—it’s a mission statement.
TL;DR:
New Music: “The Longest Goodbye” ft. Laufey drops July 9
New Role: Co-starring in Lena Dunham’s Netflix film Good Sex
Tour Life: Wrapped up shows with Gracie Abrams
Creative Evolution: From indie darling to multi-hyphenate artist
ROLE MODEL isn’t just putting out music—he’s building a world, and this summer, we’re all just living in it.
📖 Check out the full VMAN cover story here
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