Marcus Marrocco – the boy with the distinctive name, memorable manners and an unforgettable face – is the new find of scout Cesar Perin. The teenager has overcome more adversity in his life than most, making his newfound success as a model even more sweet. Proudly displaying tattoos referencing family members across his chest, the artwork gives his nostalgic wartime looks, a clear modern edge. We caught up with Marcus at his agent’s townhouse in London to chat about fashion, music and his hometown of Leeds.
Name: Marcus Marrocco
Age: 19
Starsign: Gemini
Hometown: Leeds
Best thing about your hometown: To be honest the best thing about Leeds is that my family and friends live there. I guess the football team too. I’m not a huge fan of Leeds to be honest, there is not so much to do there, especially if you consider it to London, where I now spend most of my time.
Where do you live now and why: London, as it is where I need to be for modeling, my uncle lives here so it works out very well
How did you get into modeling / where were you scouted: I was on holiday with friends in The Canary Islands – just chilling on the beach and getting some sun and a guy called Cesar Perin came up to me and asked if I was a model and if I would be interested in it as a career.
Worst job you’ve ever had: Probably being a laborer, people have no idea how hard those guys work and the hours that they have to put in – very early mornings and lots of lifting and hard graft!
Were you interested in fashion before you started modeling: I wouldn’t really say that, I always wore things that people thought were “quite strong” lol. It’s never been a conscious thing, I just put on what I liked really. The fashion in this business is crazy – the clothes are amazing and sometimes very bizarre!
Any dream brands you’d like to model for: I’m not really obsessed with brands or fashion labels – maybe a great sports brand or a drinks brand where you get loads of free product.
How would you describe your style: I’m not really sure if I have one, or what that really means – I’ve never worn what people have said I should, or what’s necessarily in fashion – if I like something I wear it – bright/dark new/old
Who are your favourite models: I don’t know enough about the business to have an opinion on this.
Fashion week / casting survival tip: To try and get some time to relax and to laugh every day – I just read that laughing is great exercise – so even more reason to laugh.
Most loved possession in your wardrobe: I have a tracksuit – some people hate it – but it’s something I really like.
Most played tune on your iPod this month: It’s probably Drake
What does the year ahead hold for you: This year I am holding out for something good to happen – I haven’t had the easiest of times and always try to be cool to people – maybe this year it will pay off
Photos: Cesar Perin