Andrew ‘Tru’ Smyth, a partnered Twitch streamer and video editor for OpTic Gaming, one of the world’s leading esports and entertainment organizations, recently spoke to us about his career path and experiences in the industry.
Smyth’s journey into the world of esports editing began in 2018 when he joined the production company ZygoMedia. There, he worked on projects for high-profile clients such as TimTheTatman, Netflix, and Tyler ‘Ninja’ Blevins, helping to establish the company’s reputation in the industry.
One of Smyth’s most significant collaborations was with Kitboga, a streamer known for exposing phone scammers. Smyth’s editing skills played a crucial role in growing Kitboga’s YouTube channel from 600,000 subscribers to over 2.1 million, amassing over 150 million views.
Currently, Smyth is the lead video editor and channel manager for Seth ‘Scump’ Abner, a retired Call of Duty pro and one of OpTic Gaming’s most prominent players. Smyth’s work has helped Scump garner over 55 million views on YouTube alone in the past year.
Despite the prestige of his clients, Smyth emphasizes that his job is not without its challenges. At the beginning of his career, he struggled with imposter syndrome and anxiety. However, over time, his confidence has grown, and he has learned to embrace the challenges that come with his work.
Smyth also stresses the importance of passion and dedication in the industry. He advises aspiring editors to focus on developing their skills and understanding the communities they serve. He recommends creating highlight videos from their favorite creators to practice and showcase their abilities.
While the job of an esports editor can be demanding and sometimes lonely, Smyth ultimately finds it incredibly rewarding. He cherishes the opportunity to create stories that will be remembered by communities for years to come.
Smyth’s success in the industry is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for his craft. He serves as a role model for aspiring editors and an inspiration to those who dream of working in the exciting and ever-evolving world of esports.