By: Mariah Thomas
Q) “Manhood” premieres on August 12th, and you play Micah. What was the initial breakdown for this character?
A) When I first read the script for Micah, I knew it was going to be an intense role. This wasn’t a quick short film shoot; these were going to be long, demanding days. I had to give myself a reality check, lock in and approach it with both discipline and love for the craft.
Q) What journey can audiences expect Micah to go through as the season progresses?
A) Let’s just say he gains something important, but loses a lot along the way. That’s all I can reveal for now.
Q) In what ways are you most like and different from your character?
A) Like Micah, I’m persistent and never willing to give up when I want something. Where we differ is that I don’t rely on people as much. I’ve always been the type to take responsibility and figure things out on my own.
Q) Another notable person in this show is Owen, played by Greg Lenora. How would you describe the dynamic between these two characters?
A) Greg is an amazing co-star. We had a great time working together, shared plenty of laughs on set, and I really valued the collaboration with such a talented team.
Q) Being the central characters in “Manhood,” you and Greg Lenora worked closely together. What was your experience like working with him as a scene partner?
A) It was an incredible experience. We had fun, but we also stayed focused on delivering the best performances possible. We supported each other through every scene and made sure the work always came first.
Q) “Manhood” has been described as a transformative and vulnerable story “that redefines the coming-of-age story for young Black men” by Metal Magazine. What does it mean to you to portray Micah’s story and be this representation?
A) Micah represents the struggle of figuring out who you want to be while still growing into yourself. I love that his journey includes choosing to become a better person and that it highlights one Black man helping another. That kind of representation matters.
Q) “Manhood” will join the ranks of other coming-of-age stories. What were monumental films or shows for you growing up?
A) Get Out was huge for me. I loved the performances and direction. Us as well — another brilliant film. Jordan Peele is such a visionary, and I’d love to work with him one day.
Q) Tyson Anthony is the show’s Director and Writer (among many other roles). What was your experience bringing Micah to life together?
A) One note Tyson gave me has stuck with me: “Slow down, nothing is in a rush.” He told me that during filming in January, and it’s shaped the way I approach every project since.
Q) How do you think the title “Manhood” encapsulates the show as a whole?
A) It’s exactly what the show is about: Micah becoming a man and learning to adapt to a new social environment.
Q) Is there a scene or moment you’re most proud of this season?
A) Honestly, I’m proud of all of it. Every scene challenged me in a different way, and I’m excited for people to see the work we put in.
Q) What episode are you most excited for people to see?
A) The first episode. It’s powerful, and I think it will really pull people in.
Q) What do you hope viewers take away from the show after watching?
A) I hope they see how much heart and effort went into this project. I’m only nineteen years old and this is just the beginning. There’s always room to grow and “Manhood” reflects that journey.
Q) What would you like to say to fans and supporters of your work?
A) Thank you for supporting me and being part of this journey. This is just the start and there’s so much more to come.