Interviews
Erica Ash – Survivor’s Remorse
Q) What are the recent projects that you are working on?
A) Besides “Survivor’s Remorse,” I am currently shooting “Real Husbands of Hollywood” Season 4 and I shot a movie a little earlier called Sister Code set to be released in 2015.
Q) Please tell us the premise for “Survivor’s Remorse” and about your character M-Chuck.
A) “Survivor’s Remorse” is the story of young Cam Calloway (Jessie Usher) a basketball phenom who gets a multi-million dollar professional contract and moves along with his entire family down to Atlanta, GA. It follows the family as they navigate the ups and downs of dealing with such a high level of success, fame and money all at once. It explores a number of different themes such as benevolence vs. obligation, expectations of family and friends both old and new, and how to make seemingly endless money last. Mary Charles Calloway (M-Chuck) is Cam’s older sister. She’s a tough, smart-mouthed lesbian who is unafraid and unapologetic about who she is. She has undying love for her family, especially her little brother Cam, and is highly loyal to and protective of them.
Q) What made you want to be a part of the show?
A) I was highly impressed with the script. Not only did I appreciate that the writing was not stereotypical both of my lesbian character and of my black family, but I loved that fact that it was funny, engaging, intelligent and very relevant. There are themes in the show (which by the way was written months and months ago) that speak to themes that tend to resurface constantly (i.e. disciplining children, homosexuality and the church, etc.)
Q) Was there anything you added to the role that wasn’t originally scripted for you?
A) Although M-Chuck was written as more the aggressor in her relationships, I wanted to preserve her beauty and femininity as much as possible. I also wanted to make her authentic and I added a Boston accent. Even though she’s strong, I sensed a naive quality to her and I wanted to show that as well.
Q) Was there instant cast chemistry when everyone began working together or did it take some time to develop?
A) Absolutely! And that is not always the case (even over time). Our cast clicked and we all knew we were a family from DAY ONE!! Kim Coleman cast the perfect family. Our chemistry continues off camera/outside of work. We talk almost everyday as a group. It’s really beautiful to be a part of this family. And the chemistry extends beyond the cast: the producers, writers and crew are all a part of it. Everyone has a place in this huge family STARZ has created and It’s really something special.
Q) What makes the STARZ Network a great fit for the show?
A) STARZ provides a platform for our writers to freely script this show without the heavy censorship we might find at some other networks. It’s great for the edgy nature of our show. Besides that, STARZ really treats us well, which allows us as actors much more freedom to focus on creating at our highest levels.
Q) What have been some of your most memorable moments from filming?
A) Definitely the Soul Train Friday session we had. Mike Epps came in with a boombox and some serious old school music and the entire cast, crew and producers had a dance break before we got started (on the way up the elevator and as we walked onto set.) And my scene with Cam in episode one was a wonderful moment for me as an actor because Jessie and I were still getting to know each other as cast mates and that scene made it tacitly clear to both of us that we would be there and support each other artistically. Our bond grew in that scene and established us as true brother and sister.
Q) What is it about “Survivor’s Remorse” that will make it a fast fan favorite?
A) It’s ability to reach across demographic lines. Similar to “The Cosby Show,” (which our Executive Producer Tom Werner also produced…lucky us!) the themes in our show touch a span of people in and outside of the black community. Our show is intelligent and fun and funny. Our cast brings energy and everyone’s role is distinct and powerful. If I wasn’t in it I would definitely watch it. And that says a lot!
Q) You are a part of social media. Are you looking forward to the instant fan feedback you will receive when the show premieres?
A) DEFINITELY! One of my favorite things about the show is it’s ability to start conversation and provide a reference point for conversations already in progress socially. I invite the conversation and look forward to hearing everyone’s thoughts.
Q) Where can people go online to learn more about you?
A) You can reach me at:
Instagram: @therealericaash
Twitter & Facebook: @theericaash
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