By: Kemberlie Spivey
Phhoto By Troy Harvey/The CW
Q) Tori was introduced in Season 7 and quickly became a character that fans wanted to know more about. What was your first reaction when you found out you were joining the cast, and how did you want to make Tori your own?
A) Honestly, I was just so grateful that fans embraced Tori as much as I loved playing her. She’s such a complex character who really represents what it’s like to be a teenage girl navigating high school, and that’s exactly what I leaned into. All of the friendships, drama and relationships that come with high school.
Q) Coming into an established show in its final season can be intimidating. What was it like joining a cast with years of history and stepping into that world?
A) I have never felt more welcomed and comfortable on a set than I did on “All American!” I remember being nervous to join a show that’s so iconic and popular, one I loved as a fan myself, but the cast and crew felt like family almost instantly. I had so much fun!
Q) At the end of Season 7, we saw Tori and KJ’s relationship start to grow. What do you think makes their connection special, and what can fans expect from them moving forward?
A) At the end of Season 7, we got to see KJ (Nathaniel Logan McIntyre) and Tori go from friends to boyfriend and girlfriend and I think Season 8 really shows what teenage relationships look like in reality. I love the growth we see in both of them this season. They’re teens and they’re just trying to figure out life and love at the same time, which I think makes their connection feel so genuine.
Q) Tori has such a confident personality, but we’re also starting to see different layers of her. What was your favorite part about discovering who Tori really is underneath the surface?
A) I really enjoyed exploring Tori’s growth this season, both as a friend to Khalil (Antonio J. Bell) and in her relationship with KJ. She’s confident, but underneath that we get to see she has real feelings, too and I loved getting to showcase that side of her. At her core, I think she’s a deeply supportive and loving person and that’s the layer I’m most proud to have brought out this season.
Q) We got a glimpse of Tori’s singing talent this season. Was that something you were excited to bring into the storyline, and can fans expect to see more of Tori’s musical side?
A) Ugh, that was so exciting! I’m so grateful to NK [Okoro Carroll] for giving Tori a moment to sing on the show; it felt like such a gift to get to bring that part of myself into her story.
Q) If Tori had to record a debut song, what kind of music do you think she would make? What would her sound be?
A) I think Tori would be a pop girly, but with real depth to her. On the show she sang “Find the Love” by Jennifer Hudson and I love that song. I picture her bringing those same raw, soulful vocals into a pop sound!
Q) Tori and Amina have the potential to become an interesting friendship. What do you love about their dynamic, and would you like to see their friendship explored more in the final season?
A) I would absolutely love to see that friendship develop! I honestly think Tori and Amina (Alexis Chikaeze) have the potential to become close as they both keep growing up!
Q) What was a behind-the-scenes moment with the cast that fans would never expect happened while filming Season 7?
A) Omg, I’m not sure fans realize just how close we all are in real life! They’d probably never guess that we have competitive game nights and card tournaments together all the time. It’s genuinely one of my favorite parts of being on this show!!
Q) Tori has a strong sense of self. What is one lesson you think Tori could teach fans who may be watching her journey?
A) I think Tori could really teach young people to show up for themselves and in the world! She’s confident and we see that she knows her worth. I think her high school journey is so real and raw as we see her turning into the young lady that she wants to be!
Q) What has it meant to you be a part of such an beloved and fan favorite show as “All American?”
A) It has truly meant everything to me. I’ve loved this show for years and I’m honestly just so grateful and honored to have been part of something that has meant so much to so many people. This experience has been one for the books!
Q) What are the other upcoming projects that you’re excited about that we should keep our eyes on?
A) Right now, my focus has really been on giving Tori and this final season everything I’ve got, but I’m always working on my craft: my acting, my singing, all of it. There’s more to come, so definitely stay tuned!
Q) What would you like to say to fans and supporters of the wonderful work you continue to do on our screens?
A) Thank you to everyone who has supported and loved this show and this cast!! Honestly, the fans are the best part of this whole experience. I hope everyone loves how this iconic show comes to an end. I truly think you’re going to love the series finale!