Michael Anthony – American Gangster Presents: Big Fifty

By starrymag | October 14, 2021

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

 

Q) Please tell us the premise for the film Big Fifty.

 

A) Big Fifty is about Delrhonda Hood, a woman from Detroit, Michigan who ran one of city’s most notorious drug empires in the 90’s. She was featured in a series called American Gangster: Trap Queens, which focused on her and her massive drug operation. There was such a big response from her episode that BET+ decided to produce a film taking us even deeper into Big Fifty’s personal life during her reign.

 

Q) How familiar were you with the Delrhonda Hood story before joining the movie?

 

A) I was familiar with Big Fifty! I was knocked out by her episode on the documentary series American Gangster: Trap Queens. Of all of the women featured, Big Fifty’s episode definitely stood out to me most. Plus, I also have a lot of family in Detroit. So, when I was contacted about the role, I instantly called them back to hear more about her and her story.

 

Q) You play Delrhonda’s husband Ricky who is a hustler and muscle man. Did you have to do any special physical training to get into shape for the role?

 

A) I really did have to up my training for the role of Ricky. While I was walking around at about 240 lbs., when I heard how massive he was, I put on another 20 lbs. of muscle. To do it, I doubled up on my protein and beefed up on the weights with less reps.

 

Q) What did you find particularly challenging about your portrayal of Ricky?

 

A) My challenge with this particular role was that the real-life Ricky smoked – a lot — and I don’t smoke at all. I think I must’ve burned my eyes with cigarette smoke six good times during takes on the Big Fifty

 

Q) The movie stars Remy Ma in her first acting role. Talk about working with the famed musician.

 

A) I’m always a little skeptical when I see a rapper on the call sheet because, if I’m being honest, a lot of rappers don’t understand the nuances of this craft and usually they get the role because of their name — not their skill set or passion for this craft.

That said, Remy Ma blew me away instantly! She was a natural and soaked up everything. Remy wasn’t just great to act with — because of her tenacious work ethic — but she is an amazing person.

People have a false idea of who she is because of her tough exterior. To excel the way she has, Remy has had to play essentially a man’s game — similar to Big Fifty. Because of that, I think Remy was perfect for this role. She and Big Fifty are just so similar in that way.

 

Q) What were some of your favorite or more challenging scenes to film?

 

A) My absolute favorite scene in Big Fifty was between Durrell ‘Tank’ Babbs and me at the birthday party. Tank plays a character named “Slim.” My other favorite scene is me introducing myself to Remy, who plays Big Fifty. Two polar opposite scenes, but I think the chemistry with both actors was there and the timing was great.

 

Q) What advice did director Russ Parr offer while filming that you took to heart? 

 

A) Well, let me say first that Russ Parr was one who pushed very hard for me to play the role. Apparently, he saw me on a show called “American Soul” and said to production, “I found my Ricky! I’m open to actors for the other role, but at this point I’m not open to another Ricky.” So, thank you so much for trusting me, Russ.

I loved Russ’ style of directing. He really trusted all of us as artists. Russ hires you because you’re good at what you do – so do it. He’ll make sure it doesn’t conflict with the direction of the story, but for the most part he was letting us fly.

 

Q) What do you hope that viewers take away from checking out the movie Big Fifty?

 

A) That no matter what path we choose in this life, there are layers to all of us.

We all have layers that we have to deal with all at once during our lives. Life is life to all of us, whether you’re a doctor, lawyer, police officer or even Detroit Queen pen. You have to choose what’s most important to you for your duration on this earth.

 

Q) You are a part of social media and since the film is already out, what kind of fan feedback have you been receiving to the movie?

 

A) I’ve received nothing but great feedback from the network all the way over to the viewers. Big Fifty has been the most streamed show on BET+ even. And due to the great streaming numbers, the movie is now airing on the linear BET channel. I’m so proud of this film and it was fun.

 

Q) What are the other recent projects you have been busy working on?

 

A) I really think my career is hitting that next level. I have some terrific, high-profile projects coming up. This week on Thursday, October 14, I’m starring in “Covenant” on AMC’s ALLBLK streaming service.

I’m currently filming several episodes of “The Game” reboot on Paramount+, which premieres November 11.

Plus, I have major roles in the upcoming season 2 of Netflix’s “Raising Dion” season 2 and the 2022 Paramount film Secret Headquarters, produced by Jerry Bruckheimer.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of the work you do?

 

A) I’m so grateful to everyone who takes time out of their day to show love and support in any way. I hope I’m making you proud and I can’t wait to see you all at the top.

Also, I want to thank Octec Productions, Russ Parr, all the folks at People Store talent agency, Keith Neal, George Pierre and the entire cast & crew of Big Fifty for all playing major parts in this whole thing. I love you all.