From being a professional dancer to making people burst out in laughter watching his phenomenal Vines to becoming an actor, Woody McClain has gained the love and support of all his fans. Starting as a dancer, Woody had no idea how he would go on to become an actor until he landed the role of Bobby Brown in BET’s The New Edition Story. He then later went on to reprise his role in The Bobby Brown Story.
We caught up with McClain to discuss his upcoming role in Power Book II: Ghost and gave us insight on his acting journey.
Having been in this industry for a long time now, what was it that brought you closer to the field of acting?
I honestly had no idea I would be acting. I thought I would be a dancer my whole life, God had other plans for me, and I am totally fine with that. Lol. This will be my 4th year acting, and I owe it all to the great Fatima Robinson for introducing me to Jesse Collins (Producer) and Chris Robinson (Director).
You are about to be seen in Power Book II: Ghost as Cane Tejada. How did you initially get involved with the series, and what can you tell us about your character in the show?
I got involved with this project through the traditional you audition and audition, and hopefully, you get the job. I was coached on this project by my acting coach Laila and landed the role. The role of Cane might be too complex to explain without giving away some important information. Let’s just say Cane is on a journey to find his way through life.
Was there anything that you added to the role while shooting which wasn’t originally described to you?
Our show creator Courtney Kemp made it clear we were all in this together, and whatever we see for our characters, we were able to bring to her and discuss. We were able to add another language for Cane to speak.
Were there any challenges that you faced during your journey as an actor? If so, how did you overcome them?
Yes, there are always different challenges we face as actors, but life is all about going through different challenges and overcoming them. I have a great group of mentors that I can go to for advice.
When it comes to choosing a project to work on, what are the things that you look out for before finally saying yes to a project?
We, as humans, are not perfect; we all make mistakes. But it is our job to learn from those mistakes and grow so that we don’t repeat them. I look for roles with characters who are NOT PERFECT. But struggle and try to navigate through life just like the rest of us.
What is the biggest lesson that you have taken away from your professional journey?
“In the business you want people to go ‘I can’t wait to see him/her, not oh I see them everywhere.'” – Denzel Washington. I am such an introvert, so when I heard this, I didn’t feel so bad about not being in the scene all the time.
What’s next? Any projects you’ll be working on soon that you would like to tell your fans about?
Yes, Power Book II and also looking to produce my own films with other artists I look up to.
Lastly, do you have a message for your fans and supporters of the show?
Thank you for taking this journey with me. I feel all the love and truly appreciate it.