The Breakfast Club INTERVIEW: David Oyelowo Talks 'Government Cheese,' British Vs. American Acting & Opportunities, Oprah + More
Apr 17, 2025
David Oyelowo, a British actor known for his roles in Selma and The Butler, dives into a captivating discussion about his latest project, Government Cheese. He shares insights on the contrasting acting styles between the UK and America and highlights the importance of authentic black narratives in media. Oyelowo reflects on the challenges of portraying iconic figures and emphasizes the balance between personal fulfillment and professional success. With humor, he also talks about family dynamics and the adventurous side of fatherhood.
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Intentional Roles for Change
- David Oyelowo intentionally selects roles to change perceptions of blackness globally.
- He aims to widen the aperture and contextualize black lives beyond stereotypes and caricatures.
Authentic Black Storytelling Matters
- Black stories in the 90s flourished because they were created and framed by black creatives.
- These stories diminished when gatekeepers outside the demographic watered them down or marginalized them.
From Actor to Producer on Selma
- David was initially rejected to play Dr. King and worked for years to get Selma made.
- He helped bring Ava DuVernay and Oprah on board, shifting from actor to producer in the process.