Daniel Kaluuya, an acclaimed actor and writer, talks about growing up in a dangerous environment, navigating rejection in the acting industry, conversations with Olivia Coleman, and reflections on winning an Oscar.
Daniel Kaluuya emphasizes the importance of emotional resilience in the entertainment industry and the need to learn from rejection and stay positive.
Kaluuya reflects on the impact of fame on his life, highlighting the balance between enjoying its perks and staying true to his craft.
Deep dives
Daniel Kaluya's Journey to Success
Daniel Kaluya, a successful actor and filmmaker, reflects on his journey in the entertainment industry. He discusses his early experiences of being underestimated and how he has overcome challenges to reach his current level of success. Kaluya shares insights into his creative process and the themes he explores in his work, such as compassion and forgiveness. He also talks about the influence of his upbringing in London and how it shaped his perspective on life. Despite his fame, Kaluya remains grounded and focused on staying true to himself and his craft.
Navigating Rejection and Resilience
Kaluya discusses his experience with rejection as an actor and the importance of emotional resilience in the industry. He emphasizes the need to stay positive and learn from each audition or setback. Kaluya shares his mindset of continuously growing and improving, and not being deterred by rejection. He attributes his success to his ability to cope with rejection and maintain a strong work ethic.
Understanding Fame and Its Impact
Kaluya shares his thoughts on fame and its impact on his life. He acknowledges that fame has made him face certain aspects of himself and confront personal growth. He discusses the balance between enjoying the perks of fame and staying true to his craft. Kaluya appreciates the moments of normalcy that the pandemic provided, allowing him to connect with people on a genuine level and appreciate the simple joys of everyday life.
Advice to His Younger Self and Embracing Authenticity
If given the chance, Kaluya would advise his younger self to be honest, speak his mind, and embrace his true self. He highlights the importance of authenticity and staying true to one's beliefs and values. Kaluya encourages being unafraid to express oneself and have the confidence to pursue one's passions and dreams. He attributes his success to being himself and encourages others to do the same.
Kirsty Young talks to the movie star Daniel Kaluuya, about what he’s learned from his life so far. He grew up in Camden, North London and first found success as an actor and also writer of the teen drama Skins. An acclaimed career in Hollywood has followed, with an Academy Award in 2021 for his role in Judas and the Black Messiah. His first feature film which he has written, produced and directed, The Kitchen, will be released in early 2024.
Producer: Sam Peach
Content Editor: Richard Hooper
Editor: Alice Feinstein
Senior Technical Producer: Duncan Hannant
Presenter: Kirsty Young
A BBC Audio Production
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