Colman Domingo, acclaimed actor and playwright known for roles in 'Euphoria' and 'Rustin', shares his journey from a shy child to a confident artist. He dives into the complexities of cultural identity and the transformative power of dance. Colman discusses making pivotal life changes, the importance of kindness in a competitive acting world, and his passion for storytelling. He reflects on his time in 'Euphoria' and the significance of genuine connections in navigating Hollywood, all while revealing his current sense of personal fulfillment.
Colman Domingo reflects on his transformation from a shy child into a confident artist, heavily influenced by his supportive family and theater experiences.
Through discussions on 'Euphoria' and his journey, Domingo emphasizes the importance of authentic representation and storytelling in bridging cultural divides.
Highlighting the role of physicality in acting, Domingo shares how embodying characters enhances performances and fosters emotional connectivity.
Domingo discusses the significance of perseverance in a competitive industry, advocating for personal growth and the redefinition of success on one's own terms.
Deep dives
Coleman Domingo's Career Highlights
Coleman Domingo is a multifaceted talent recognized for his work as an actor, playwright, and director. He gained widespread acclaim for his role as Ali in 'Euphoria,' where he charmed audiences with his powerful performances alongside Zendaya. His extensive body of work includes notable appearances in productions such as 'The Color Purple,' 'Fear the Walking Dead,' and 'Zola.' Recently, he starred in 'Sing Sing,' a film that holds special significance due to its connection to real-life events and the involvement of many cast members who have direct ties to its story.
The Impact of 'Sing Sing'
The film 'Sing Sing' is rooted in a unique rehabilitation program for incarcerated individuals, wherein art is used as a tool for personal development. Domingo's character leads the initiative, helping participants express themselves through theater, fostering a sense of connection and community. The film portrays how creativity can serve as a pathway to healing and transformation, particularly in an environment that often lacks such opportunities. This program boasts an impressively low recidivism rate, highlighting the positive outcomes of integrating the arts into correctional settings.
Personal Journey and Authenticity
Domingo shares insights into his journey from a shy child in Philadelphia to a confident performer in New York City. He credits the supportive influence of his family and his own experiences in theater for his growth as an artist. His passion for acting was ignited when a teacher recognized his talent and encouraged him to pursue it further. Throughout his career, he has embraced vulnerability and the importance of authenticity, both in his performances and in his interactions with others.
Celebrating Identity and Heritage
In the podcast, Domingo reflects on his identity as a Black man and its influence on his artistry. He discusses growing up in West Philadelphia, a community rich in culture, and how that environment shaped his understanding of self-expression. He emphasizes the importance of representation and strives to bring depth and authenticity to the characters he portrays. Furthermore, he recognizes the power of storytelling in bridging divides and fostering understanding across different communities.
The Significance of Physicality in Performance
During the conversation, Domingo highlights the significance of physicality in acting and how it plays a crucial role in bringing characters to life. He shares a humorous anecdote about his own stiff posture while learning to surf, likening it to the need for actors to be loose and reactive in their movements. Understanding the necessity of embodying a character's physical traits, Domingo reflects on how that can enhance the overall performance. His commitment to physicality also ties into his preparation for roles, particularly those that require emotional and physical vulnerability.
Navigating Challenges in the Entertainment Industry
Domingo candidly discusses the challenges he faced throughout his acting career, including periods of self-doubt and the struggle for stability in a competitive industry. He recounts the importance of perseverance and the need to redefine success on his own terms. As he navigated the ups and downs, he maintained a sense of gratitude for the opportunities he encountered. Recognizing the fluctuating nature of the arts, he emphasizes that growth and resilience are vital to thriving within the industry.
Relationships and Personal Connections
Throughout the episode, Domingo touches on the value of relationships in his life, both personally and professionally. He expresses admiration for his peers and collaborators, highlighting the importance of surrounding himself with uplifting and talented individuals. His genuine connections in the industry have contributed significantly to his growth and success. Furthermore, Domingo's perspective on partnership and teamwork reveals a deep appreciation for shared experiences and mutual support.
On Learning and Growth
Domingo articulates the concept of continuous learning as integral to his craft. He emphasizes that each role presents an opportunity to learn something new, and views every experience—good or bad—as a lesson. His commitment to personal growth is evident in his willingness to embrace feedback and adapt. This mindset not only contributes to his professional life but also enriches his understanding of himself and his art.
Colman Domingo (Sing Sing, Euphoria, Rustin) is an actor, playwright, and director. Colman joins the Armchair Expert to discuss dancing and culture, being a shy kid in school, and why he feels like he’s his best self right now. Colman and Dax talk about how some people make social choices to not feel different from others, the experience of going to acting class, and what is was like stepping into the world of Euphoria. Colman explains when he felt like he needed to make a life change, why he stopped saying yes to every audition, and how genuinely interested he is in other people’s stories.
