MLK/X: Kelvin Harrison Jr. & Aaron Pierre on the privilege & honor of this intimate, powerful show

Kelvin Harrison Jr. & Aaron Pierre are interviewed for Nat Geo's Genius: MLK/X. National Geographic presents Kelvin Harrison Jr. (The Trial of the Chicago 7) as Martin Luther King Jr., Aaron Pierre (Mufasa: The Lion King, Foe, Blade) as Malcolm X, Weruche Opia (I May Destroy You) as Coretta Scott King, and Jayme Lawson (The Woman King, The Batman) plays Betty Shabazz. The series also marks one of the last roles for Ron Cephas Jones.

0:00: 🎥 Discussion on preparing for roles like Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. in a historical show.
0:46: Kelvin Harrison Jr. sought accurate information from close sources for his role as Malcolm X.
2:08: Aaron Pierre focused on understanding the tone and historical approach of the show for his role.
2:27: Both actors visited museums and historical sites to immerse themselves in the characters' experiences.
2:34: 🎭 Discussion on the spiritual experience of portraying historical figures and the similarities between MLK and Malcolm X. Kelvin and Aaron immersed themselves in the culture and history of MLK and Malcolm X.
2:49: The actors found it necessary to approach their roles as a spiritual experience, not just an academic exercise
3:39: They believe that MLK and Malcolm X had more similarities than commonly portrayed
4:27: The series aims to show the similarities and differences of the two iconic figures
4:45: Acting in this project has given the actors a deep insight into history and themselves
5:04: 🎭 Kelvin Harrison Jr. reflects on the privilege and honor of portraying Dr. Martin Luther King and other significant black figures, highlighting the progress and trauma of the black experience in America. Kelvin's shock at portraying serious topics and historical figures despite his non-academic background.
5:30: Reflecting on the progress and trauma of the black experience in America, from slavery to present day.
5:46: Acknowledging the privilege and honor of portraying Dr. Martin Luther King, and the unexpected nature of this opportunity.
6:32: The trajectory of Kelvin's career has been a privilege and an honor, shaping his character as a black man in America.
6:44: Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to discuss the topic and acknowledging the depth of the conversation.

Stefan Pape asks the questions.

Plot: The show is an 8 episode series that centers on the formative years,
accomplishments, dueling philosophies and key personal relationships of Dr.
Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.

Genius: MLK/X premieres in the UK on 3rd February at 9pm with a double bill
on National Geographic

#GeniusMLKX #KelvinHarrisonJr #AaronPierre
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