Interview by Carol Wright | Photographs Courtesy of Alonzo B Slater
We got to chat with up-and-coming actor Alonzo B Slater about moving from New Jersey to Los Angeles to pursue acting and his role in the film A Christmas for Mary.
Did a particular movie or television show spark your interest in acting?
Honestly, there are tons of shows and movies that sparked my light for acting, however, there’s one that just really intrigued me which is John Q starring Denzel Washington. His willingness to get that kidney for his son was so powerful for me and I enjoyed seeing men of color that looked like me perform in such amazing roles.
Were you nervous to take the leap to move from New Jersey to Los Angeles to pursue your acting career?
I was so nervous! I didn’t know anyone personally to just say, “can I stay with you for a few months until I book something?” I wish it was that easy. I sacrificed my comfortability in Jersey to pursue a dream which might not happen. I knew I couldn’t look back and haven’t since.
Tell us a bit about A Christmas for Mary. What about the film interested you?
A Christmas for Mary was such a joyous experience being my first film and lead role. I played a cool, sophisticated handsome gentleman running his grandparent’s coffee shop, a dream of his own but life gets in the way. He then meets the beautiful Lena Jones played by Morgan Dixon, and figures out what matters most in the midst of learning more about their grandparents’ long lost love.
Could you relate to your character Michael?
I can definitely relate to Michael. He was very stagnant and living his life for other people like myself until you realize what matters and that’s, ‘YOU’. I started being selfish with what I want and how I should think. You have to bet on yourself, always. Michael realized that later on.
What did you learn from your co-stars Vivica A. Fox and Jackeé Harry?
I didn’t have any scenes with the legendary Vivica A. Fox & Jackeé Harry, however, we were chatting during the promo shoot and they were such a delight! They are everything I imagined them to be. So professional, energetic, nice, and always on their ‘A game’. A piece of advice from Vivica is to show up on set knowing your lines and to be ready! They’re so proud of my work and that makes me very happy.
What advice do you have for aspiring actors?
The advice I will give for aspiring actors is to go for anything you want to do, stay focused, persistent, be a good listener and a good person. Never dull anyone’s light because yours is suddenly down at the moment. Understand what’s for you will always be for you. More importantly, have fun!