We got to chat with Angela Lewis who plays Aunt Louie in the FX show Snowfall about her journey from the stage to your television screens.
Words by Carol Wright | Photos by Bobby Quillard
When did you realize you wanted to be an actor?
I’ve always known! The first time the desire was confirmed was in second grade when my teacher felt I had exhibited enough stage presence and talent that she created the role of ‘Little Snow White’ in the school play for me. I took that opportunity and ran! I knocked it out of the park and haven’t looked back!
What drew you to the show Snowfall?
Initially, it was an opportunity like any other. It was a chance to do a coveted pilot, in hopes that the pilot would get picked up. It was a chance to work with John Singleton, on FX no less. I also liked the writing, and the character ‘Aunt Louie’ seemed fun and different from me.
Playing Aunt Louie must put you in a completely different headspace. What do you do to get into character?
I get loose and ready to play. I have to get rid of my insecurities and fears of looking a certain way, or not looking a certain way. I have to get rid of being nice and kind and pleasant. I have to be warmed up and ready to react impulsively. I observe my castmates closely, particularly Amin Joseph, who plays ‘Jerome.’ He’s usually the one getting ‘Louie’s’ pressure up! Lol, When I’m tuned into ‘Louie,’ we can “toss the ball” back and forth in the most deliciously explosive way!
What has been your favorite episode of Snowfall so far?
So far, episode 203 has been my favorite. There’s a couple more that I love coming up as well. Season 2 really does raise the bar.
What should fans expect in season 2?
Fire!!! We just go harder. Everything, the writing, directing, acting, cinematography, art direction, the music…everything goes to the next level in season 2. I’m really proud of the work we did as a unit!
You started out in the theatre. Do you think starting out on stage helped your career?
Absolutely! Theater life, particularly New York theater life is like a kiln. Working in the theater helped me to understand storytelling and the part I play in any given project. It taught me how to use my instrument, and care for it optimally. It taught me how to collaborate, and how to offer my thoughts constructively and with respect. Theater taught me how to have stage presence. It gave me stamina. All things creative teams look for/hope for/notice in every medium of this business. It also set the stage, so to speak, for me to know what I want and don’t want business-wise. I would be a totally different actor if I didn’t have my training and experience in the theater.
As an actor, it is common to have to deal with rejection. What kept you motivated in the early stages of your career when you had to deal with numerous no’s?
Just out of college, I taught K-8 drama full time for a year to save money for my move to New York. At the end of the year, the principal offered me the position of department head if I stayed. I had to think long and hard about that one, but in the end, I knew in my gut that I would always regret it if I didn’t follow my dream. There were some teachers there who called me crazy. They said I was so “cute” for thinking I could make it in New York. They said they tried New York, and then they smirked in my face, and told me, “You’ll see. You’ll be back”. It was the first time ever in my life, anyone had told me I couldn’t do it. Fast forward to the ridiculously expensive cost of living in New York. Anytime I felt distracted or off track or discouraged, I would look at my empty bank account and the grits I was eating for the third time that day and make a choice. I could go back home to Detroit and make a decent living as a teacher, hating myself for quitting, and those awful teachers for being right, or I could get myself focused and do what I needed to do in New York to be the actor I wanted to be, with the career I wanted to have, eating the kinds of meals I thought were delicious, and wearing shoes that didn’t have holes in them. It was go hard or go home, and I refused to go home.
Your husband is also an actor. Do you often give each other tips or advice?
All the time! We coach each other for auditions. He’s really business savvy and coaches me through the business aspects of the industry all the time. We talk to each other when one of us is worked up or discouraged. We have a rule – we don’t indulge each other in self-deprecation. It’s one thing to feel bummed about a “no.” It’s a whole other thing to start doubting yourself and your talent. That is not allowed. Conversely, anytime one of us gets a win (doesn’t matter, big or infinitesimal), we become a human mix-tape and do a celebration dance together!
Outside of acting what do you enjoy doing?
Traveling, meditating, hanging out with friends, laundry (it’s calming), going to the beach, doing something new, being with the hubby, experiencing my oneness with all that there is, Face-timing with my parents. I just enjoy life. Whatever it is I’m doing, I like to enjoy it.
What advice do you have for aspiring actors?
Don’t try to rely solely on your talent or your looks. There are so many talented and beautiful people in this world. Hard work and preparation is what separates you from the rest; This career is a journey, not a destination; Don’t beat yourself up; Stay in class; Ask questions; Use your resources; Don’t make excuses. If this is important to you, you’ll find a way; In the beginning, don’t be so worried about finding an agent. If you found one now, you wouldn’t know what to do with them, and you’d blow it. The representation will come; You only get one shot, so don’t be raggedy with it. Make sure your materials and tools are professional and top-notch; Everyone’s path is different. You can learn from others and borrow snippets, but no one’s path will be exactly like yours, so stop comparing. There will always be someone taller, shorter, skinnier, fatter, lighter, darker, funnier, more serious, and on and on. You can’t worry about all that. You have to just be you; Shine your light; There is room for everyone.