Interview by Carol Wright | Photographer: JSquared Photography
We got to chat with actor Brandon Severs about his role in the HBO Max series Head of the Class and working with Robin Givens.
You started out acting in commercials before booking television shows. What originally made you want to pursue an acting career?
From an early age, I’d always wanted to be a performer! My dad was a stand-up comic in Las Vegas and my mom was a model, so I was already indirectly connected to the entertainment industry. And as soon as I saw my opportunity, I took it.
Did you watch episodes from the original Head of the Class when preparing to work on the show?
I did! I watched episodes from the first two seasons to get into the rhythm of the show.
Your character Terrell is the optimist of the group. Can you relate to him?
I can definitely relate to Terrell’s optimism! I’m not always as optimistic as he is because life happens, but I practice looking at life through the lens of positivity as often as possible!
Life presents us with opportunities to learn with every step we take. Whether or not we choose to take the lessons it has to offer is completely up to us, but the key to success is looking to learn from everyone and everything.
– Brandon Severs
Have you learned a lot through working closely with Robin Givens?
Ms. Robin was an absolute treasure to work with! My main takeaway from the time spent with her was to emulate her radiant kindness. She made an effort to learn everyone’s names, and to just be genuinely nice to every person she came into contact with.
Outside of acting you also sing and play instruments. Would you want to pursue a career in music at any point down the line?
I’ll never rule out anything! Right now, acting is my focus, but music is definitely one of my heart’s passions, so who knows what the future holds!
What advice do you have for aspiring actors?
My advice to aspiring actors is and will always be to never stop learning! Life presents us with opportunities to learn with every step we take. Whether or not we choose to take the lessons it has to offer is completely up to us, but the key to success is looking to learn from everyone and everything.