Words by Carol Wright |Photographs by Robert Smith
We got to chat with young actor Michael Epps who has been appearing on people’s television screens in the hit show The Chi.
You followed in your mother’s footsteps and decided to become an actor. What about acting interested you enough to pursue it full time?
After I got my role on The Chi I got to see how much fun it is. It’s like the best job in the world beside being a professional ball player.
The Chi is heading into season three. What have you learned about yourself as an actor throughout your time on the show?
I learned that I’m pretty good at remembering lines. Also, it’s a lot of hard work and long hours but I am very grateful and blessed to be able to do what I do for a living.
After three seasons, do you feel as though there are similarities between you and your character Jake Taylor?
No. Not much but one thing we do have in common is we both love our siblings and are loyal to our friends and family.
In the show Jake has to be careful to not fall under his older brother’s influence and in general, stay out of trouble. Are these issues Jake will continue to grapple with in season 3?
Jake goes through a lot more this season. He will experience a few ups and downs but he will finally start to open his eyes to things he was too young to see in the past.
Outside of acting you also have released a single called “Drip”. What inspired the lyrics and sound?
I wanted to try making some music because that’s all I listen to in my free time. My big brother Keiton and I got together and made something for people to dance to a little bit.
With the recent stay at home orders, have you found yourself working on more music?
I’ve been spending my time hanging out with my family, friends, and playing my video games. I plan to make more music in the future.
How has art changed your life?
Now that I have a career in the performing arts it has changed my life a lot. I get to meet some really cool celebrities and everywhere I go fans of the show notice me and ask for pictures.
What advice do you have for aspiring actors?
Work hard and don’t give up. My mom and I heard a lot of “no’s” before I got the “yes!”