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We had a Zoom hangout with ‘Pose’ star Ryan Jamaal Swain

Resting in front of an exposed brick wall, Ryan Jamaal Swain exposes his vulnerability and lavishes in it.

The 26-year old Alabama native and HBCU-(historically Black college/university) alumni from Howard University smiles into our Zoom call with joy. Sporting a striped shirt and infectious smile you can’t help but return a gleaming, cheesing grin back.

On FX’s Pose, Ryan plays Damon, a young dancer who’s taken under the house of Mother Blanca Rodriguez after being kicked out for his sexuality by his own biological family. The poignant portrayal had many in the industry paying attention to the actor. Almost instantly, he made the Forbes ’30 under 30′ list and soon, the show was nominated for over 50 awards including multiple Golden Globes and Emmy’s. Pose, which has just been renewed for a third season, has also made history by having the most Trans actors in television history. Its second season is now on Netflix.

He takes Damon’s role in stride. Being a Black and queer man, Ryan has experienced pain in ways that the majority of America is just now waking up to. While many celebrities are only recently speaking out about the abuse that Black people deal with on a day-to-day basis, activism runs in Ryan’s blood. “My grandparents have been freedom writers, part of the Southern Christian leadership conference, Black Panthers, and all that stuff,” he tells Very Good Light. “They didn’t want my life to be hard.”

Before he played Damon in “Pose,” Ryan spent his career in theater. “I just had my off-broadway debut in National Black Theater with the world premiere of Kill Move Paradise.” This was around the time when Hamilton was the hottest ticket in town. “I thought that was going to be my way into this industry altogether. I’m a theater baby. TV and film are things that I’m now learning how to master, and I’m so grateful for ‘Pose’ for allowing me the space to do that.”

Ryan expresses his gratefulness for his character, Damon. “It’s such a spiritual thing to me, so just knowing that I was going to be endowing a queer narrative or queer person of color, I said I have to do this justice because this is a part of my community. This is a part of my tapestry and this is a part of my history.”

In fact, Ryan’s senior thesis at Howard was about Stonewall. “I was this fictional drag queen that lived there and that is when I found Paris Is Burning,” he tells Very Good Light. “Never seen it before, at the time I didn’t know that Pose was going to be on the docket, my senior thesis was preparing me.”

We caught up with Ryan over Zoom to talk about Pride, how attending an HBCU helped him nail the role of Damon, and how he deals with newfound fame.

When did you come out? How did your friends and family react?

The first person I came out to was my best friend during my freshman year in college. I had this moment, where I was like, ‘Yo I’m tired of not telling my friend all of the story, all of the tea.’ I sat my friend down in the cafeteria and I told her that I was attracted to men. I’m queer. She responded, “Finally thank you for letting me know.” The one that was a bit tricky was with my family. I was working on a one-man show and my boyfriend was the production director and my mother found out through his mother.

Tell me about your experience growing up in the South. Did you have support growing up?

I think what was so powerful about what’s happening right now in my life in connection with me coming out is that my grandfather, who is my father figure, was just giving me tenants of manhood. He was the first man in my life that I felt that I was given permission to say that another man was handsome or attractive. That was never present with my immediate family. Growing up I was emotionally and physically abused by my stepfather. My grandfather gave me the courage to step into what it meant for Ryan Jamaal Swain to be a man, on top of the fact that I went to Howard, and that just kind of blew my mind of, like, the possibilities.

Speaking of Howard, which is an HBCU how did that shape your perspective as a Black person?

When you go to an HBCU, or specifically Howard, it’s just us. It let me deepen my nuance and what makes me, me. I can just be me and use everything that is me, in addition to what I’m learning, to create what’s going to make me powerful beyond measure. That’s what Howard gave to me. It was this space where I could cultivate my excellence without my race being attached to it. It’s the reason why I got “Pose,” because of the way that I spoke about it in my audition. Ryan Murphy and Steven Canals said, “That’s when we found Damon.”

You credit Howard during your audition, how was that process of auditioning and nailing Damon?

The audition process was kind of normal. I just had my off-broadway debut in National Black Theater with the world premiere of ‘Kill Move Paradise.’ I was sitting on my break reading the script thinking, ‘Yo this is crazy I’ve never in my life seen a script like this.’ Leslie Odom Jr. described in an NPR interview about how he tanked all of his auditions, until one day leading up to all the stuff that he’s doing he just risked it, going in there as a character. So I said, you know what? I’m going to do this. I’m going to go in there dressed, looking like Damon doing everything that I need to do. Six hours later Ryan Murphy wanted to meet me, and we did a character interview. Then, four days later I got a call that they gave me the role and it’s just been a whirlwind since.

How do you get through the heavy scenes on set?

I’m a very spiritual individual, so I had to really meditate and take the time to go in and endow like a psychophysical gesture—something that I don’t have to go home and have on me. It’s very hard because my body has that sense of memory, even though it’s part of the acting craft, but my body doesn’t know that it’s not real. I had to do something immediately after we wrapped to just throw myself out of it, so I tell myself, ‘Okay Ryan, you took off the clothes, you took off Damon’s underwear, you took off all the things. You go home you make yourself some tea you listen to some music and just try and do it again.’ I allow myself grace and take myself out of the world because I knew that I would have to go in again tomorrow and share and bare.

Who has given you a piece of advice that’s really stuck with you during your time on set? And what’s that piece of advice?

I would have to go to my papa bear Steven Canals. Being a queer artist, there were a bunch of avenues and channels that I had to exit out of to find some type of liberating spirit around myself. In the beginning, the episodes were weighing heavy on me. Canals sat me down and he told me, “You got it. You have everything that you need. What I need you to do is actually believe in you, like truly believe in you.” That shook me. He also told me to get a therapist, which I did. I learned to truly understand what it means to believe in yourself is life work. That’s self-awareness. That’s self mindfulness. That’s self-mastering.

On top of being an actor, you also are an activist and very vocal on social media. How do you take mental breaks for your own self-care?

My mentor, Jonathan McCrory of National Black Theater, gave me this jewel of wisdom: You have to wake up every morning and do something for yourself because throughout the day you’re going to be giving so much to everybody else. I have to separate Ryan Jamaal Swain and Ryan. Like Ryan, that’s from Birmingham Alabama, eldest of four, lover of music, likes to spend time with friends, loves french fries. Ryan loves to be in the cinema by himself, loves crystals, enjoys meditating to the moon, and all the sage in the world. Those are the type of things that reintroduce me to myself and connect me back to self.

If you could give one piece of advice to a younger you, just another Black, queer child living in a rural town in the south, what would it be?

I see you, I love you, there’s no one like you. The world needs you. Don’t lose sight of that because to choose your truth over your safety is in itself a superpower that nobody has. Whatever your truth is it does not warrant your safety at all. You have tapped into what makes you ALL of you, you’re incredible, you’re unique beyond measure, you are powerful beyond comparison, and I can’t wait to see what you’re about to do. If you can’t find the voice, if you can’t hear it, continue to just live your truth. Because you doing that is raising your vibration for your dreams, your goals, and for that voice to meet you.

It is, of course, Pride Month. How are you celebrating Pride this year, and what does it mean to you?

Pride right now is looking like a cute virtual happy hour. The cast of “Pose” is doing a pose-a-thon, which is pretty dope. Overall, pride for me this year is all about education. It’s reading as much as possible and creating work that puts what is my legacy into the pot of what is Pride. Pride is sitting in your truth, sitting in your power, and I’ve also always recognized it as a form of rebellion.

What are your favorite skincare products?

If I had to pack up a bag it would definitely have Scotch Porter’s face scrub, Dr. Barbara Sturm, because Angela Bassett is the face of their Darker Skin Tones line, Beauty Counter’s radiant essence, Elemis’ veggie masks, Glow Recipe’s overnight mask, and face oil from Skin Glass.

‘The High Note’s’ Kelvin Harrison Jr. on sex, Tracee Ellis Ross, and wearing Joel Edgerton’s sweaty socks

Kelvin Harrison Jr. cover self-portrait posing with yellow flowers

(Photo by Kelvin Harrison Jr. / Very Good Light)

The nation is in mourning from dual epidemics.

One, the rise of COVID-19, which still has no end in sight. The other, senseless murders of black and brown bodies by those in blue uniforms. For actor Kelvin Harrison Jr., one of the stars in The High Note (on demand now), it’s been an awkward time to promote a movie. But the 25-year old, who just relocated from Brooklyn to West Hollywood, is taking it in stride. For one, he’s taking time to heal, meditate, and read.

“This time has formed me to read about Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman,” he tells Very Good Light. “Immersing myself in these books and understanding significance of it and how it affects young black lives today is so important. It makes me question how [in our country] there’s always been different levels of access to privilege and power. I’m discovering more as I get older and it’s helped me with this chapter in my career.”

In his career so far, Kelvin hasn’t shied away from intense roles in storylines that are centered around Black history. His debut was in 12 Years A Slave, the 2013 movie adaptation to the memoir by Solomon Northrup, a man born free but kidnapped and sold into slavery. In 2016, he played Simon, in The Birth of a Nation, about Nat Turner, who led a slave rebellion in Virginia. Later this year, he’ll play Fred Hampton, the chairman of the Illinois chapter of the Black Panthers in The Trial of the Chicago 7, directed by Aaron Sorkin. Kelvin stars alongside veteran actors like Eddie Redmayne, Sacha Baron Cohen, among others.

While he has the range to play serious roles, he’s also exploring television, joining HBO’s Euphoria for season 2. And romcoms. “These days, I’ve been interested in love,” he says. “In self-worth, self-work, and just interested in sex. I think I want to explore more rom coms.”

In The High Note, which went straight to video-on-demand due to COVID-19, Kelvin plays David Cliff, an amateur singer who dreams of stardom. He stars alongside Tracee Ellis Ross, who plays the legendary singer, Grace Davis, as she navigates her life with her assistant, Maggie Sherwoode, played by Dakota Johnson. While the film reveals a lighter side to Kelvin’s repertoire, it also showcases his musicality. Throughout the movie, Kelvin sings – with his own voice. Not surprising is that he has a music background, which explains why his voice is so beautiful with an impressive range.

Kelvin Harrison Jr. cover self-portrait posing with yellow flowers in mouth

(Photo by Kelvin Harrison Jr. /Very Good Light)

Below, we caught up with Kelvin over Zoom and talked about being one of the token Black kids in high school, wearing Joel Edgerton’s sweaty socks, and the one thing Tracee Ellis Ross taught him.

Is it true that you declined this role?

I said no to this movie, what, one, two, three times maybe? I went in and I auditioned. I did the whole thing. They convinced me to do it. But then when I finally agreed, they didn’t give me the part. They said no. And then I end up like a week later, things changed. The guy that was supposed to do it wasn’t doing it anymore. Suddenly, I was doing it. The next day, I was on a plane to L.A. and I was recording music. That to me felt like destiny. I didn’t choose the path, a bigger power did, you know? I was supposed to do this movie for whatever reason. And that has not been revealed to me yet. But I did it and I’m grateful I did it.

The movie was supposed to premiere at all theaters then COVID-19 canceled everything. Did that bum you out?

I was fine. You know, I think the premiers to me are like an opportunity for me to dress up in nice clothes, go to get nice pictures taken. Because when I was a kid, I thought that was cool. I’ve kind of done that now and like, maybe I haven’t done it in the biggest way possible but premiers don’t live up to their hype. I think they’re cool, but I would much rather be at my home in my sweatpants, barefoot eating my food that I’ve decided to prepare and watch the movie with everyone else. And I get so much more fun.

How are you dealing with COVID-19? All okay?

I was excited to go to work. I’m a workaholic. All I think about is work. I dream about work. It’s a problem. And suddenly you’re not going to work. It’s been good because I’ve been reflecting a lot on my last five years and just the past five months. So much has happened with Waves coming out and Luce the love from those movies and then working with Sorkin. At first, I was kind of pretending to be good for a little bit. And I think now finally I’ve been reading more. I’ve been doing all the things that I want to do. I feel so charged up and ready to go now.

In The High Note you sing. I didn’t even know that you sang. Can you tell me about your musical background and growing up in a musical household?

I didn’t really know that I sang, either! [laughs] Well, my parents and musicians. So my dad’s a classical jazz pianist and my mom’s a jazz vocalist. Growing up at home, there was constant music. I went to jazz camp every summer, three jazz Creative Arts School for just piano after school. And in practice, I was playing the keyboard in the church. So I was nonstop. But my vocal coach was a miracle worker.

Kelvin Harrison Jr. self-portrait in shower smiling

(Photo by Kelvin Harrison Jr. / Very Good Light)

How so?

Valerie Moorehouse is her name – she’s a funny little thing. She really helped me gain confidence and vocal support, trying to expand my range. I would sing for fun on growing up, but it wouldn’t be like this. And I think. We did forty five minutes every day driving lessons every day, and most of the time it was just about just building confidence. I get strep a lot and my voice is always a mess. My voice is always like ugh. She taught me about healthy ways to live like getting an air purifier.

You star alongside Tracee Ellis Ross. What’s the biggest lesson she taught you?

She’s always happy no matter what’s going on. She is joy. I think what’s beautiful about Tracey is that she can find any moment and can make any person laugh. She can sort of solve the subtle tension in any room. She does it with grace and beauty. And I think that is what I’m taking from her, moving forward. There is a way to be powerful in your work. Stand your ground and say what you need to say but be nice.

Your next film, The Trial of the Chicago 7 seems so epic with such a big cast. Tell me about that.

I play Fred Hampton who just took over the Chicago chapter’s Black Panther Party when he was 17. And he was also murdered by the FBI when he was 21 in his sleep. It’s a really interesting movie. It’s beautifully written. One of the best scripts I’ve ever read if not the best script I’ve ever read. Sorkin was a dream it was so, so striking to me to walk in on the first day. I was doing Waves press and I had to fly back and forth every week and weekend from L.A. to Jersey. I landed at 4:00 a.m. and I went to work at 5:00 a.m. and the first thing I had was me barging into a room. And I’m like going off on Eddie Redmayne, Mark Rylance, Sacha Baron Cohen and Jeremy Strong and all these guys. I’m kind of like, what is the scene? What have you done to me, sir? But Aaron is so encouraging. And I learned so much.

Is it intimidating being next to such veteran actors?

My parents were always just like, who cares? And I think that was that mentality of knowing you’re there for a job. Yes, I love your work, but also, we’re on the call sheet together and we still have to show up and do the job. I was like, you’re not going to like me if I don’t do my job well so I’m going to push through. When you get on set, you start seeing them and kind of go, ‘oh, you don’t know your lines today either,’ or ‘you’re kind of nervous, too,’ or ‘you never done this before either.’

Do you ever get close to your co-stars?

I’ve also been really fortunate to have people that have taken care of me. When I did It Comes At Night, Carmen [Ejogo] and Joel [Edgerton] both said to come to their house. “We’ll cook you dinner,” they said. We had long walks, Carmen and I went grocery shopping together to buy stuff for our AirBNBs. You know, Joel and I built a fire while chopping down trees. Wait, I chopped down trees and I made a fire when he watched. [laughs] But it was very, like, very fatherly of him. He gave me his, like, dirty socks and I put them on and I was like, “oh, my God! I’m wearing Joel’s sweat on my feet.” But you know, at the end of the day, you got to come in and do the work. So I’ve always put the work first. Otherwise, I don’t get it. I won’t get to see them at all to continue to meet my idols.

Now that you’ve done everything what do you want to tackle next?

I guess I’ve been interested in love and want to explore that. I’ve been interested in and self-worth and self work and stuff like that, and I’m interested in. And I’m interested in sex. I want to explore sexuality and sensuality and how what that look like in 2020. Wow. So, yeah, that’s where my mind is going.

Kelvin Harrison Jr. in light self-portrait cover

(Photo by Kelvin Harrison Jr. / Very Good Light)

Drop the skincare!

“I have zits going on right now and use Mario Badescu’s Drying Lotion. It came in yesterday and it’s crazy how it works fast. I’m using Rodan and Fields’ Unblemish Refining Acne Kit.

So I have my acne wash and then I have my toner and it comes in the pack. There’s like a little like solution, the creamy type thing that I put on and that’s it.

Then, I use a Neutrogena moisturizer and actually I use the Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Serum That’s really nice. And I put that on at night, put my zit cream and then in the morning I use sunscreen. Then, I sit and I just drink three bottles water a day.”

(Art by Alicia O’Brien)

‘Mulan’ actor Jun Yu: As an American Hollywood actor I can only exist in ‘Asian’ worlds

I never questioned why there wasn’t anyone who looked like me as the lead in films.

The Asian American experience is not particularly a fun one for me. For the majority of my life, I ran from my culture and my identity. I detested being looked at differently and seen as weak because all I ever wanted was to fit in. Kids never know they are different until someone makes certain to make them feel as such. The single greatest compliments I received when I was young was that I was “cool… for an Asian” or “not like the others.” I took genuine pride in that because, at the time, Asians were a big walking joke. These Hollywood movies made me believe that my culture was embarrassing with the help of wild characters from films like; Breakfast at Tiffany’s – Mr. Yunioshi, Holly’s angry, bucktoothed Japanese neighbor and even Sixteen Candles’ exchange student, Long Duk Dong. Who when every time enters a scene a very noticeable gong accompanies him. I did anything and everything I could to not be seen as an Asian. Impossible I know. But Hollywood has been portraying us as these utterly embarrassing comedic tropes for decades, which results in the mass population of Americans (even Asian Americans) truly believing that these stereotypes are exactly who we are.

Growing up I never once questioned why there wasn’t anyone who looked like me as the lead in films. It was just so normal, that becoming an actor was not even a seed of a thought. Like every other Asian boy, we are bred to become doctors, lawyers, and the classic businessman. It is no surprise that my parents were against me pursuing the arts. I remember the first time I told my mother that I wanted to pursue acting. As soon as those words left my lips, she then turned to me and placed a “Mona Lisa” smile over her disapproving frown. I knew immediately what she was thinking. I could see my mother trying to formulate supportive sentences to say, but she just remained silent. Then she soon began negotiating terms in which the only way I would be able to pursue acting was to have a backup plan. She said all this not because she didn’t believe I could do it, but because she knew damn well that there was no place for people that looked like us in Hollywood. At least at the time.

Then on August 15, 2018, a small little film called Crazy Rich Asians came out, which was the first American backed studio film with a predominantly Asian cast in 25 years! The last one being Joy Luck Club which came out in 1993. Being born in the late ’90s, it goes without saying I have never seen any film like Crazy Rich Asians. But this was only the very beginning. CRA was the catalyst for future films such as The Farewell, Always Be My Maybe and even the four Academy Award-winning film Parasite. And for me to see all of this happen in the last 4 years is incredible.

Now although I was blessed with jobs such as Fresh off the Boat and Mulan. I feel as an actor I can only exist in these “Asian Worlds.” Why can’t there be a character that is Asian without talking about that character being Asian or doing a whole backstory? Our presence in film and TV is enough. Yes, I love stories about our immigrant parents, but sometimes I just want to see more characters like Emma from the series Dave, played by Christine Ko. Emma’s character is this sassy artist and that’s all. The show not once mentions her ethnicity! The really beautiful thing now is that there are kids out there, who at a young age get to relate to all these characters that look like them and show them that we are far greater than the sum of our parts.

For Asian Americans, we are slowly but surely making way for an absolutely beautiful, and diverse future, but it seems as though the representation of the Asian man is still to question. The amount of Asian men in leading roles is simply ludicrous. Henry Golding was the first Asian male-lead I had ever seen (which was only 2 years ago) on-screen that wasn’t a standard karate film. Golding proved to Hollywood and to the rest of the U.S. that Asian men can lead films and sell! Representation is so crucial for people of color because it transcends stereotypes. But the responsibility of representation doesn’t fall on a single person. It is the collective. To quote Disney’s Live-Action Mulan, “When deployed correctly, ten ounces can move a thousand pounds.”

What I want most for my career, more than anything is to inspire others. I want my niece and nephew and other little Asian kids to be proud of their heritage. To be proud of speaking their mother language. To be proud to be their 100% genuine self. It is true, the amount of progress we have made has been immense, but there is a long journey ahead of us.

‘Insecure’s’ Alexander Hodge is grateful to be your Asian bae

(Photo by Ava McCoy/ Very Good Light)

Weaning off caffeine and dairy, Alexander Hodge is on his way to order a decaf oat milk latte – iced.

Of course, this isn’t just any coffee run and Alexander isn’t just any Australian-Angeleno: it’s a mid-pandemic respite for the Hollywood heartthrob of the moment.

Despite his partially-obscured face, Alexander’s quest for a midday pick-me-up is noticed by a nearby pick-up truck.

“Hey man,” shouts a masked construction worker. “You’re the guy from that show, the one who gets with the girl?” He waits for confirmation. “My man.”

“That show” is HBO’s runaway hit, Insecure, and “the girl” the stranger speaks of is its perpetually unlucky-in-love lead, Molly (Yvonne Orji). Although he’s only a recent Insecure regular, Alexander’s character, Andrew, has all but won Molly’s heart already – earning Andrew and Alexander, alike, the title of “Asian Bae.” As the series has progressed, Twitter has become increasingly dehydrated – every quick quip or thrust of his naked buttocks prompting another wave of parched posts to flood the platform.

Speaking of his newfound “bae” status via a socially distant phone call, Alexander Hodge can acknowledge the oddity of his situation. It’s one thing for a young Australian to bat big enough to land a recurring spot on a major network series, he says, and a whole other for an Asian man – rarely positioned as sex symbols – to become the subject of an overnight obsession. An academically-challenged Irish-Singaporean from Sydney, the 28-year old never envisioned himself a future as the leading man. In fact, when asked by an acting coach to identify the kind of roles he could repeatedly take on throughout his career, he couldn’t. In truth, there was no one on screen who looked like him.

Between his relationships with the industry’s brightest and a fanbase determined to propel him to stardom, he’s now poised to become the hottest ticket in town, leapfrogging typecasting in the process. Very Good Light caught up with the up-and-comer to learn how.

How is navigating life in LA? Has your Australian upbringing given you an edge?

There’s a level of bias toward any kind of exoticism. Accents that are attractive and carry cultural capital, British, Australian, New Zealand. And then there are those deemed threatening. We won the lottery of dialect bias.

It comes back to colonialism doesn’t it.

That’s true, I never really thought of it like that.

Then there’s the “what are you working on?” questions, that feel very specific to LA.

Yeah, I just don’t give a fuck about it. I’m very intentional about who I surround myself with. I try to live by one mantra: run towards what brings you joy. I run towards people that bring me joy. The people who ask those vapid, or baseless questions aren’t the people I’m running towards — so I don’t see that side of things as much.

But you do have to work hard to not be influenced by what is “cool.” If you chase the “cool,” you’re going to be surrounded by the people who are chasing status and ask you those questions. I’m not surrounded by the social hierarchy.

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Welcome back. #insecurehbo

A post shared by alexander hodge (@xrhodge) on Apr 12, 2020 at 8:02pm PDT

So what happens when you are cast in the kind of television show that instantly elevates your ‘status’?

You just enjoy the meaningless of it. I’m very lucky and grateful to have had the experience I’ve had and be in the situation I’m in, but on the other hand I remember when I was a broke delivery boy living on dollar slices. And I can appreciate the fact this doesn’t change anything about me. It makes me realize that chasing the status is bullshit because, because now it’s been handed to me I don’t feel any different. I’m no more important than I was before.

And probably no more secure in your abilities.

No not at all! I watch myself and go, Damn, you suck. Nothing about me has really changed, it’s just more public scrutiny. The bad things people say about me I’ve probably thought about myself before. But sometimes people get creative and then I think, Oh, alright, and move on. I just don’t put any value on it.

How creative?

[Laughs]. Someone tweeted that they would find me attractive if it wasn’t for my forehead. Because if I went down that rabbit-hole, putting value on things strangers say on me I would get messed up. I would be giving a lot of people I don’t know a lot of power.

But on the one side it’s a whole lot of “Asian Bae.”

Right but then there are the people saying, “I don’t get it he looks so boring.” It’s a plethora of varying opinions. If I get too caught up in that stuff, then by proxy I would have to get caught up in those saying how butt ugly I am. It’s nice to hear people’s thoughts, I just don’t have to take anything away from it.

So you’re comfortable just plowing through the comments?

Sometimes! Sometimes I can, other times I feel more self-conscious or — buzzword — insecure. But during those times I get off my phone. I can’t look to Twitter for a pick-me-up, even though I love the fans.

I’m curious as to the response of your support network to you skyrocketing this way, and also the reaction of the cast. Jay Ellis definitely went through this.

Oh definitely, Jay is the vet. He directed an episode this season, and it was amazing to be directed by someone who has been through it. To have that kind of trenches-camaraderie. It is such a specific experience and not many people can share that with you or understand it.

Every time we started shooting Yvonne would say, “Are you ready? I hope you’re ready. Because when this drops it’s a wrap for you.” The producers would do the same, especially after shooting sex scenes, because they’ve just seen this happen so many times. Even now Yvonne just texted me, “How does it feel Mr. GQ? But when I’m out in public I’m in a mask anyway, so it feels like I’m borrowing time.

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Beginning of the year vs. now 🥴 #tbt #transformation #insecurehbo @insecurehbo

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How does your girlfriend react to the thirst?

She’s like, I’ve been on this. The level of self-worth and security she has, she’s not threatened by it. To her credit she’s never going through my DMs or looking over my shoulder. The only thing, she’s going to hate me for saying this, wait–[to his girlfriend] I’m going to talk about that two second thing. What she hates is that when I’m on my phone in this Insecure world with the fans and reading and responding and she asks me a question, there’s a two-second delay before I can answer anything. I think if we didn’t have that we’d be good.

It’s a side effect of increased screen time anyway.

It is, yes, we’re in quarantine! It’s not my fault! We’re going to have to talk it out but we’ll be okay. But I don’t know how well we’d go with romance and sex scenes if she wasn’t an actor, and probably the same with her family — they don’t disown me if they’re watching and they see my cheeks.

You speak so eloquently about how Asian men are so rarely the traditional heart-throb, and it’s interesting that when they are — it’s only those who are biracial, or Euroasian. The Henry Goldings. Have you felt that’s put you at an advantage?

It’s interesting, when I read the character breakdown of Andrew I thought I wasn’t going to get it because I wasn’t Asian enough. I’ll think, Oh, I’m too ambiguous, they’re going to want a full Asian and not want to see me. But that’s when people are trying to make a statement out of the Asian casting — tech workers, or something. But with this, this guy just happened to be Asian, it didn’t matter how Asian.

Stereotypes.

Exactly. And for mixed-race people, they’re mixed-race or nothing at all. That’s your nationality and identity, your moniker becomes “mixed race.” My experience growing up in Australia was being a white person among Asian relatives, or Asian friend to white people. You’re not really Irish, or really Singaporean. I’ve lost a lot of bros because I wasn’t Asian enough. I had an Asian person who I like tell me that I wasn’t a “real Asian.” They said it so matter-of-fact.

And then your moniker becomes “Asian Bae.”

I know and I think it makes a lot of Asian people uncomfortable. A lot of people are not really happy that it was me. Though the fact that it was me as a half-Asian, half-white guy is easily politicized. But I don’t think it needs to be. It can be what it is: creating room for mixed people to have an identity. To be considered Asian, even though I’m half.

But I would go in for auditions and laugh because I thought there was no way I was ever going to get these jobs. I’m not the ‘cookie cutter’ Asian, and that’s okay. I’m grateful the room has been made in terms of representation, because I’m not the only one.

Could you have predicted this when you started? How did you envision your career?

No. I thought I’d study for a couple of years, go home to Australia and in the worst case scenario end up working in marketing or something. I never thought there’d be a chance for someone like me to break out because I’d never seen it before. I’ve been thinking lately about the way we don’t realize how much we’ve been missing something until we’ve got it — and that’s how I feel about representation. My acting teacher would ask “what’s your type, what’s your type?” And there’s no one I could look to, because there was no one on screen that looked like me.

I don’t want to represent a whole people, I don’t think I can represent a whole people. But I can represent the Asians with long hair who failed a lot of their education, and took the long way around to do things. I can represent a very specific type of people who definitely exist.

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pointing at stuff with the 🐐 #EdieFalco on #TommyCBS coming February 6 #andstill

A post shared by alexander hodge (@xrhodge) on Jan 23, 2020 at 9:27am PST

That ‘aha’ moment, realizing how much you missed something you never had, was that your reaction to Crazy Rich Asians?

I cried my whole way through that film. I cried not only because it was an all-Asian cast, but it was also Singapore — where I spent so much of time as a child and growing up. I had never even conceived of the idea that a part of my identity could be shown like that. It was a complete revelation. Like, Wait, we can see ourselves like that.

To play devil’s advocate, is there ever a voice in the back of your head when you see those movies become so industry-supported or critically acclaimed do you think, that recognizes tokenism?

It’s funny because Tarell Alvin Mcraney who wrote Moonlight is a friend of mine and you wouldn’t believe how long it takes him or how hard it is for something to get made. And he’s an Academy Award-winning actor. It’s unbelievable, the budgets he has to work with when something does get greenlit. It’s sobering. Publicly, you see this great change and shift and then institutionally, we still have a long way to go.

Is television the answer?

Television is definitely having a renaissance moment right now, but it’s an industry just like everything else. I’m having a hard time separating this conversation from everything that’s happening right now. And when it comes to it and we face an economic pit, I’m not optimistic about the hue of which projects or shows are going to be canned first. If it’s already so hard for an Academy-Award winning writer has to fight so hard because he happens to be Black, and queer, who knows what’s going to happen after this pandemic, if people are going to become more conservative.

I’m also interested to see how our relationship with content emerges after this. Because we’re consuming so much right now. It’s all we have.

It’s very hard for us to conceive of what’s going to happen because it’s such an unprecedented time. It’s difficult to even ruminate on it.

It’s big.

It’s huge! When we do go back into production what’s that going to look like? We’re supposed to be shooting another season later this year and we just haven’t received any word. I just don’t know the answer to these questions.

But still, how amazing that you get to be a television actor right now in the new golden age.

People followed the money. There’s a lot more money in television than in film these days, and television expanded brilliantly. The stories became amazing, and then the consumption of television changed with streaming and it proved that people wanted to watch on their own time. And then you look at the cast of Big Little Lies, it’s insane. At the end of the day it’s exciting. It’s an industry that is always going to exist because people need entertainment, which has been proved now more than ever.

(Artwork and design by Alicia O’Brien)

QQ: Hey, does Peter from ‘To All the Boys…’ wear sunscreen?

The other day, I was browsing through Netflix and thought of something profound: What SPF would these characters wear on their pretty faces?

It might be slightly neurotic – okay, maybe bordering obsessive – but skincare and heartthrobs make for a very happy me. While rewatching You Season 2, I couldn’t help but wonder how Joe keeps his skin so eventoned even while he frolicks about in the daytime. Then I went back and watched Schitt’s Creek, amazed at David’s own skin, wondering what a once wealthy socialite would resort to after losing it all. And of course, I thought deeply about Peter from To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before. Beautiful, dopey, and down-to-Earth, what SPF would he choose from the many on drugstore shelves?

SEE ALSO: Supergoop, a love story

I’ve compiled a list of what I surmise each would use. Here are other guys I love and the sunscreens they absolutely (probably) wear!

Joe from You

via GIPHY

His pick: Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40, $34

You is a character study in stalker behavior and I, for one, wouldn’t (or … would??) want to be Joe’s object of affection. One thing I can get behind? His radiant, blemish-free skin (Aside from when he’s covered in blood from, you know, murdering people) and being the meticulous person he is, there’s no way he would forgo SPF. Joe is probably both disgruntled and intrigued by popular brands and would absolutely try the ultra-popular brand Supergoop! to fit into the LA scene. In his case, it’s Unseen Sunscreen because, you know, he wants to be discreet and invisible to the world. This one goes on seamlessly without any residue or evidence you’re wearing anything at all.

David from Schitt’s Creek

via GIPHY

His pick: La Mer’s Soleil de La Mer The Reparative Body Sun Lotion, $100

David knows luxury, though he had to give everything up. It’s easy to believe he’d splurge on an expensive SPF like La Mer while probably saving himself from other things like new clothing – the man really knows how to recycle looks! The brand-conscious, high-society exile definitely uses the pricey and much-raved-about brand for his daily SPF protection. Yes, even if it’s not stocked at Rose Apothecary!

The Boys from Stranger Things

via GIPHY

Their pick: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Broad Spectrum SPF 100+, $14.99

Mike, Will, Dustin, and Lucas probably haven’t thought twice about sunscreen, but we know their overbearing parents do! Since they’re always riding their bikes around, hiking up crazy hills and uh, defeating perilous monsters, it’s good their parents force them with an SPF 100+ to get them through the day. This one from Neutrogena is so long-lasting it’ll get them from morning to night, to their next adventure.

Eric Effong from Sex Education

via GIPHY

His pick: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 60, $29.99

Eric was introduced as the trusty and wonderful sidekick to protagonist Otis but has quickly become a stand-out character on this often wild and heartfelt show. Eric’s boisterous nature and affinity for putting together straight-up amazing outfits show he puts time and energy into the things and people he loves. It also makes it entirely plausible that he’s just as opinionated and loyal about his choice of sun protection as he is towards other aspects of his life. Found in every pharmacy in the UK, this accessible and long-lasting sunscreen would definitely be Eric’s trusty pick of the bunch. Just like he’s a committed, lifelong friend to Otis, this hard-working SPF is easily there for Eric.

Fezco from Euphoria

via GIPHY

His pick: Hawaiian Tropical Sheer Touch Sunscreen, $8

While Fezco’s quite busy being a full-time drug dealer – and often looking out for Rue as well –that doesn’t mean he’s impervious to the sun’s harmful rays. He does run a small convenience store— which operates as the front for his more lucrative business, so we can totally see him reaching for this affordable and simple sunscreen, leaving him with a radiant glow while he goes about his business.

Jung Kim from Kim’s Convenience

via GIPHY

His pick: Aveeno’s Protect & Hydrate Lotion Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $12.50

It’s easy enough to find at a local convenience store and offers enough non-greasy protection for a non-committed guy looking for a simple sunscreen that gets the job done. While Jung’s attempting to stay on the right track after his period of teenage rebellion and reconnecting with his family, his efforts should also extend to daily UV protection! He can definitely find this brand in Canada as well, so there’s no reason for him to skip the sunscreen. Plus, Shannon is bound to be impressed with his developing skincare routine.

Schmidt from New Girl:

via GIPHY

His pick: Eminence Organic Skin Care Organic Sun Defense Minerals SPF 30, $58

Schmidt is a fancy guy and is likely to buy a sunscreen that looks offers more than the normal spray or lotion. He likes to take care of his appearance and would like how this SPF offers minimal coverage along with sun protection. As he navigates his humorous, crazy roommate situation, he doesn’t often get too much sleep, often participating in a variety of antics instead. Out of his three roommates, he’s the most likely to want a sensorial experience – like a brush. For that, he turns to Eminence Organic’s mineral powder.

Peter from To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You

via GIPHY

His pick: Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 50, $14

Peter is doofy, loveable, and super dependable. His lowkey, no-fuss style makes us feel he wants something to match his personality. This one from Cetaphil is affordable, easy to use, and equally loveable – its formula goes on easy without a greasy residue. When he isn’t thinking about school, sports, or his love for Lara Jean, it’s his protecting his skin that he thinks about most.

Kidd Kenn is the queer rapper bringing beauty to hip hop

Hip hop: There’s an opportunity to expand masculine notions.

While most of the music industry has evolved to break gender norms, it seems like a few in the rap community is still behind and tends to fall back into hyper-masculinity. The good news is there are many new players in the game looking to turn hip-hop into a more inclusive community. Think: Young Thug with his genderless ensembles, Bad Bunny and his affinity for nails, and a name you might not be familiar with, but should be: Kidd Kenn.

At only 17-years old, Kenn has broken more boundaries than most rappers throughout their careers by being the first openly queer rapper to sign to Island Records, perform onstage with Kehlani, and headline Red Bull Music’s Renaissance One Pride event in 2019 — all with a face that’s freshly beat to the gods.

With his mixtape, Child’s Play, dropping this Friday, we can’t help but wonder what else our favorite technicolor-haired rapper has in store for us. Very Good Light caught up with Kidd Kenn in NYC to chat all things beauty (of course), rap, and more!

What have you been up to?

“I’ve been working, working, working… making new music. I’m working on a lot of different stuff; a little bit of pop. I’m just stepping into different lanes, showing different sides of myself.”

Why rap?

“Because it makes me feel like a bad bitch.”

There’s a lot of machismo, toxic masculinity that’s still seeping into the hip hop community. How are you working to challenge that?

“I just do me, and I make sure everything I do is on point to stay valid. Nobody can’t really say nothing bad about it if my music’s good, regardless of how I look.”

You’re all about authenticity. How did you discover your confidence, especially when you’re so young?

“I’m not really sure. I just woke up one day and I just realized that this is life, and I get one turn with it. So, I just have to live for me and do what makes me happy. I can’t waste time thinking about how other people think of me or how everyone else lives, it’s just not going to benefit me in any way. I can’t really care about how everyone feels, because I’m going to live my life how I want to. I can’t let other people live my life, so I just started doing me and I ain’t turning back.”

You’re from Chicago. How was it coming up there and finding your rap career, as well as your overall identity?

“It was fun. I hung out with my friends all of the time, just kickin’ it around the hood. It was lit, though. Growing up in Chicago was great.”

What’s your connection to beauty?

“My barber does all of my colors for me, and I do different colors because I don’t like looking the same all of the time. I like to switch it up.”

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Ion even Fuck with dat….

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Who’s one style inspiration for you?

“Nicki Minaj. Her business and how she works is just so inspiring to me. If I could switch closets with anyone for a day, it would be Nicki — she’s got the whole Fendi collection, after all. Or maybe Kylie Jenner, I saw her closet and it’s insane. Her closet is like a house, she has a whole room just for bags. I love Lady Gaga’s style, too.”

What are your favorite beauty trends of the moment right now?

“I love my eyebrows, and I love highlight.”

What beauty brands are you into right now?

“I use MAC Cosmetics a lot — now that I think about it, all of the makeup I use is MAC. For my hair, I couldn’t even tell you. I use so many things for my hair, especially the colors.

What’s your beauty routine?

“I’m not gonna spill all of my secrets, but I dye my hair a lighter color and then just spread the color on so it comes out this bright. Then I just wrap it every night to make it look fresh.

“For skincare, I wash my face every day. I get a rag, warm it up in the microwave for 30 seconds, make sure that it’s real hot. Then, lay it on your face, and let the steam do its thing. When it cools down, wipe your face. Then use lotion, and you’re set.”

Who are your favorite designers of the moment?

“I get all of my clothes from Boohoo, I love Boohoo. But, I don’t mind a pair of Balenciaga’s every now and then.”

What advice do you have for men in regard to beauty?

“I feel like makeup is supposed to enhance your beauty, not make you feel different. So, just ease into it and don’t overboard with it. I incorporate all of my natural flaws into my makeup, and it makes me feel good. But, at the end of the day, just do whatever you want to do — just do you.”

Bowen Yang is SNL’s most important new cast member – ever

Bowen Yang is Saturday Night Live’s most important face – ever!

Yes, the same Bowen Yang who just started on the NBC show now in its 45th season.

Yes, the same they’d been hiding away in the writer’s room the previous year.

Yes, the same Bowen Yang who is technically just a featured player and not a full member of the cast –yet.

Yes, the same Bowen Yang who has only appeared in 9 episodes of the legendary show that has aired nearly 900 episodes.

As SNL comes back for its continued 45th season Saturday– with Adam Driver and Halsey as guests – we can’t help but look forward to what Bowen has for us next. After all, he’s making history. The 29-year old happens to be only the third openly gay cast member ever on the show, joining current cast member Kate Mckinnon. He also has the distinction of being the first Chinese American cast member in the show’s more than 40 years. But neither of those points make him the most important new cast member.

Bowen arrives at SNL at a time when the aging show, with a long and problematic history of not fully getting the joke when it comes to the LGBTQ community, desperately needs new faces and voices to bring it into the 21st century. Under the incredibly uninspired leadership of current co-head writers, Colin Jost and Michael Che, the last few years have seen the show involved in one controversy after the next when it comes to lame jokes targeting members of the queer community, the latest, as of the publishing of this piece, being a regressive swipe at Caitlyn Jenner (yawn). I’m not going to go on and on about how unfunny the current head writers of this show are when it comes to queer jokes. This isn’t a Michael Che hit piece(this is). But it is important to understand the environment in which Bowen currently operates to fully appreciate his importance.

What’s actually funny about being queer in a heteronormative world is usually hard to see for straight comedians.

Before joining the show as a cast member, he helped write two standout sketches that each caught the attention of the internet. The first, GP Yass, ponders a world in which your regular shmegular GPS’s voice could be dragified. The second, The Actress, takes us behind the scenes on the set of a gay porn film to hilarious effect. Both of these sketches perfectly exemplify what I have coined as “queer authentic comedy.” Queer authentic comedy isn’t just comedy written by gay people (although both of those examples were) it’s comedy that captures some sense of reality within the queer experience. The queerness involved in these sketches isn’t presented as the punchline, the situations in which they occur is.

This newer take on queer comedy stands in stark contrast to some of SNL’s most famous (or infamous, in 2019 anyways) LGBT coded characters. These include Stefon, Mango and Pat; two effeminate gay men and a gender non-conforming person, respectively the likes of which aren’t often seen in nature (and yes, I’m aware that the joke of the Mango character is that he’s not gay but…come on now). These characters, all written and performed by straight, cis people, are excellent examples of how easy it is to get queer comedy wrong when you’re not very knowledgeable about the queer experience to begin with.

Ever wonder why most standup comedians just get up on stage and start talking about their lives? Their childhoods and the people they know? It’s because when someone tries to joke about something they don’t know anything about, the result is usually awkward and unfunny. What’s actually funny about being queer in a heteronormative world is usually hard to see for straight comedians, so much of their queer content is based on the things that anyone can see; bright clothes, weird voices and strange behavior. And while I’m sure many, gay and straight, found at least one, if not all, of these characters hilarious, what can’t be denied is that, unlike Bowen’s work, the mere existence of these queer characters was setup as the punchline. The audience wasn’t laughing with these queer characters, they were laughing at them. There’s a huge, harmful difference.

Another sketch that perfectly showcases both queer authentic comedy and Bowen, is the Sara Lee sketch, starring Harry Styles. In the sketch (penned by frequent collaborator, Julio Torres), Bowen plays a gay Sara Lee exec who dresses down Harry’s popper sniffing, Nick Jonas lusting, intern whose been using the company instagram account to send Sean Mendes pics of his open throat. The 4-minute sketch is chock full of quotes that no straight person would know like: “Destroy me King” and “Must get rid of toxic in community.” The sketch also went viral and was very warmly received by everyone, including actual Sara Lee executives. But the highlight of it for me was Bowen’s amazing delivery of the line “We think it would be healthy if Sara Lee stopped having threesomes.” I dare you to come up with a funnier line reading from the past 45 years of this show. Spoiler alert: You can’t!

Bowen’s natural charisma and razor sharp writing has already begun to turn heads in the industry. He was recently announced to be featured on Akwafina’s upcoming Comedy Central sitcom, Awkwafina Is from Nora Queens. But it’s his highly visible role on the iconic sketch show that I believe will have the greatest impact. His mere presence on the SNL stage is already helping to inspire a new crop of queer people of color to raise their voices. People of color who, much like Bowen himself, don’t currently see much of themselves reflected across the entertainment landscape and certainly not on institutions as legendary as Saturday Night Live.

No sane person would ever aspire to be a symbol of change for an entire community, and I’m sure Bowen hasn’t either but he’s in the right place at the perfect time to let the world know that America is changing, whether this administration likes it or not. Asian Americans and other people of color are on tv and can be anything they want: edgy, hilarious, outspoken and sometimes – beautifully, visibly, obviously queer.

Actor Adam Faison breaks down what gay sex scenes in TV are really like

“The sex scenes were so funny,” says Adam Faison, one of the stars of Freeform’s newest series, “Everything’s Gonna Be Okay.”

He’s talking about the intimate scenes in which his character, Alex, shares with Nicholas, played by Australian actor Josh Thomas. While the sex isn’t explicit – this isn’t HBO – it was still quite a new experience for anyone to navigate. Especially for a young actor starring in a recurring role.

It also came with insecurities.

For one, Adam had never filmed a sex scene before. Then, there were very nuanced insecurities like thinking if it was even okay to have chest hair. “For so long, I’ve seen body hair as a device for comedy and I felt I needed to conform to Hollywood’s standards to shave or wax everywhere,” Adam tells Very Good Light. While it could have become a traumatic experience for any young actor, it turned into an example of empowerment. Much of this was thanks to the show’s director, Silas Howard. “Early on, we had conversations about the queer experience,” he recalls, of Silas, who happens to be trans. “[Silas] asked me questions like, ‘do you top or bottom? Are you more verse? What’s the dynamic in the relationship?’ His ease with it is something that you can’t get from a straight, cis director who may not have knowledge to speak to that.” Knowing the experience and language put Adam at ease. Ultimately body hair won out, thanks in part to Josh who encouraged him to keep.

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Born 2 boogie!!!🕺🏽😜 #TCA20 [swipe left!]

A post shared by Adam Faison (@adamfaison) on Jan 17, 2020 at 5:05pm PST

While playing the role of Alex, a dental student who falls in love with a man who must take care of two of his siblings, one who’s autistic, is Adam’s biggest role to date, the Los Angeles-based actor has been acting since childhood.

Growing up in San Diego, he was in theatre, a place where he was allowed to explore his creativity. It was there, that he learned that he had raw talent for emoting. But when he grew into his teenaged years, it all changed. For a closeted teen growing up in a conservative neighborhood, acting wasn’t always the safest choice for a growing boy. And so, Adam decided to take a break from his passions and repress his personality.

“For years, I had such a hard time navigating school and finding my place,” he says. “I’d eat by myself and sit next to others so people wouldn’t know I was alone. I tried to adapt and survive by conforming and not standing out.” He also tried hard to fit in, lowering his voice, mimicking what he described as a SoCal “Bro speech,” dressing in PacSun getups and watching football to fit in. In retrospect, he realizes he needed to do all of that in order to survive.

And so his role in this series almost feels as if he’s reclaiming his past.

“Alex is so unabashedly himself, gay and sometimes flamboyant,:” he says. “But he’s so confident, and himself. It feels redeeming.”

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Who’s enjoying spiders n sexy time in episode 2? 🕷🙃

A post shared by Adam Faison (@adamfaison) on Jan 19, 2020 at 1:59pm PST

Today, Adam, who just wrapped “Midnight Kiss,” a movie on Hulu, is continuing his journey to stardom starring alongside Jennifer Garner in Netflix’s upcoming film, “Yes Day.” But through it all, he wants his LGBTQ+ identity to shine.

“My queerness today lives in my freedom to feel like I can say and do what I want to,” he tells us. “I can be sexy and I never felt I could. I never had to do sex scenes in my life and it’s so weird to think you’re sexy. You’re the ‘other’ and your effeminate qualities as a man are not seen as attractive but now. I’m taking that power back.”

Watch Freeform’s “Everything’s Gonna Be Okay” here or on Hulu.

Secrets behind Jaden Smith’s colorful hair

What does Pharrell, Kanye West and Jaden Smith have in common?

They’ve all rocked enviable colorful hair, from blondes, to greens to pinks, it’s as if these celebs have done it all. Because they have, through the expertise of their stylist and colorist, Vernon Scott, a NYC-based hair guru who also counts Zayn Malik as one of his clients.

While coloring might change your entire attitude and brighten you mood, it’s probably the worst thing you can do to your hair. “After all, coloring your hair is very abrasive and you’re stripping pigment from your hair follicles,” says Vernon, to Very Good Light. He tells us that when it comes to bleaching your natural hair, you have to get to a point where you’re ready to lead follicles go. “You need to come to a point where it’s about aesthetics more than it is the health of your hair,” he says.

For guys like Jaden, that means going through an hours-long process of bleaching and coming back to brighten it more if the hair doesn’t respond the first time. Below, is everything you need to know about bleaching your natural hair for the first time, and the one step most are doing wrong.

Cut and style first

Ready to take a plunge into the bleaching pool? Cool. But if you do, Vernon says to remember to get the shape and style you want at least a day before you color. “A major part of coloring a lot of guys don’t know is styling and cutting it first, which prevents your scalp from being too agitated,” he says. “Bleaching is strong and you should take precautions to make it as easy as possible. Messing with your scalp will make it sensitive to any kind of bleach.”

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A post shared by Jaden Smith (@c.syresmith) on May 4, 2017 at 9:00am PDT

Go the extra (moisturizing) mile

Days ahead of your color, try to prepare as much as you can with deep-conditioning treatments. A popular choice is Daily Damage Defense from Philip Kingsley, $27, a product especially for coarse hair. Simply scrunch into dry hair or apply throughout with wet. Do this at least three days before to strengthen your hair.

When you bleach do it in sessions

Unless you have no pain receptors, you’re probably going to want to bleach your hair in a series of days. The first two hours are going to turn it into a light yellow, but if you want a platinum, Vernon says to think about coloring like the process of tattooing. “When you want to go lighter or even lighter, you’re going to have to do it in sessions,” he says. Don’t forget that it’s also extremely painful as the bleach will burn your scalp. BE WARNED.

Kinky hair = more maintenance

For those with textured hair, you’ll need be a little more attentive. That’s because, according to Vernon, your hair is prone to being a little more fragile and drier. The more tightly curled, the less the hair is able to absorb natural oil. “Your hair could change textures completely, some hair can even turn into what Brillo Pad feels like,” he says. “The chemicals really do alter your hair shape, so don’t be surprised. If your hair has changed shape or form, don’t fret. Using a leave-in conditioner days after will bring it back to life.

Find a product that works for your hair type

“Not everyone is Odell Beckham Jr.,” says Vernon. “His hair is very textured and isn’t coiled or kinky.” For the rest, it’s about finding a hair product that styles and moisturizes, what Vernon says is a two-in-one. He’s keen on three categories: water, cream and oil-based products. To find what works for you, you really have to try the products out. “The great misconception is that one type of product will work with a specific type of hair, that’s not always the case.” To see which product works for you, Vernon says to go with a “wait and see” approach. “If your hair isn’t absorbing the product but is shiny on the outside, it’s not doing you any good. You have to find a product that helps with maintenance and the health of your hair. If healthy isn’t working you go on to the next.”

If worse comes to worst – chop it off

The luxury of being a celebrity means you can buzz off your hair whenever it’s bleached and dead. “Most of my clients like Jaden will bleach their hair and start again with new hair,” he says. “Unfortunately there’s no way to get around it.” If your blonde hair is falling out, it’s probably a clear sign that it’s time to move on. “Bleach is super damaging so if you’re experience your hair cutting off by itself, buzz it off and start over again.”

‘Harriet’ actor Mitchell Hoog is the opposite of what people think of Gen Z

(Photo by Brandon Jameson)

There’s Generation Z – then there’s Generation Zen.

Mitchell Hoog seems to be the latter. One of Hollywood’s newest “It Boys,” with a new movie out today called “Harriet,” alongside Janelle Monae and Cynthia Erivo, busy wrapping up three other films and a television show, the 20-year old is being mindful of how technology can disrupt life.

While most others in his generation are obsessively posting on the ‘gram, producing TikTok videos, or thirsting for attention, Mitchell’s mostly off of his phone.

“I have a cap on Instagram – it’s 20-minutes a day,” he tells Very Good Light over the phone. “I’m human yes, and sometimes I’m on there more, but I’m very conscious not to go straight to social media.”

Which seems very abnormal for any person under 25. After all, there are countless studies on iPhone addictions, with an average American on their phone for over four hours a day. Though there aren’t any studies about the repercussions, there’s already an influx of anxiety and depression that is said to be stemmed from social media.

But Mitchell refuses to allow technology to dictate his life. Though he has an Instagram and is on social media, he’s mindful of how it shouldn’t play a majority of his daily life. And it’s this self-awareness that he says has allowed him to find success in Hollywood and navigate his career without compromising who he is – someone who’s sensitive and thoughtful.

A competitive snowboarder from Fort Collins, CO, he was thrust at the mercy of the mountains as a child, where he’d practice on an around-the-clock schedule. At 13-years old, Mitchell was already gaining sponsorships and contracts, something that he says made him “mature really fast.” Through the chaos of competitive sports was his ability to quiet his mind, something he’d practiced since he was a child. His dad was a motivational speaker and his mother was spiritual, which allowed him to take part in their lessons. “I read a lot about Buddhism, Taoism from my mom and business books from my dad,” he says. “I was never into video games.”

As the youngest child, he recalls being imaginative and creating his own worlds, expressing himself through acting. His old brother and sister were both in theatre, and when he decided to take a stab at acting, he realized he had an innate ability to emote. It led him to Los Angeles where he was signed and began his Hollywood career. His first big role was as JC Snyder in Netflix’s “Walk. Ride. Rodeo,” a story about a teen who’s determined to get back into competitive rodeo after a spinal cord injury. Next was a Lifetime movie called “The Wrong Stepmother,” where he played a character named Patrick.

Finally came his biggest role yet in Harriet, a biographical film about slave-turned-freedom fighter Harriet Tubman. In it, he plays Vince Brodess, the son of a plantation owner who decides to sell Araminta Ross (Harriet’s given name at birth). It’s this that becomes the catalyst of Harriet’s decision to flee and run for her life.

The movie, Mitchell says, was transformative. “Working with Cynthia (Harriet) was so inspiring,” he says. “Being around people who are consumed by art or an idea and talking to them made me work two times harder. Cynthia is so accomplished at such a young age and I was eager to learn about her work ethic.”

Funny coming from Mitchell, who himself, isn’t even 21. Though not even legal to drink, Mitchell seems wiser than his mere two decades of life. For one, he’s very aware of his own power and encourages others to also discover theirs. “I think we’ve forgotten how to be bored,” he says. “We need to give time to sit down and let your mind explore and go to different places. To question things. That’s how we find empowerment.”

(Photo by Brandon Jameson)

He also mediates – a lot. “Meditation is a constant, almost a job, and you have to work on it,” he says. “Sig down, have your legs crossed and close your eyes. It doesn’t have to be at home, either. You can practice active meditation through security in an airport to anywhere you’re at. Just concentrate.” Social media, he says, has “interrupted the thought process and focus.” He says he wants to simplify his life and his day. And so he’ll paint or read. He’ll text to friend to have face time – real face time, not on your iPhone – and invite them over. He’ll deconstruct the day and dissect how it went.

“Life for me is about being present, practicing vulnerability and empathy,” he goes on to say. “It’s very hard to be vulnerable and I’m trying my best myself, but I hope I can continue being present.”

Watch Harriet, which premieres today, in U.S. theaters.