Uli Latukefu Interview — Voices Of The Pacific
BuzzFeed: Many American fans were introduced to you when you played the young adult Dwayne Johnson in Young Rock. What was it like portraying a character inspired by the life of a real person we all know and love?
In a previous interview, you revealed that you didn't actually meet Dwayne in person until the set of Black Adam, which surprised me. Can you share what that was like? Did anything surprise you about how he was in person versus over Zoom?
How do you balance staying true to your heritage while participating in an industry often dominated by non-Pacific Islander narratives? And is there a moment in your career where you felt especially empowered and proud of your Tongan identity?
What can you tell us about your role as Lucas Finau in Prime Video's upcoming crime drama, Countdown?
You played Callum in the Nicole Kidman-produced Australian show, The Last Anniversary, based on the book by Liane Moriarty. It felt different from some of your more physical roles since the show is a family drama mystery, and I loved seeing another side of you! How did it feel stepping into this genre and portraying Callum, whose focus is as a father and husband?
For Pacific Islanders, there are so many aspects of our cultures that we hold close to our hearts, from our foods to our dances to our tattoos. What's your favorite part of your culture?
Do you have a favorite Tongan food?
You played Nicky Salapu in Next Goal Wins, a rare Hollywood film with a predominantly Pacific Islander cast, including legends like Oscar Kightley and Rachel House. What did you take away from that experience?
Do you have any favorite behind-the-scenes memories with Taika?
If you could work with any Pacific Islander, who would it be and why?
You've been open about not speaking Tongan when you were young, which made it harder to connect with your community and culture. Though I believe you later learned the language, this is a common struggle for many Pacific Islanders across the diaspora, whether in the US, Australia, NZ, or anywhere else. What would say to anyone who doesn't speak their mother tongue and feels a bit disconnected?
What would your dream role be?
What advice do you have for young Pacific Islander creatives?
Finally, what does being Pacific Islander mean to you?
Thank you for chatting with us, Uli! Be sure to keep up with Uli here.
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