Latest news with #ErnestKingsleyJr
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Ernest Kingsley Jr. Praises ‘Washington Black' Costar Sterling K. Brown's Offscreen ‘Mentorship'
Ernest Kingsley Jr. is grateful that Hulu's Washington Black offered him the chance not only to share the screen with Sterling K. Brown — but to be mentored by him as well. During an exclusive interview, Us Weekly mentioned to Brown, 49, how much his costars praised him for the support he provided on set. Kingsley Jr., for his part, shared his own experience getting to work with Brown after admiring his work. "First of all, I feel like I kind of dragged Sterling into being a mentor. I just kind of asked him so many questions, like, 'Hey man, how are you doing? It's 1:00 a.m. but I need your help,'" Kingsley Jr., who plays adult Wash, joked to Us while discussing the show, which premiered on Wednesday, July 23. "It was natural, to be honest. It was naturally built." Kingsley Jr. pointed out how Brown "operates with vulnerability in such a powerful way," adding, "Sterling operates with a sense of power, and he encourages and incites it in you. It is this sense of, if you open up to that [kind of vulnerability yourself] then it will be held and cared for and loved. I feel like he spread that out across multiple cast members and across the crew." What to Know About Sterling K. Brown's 'Washington Black': From Cast Details to Book Connections He continued: "Just his presence was a mentorship and getting to see him every day. It was a blessing and a gift to have him on set. Also, just to have him in my life. Now he can't get rid of me." Brown, meanwhile, attempted to play off the praise, quipping, "I paid them all. That's really the bottom line of the whole thing. I walked their dogs when they needed me to. I do special favors so they say nice things about him." Based on Us' other interviews with the Washington Black cast, the confidence in Brown as a costar and executive producer was universal. Iola Evans recalled how Brown was "very generous with his time and energy" on set. "For someone who's got a lot on his plate to be very, very open and who encourages openness, that is really nice for actors and was always very, very positive," she shared. "He really leads with positivity and on a set. When you're on really long days, I think energy is really important. So you are really grateful to have someone who's a really great spirit." Edward Bluemel felt the same way. "There was an aura of safety around him and of confidence. He's so experienced and obviously so well known," Bluemel, 32, noted."But he's ultimately incredibly positive and kind. When you're at the top of a production like that, I think having that attitude really rubs off on everyone around you." Based on Esi Edugyan's novel of the same name, Washington Blake partnered Brown up with Selwyn Seyfu Hinds on a TV adaptation following George Washington Black (Eddie Karanja and Kingsley Jr.) through past and present timelines as he is raised under the shadow of slavery before catching the attention of the sugar plantation owner's brother. A young Washington is recruited to help the owner's brother, leading to an adventure around the world. Washington in present day goes by Wash and lives in Nova Scotia, where he is taken under the wing of town leader Medwin Harris (Brown). "Sterling is an amazing actor. He's an amazing producer as well. He knows how to get the best performance out of an actor. Him being an actor himself and him being at such a high level really helped to elevate us performance wise a lot," Karanja, 16, gushed to Us. "Sterling taught me to take my time as an actor. There's no rush if you don't need to think about getting it perfect. Sterling is a very zen guy. I really did get that vibe from him — and it's infectious." TV Shows Based on Best-Selling Books: From 'Big Little Lies' to 'The Handmaid's Tale' In addition to expanding Medwin's role in the show to allow Us to spend more time with Brown, Washington Black also highlighted Kingsley Jr.'s breakout performance. The actor's scene-stealing presence as adult Wash allowed him to elevate material he was very passionate about. "The book sets an amazing foundation for the creativity and the hero's journey. Where the show leads on from that is you have a much more explorative, innocent and fantastical element to the show. It kind of builds upon what's already been put down in the book," he teased to Us. "It's epic, it's wondrous and you definitely get to see more characters fleshed out as well. You get to really see character relationships develop more and how those characters influence Wash's life and his journey to seek that life of freedom." Kingsley Jr. is thrilled that audiences are finally getting to see Washington Black. "There were definitely times where I was in my room thinking, 'Man, when is this show going to come out?' But I'm also overwhelmed with gratitude and just the excitement of introducing this project to the world," he added. "So many hands were poured into this and so many passions are poured into this. Just being able to see that work and take pride in it, this is a huge thing for me." Washington Black is currently streaming on Hulu. Solve the daily Crossword
Daily Mirror
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Washington Black was inspired by a fascinating story from history
Washington Black has been a hit with viewers since it was released on Disney Plus and Hulu, is the series based on a true story? The gripping adventure drama Washington Black has hit the screens on Hulu and Disney Plus, chronicling the journey of the eponymous character Wash (played by Ernest Kingsley Jr) who is compelled to escape his homeland after a devastating death. Having l aunched on July 23, Washington Black unfolds in Barbados, the birthplace of George Washington "Wash" Black, born into the bonds of slavery. Set in the early 19th century, the tale follows Wash as he is taken under the protective wing of Medwin Harris (portrayed by Sterling K. Brown), who himself endured a harrowing childhood as a Black refugee in Nova Scotia. Based on a historical novel by Esi Edugyan, the author shared insights into what sparked the original story. Initially, her aim was to craft a narrative centred around the Tichborne case, a notorious and lengthy criminal trial from British history, reports the Express. Yet, she discovered that the characters "took on their own realities". Speaking to Black History Month, she revealed: " I understand now that it was the voice of its narrator that interested me, the complicated position he found himself in, racially, socially, intellectually." She drew from this initial concept to weave a tale about a young boy endowed with sensitivity and intellect, striving to find his place in a world where true belonging eludes him. Reflecting on her past works, Edugyan recognises a common theme: "Looking back at my previous novels, I see now how they are both preoccupied with aftermaths, with the reconstructing of lives after great suffering. Washington Black, as a post-slavery narrative, is no different. But it became what it is only very gradually, and on its own terms." The tale draws inspiration from the notorious British case of the Tichborne Claimant. Roger Tichbourne, a British noble from an affluent lineage, was lost at sea and presumed deceased. Upon learning that a man in Australia was purporting to be her missing son, his mother dispatched Andrew Bogle, an ex-slave from the Tichborne estate, to bring back the claimant. Victor Valley College revealed: "Andrew Bogle's life with the Tichbornes serves as the point of inspiration for Washington Black, with Edugyan creating a narrative of Bogle's life through the character, George Washington Black (played by Ernest Kingsley Jr), by capturing the complexity of the relationship between the colonizer and the colonized as well as depicting the tumultuous transition of becoming your own person." The novel delves deeply into scientific themes, particularly those concerning 19th-century aviation, and the author has opened up about her extensive research process. "Richard Holmes - one of the great historians of the possible - wrote a fascinating overview of hot-air ballooning called Falling Upwards. That was a trove of information," she disclosed during Black History Month. She confessed her captivation with historical science, ranging from groundbreaking discoveries and inventions to the rejection of outdated theories in favour of more accurate ones. Washington Black is available for streaming on Disney Plus and Hulu.
CTV News
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- CTV News
New series ‘Washington Black' premieres with Nova Scotia as a backdrop
Washington Black is a powerful new series with Hollywood star power and a strong East Coast connection. The eight-part limited series is based on the acclaimed novel by Canadian author Esi Edugyan. British actor Ernest Kingsley Jr. stars in the title role, opposite Emmy Award winner Sterling K. Brown. 'Washington Black follows the story of Washington Black, this, young, intelligent, spirited young man is born in his plantation,' said Kingsley Jr. 'And after a series of events, he manages to escape the plantation in Barbados - he goes on this, larger than life adventure.' 'My character's name is Medwin Harris, and he's sort of the de facto mayor of this free township of Black people in Halifax,' said Brown. 'He's taken it upon himself to create a community and a family of folks to look out for one another. Washington flees to this place and sort of takes him under his wing, and he becomes a mentor of sorts to the young man.' The series stands apart from traditional narratives. 'In terms of stories that are told with people who start on plantations… they tend to focus on the pain and the hardship,' said Brown. 'And I've heard from my community in particular that they're not just interested in pain and hardship. They're interested in joy and perseverance and transcendence. I said, 'Oh, what a wonderful opportunity to flip this traditional narrative on its ear and tell a story that is truly beautiful.'' Washington Black New series Washington Black filmed in Nova Scotia premieres July 23. (Source: Disney+) (Cristian Salvatierra/Disney) Part of the series was filmed in Nova Scotia – an experience the actors say left a lasting impression. 'It was absolutely incredible,' said Kingsley Jr. 'The community, the locations…' The actors also embraced the local culture - even sampling iconic East Coast dishes. 'Poutine is nice, 'Kingsley Jr. said. 'And donairs… but don't overdo it on the sauce,' said Brown 'It's sweet. Very, very sweet.' But it wasn't just the food that stood out. Washington Black New series Washington Black filmed in Nova Scotia premieres July 23. (Source: Disney+) (Cristian Salvatierra/Disney) 'Walking by the water in Halifax is one of my favourite things to do,' said Brown. 'I probably walked five miles a day because it's just so picturesque and beautiful. And the people - honest to goodness - could not have been more kind. There's a certain freedom that I felt in that space that I don't always feel in the States. It was a joy to be up there.' Washington Black premieres today on Disney+ in Canada.
CBC
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- CBC
In the TV adaptation of this Canadian novel, Sterling K. Brown wanted to tell a different story about freedom
Social Sharing The highly anticipated TV series Washington Black, adapted from the acclaimed novel by Canadian author Esi Edugyan, is set to captivate audiences with its unique exploration of freedom, imagination and the power of human connection. Shot in the picturesque landscapes of Nova Scotia, the series stars Emmy-winning actor Sterling K. Brown and emerging talent Ernest Kingsley Jr. Arriving today on Disney+, Washington Black follows the extraordinary journey of George Washington Black, an 11-year-old enslaved boy on a Barbados sugar plantation in the 1830s. His life is irrevocably changed when a tragic death forces him to flee. He embarks on a thrilling and perilous escape across continents in a fantastical flying machine, seeking freedom, self-discovery and his true place in the world. For Brown, the decision to join the Disney+ series, which he also executive produced, was deeply personal and rooted in a desire to tell a different kind of story about the Black experience. "There've been a lot of stories about the institution of slavery," Brown acknowledged. "A lot of them understandably focus on the pain and the trauma. But I think I've been hearing from my community for a long time ... I need stories that are different." Brown emphasized the importance of showcasing resilience, imagination and the pursuit of dreams, even in the most challenging circumstances. "I don't need stories that are just painful and traumatic to put out there into the world, as if that is the totality of our experience. Our experience is bigger than that." He was particularly drawn to the character of Washington (Wash) Black, who's played by Kingsley Jr. Wash is a young boy who "transcends those circumstances through the power of his imagination," said Brown. "He dares to say that even though these are the circumstances that I am in right now, there's something bigger and better for me in this life." Although the series is historical fiction set in the 1800s, it carries a potent message for today's world. Brown believes it will resonate with anyone facing less-than-ideal circumstances, reminding them: "Do not allow your dreams to dampen. Your dreams can transcend your world." Edugyan felt she was in good hands when it came to adapting her Scotiabank Giller Prize-winning novel. "I was so delighted when Sterling K. Brown's company wanted to option the book, because I really admire his work, and I just think he's one of the best actors of his generation," she said. "For me, one of the most important parts of the novel to write was the sections that are in Nova Scotia and this is because I really wanted to explore some of our own slave histories. During my research, you're reading about Canada as the terminus for the Underground Railroad and how incredible that was, but you're also reading about how difficult it was for so many of those formerly enslaved people to establish real lives free of conflict." She also wanted to be able to show the sense of community that was established, the connections made by people who came from different places and were able to find friendship. Brown acknowledged the African community in Nova Scotia. "I think meeting the community, first of all, in Halifax was a really telling experience for me, because they sound like people from South Carolina in the States. I was like, 'Oh, wow. This Underground Railroad really happened, because I can hear the evidence of it thousands of miles away from where Black people entered into the United States through the port of Sullivan's Island in Charleston, South Carolina." For his part, Kingsley Jr. identified with Wash's unwavering faith and ambition. "He kinda operates in that way and kinda sees more for himself," Kingsley Jr. shared, adding that he sees similar traits within himself. "I definitely see more for myself and I'm spurred on by the things I believe I can achieve and the things I wanna achieve in this lifetime." He also highlighted Washington's remarkable ability to maintain his resolve in the face of adversity. He reflected on his own struggles with fear when confronted with problems, contrasting it with Washington's steadfast choice of love over fear. "I feel like sometimes I can be ambitious. I can be faithful. But when I see my problems, sometimes the view of them can be distracting, and it can bring me into a place of fear," he said. "I feel like [Washington] looks into the eyes of fear, and he's like, 'No, I choose love,' and I feel like I definitely wanna make that choice more boldly in my life." The on-screen relationship between Medwin, played by Brown, and Washington is one of protection and reciprocal growth. Medwin, a self-made leader in the Black community in Nova Scotia, initially prioritizes survival. However, his interactions with the idealistic Washington challenges his worldview. Brown eloquently described the dynamic: "Medwin's not allowing him the full degree of freeness that Wash yearns for. So I think there's something that he learned from being in proximity to this young man.... He makes Medwin ask the question, 'What is there more for me in my life?' And the answer to that is love." Brown sees Medwin's journey as a realization that though protecting his community is vital, embracing love can lead to a richer, more fulfilling existence. "It's a very reciprocal, beautiful relationship where I think I may be able to give him something, but he gives me way more in return," Brown said. This nurturing on-screen mentorship mirrored a genuine connection between the two actors. Kingsley Jr. shared how Brown became an invaluable confidant to him during production. "I felt like I kinda just made him my mentor," Kingsley Jr. said, acknowledging Brown's openness and grace. He described the bond as natural, with Brown providing support and guidance as Kingsley Jr. navigated his biggest role to date. "Here you have someone who's so supportive and so caring and just willing to be a listening ear," Kingsley Jr. said, calling the experience "nothing short of a blessing." Washington Black is a journey of self-discovery for its protagonist, as he sheds imposed identities. When asked about the moments that profoundly shaped his own identity as an actor and an individual, Brown reflected on the ongoing process of personal evolution. He emphasized the foundational role of family in shaping identity. However, he also highlighted the critical point in life where one must discern between inherited beliefs and personal truths. "You have to say for yourself, 'Is this something that I take on because it's what I authentically want for my own life, or are there things that I need to shed because I see something else for my life as well?'" he said. "I've taken many of the things that my mother and father have given me in terms of a belief system, in terms of morality, in terms of priorities and values. And then I say, 'You know what? There are certain things I can leave behind, and there are certain things that I hope to evolve or help to grow and to pass along to my children.' So you can't help but be shaped from where you come from."
Daily Mirror
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Ernest Kingsley Jr's life-off screen and where you've seen the Washington Black star
Washington Black is a period drama that is based on the book of the same name by Esi Edugyan and is available to watch on Hulu and Disney Plus Washington Black, the epic period drama based on Esi Edugyan's novel of the same name, is now available on Hulu and Disney Plus. The historical adventure series, which was released on July 23, stars Ernest Kingsley Jr in the lead role, with Eddie Karanja portraying a young Washington Black. Set in the early 1800s in Barbados and Nova Scotia, the plot follows Wash, a young boy who is forced to flee his home on a sugar plantation following a shocking death. He ends up under the care of Medwin Harris (played by Sterling K. Brown), who himself had a traumatic childhood as a Black refugee. Ernest Kingsley Jr, a stage and TV actor, launched his career in the sci-fi series, The Sparticle Mystery, reports the Express. He has since appeared in guest roles in several big titles, including playing Kai'ckul in The Sandman and starring in the third season of War of the Worlds. In terms of his stage work, the young actor was part of the Royal Court Theatre production of Is God Is in 2021, alongside Adelayo Adedayo. Last year, he was cast in a short film titled Foxhill, which also starred Robson Green. Kingsley Jr studied at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London and, during an appearance on The One Show, he expressed gratitude to his former teacher Erin Holland. Holland had guided him towards a career in acting through a college production of West Side Story. Ernest revealed: "I was applying to drama schools at the time and she told me which ones to go to. "It was after that I was like, 'You know what, I want to pursue acting'. If it wasn't for her pushing me and seeing the best in me, maybe I wouldn't have done it." Washington Black is available on Hulu and Disney Plus.
