Exploring Chris Redd's Transition from Comedy to Drama in "Power Book III: Raising Kanan"
As Chris Redd steps into a dramatically different role in "Power Book III: Raising Kanan," fans are intrigued by his transformation from comedy to drama. Our own fearless leader, Klep Napier chats with Chris Redd about his dramatic role as Early Tyler in "Power Book III: Raising Kanan." Known for his comedy on SNL, Redd discusses the challenges of transitioning to drama, the excitement of joining a series he's long admired, and the hope of surviving his character's risky storyline. He shares insights into his acting process and his admiration for fellow cast members like Rock and Kanan. Tune in for a conversation that delves into acting challenges and the allure of gritty storytelling.
Key Takeaways
Dramatic Shift: Chris Redd discusses the challenges of transitioning from comedy to a serious drama, highlighting the preparation and mindset required.
Role Significance: The character of Early Tyler, played by Redd, adds complexity and intrigue to the plotline of "Raising Kanan."
Future Aspirations: Redd expresses his desire to explore more dramatic roles while maintaining his comedic roots.
Continue reading or watch our visual interview vie Instagram:
(Klep Napier): I gotta address this. You, you did a SNL skit that was power inspired called the "That's the Game".
(Klep Napier): So it's fair to say that this role has been in the making for about five years, right?
(Chris Redd): That's crazy. I actually didn't connect it to power at all when I wrote that. It was just because I used to sell some stuff back in the day. So I was really trying to bring a drug dealing, like just a drug dealing ideology to a white show like snl. And I'm still, I'm still shocked that it made it, but it was, but it, it's so funny now sitting there like. Yeah, I guess. I mean, even though that character was a little bit different and early in a lot of ways, but I've always wanted to do shows like this and I mean, I always, I find humor in it because I feel like a lot of the people that came up with and I wanted to be cool, all the gangsters were super funny to me and super interesting and like, and so that world has always been interesting to me. So it was when this, when this part came, I was like, damn, I gotta get this, bro. I gotta get this. Yeah.
(Klep Napier): And this is a lot different. What you used to, we know you from comedy, and now this is a little more drama, dramatic. It's serious. You come in, you come to Unique's rescue episode one, but then you're throwing a little fuel in the fire. So I want to know, like, how, how much into the game should we expect you as this character early makes moves?
(Chris Redd): I'm gonna say that much Early. Early's out here making some moves, bro. You know, but, you know, it's, you know, the show, you know the show, bro. So you know anybody?
(Klep Napier): I definitely know the show. I'm, I'm hoping you make it through.
(Chris Redd): Hey, we all hoping, bro. We all praying, dog. Every day now.
(Klep Napier): Talk about, talk about, like, any challenges on set with this set, you know, you know, transition into, you know, the more serious roles and any challenges for you getting into this character?
(Chris Redd): I think the, I think the challenges were understanding that I don't know everything about this, like, comedy, something I know. Well, and. And. And, you know, while there's always something to learn, I know my strengths. I know my. I just. I just know how to command that. I know how I. I know where the validation is coming from. I know when I'm doing well. With drama, it was being an open book a little bit, a lot more studying, being really prepared so that I can adjust things on the fly based on what people need and what I'm not given.
Redd's understanding of comedy as a terrain where he commands expertise allows him to navigate performances with confidence. However, drama presents a different landscape that requires vulnerability and open-mindedness.
Furthermore, Redd touches upon the inherent differences in audience feedback between comedy and drama. While laughter provides immediate validation in comedy, drama demands a trust in one's craft and the surrounding cast and crew. He reflects, This introspection reveals the psychological shift required to embrace a more subdued, yet authentic, form of audience engagement.
Redd Continues...
(Chris Redd): And then. And then just trusting in myself and the people around me that I'm doing well. Because, like, there was, like, it was. It was hard to tell, you know what I mean? Like, you know, when you're telling a joke, if somebody laugh, you know, it's went well. But with. With acting in, like, drama acting, you don't really know what you're doing unless they're applauding you after every cut. Like, you don't know, you know, exactly.
(Chris Redd): And. And. And you know me, I got a little anxiety, so I was like, yo, was it good? They're like, it was. It was great. But to me, it's like he's just saying that's like, they get me out the face. You know what I mean? And then. And then I saw it back and I was like, oh, I think I was acting a little bit, you know? So it. That was the biggest challenge was, like, getting comfortable and not feeling like I was up the whole time, you know, is.
(Klep Napier): Is this something that you want to, you know, probably pursue a little bit more, Something a little more dramatic, more serious or blend, at least?
(Chris Redd): Yeah, I. I love. I love dramatic. Dramatic roles. I. I don't want to do it to a point where people forget I do comedy, but as long as. If I could do a couple, you know, just do a couple here and there, show up with something that's fun and challenges me in. In the right way. Like, this was great. Like, this was, like, such a thing. I jumped on. On the opportunity to do this, like, you know, because I had been hearing about Early Tyler since the first season.
(Chris Redd): You know, I mean, I think it was the first second. So Marvin in the. In the. Marvin sitting down to eat, he mentions early title. I'm like, who is this guy? You know? And yeah, turns out to be. It was. That means dream come true, man.
(Klep Napier): Who. Who in the. Who in the universe that you haven't. That we haven't seen you trade. Trade lines with who in the universe would you like early to trade lines with?
(Chris Redd): What? Rock. Now, while I want that. That usually ends badly for most People on the opposite side of her. So I don't know if it's a good thing, but, man, that woman is a genius on the screen, dog. And I'm like, just. Just. Just one of my favorite characters in. In. In all of Power, you know what I mean? Just. Just a beast, you know? And of course. And of course, Kanan, you know what I mean, would be. Would be cool as well, but.
(Chris Redd): Yeah, man, I mean. Yeah, that's. All right.
(Klep Napier): So I got one last question for you, because I know you got to get out of here, and I want to hold up your time. So in your mind, how much money does Unique actually owe Early?
(Chris Redd): All of it. All of it. I mean, for more.
(Klep Napier): Trying to get paid.
(Chris Redd): Yeah. I mean, it's got to be thousands. I think it's thousands, you know what I mean? Because this. First of all, my man early is oily, bro. The man dirty. He. He's not even showering. That's how much he working. So he got to be out some bread. You know, the hustle is very real. Got him going around the clock. So, you know, I think he's got.
(Klep Napier): He's moving and shaking. He's moving. He's moving and shaking for that dough.
(Chris Redd): Yeah, man, that vet was expensive, you know? I mean, that was expensive work on a human body, so gotta be thousands.
Chris Redd’s Aspirations: Balancing Drama with Comedy
Chris Redd's foray into the dramatic world of "Power Book III: Raising Kanan" exemplifies the intricate balance between comedy and drama. His portrayal of Early Tyler not only challenges him personally but also enhances the narrative richness of the series. With aspirations to delve further into dramatic roles, Redd continues to demonstrate his skillful adaptability and determination to evolve as an artist. This dynamic performance hints at a promising future where his comedic essence complements a newfound depth in dramatization, captivating audiences across genres.
You guys all make sure you're checking out Power Book III: Raising Kanan at Midnight every Friday on the STARZ app and at 8pm on STARZ Television.
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