Victoria G Interviews Jock McKissic

Victoria G: What inspired you to become an actor?

Jock McKissic: Basically, seeing people that I looked up to on screen. The fact they inspired me and so many others in the world, was what intrigued a 6 yr old me to become an actor.

VG: Who are your acting inspirations?

JM: I have a ton! As a kid I was inspired by Wesley Snipes, Denzel Washington, Eddie Murphy, Oprah Winfrey, Chris Tucker, Al Pacino, Adam Sandler, Jim Carey, Shaquille O'Neal. As an adult and current actor, I've added, Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio, Daniel Day Lewis, Samuel Jackson, Viola Davis and a host of others. I'm also inspired a lot by my peers in the industry.

VG: What is your favorite thing about acting?

JM: The ability to momentarily, take people's focus off of their personal worries. When people are watching a show or film that they love, they forget about the troubles in the real world. That's powerful and a gift.

VG: What was your first acting job?

JM: My first acting gig ever, was Dr. MLK Jr., in my 2nd grade Black History play. My first paid gig, was in 2011 on Necessary Roughness.

VG: What is your favorite project you have ever done?

JM: This may be the toughest question to answer, simply because I've enjoyed them all. I am impartial to projects that I help produce though, seeing as that I get to work with my peers on those.

VG: What are some qualities you look for in a project?

JM: The script & the storyline. I also know that each creator/producer/director has their own style, so I study their previous work.

VG: One of your most notable roles was as Alan Underwood in the Showtime series, Your Honor. What can you share about your time working on that series?

JM: It was life changing experience, honestly. I've always wanted to work with BC, (Bryan Cranston), so to have that opportunity was a Blessing. It was a Masterclass everyday watching Bryan and a host of other phenomenal actors at work (Isiah Whitlock Jr., Geraldine Hughes, Michael Stuhlbarg, Andrene Hammond-Ward, Hunter Doohan) etc. Also, having worked with the cast and crew prior to and during the pandemic l, made us close. The unit became like family.

VG: Which character that you have played so far has been the most similar to you?

JM: A character I played on Fox's hit show, 'The Resident'. The character's name was MAMBO, and he was overprotective of his loved ones. He was willing to go far and beyond to save the life of his God mother.

VG: How would you describe yourself in three words?

JM: Faithful, Grounded, Driven.

VG: What are your social media handles?

JM: IG, Twitter, Clubhouse: @Jayfifty

VG: Where do you see yourself in ten years?

JM: On a stage receiving an award for a role in a film, that I produced and starred in. Then living and celebrating with my friend and family at my place in Bel Air.

VG: What are three qualities every actor should have?

JM: A short term memory, the ability to a sacrifice, and confidence. Confidence in oneself is crucial. Bonus: FAITH!

VG: Do you have any advice for an aspiring actor?

JM: Start now! Don't wait until you "think" you're ready. Start now with online classes, and train. Train train train! Also, start creating your own content. Content is King!!!

VG: What's next for you?

JM: Series regular role. I'm claiming it!

VG: RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS Who is a director you would love to work with?

JM: Too many to name one. How about I name three. Spike Lee, Ryan Coogler, Quentin Tarantino.

VG: What is something you can't live without?

JM: Overall, God. Physically, my tv lol

VG: Do you have any hidden talents?

JM: I'm a great poet, and I also can do the worm backwards!

VG: Do you play any instruments?

JM: One of my biggest regrets is not learning to play an instrument!

VG: What is your favorite pastime?

JM: Studying tv/film, or watching HGTV.

VG: Do you have any pets?

JM: Not yet, maybe when I get a house, I'll get a dog. For now, I'll take care of my plants.

VG: What is your biggest fear?

JM: Something happening to myself or my mother, for I can build her, her dream home.

VG: What is your favorite film genre?

JM: A tie between Drama & Comedy.

VG: What have you been doing while in quarantine?

JM: I picked up cycling. I averaged about 15 miles per day. I read a lot of books, and wrote four scripts.