Uyoata Udi is a long-time performer whose blooming career has already garnered him notorious roles through streaming platforms. Starring as the legendary Inspectah Deck in HULU's "Wu-Tang: An American saga" Uyoata returns to this series' second season eager to carve his name on this institution and show the world his arsenal of talents. His most recent work landed him a role as "Curly" in the pilot of HBO's "Watchmen"

"Wu-Tang: An American saga" premiered on September of 201 and it The show portrays a fictionalized account of how Bobby Diggs (aka RZA) united a dozen talented young rappers in the middle of a Crack-Cocaine epidemic that swept New York City in the 90s. The show was renewed for a second season which premiered on September 8th of this year.

Tell us a little bit about your origins. Who was Uyoata growing up? What was he up to?

I am Nigerian American. I was raised in Inglewood, CA. Growing up, I have always been performing/entertaining. My mom, aunt, and many other family members were performers and highly involved in the arts. Also, my brother is a singer and taught me how to sing. My upbringing was filled with dance, song, laughter, school, and the obvious childlike things that many kids experience.

Is acting something you've always pursued?

Acting found me at age 15. I was playing football when the acting teacher at our school asked me to join her class as an elective. I joined the class and in my very first class the teacher had us mime. I decided to mime an old man walking over to sit down at a bus stop. This brought my acting teacher to complete tears, she looked me directly in my eyes and told me “One day you are going to be an amazing actor, the best actor this world has ever seen.” Thereafter I transferred to a performing arts school and pursued acting in its entirety.

Who are your acting icons?

I love actors who are able to transform to the point of no recognition, so convincing in their storytelling it sparks change, healing, forgiveness and any other emotion they set out to evoke. A few of those actors that stand out to me are Joaquin Phoenix, Mahershala Ali, Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, Brad Pitt, Robin Williams, and Angela Bassett. Just to name a few.

I wanted to ask you a bit about how you became involved with this project. Were you into the Wu-tang at all growing up? what's your favorite song if so?

My manager, Jane Henriksen, was on the hunt for this audition four months prior to me auditioning for it. She said, “I just had a feeling this was yours the minute I saw it.” It was truly divine! Growing up, my older cousins used to listen to Wu faithfully and that was my introduction to the Wu Tang Clan. I think there’s a Wu song for every season you find yourself in. I’ve been listening to Guillotine (Swordz) from Only Built 4 Cuban Linx.

How do you feel about the way things are shaping up for this 2nd season?

The 2nd season has been a thrill to watch thus far. It’s been incredible and I’m looking forward to seeing the rest of the episodes this season. Also, it seems as though fans love it! I’ve only been receiving great feedback. I’m eager for what’s upcoming!

Both Watchmen and Wu-Tang: An American Saga are pretty high-profile shows for anyone to be in, considering the cultural weight of the IPs behind them, do you feel like there's extra pressure because of that?

Certainly, I enjoy the pressure that I feel. It’s the motivator that keeps me being my best self while meeting the highest standards set.

I've read you've also been in stage musical plays, which means you're musically inclined... do you have any ambitions to record anything in the future?

Yes, I started singing in church. In high school I was in a vocal jazz group, and we toured my senior year. Music is a huge part of my life. When I was on Broadway doing the show “Amazing Grace the Musical,” we did a cast album, and it was so much fun. I’ve been extremely blessed to experience an album recording and hope to record my own personal album and or show album someday.

Bonus Ping-Pong Round, short and sweet answers only!

A movie you can rewatch a hundred times over: Forrest Gump, ATL, Pulp Fiction

The last book that you read: Quentin Tarantino FAQ

A song that breaks your replay button: “Ginger” by WizKid (feat. Burna Boy)

Historical figure you'd like to meet: Fela Kuti, Mansa Musa, Huey P. Newton, Malcom X

A snack or dish you can be bribed with: A dish with fish, black beans, plantains, & white rice can most times never be missed.

UYOATA UDI TALKS BLOOMING CAREER AND ROLE AS INSPECTAH DECK

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