Born and raised on the east side of Detroit, Bennie Taylor’s journey to Hollywood is both inspirational and unconventional. He began his career as a male model and singer, but soon discovered his passion for storytelling through acting and voice work.
Taylor’s breakout role was playing Clive on Nickelodeon’s “California Dreamin’.” Since then, he has lent both physical and vocal performances to many projects.
With his unique blend of charisma, talent, and dedication, he steadily transitioned into the world of on-screen performances. “Detroiters tend to have varying degrees of success when it comes to getting their big break or making it “big time.” Taylor is among those who have found success. Now he’s celebrating a rare career milestone with supporting roles in two major studio releases Buddy and Coyote vs. Acme, both premiering on the same day – August 28.”
The Michigan Chronicle interviewed Taylor about his acting journey, Detroit’s evolving independent film scene, and what advice he has for the next generation of thespians.
Michigan Chronicle: What inspired your desire to be an actor?
Bennie Taylor: I’ve always wanted to be on TV since I was a child. I just never thought it would be a reality for me. Watching shows like “Entourage” and “Game of Thrones” really got me thinking. I mean, who doesn’t want to be in MOVIES and TV! Plus, I love the craft and everything that goes behind it. Being able to become a different person, a character, always has excited me.
Michigan Chronicle: Michigan once had film tax credits and seemed poised to be the Hollywood of the Midwest. Were you in support of the credits? Do you think they would return?
Taylor: Yes, definitely, I was in support of it, because Detroit was about to be what Atlanta is today. Wow, it would be so nice to see it come back; this would create so many jobs and bring recognition back to the city in all the right ways.
Michigan Chronicle: A lot of Detroit filmmakers are finding success on Tubi; what do you think about this direct-to-streaming model?
Taylor: I think it’s great for a lot of up-and-coming filmmakers and some experienced ones too. It gives a voice to the unheard and gives them creative control over their projects. It opens doors that would normally be closed to the average filmmaker.
Michigan Chronicle: What has been one of your greatest challenges thus far? What has been one of your greatest successes?
Taylor: My greatest challenge would definitely be MYSELF. As an actor it’s easy to, be your worst enemy, become impatient, doubt yourself, become arrogant, lazy, close minded, etc. In this business and in life, you MUST learn to exercise patience, humility, and respect the process/craft, and to know that learning/listening are your greatest tools. My greatest success…hmm, I would have to say my perseverance. This business has so many obstacles that can break the average person in no time. Getting here has shown me that I had a special type of strength hidden in me that I didn’t know I had. When you first start, you believe that you’re looking for validation from your peers, but I’ve come to find out that finding validation within yourself has been my greatest success.
Michigan Chronicle: What is one of your future goals?
Taylor: Whatever God has planned for me. I would love to be part of an established franchise. Of course, as a kid, every young man’s fantasy is always to be a Marvel or DC character. I have an empty spot on my shelf that someday I hope to put an award there. Also, maybe to write and direct my own film, to start an acting school for anyone and everyone. I know to the average person these goals sound a little bit far-fetched, but I had a goal to be an established actor one day…… And look where I am now.
Michigan Chronicle: What advice do you give to aspiring actors/filmmakers?
Taylor: The simplest advice you can give a person: never give up, never give up on yourself, every time you fall or fail, learn to pick yourself back up and keep going. Everybody’s journey is different, and everybody’s outcome is also different. The moment you accept what is for you, then that’s when you’ll become the best version of yourself.
You can reach Biba at Biba.Adams@MIChronicle.com