The first thing you notice when the screen lights up is your company’s name, followed by Kevin Hart’s company. The impact of this is profound because it immediately emphasizes the collaboration and importance of the people involved. Credit must go to Kevin Hart, who lent his talent and influence to the project, helping to elevate it significantly. A special shout-out is also deserved for my producing partner, Zari Turner, who brought this idea to life. She saw the necessity of this project, especially in today’s climate, where certain aspects of our work are being erased or overlooked. The significance of this effort becomes clear when you see it unfold.

I must mention that being number one on the call sheet is no small feat. For an actor, it typically means you’re the subject of the narrative, not just a part of it. It’s a milestone and an accomplishment that many actors dream of but don’t always achieve. I didn’t expect to have many opportunities to be in that position, but here we are, making it happen.

Reflecting on the “Black Lives Matter” movement, I always tell people it’s not about the organization itself, but about a pivotal moment when the world collectively acknowledged a major injustice. It was a global recognition that something terrible happened, and we needed to confront it. In that context, being on top of the call sheet, as Black men and women, is even more significant. We’re showing that we can rise, that excellence exists within our community, and that these stories matter.

Some may question why we emphasize “Black Excellence,” but I always respond with the historical context. Not too long ago, being Black in certain spaces, particularly in Hollywood, was against the law. So, it’s not just about showing excellence but about showcasing possibilities and hope for younger Black individuals, who can look up and see people succeeding in ways that might have once seemed impossible. It’s important to share these success stories in a positive light.

Equally beautiful is the way we support and uplift one another in this industry. Whether it’s Kevin Hart, The Rock, Denzel, or Halle Berry, we take pride in each other’s achievements. I’m genuinely proud of the successes of these individuals. This unity and pride are special, and it’s a reflection of how far we’ve come.

I also want to thank the teams at Apple, Reggie, and Shala, who helped craft something truly cool and necessary. It’s not easy to find something that feels fresh and exciting every day, but this project definitely has that spark. Sometimes you can tell when something doesn’t resonate, but this project brings joy. It’s inspiring to watch, and it lifts you up.

The women in this project deserve a special mention, too. Their journey has been even more difficult, often having to limit their dreams because of societal expectations. But despite these obstacles, they continue to ascend and break barriers. Their accomplishments are extraordinary, and I’m incredibly proud of the way our women have held their ground and shown resilience. This project is a celebration of that resilience and power.