Bounce TV’s new season of the original comedy Family Time premiered Monday Oct. 1st. The show stars Omar Gooding, known for his roles in Baby Boy, Barbershop, Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper, and Angell Conwell who also played in Baby Boy with Gooding.
Both stars spoke to the Los Angeles Sentinel Newspaper about their roles in the upcoming season.
Los Angeles Sentinel Newspaper: What has been your favorite part about filming Family Time?
ANGELL CONWELL: I enjoyed being able to debut as a writer during the 5th season. I was able to write with one of my The Young & The Restless co-stars. I also enjoyed seeing all the talented kids on set. I think it’s important to have them on an actual set and be involved with the creative process. It helps to just home them and support them in their dreams and future.
OMAR GOODING: My favorite part has been the writing and producing aspect. When I do projects, whether I’m the lead or not, I usually focus on the scene. But being a writer helps me connect more with the cast members. Also, I enjoyed being a producer with the creative input. And of course, all the strong comics we have every season.
LAS: From your viewpoint Angell, what can we expect this season?
CONWELL: There will be more affection between our characters. Kids are getting older with one going to college. Now we both have the house to ourselves. Jokes are getting more intense. They are clowning this season! Everybody has really brought their A-Game when it comes to jokes.
LAS: What advice would you give to a young black actress who wants to be like you Angell?
CONWELL: I look at it like I’m just one piece of this bigger puzzle and each piece has to be placed at the perfect time. I want them to know, just take it day by day. I would let them know that there is more to the story if they want to pursue their dreams. The main thing to focus on is being better than you were before. Love yourself and forgive yourself. Don’t rush. Be anxious for nothing.
LAS: You’ve been in the game for years Omar. What has been the biggest change in Hollywood?
GOODING: When I grew up, it was all about black sitcoms. That’s what I was watching and that’s what I was playing. I would audition for roles for feature films, but it was hard to get it because they were accustom to a certain type of acting. Then people saw me in Baby Boy. That’s when the phone really started ringing. Now mind you, I wouldn’t say it’s the ideal point but we are getting lead roles. It’s definitely come full circle. Now I can look at the younger talent and give them a shot.
LAS: You just mentioned helping those younger than you. How important is it for black creatives to give back to the community?
GOODING: We need to help each other. We need to uplift one another as well. I did a seminar where I moderated a panel of IMB technicians who spoke in front of a bunch of black kids who didn’t know they could have a career in the field. It’s important that we lead by examples. We have to destroy the crabs in a barrel mentality that’s been holding us back. There’s plenty of room and plenty of money for all of us.
Check out family time Monday nights at 9/8c only on Bounce.
