
Markuann Smith on Building ‘Godfather of Harlem’ and Creating His Own Lane
Markuann Smith doesn’t just act in “Godfather of Harlem”—he helped build it from the ground up.
Markuann Smith doesn’t just act in “Godfather of Harlem”—he helped build it from the ground up.
“I’m not here to imitate Frank Lucas — I’m showing who he could’ve been. He could’ve been me. He could’ve been you.” — Rome Flynn on redefining a legend in “Godfather of Harlem”
“I wanted the music to feel like the voice in Bumpy Johnson’s head,” said Swizz Beatz. “What would the song sound like when he’s under pressure, when he’s winning, when he’s trying to hold everything together?”
“Most of what I do is more psychological than medical,” Wallace says. “People of color have been beaten down by microaggressions. I help them redefine beauty so they can see their best selves. Beauty starts on the inside—it’s all within reach.”
“If it’s all my voice all the time, it can be monotonous,” Abraham said. “I’m really interested in how we can lift up other voices while challenging my dancers in new ways.” That diversity, he said, creates unexpected energy and connection on stage.
Goings said her earliest love for television came from the time she spent watching soaps with her elders. “I grew up watching the stories with my grandmother and great aunt,” Goings recalled. “That was our time together sitting on the couch, shoes off, just soaking it all in.”
“Our students often tell us they chose CDU because of the mission — to serve beyond the underserved,” Santana explained. “We offer what we call the CDU Advantage, built on pillars like social justice, research, and health policy.”
The event provides significant exposure, creating opportunities for local businesses to connect with potential clients, investors, and strategic partners, thereby expanding their reach within the local business community.
But despite all the business growth, Dulan’s heart remains in service. When wildfires hit LA in early 2025, he and his team stepped up—partnering with World Central Kitchen to provide meals.
“What these guys are really providing are blueprints for living,” said Hudlin. “As different as they all are, the one thing they share is a winner’s mentality.”
That sense of closeness has been especially important since the unexpected passing of Jackson’s brother Tito, who died suddenly following a heart attack. Jackson spoke about Tito with both pride and deep emotion.
While working on “BMF,” Hasbourne said the authenticity of the Atlanta set helped the story feel more grounded. “The set felt alive. It wasn’t just a backdrop—it was part of the character,” Hasbourne said. “That energy shows up on screen.”
Growing up in Los Angeles, Lo Williams never imagined she would one day help bring Disney’s “Frozen” to life onstage. Now, as Assistant Director of Children’s Theatre Company’s (CTC) original, non-replica production of “Frozen”, Williams is embracing the opportunity to help reshape a beloved story.
Speaking of resilience, Nolan praised Tiffany Haddish for creating a platform that uplifts others. “Tiffany gives back in so many ways,” Nolan said. “She’s real. She’s funny, talented, but she also cares deeply. That’s what makes this event so special.”
“You have to be okay with saying no. You can’t let people put you in a box,” LaTocha said.