Ten-year-old Kwesi Boakye is an up and coming child star.
From his recent staring role in Tyler Perry’s new film, “I Can Do Bad All By Myself,” to Ray Romano’s new TNT sitcom, “Men of a Certain Age,” Boakye is adding prominent roles to his already prolific acting resume.
As a child, Boakye has appeared in television shows including, “Strong Medicine,” “South Park,” “Boston Legal” and “Days of Our Lives” as well as lending his voice in the Oscar, Golden Globe and Grammy winning animated movie, “Happy Feet.”
Off camera, Boakye is a Los Angeles native. A gifted student and athletic child, he also finds enjoyment as an actor. In an interview with Boakye, he tells about the new film and sitcom he is in, as well as his character roles. Boakye recalls the endless humor present onset while working with comedians, Tyler Perry and Ray Romano.
In “I Can Do Bad All By Myself,” Boakye works alongside well-known stars such as Mary J. Blige, Taraji P. Henson, Adam Rodriguez, Gladys Knight and Tyler Perry.
Also, look for “Men of a Certain Age,” featuring Ray Romano and Andre Braugher, on TNT this winter.
You are in the new Tyler Perry movie, “I Can Do Bad All By Myself.” Can you tell me about it?
Boakye: It’s about, April who is like trying to find herself and trying to make herself a better person. I really connected to her storyline because I’m her nephew and looking for her to help us find a home. We help her become a better person. That’s about the movie without telling too much.
What is your character’s name?
My character’s name is Manny and he is a little rough around the edges and he’s growing up pretty fast with his big brother and sister. I’d say Manny is just looking for his happy ending.
I have to know, how cool was it to be in a Tyler Perry film?
It was very cool being in a Tyler Perry film. When he walks on set he makes you feel at home and he always discusses stuff in a kid way. And I just love him because he is always telling jokes and he’s just a really funny guy to hang out with.
What was the funniest part about filming with Tyler Perry? Did he do anything really funny that you remember?
It would have to be when I met Madea for the first time. He was just hilarious.
Tyler Perry dresses up as different characters. Did you find a certain one to be the most funny?
Actually I found Madea the funniest. I’m a very big Madea fan. It’s just the way she talks that’s so funny and he’s just so hilarious and everything that comes out of his mouth is just so funny.
Why should people go see this movie?
People should go see this movie because I think it’s a good movie and it has a really great story and a lot of good actors, like Taraji P. Henson, Mary J. Bilge, Adam Rodriguez and Gladys Knight.
“Men of a Certain Age,” what is that about?
It’s about three men, in their mid 40’s, who are going through a lot of changes. I am actually one of those men’s son.
Tell me about your character?
My character’s name is Jamie. He is a very awesome kid and very energetic and he loves to play with his little brother 24/7 and boss him around.
How was it working with Ray Romano? Had you seen him in any TV shows or movies prior to working with him?
Actually I liked watching him in Everybody Loves Raymond. It was a good show. It was really cool working with Mr. Romano. He’s just a funny guy and in between takes we would just crack up with everybody. We don’t know why. It’s very fun working with Mr. Romano.
Was it funnier working with Ray Romano or Tyler Perry?
Both are just very funny. Both were very fun and hilarious. I can’t pick who’s funnier so I just have to call it a tie.
Other African-American child actors
Keke Palmer
“True Jackson VP”
Tyler James Williams
“Everybody Hates Chris”
Erica Hubbard
“Lincoln Heights”
Larramie “Doc” Shaw
“Tyler Perry’s House of Payne”
