British actorDavid Oyelowois drawn to portraying impactful characters, especially Black historical figures throughout the diaspora.
He first gained recognition for playing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the 2014 filmSelma.
Itearned him a Golden Globe nominationtoday for Best Actor in a Limited Series Made for Television in theParamount+drama.
David Oyelowo as Bass Reeves in ‘Lawmen: Bass Reeves’Lauren Smith/Paramount+
This nomination brings more shine and attention to his name and solidifies his hero status.
Weve seen a lot of negative portrayals, especially when it comes to global storytelling, said the actor.
The script first came into his orbit in 2014 as an idea.
One of the things the actor didnt anticipate was the scale and scope of the show.
This was not a figure that ticked the boxes, for whatever reason.
He observed how Taylor Sheridan reinvigorated the Western genre withYellowstone,1886and1923.
It seemed apt to partner with the director on Bass Reeves story.
It was another opportunity to confront our industry with the validity of telling this story, Oyelowo said.
With Sheridan, there was a platform on which to build this narrative the right way.
One thing he learned about playing the character is the resilience of Black people in America.
They wanted to be citizens.
For decades, stereotypical and negative depictions of Black men have dominated Hollywood films and TV shows.
These limiting portrayals as thugs and criminals have created a perception of Black men in popular culture.
Changing these narratives with more diverse, complex and positive representations is crucial in a progressive Hollywood.
All three are part of stories with Black male heroes.
Were just elated about being recognized, he said.
This is not the norm, and its something we personally want to see a lot more of.
