Meet Tywayne Wheatt | Actor of Stage, TV, and Film

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tywayne Wheatt and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tywayne, why did you pursue a creative career?
The initial inspiration that propelled me to be the actor I am today started with my overworked father taking me to see $5 movies in Manhattan. Movies like “ET,” “Do The Right Thing,” and “Rambo,” etc., spoke to me deeply about life and helped me embrace new ways of thinking. I was inspired to give an audience that feeling of escape and understanding of life just like I did. Growing up in the intercity of Newark, New Jersey, I experienced a lot of loss, violence and poverty which made my environment harsh to live in. Movies helped me escape, dream and take me away from the suffocating feeling of a limited view of life. I was not only able to spend quality time with my dad, I dreamed of exposing others to a new world and perspective, those moments I deeply cherish.

Along my journey viewing myself as a creative or artist was difficult because I respect and value the art of performance, perfectionism would cause me to overthink and become anxious. I am a humble person by nature that never wants to misrepresent himself. I was focusing on creating “perfect moments” to give me that artistic stamp of approval. I’ve realized that it is an ongoing expression of your own art not “perfect moments.” In this art, you are always seeking the most truthful of moments. It is not because of low confidence but rather the love and respect of committing your soul to the story and character. My long journey of seeing myself as successful artist is a moniker that I now truly embrace. As I continue to climb that mountain, I bring an assortment of experiences that inspires me and others around me to keep striving. No matter the end results.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets me apart is that I march to the beat of my own drum because I am not a trend seeking artist. I am someone who has overcome a lot of obstacles like low confidence and weight loss. Many people did not expect me to make as many strides that I have, yet the people who saw my talent and genius has challenged me to follow my passion.

I’ve learned along the way, the “one true way” to never accomplish your dream is to quit. In order to be successful at anything preparation and consistency is key.

My brand is that I am an underdog. Multifaceted in my acting because I value acting as art in its totality. I see myself as a tree with many branches. Alot of people have seen my work without realizing it was the same actor. I have 35 credits on my IMDB. I have played Santa Claus in Disney+ “Dashing through the Snow” to a Boss Criminal “Big Mike” in Starz “B.M.F.” I appreciate that throughout my career I have worked with many high-profile actors like Jamie Foxx, Don Cheadle, Samuel L Jackson, and many more. I have been able to showcase my talent range, and I am looking forward to my skills being acknowledged in bigger roles in the near future. I want the world to know that a talented artist like me exist and others like me deserve to add to the tapestry of acting.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love the whole city of Atlanta. It is the home of some of the most dynamic stage productions that I have ever seen like The Alliance, Synchronicity theatre, Theatrical Outfit and many more. Atlanta has some of the most prolific sports teams. Iconic teams like the Braves, Falcons, and Hawks, even though I am a Knicks fan. Lastly, Peter Street is a great place to patronage for the plethora of black owned businesses in that area. You have your pick of anything when it comes to ATL.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to acknowledge a few people. First, my mother and family who has always championed my career even in the face of outside discouragement. My prayerful mother has been and still is a light of hope in my world and others. Secondly, I am grateful to my son, Xavier, he keeps me inspired and motivated to never give up. Shoutout to my acting community/family especially in the southeast region who I have trained with and worked alongside. I am an Atlanta actor that remembers training at great places like Blue Print, The Green Room, and A.O.A. to name a few. Atlanta Models and Talent Agency as well as the great casting directors deserve Kudos for their tireless work. I want to shout out my wonderful and beautiful partner in life, Jessica. I appreciate the support and patience. Lastly, I want to thank anyone that has encouraged or have seen my career flourish. Y’all inspire me.

Instagram: twheatt78