Black America fell in love with actor Derek Luke when he was first introduced to moviegoers through his critically acclaimed portrayal of Antwone Fisher. The film, by the same name, was directed by Denzel Washington, who also starred in it with Luke. The movie’s main character, Fisher’s journey in the film begot an endearing personality that everyone wanted to see win. And it turns out, in “life imitating art” fashion, that Luke’s day-to-day swagger and energy evoke that same well-wishing.
When Derek Luke was new to Hollywood, landing the Antwone Fisher role on a humble, it was fully expected for him to walk in humility. He miraculously had gotten his big break — with one of the most respected black actors in Hollywood — and, being a noted spiritual man, his gratitude was a given, and he regularly expressed it. But as we’ve seen all too many times before, as the film credits mount, so does the ego, oftentimes producing entitled monsters who demand that everyone march to the beat of their noisy drums.
Luke is different, though, completely … and 13 films and several television appearances in, mind you.
We scheduled a very early shoot in downtown Los Angeles with a 7:45 a.m. call time, and the latest addition to Jada Pinkett Smith’s “HawthoRNe” and Marvel Studios’ Captain America actor beat us there. He was already in the chair, patiently being groomed and flashing his signature coy smile. An accomplished Hollywood actor? Right.
From there, it was all uphill.
Derek Luke’s team, which includes his wife of 13 years, Sophia Hernandez, seamlessly assisted him through three debonair, vintage looks and a beneath-the-surface interview that will likely stoke the flames of the love affair his fans already have with him.
Another rarity in photo shoots, we even wrapped at noon according to schedule. His cooperation, honest presence, professionalism and commitment to the shoot were refreshing and a clear indication of why so many want this guy to win. My own mother, never having personally met the actor, even sent word by me that she was proud of him and sends her well-wishes. And as far as mothers go, he expressed that he owes much to his for how he presents … but the details of this will be revealed in the cover story. Derek Luke’s cover will hit stands on July 21.
–gerald a. radford
