“The Quad,” BET’s new scripted television series was created to depict an authentic view of what life would be like at an HBCU. Even though it has veteran actors like Anika Noni Rose (Dr. Eva Fletcher), E. Roger Mitchell (Carlos Pettiway), Sean Blakemore (Eugene Hardwick), and Jasmine Guy (Ella Grace Caldwell); there are also some newbie actors that are holding their weight on the set as well.
Kevin Savage (who plays quarterback Terrence Berry) made quite the impression on the fans and in watching the show it seemed very accidental as his character first was depicted as a meek, laid-back athlete who may have had a chip on his shoulder but certainly wasn’t afraid of a good time. Rolling out got a chance to sit down with Savage and we learned a lot.
How long have you been acting?
Actually, since I was 7 years old I have known that I wanted to be an actor. I used to come home from school and watch a lot of television and I knew this is what I want to do.
How did you land the role as Terrence the quarterback?
I went on three different interviews with Rob Hardy and Felecia D. Henderson both executive producers and directors. On the third reading, I got a call back from my agent advising me I got the part. Even though it wasn’t the role I auditioned for; I was elated to get the part.
Were you as happy when you discovered your role as a rapist and learning your fate?
If’s funny that you ask because I had no idea my character had a role that would turn for the worst. I didn’t know about the rape scene until two days before the rape. I kept asking for the script. We learned about it the night before it happened. We were all called in and we had to prepare for it. I’m an actor. This is what I do. I stay prepared for the unknown.
We were really getting into your character trying to figure out if you would beat the charges. Seems the administrative board was not having it.
You know, that’s a tough one. I really felt like Terrence didn’t realize how serious things were. We had both been drinking and she seemed with it. He was afraid, confused and puzzled.
Suicide, though? Really?
Hey, it is what it is. At least they won’t forget who I am. I just thank Rob Hardy and Ms. Henderson for believing in me enough to bring me on board. This role will certainly open a lot of doors for me.
View the video interview after the jump.
