Since debuting in the top series “Metro,” Leslie Black had a goal to change the acting game and she’s doing just that.
A graduate of South Carolina State University, Black moved to Atlanta after school to pursue her career.
Black has guest-starred in “Chicago Med,” played Sedi in “Montross Blood Rules,” and will be the lead in the upcoming feature film The Perfect Love Storm. She will star alongside Aaron Eckhart in “Muzzle,” as Councilwoman Priscilla Cross.
Black continues to raise the bar and make waves with her top-tier artistry. On top of her host of projects slated for release, she has added producer and writer to her résumé. She also launched her own groundbreaking production company, Staunch Films.
From her powerful portrayal in “Murder Calls” to her groundbreaking work in “For What It’s Worth,” Black’s dedication to authenticity and emotional truth offers a beacon for aspiring artists. Join us as we delve into the life and career of Leslie Black, a true luminary whose impact transcends the screen.
Describe a favorite piece or scene of yours. What makes this piece significant to you?
One of my favorite pieces of work was a role I was cast in a few years ago in a television show called “Murder Calls.” I played the role of Monique, a young lady who lost her mother. The role was significant because I am also a young lady who lost her mother. My mom died on my 10th birthday, and as crazy as it may sound, I felt like I was equipped with everything I needed to play this role because it was coming from a truthful place. This particular episode was based on a true story and the real person that I played found me on Facebook and personally thanked me for embodying my character. This role was also therapeutic to me because although I suffered the tragic loss of my mother, it gave me the tools I needed in my craft to evoke levels of emotions that translate that depth of pain.
What is the best piece of advice you can offer to emerging artists in your industry?
Do the work. Taking shorts won’t get you anywhere. You need to study the craft, take classes, and learn the business. Discernment will also take you a very long way because everyone’s intentions are not always good, and it’s important to be able to identify when a person or opportunity isn’t right for you on the journey.
In your opinion, what carries more weight in the arts: innate talent or formal training? Could you elaborate on your viewpoint?
This is a tough one because I personally think you need both. I think you need to have innate talent and formal training to enhance it. Don’t get me wrong, I think an artist can thrive with either, but if you have both that’s where the ability to become a household name comes in at.
Can you share a particularly challenging project or role you’ve tackled? What made it demanding, and what insights did you gain from the experience?
My role as Fallon in “For What It’s Worth” was a challenge. It was a personal challenge I set for myself. I can relate to the character in so many ways and I challenged myself to make sure that I was vulnerable and honest in this role. The film is centered around mental health. It was important to me that this film helped change lives. I wanted any of the audience members that are dealing with the same issues as Fallon to see themselves and also see that they could overcome just like Fallon did. What made my role demanding is it required an immense amount of emotion and a lot of tears. I was able to pull them from real-life experiences and seeing the devastating effects of mental health. I felt so blessed to be in the role because it made me feel like I was also educating our audience.
