IN CONVERSATION WITH KEITH POWERS

Keith Powers is starring in Netflix’s rom-com ‘The Perfect Find’ opposite Gabrielle Union, which was released this June. Amongst his upcoming projects, he’ll be starring alongside Joey King in Netflix’s ‘Uglies’, that is slated for a 2024 release. 

Keith, we’re currently able to watch you in Netflix’s rom-com ‘The Perfect Find’, where you star as Gabrielle Union’s younger love interest. How did you get cast on this rom-com?

I was told I was the guy for the job after a call from Tommy Oliver, one of our producers from Confluential Films. He sent me the script, I read it and I loved the story. I loved that is was a rom-com and the rest is history.

How was it starring in this rom-com and especially as a younger love interest to Gabrielle Union’s character, who is turning 40?

It was great. I felt honored to work with such a legend. I was scared going into it because I knew I had to bring my A game. Naturally there was pressure, but it helped bring the best out of me.

What excites you the most about portraying different characters?

Being able to dive into these different stories. Especially fictional characters, I love getting into creating the character’s look. I love getting into their mind and understanding their intentions. I love being on set and seeing the world being built. It’s a dream honestly. 

How did you get into acting? Was it always a passion of yours?

I got into acting via modeling. My passion growing up was sports. I became a model after high school, then on one my agents recommended acting. I thought about it growing up, I just didn’t think it was possible to do where I was from. Once my agent introduced me to the idea, I joined classes, started learning the craft and fell in love. 

Before acting, you’ve been a football player. What made you decide not to pursue football further?

I wasn’t good enough to play at that next level honestly. Maybe if I worked harder, but I realized I was more in love with the idea of playing D1 and in the pros than actually being in love with the game. I’m glad I am where I am now. 

You’re also a model. Tell us more about your modeling career. What excites you about it?

I started modeling when I was 17. I got signed in SF to JE Model, then moved to LA where I signed to Wilhelmina. I modeled more then, not so much now. But when I did, I loved the traveling. That was the best part to me. I got to meet so many different types of people and it really helped me mentally. I feel like if I didn’t model, I would’ve been a very close minded version of myself. 

How do you feel about fashion? What does it represent in your life?

Fashion is a big part of my life. It has been since I was a kid. I’ve also realized the more I learn about fashion, the more I don’t know much at all about the industry. But fashion is more than just the industry. Fashion starts when you’re a kid. Growing up, my fashion has always been a big part of my life without me even realizing. I like to say it’s better to dress to express than impress. 

Fashion represents expression in my life. It’s art. When you look good, you feel good. Whatever that good is to you. The more of an open book I become as a person, the better my fashion becomes. I feel like I can wear anything and make it my own. My goal is to dive more into the fashion world. I never really had a full fashion week. I want to go so bad. I know I will and when I do, it’ll be the right time. 

What would you describe as the most meaningful and impactful moment in your life so far?

I’m super grateful for all the blessings in my life. The fact that I get to be featured in Numero Netherlands is a meaningful thing. I think being present is the most meaningful and impactful life can get. I think when I compare and grade moments in my life, I undermine those moments. 

You’re adding more diverse roles to your acting resume with starring in New York indie film ‘On Your Way’ and Hulu’s ‘Door Mouse’. What makes these two projects different from the rest of your acting experiences?

Both are different from others simply because of the stories. My character in ‘Door Mouse’ is the farthest I’ve gotten from myself. I think the look and the circumstances in the film is the first time I got to tap into something a bit more edgier than usual. 

Next up, we’ll be seeing you alongside Joey King in Netflix’s action adventure ‘Uglies’, based on the YA book, which is the largest YA budgeted film Netflix has made so far and is slated for a 2024 release. What can you share about this film, its story and your character?

I can’t share anything about it now, but I will say that I am very excited considering the fact that I knew about this book growing up. I just hope we do the book justice and please the readers. I can’t wait to be able to share more.

Keith, what fulfills you the most in life, both personally and professionally?

I ask myself this question everyday. This is what I’m trying to figure out now. I feel like I’m never really content and always wanting more. I’m working on being present and even more grateful. I really love being around my loved ones. They really help me smile and get through life. I always believe being a father and having a family of my own could be the most fulfilling, but who knows. I pray that it will be, I’m sure it will. I’ll find out my purpose soon and in the meantime I’m going to try to enjoy the journey. 

interview by JANA LETONJA @janaletonja