“On The Come Up”s Michael Cooper Jr. On Upcoming Movie, Favorite Actor, And Social Injustices

This young actor is about to be back on our screen!

Michael is about to star in Paramount’s upcoming film “On The Come Up”. The movie is an adaptation of the award-winning book of the same name, directed by the incredible Sanaa Lathan (‘Love & Basketball’, ‘Queen Sugar’). The movie is set to include an incredible cast alongside Michael, including Mike Epps and Lil Yachty.

Our amazing reporter Loryn chatted with Michael on his favorite hobby, advice for young actors, and more!

Q: When did you first realize that you wanted to become an actor?

M: “I realized that I wanted to be an actor when I was around eight years old. I would watch movies and television shows and repeat the lines with my own flavor. I had always done theater but It wasn’t until I was 17 when I started film.”

Q: If you weren’t an actor, what would you be up to right now?

M: “If I weren’t an actor,  I would definitely be living on my college campus and would still be pursuing a degree in political science and proceeding to law school. I could also see myself becoming a counselor.”

Q: What advice would you give to young aspiring actors?

M: “Don’t be afraid to fail! Take risks and step outside of your comfort zone! What I have learned these past couple years is that it takes being uncomfortable to truly grow.”

Q: Who do you consider to be your acting mentor whose career you would like to emulate, and why?

M: “Ahhhh that’s a hard question to ask. I look up to so many different actors for so many different reasons. But someone who has always inspired me is of course Denzel Washington. His ability to create a grounded and layered performance consistently is amazing.”

Q: “You have already been able to work with some impressive names so far in your career. Is there anyone you would love to work with someday?”

M: “There are a ton of people I would love to work with. Denzel of course…Kelvin Harrison Jr, Taylor Russel, Timothee Chalamet just to name a few.”

Q: What lesson do you hope fans take away from Paramount Original Movie ” On The Come. Up”?

M: “I think the book and the movie do a great job conveying the importance of staying true to yourself. If you genuinely live your truth then you are capable of sharing your light with others.”

Q: What inspired you to be a part of the Paramount Original Movie ” On The Come Up’?

M: “The biggest thing that attracted me to the project was the social injustices it touches. I have definitely had my fair share of racial profiling and racial injustice. I think it is important to tell stories like this because we need to keep bringing awareness. This is not a trend, it is real life!”

Q: What lesson has the entertainment industry taught you so far?

M: “Our industry is extremely competitive and can be stressful at times, so it is important to take time for yourself and live a balanced life. I recently picked up boxing. It keeps me focused and helps my brain not worry about the big what’s next.”

Q: What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?

M: “I can chef up some mean spaghetti sauce. So if you want me to cook for you…I gotchu.”

Q: Where can we follow your amazing journey?

M: “You can keep up with me via instagram @michaelcooperjr_.”

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Loryn Maul- Entertainment/Celebrity Reporter– Is an entertainment reporter at New Scene, where she writes about exclusive interviews. She prides herself on staying on top of the entertainment trends. She is also an experienced publicist in the B2B SaaS space.