By Tammy Reese | Photo Credit: Ty Philips| Monday, November 27, 2023 | 11:01 AM ET
Marcus Murphy is a seasoned actor and model with an impressive eleven years of experience in the entertainment industry. His dedication and passion for his craft have propelled him to new heights, and he shows no signs of slowing down.
Currently, Marcus is preparing for two exciting television scripted series, “The League,” where he will be portraying the character of George Woods, head basketball coach along with Tremaine and Los portraying Lionel Williams slated to film in 2024. In addition, his previous project We Want Justice where he portrays the character Derrick won its first award at the 2023 MAMA show.
While Marcus thoroughly enjoys being a part of the entertainment world as an actor and model, he is also committed to expanding his horizons as an artist. He aims to create opportunities not only through his performances but also through his own production company. This forward-thinking mindset demonstrates Marcus’s determination to leave a lasting impact on the industry by taking on diverse roles and exploring various avenues within the creative realm.
The first project slated from his production company will be the Canada Lee story who was a boxer, actor, and activist in the 1930’s. The film will be shot as a short film before filming the feature film in 2025.
As Marcus continues to grow in his artistry, we can expect him to deliver exceptional performances while simultaneously working behind the scenes to bring innovative projects to life. His multifaceted approach sets him apart from others in the industry and ensures that his contributions will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.
When you first began your career what was your vision and purpose? How has it changed or remained the same?
Marcus: My vision and purpose when I first started my career was choosing projects that were community oriented and meaningful. It was important to establish those boundaries for myself so I would not be pigeon hold and taken serious as an actor not willing to do anything just for a check or screen time. Without a doubt, there have been times where I have felt my vision and purpose for myself has caused me to not work when I see my peers’ careers elevating. However, those feelings and thoughts were for a moment to remind myself that what is for me is for me. Therefore, my vision and purpose has remained the same and has allowed me to work with amazing actors, directors, and producers.
How are you approaching your character development as you prepare for two television scripted series?
Marcus: I am extremely excited to be working on two television series next year. First, The League is going to be phenomenal with my talented castmates and the writing is superb. My role in the project is George Woods, the head coach to the basketball players. The way I have been preparing for my role is watching basketball games regularly and working with my acting coach. In addition, meeting with my cast members, directors, and producers.
On the other hand, my character Lionel Williams is the younger brother to Tremaine and Los who had dreams of becoming police officers, but their dreams were deferred after being framed for something they didn’t do. The preparation for this character is working with my acting coach and reading the material daily.
What inspired you to start your production company? How do you see your production company contributing to the growth and development of diverse voices in the entertainment industry?
Marcus: My inspiration to start my own production company next year is to create black films to tell stories of unknown actors. For instance, Canada Lee was an American actor, activist, and boxer. Mr. Lee was seen as the first black actor to pave the way for actors before Sidney Poitier. The first project within my company will be a short film displaying his story and hopefully turn it into a feature film.
One way I see my production company contributing to diversity and growth in the entertainment industry is allowing new voices to express their ideas with a great message. I am not taking away from the stories we may see involving crimes, but fresh stories are important. It is important to have a plethora of diversity to tell stories in a unique way.
What qualities do you believe are essential for a successful producer in today’s industry?
Marcus: The qualities of a successful producer in the entertainment industry are being open to collaborating with others with different perspectives when creating any project. I am open to learning from my peers to better my craft and while I am leading others, I must always be a student first.
As a multi talented and accomplished creative, why is it important for you to continue learning your craft? Tell us about your creative study methods as of late?
Marcus: It is important to continue learning my craft because the industry changes every day. To stay relevant in my industry, taking my acting course and working with great actors allows me to stay ready so I don’t have to get ready.
What have been some of your 2023 career highlights and what are you most excited for in the coming year?
Marcus: I cannot believe that 2023 is coming to an end in less than a month. I am grateful for the opportunities this year has brought me such as booking two television shows, a potential feature film that my acting coach is directing and trusting my journey. I am most excited in 2024 to finish the paperwork to start creating opportunities for myself and other creatives.
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About Tammy Reese
Owner of Visionary Minds Public Relations and Media, Tammy Reese is an award-winning writer and journalist best known for landing major interviews with Angela Bassett, Sharon Stone, Sigourney Weaver, Laurence Fishburne, Geena Davis, Billy Porter, Morris Chestnut, Nelly, Mona Scott Young, Giancarlo Esposito, Luke Evans, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Jennifer Connelly, Joseph Sikora, Meagan Good, Leon, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Phylicia Rashad, Omar Epps, Courtney Kemp, Vivica A Fox, Ryan Coogler, and so many more.
She is a proud member of ForbesBLK as well as New York Women in Film and Television.
