BET Talks: Morris Chestnut on Legacy, Hollywood, and the Art of Acting
Morris Chestnut, a staple in Black Hollywood, recently paid a visit to BET Talks and gave us an intimate look at his career, personal journey, and approach to acting. From his role as a heartthrob to his latest project as Dr. Watson in Watson, Chestnut kept it real about Hollywood, fatherhood, and the importance of staying grounded.
The Art of Transformation: Morris Chestnut’s Acting Approach
Chestnut opened up about his acting process, revealing that his characters often carry pieces of his real-life experiences. He described how he adapts to different roles by dialing up specific emotions and traits depending on the character’s situation.
"I try to bring a lot of myself into a character because we are different things at different times in our lives. We play different roles on a daily basis," he explained.
For Chestnut, acting isn’t about detachment—it’s about connection. Whether he’s playing a devoted husband, a conflicted detective, or a legendary literary figure like Dr. Watson, he taps into personal experiences to bring authenticity to every role.
Staying Humble in Hollywood: Chestnut on Fame and Work Ethic
While many recognize Morris Chestnut for his effortless charm and leading-man appeal, he’s never let the fame distract him from his craft. He emphasized that his focus has always been on the work rather than the attention that comes with it.
"Honestly, I don't focus on that. All of my career, I just really have focused on the work. I just knew my place was to focus on my work, and all that other stuff will come," he shared.
More importantly, Chestnut believes in treating everyone with respect, from the youngest production assistant to the biggest star on set. His humility and work ethic have helped him sustain a long and respected career in Hollywood.
Check out the full interview above.