2025 NAACP Image Awards: 5 Things to Know About ‘Sing Sing’ Breakout Star Clarence Maclin
Clarence Maclin has been making waves in Hollywood, and his star is shining brighter than ever thanks to his breakout performance in A24’s critically acclaimed film “Sing Sing.”
Sharing the screen with Oscar-nominated actor Colman Domingo, Maclin delivered a raw and compelling portrayal that has earned him a well-deserved nomination for Outstanding Breakthrough Performance in a Motion Picture at the NAACP Image Awards 2025.
Set in a theater program within a maximum-security prison, “Sing Sing” isn’t just a story about redemption but a showcase of Maclin’s natural talent and emotional depth. As audiences gear up for the big awards night on February 22, 2025, here’s a closer look at five things you should know about this rising star you’ll want to keep on your radar.
He has a personal connection to his “Sing Sing” role
The highly praised prison drama centers on a theater production performed by a group of incarcerated actors at the prison that shares its name with the title. Maclin takes on the role of a character named Divine Eye, who is partly inspired by his own life. When he was 29, the actor was sentenced to 17 years behind bars for robbery.
He gained his love for acting while incarcerated
Maclin discovered his passion after he saw a Rehabilitation Through the Arts production in Sing Sing’s chapel. While RTA isn’t considered a job training program, following the success of the film, Maclin has decided to pursue acting even further. The rising star has been on several auditions, though he can’t publicly speak about them.
He’s a First-Time NAACP Image Awards Nominee
Maclin’s nomination for Outstanding Breakthrough Performance in a Motion Picture marks a significant career milestone. It’s also a testament to his undeniable talent and the powerful impact of his role in “Sing Sing.”
During an interview with GQ earlier this month, as he prepared to attend his first-ever Golden Globe Awards, the rising star shared, “Everywhere that I’m going to now, I’ve never been,” adding, “This is my first time everywhere.”
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He has a sharp stylist on hand
With his new fame, Macline will be busy attending social functions and many opening nights. The actor is currently working with EJ Briones. The NYC-based stylist has been known to work with A-list celebrities, including Jeffrey Wright, Anthony Mackie, Tyler James Williams, Lala Anthony, and more.
He’s focused on remaining chill amid recent success
With so many firsts, the actor revealed that he doesn’t let himself get nervous. “I don't have an expectation,” he shared in a recent interview, adding, “I just go to the party. I have a ball.”
Watch the NAACP Image Awards live on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 8:00 pm ET/PT on BET.
