2022 NAACP Image Awards: 5 Things to Know About ‘Breakthrough Performance in a Motion Picture’ Nominee Lonnie Chavis
Rising actor Lonnie Chavis may only be 14-years-old but his resume speaks volumes, having had roles in several hit shows, including the Emmy Award-winning NBC drama series This Is Us, in addition to guest-starring in other television shows.
Chavis’ first feature film earned him a nomination for “Breakthrough Performance in a Motion Picture” for his role in the David Oyelowo-directed drama film The Water Man. Chavis plays alongside Hollywood veteran Rosario Dawson, an 11-year-old boy who wanders into the woods looking for a mythical figure rumored to have the power to cheat death to save his mother, played by Dawson, who’s dying from cancer.
While the young actor gave a strong performance in his debut movie, is it enough to take home the 2022 NAACP Image Award? Before viewers find out on February 26, here are a few things you should know about this year’s nominee.
He’s been featured on other hit shows
Chavis may be best be known for his role as the younger version of Randall Pearson, with the adult role played by Sterling K. Brown. However, he’s made several appearances on other series, including CW’s Supergirl. Chavis is also on the cast of Disney’s Magic Camp.
He’s worked with some veterans in Hollywood
In 2016, Chavis starred as Trevor in a pilot he shot for Showtime’s White Famous. Academy Award winner Jamie Foxx produced the series. Chavis acted alongside comedian and impersonator Jay Pharaoh, who starred as Trevor’s dad Floyd.
He got his start in acting real early
Although he’s only 14-years-old, Chavis began acting at the early age of 4. At 6, his mom submitted his photos to modeling agencies and commercial opportunities.
He survived a traumatic experience
When he was 8-year-old, Chavis narrowly escaped masked kidnappers who tried to take him off the streets in Long Beach, California. Chavis bravely ran away after being pushed to the ground by the two men and made it to safety.
He’s an anti-bully advocate
Chavis teamed up with the Ad Council for a new anti-bullying campaign to combat online and offline bullying.
Watch the NAACP Image Awards on Saturday, February 26, 2022 at 8/9c.
