My Kingston — Shameik Moore
Your Jamaican roots come via…
My parents Sharon Watson Moore and Errol Moore.
Where in Jamaica are they from?
My dad’s family is from Kingston and my mom’s family is from St Mary.
What are your thoughts on Jamaica?
I wanna learn more about my culture. I only know what I’ve learned through my family. I wanna build my own relationship with the homeland.
How have your Rock roots influenced you?
Everybody that raised me is from Jamaica, so I have the confidence and the work ethic of a Jamaican man. The obvious musical influence, plus I dance very well, and I’m extremely athletic. Those are all Jamaican influences.
How did you get into animation?
It actually got into me, you feel me? It was more of an opportunity that presented itself and it happened to be in animation.
How much of a struggle has it been and what made you stay the course?
Struggle is all in perspective and nothing comes easy for a black man, no matter where you are in the world. But I have that Jamaican dedication and persistence. It wasn’t that hard; I was just being myself. I don’t feel like my journey was that hard; I just needed to learn patience.
There was never a Plan B!
What’s next?
I’m co-starring in two upcoming projects — a Netflix young-adult film Let It Snow and the Wu-Tang: An American Saga series on Hulu.
What is your message to a young kid looking at you and applauding?
Learn more about yourself, and be okay with what you learn.
What’s your message to your parents?
Good job!
Finally, when are you coming to visit us?
As soon as you all get me and a few friends a flight!