Kondwani Phiri talks about “American Gigolo”, what it was like bringing this story to life, future projects and more. (Exclusive)
Photo credit: Eric Michael Roy
Written by: Gracie Lowes
If you’re looking for a new TV series to binge then look now further… Showtime has released a present-day reimagining of the 1980 film “American Gigolo”.
The new series follows “Julian Kaye (Jon Bernthal) after his wrongful conviction release following 15 years in prison as he struggles to find his footing in the modern-day Los Angeles sex industry and navigates his complicated relationships.”
I had the chance to sit down (virtually) with actor Kondwani Phiri who plays “Young Lorenzo” in the series, to talk to him about his time on set, what this experience was like, what it was like playing a younger version of a character, and more.
You can read the full interview below.
Gracie: By the time this interview is out the show will be out so congratulations on “American Gigolo”! How has this release and the days building up to the release been for you?
Kondwani Phiri: Thank you so much for the warm congratulations. This release has been beyond exciting for me—the entire cast and crew of American Gigolo put in a tremendous amount of work over the past year and half to bring the series to life. It’s a beautiful thing to finally witness, and share, the fruits of our labor.
Gracie: Can you tell anyone who hasn’t watched the show yet, what it’s about and what to expect from it?
Kondwani: It’s a story about murder, redemption, love, jealousy, friendship, and the complexity of the human condition. To someone that hasn’t yet seen it, I’d simply tell them to buckle up and strap in for one hell of a ride. I’d also tell them to put the kids to bed first haha.
Gracie: In the show you play “Young Lorenzo”, could you tell us a little bit about your character, but also what it was like playing a younger version of Wayne Brady’s character?
Kondwani: Young Lorenzo is a carefree, debonair, master of his trade. He loves his line of work and does it well—he is the embodiment of hedonism. He is also profoundly loyal to those he considers his friends. Playing a younger version of Wayne Brady was a wonderful experience. I knew I had big shoes to feel so there was some added motivation to bring my A game. I’ve always been a big fan of his work so it was an honor to share a character with him.
Gracie: The show covers a lot of topics, I’m wondering what do you hope viewers take from the series.
Kondwani: It is a dynamic show and there is plenty that viewers to glean from it. One thing I hope viewers take from the series is the importance and value of chosen family during the worst, and best, moments in life.
Gracie: Do you have a favorite moment or memory from the set?
Kondwani: My favorite memory was probably when Wayne and I finally met on set. We had been playing the same character for nearly a year at that point but kept missing one another due to scheduling. I think we both found some novelty in that experience and we shared some good laughs.
Gracie: What drew you to want to be a part of this project?
Kondwani: For one, I loved the 1980 cult classic film of the same name. But seeing all of the immensely talented people attached to the project fueled my desire to be involved with this series. Having Jon Bernethal at the helm of any project would sell me any day of the week.
Gracie: If you could describe this series in three words what would they be and why?
Kondwani: That’s tough. I’d say “your new addiction”. It’ll have viewers hooked and craving more.
Gracie: Do you have any future projects you could hint at or talk about?
Kondwani: I do have some projects on the horizon. One I’m currently working on that should be public knowledge in the coming weeks and an appearance in an A24 comedic drama coming to Netflix later this year. I’m looking forward to sharing more of my work with the world!
