Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Jaheem Toombs

Jaheem Toombs knew he wanted to be an artist after experiencing an indescribable joy watching his favorite television programs. He wanted to provide audiences around the world with that same feeling and dove into acting, singing, and dancing. He’s starred in projects including 100 Things to Do Before High School, Gortimer Gibbon’s Life on Normal Street, and A Better Place. This year, Jaheem is excited to start releasing his own original music and showing a different side of his craft.

PC: You’re a singer, dancer, and actor. Is there one that you naturally gravitate towards? How did you discover your passion for each?
Jaheem: I would say that I’m equally passionate about all three. I love entertaining overall; nothing is more exhilarating for me. I’ve always known that this is what I wanted to do. I discovered my passion during school and church plays. I would also sit in front of the TV with my Nana all day watching Disney and Nickelodeon. That was always when I was the happiest. It filled me with an indescribable joy and I wanted to be able to provide that feeling for other people around the world.

PC: How challenging is it to balance your career and life as a normal teenager?
Jaheem: Balancing everyday life with my career can get a little challenging. I’m a workaholic, but I still have to do all the normal things like going to school and maintaining a healthy social life. It gets super busy with work and sometimes it’s hard to jump back and forth. I’m homeschooled, which sounds like paradise to some people, but it’s a heavier workload with quicker deadlines. I’m blessed to have an incredible friend circle, too. There’s so much love and support in my circle, and it makes things a million times easier.

PC: You’re best known for your role in 100 Things to Do Before High School. What was the biggest takeaway from that experience?
Jaheem: It was a dream come true. The coolest thing about the experience would be the response from our audience. It was my first major project and it was so inspiring to know that millions of kids around the world enjoy watching my work. Getting to meet fans of mine is seriously incredible. It’s the reason I do what I do.

PC: As we look ahead to 2019, what does the year hold for you?
Jaheem: So. Much. Music. I can’t wait to release my original music. I’ve been working super hard to make it perfect and I’m so excited for the world to hear.

PC: What is your dream role?
Jaheem: I’d love a lead role in a blockbuster movie musical. It would be the best of both worlds. I also love comedy, so I’m always thrilled to be a part of projects in that genre. One thing a lot of people don’t know about me is that I’m actually a musical theatre geek! I would love to play Seaweed in Hairspray on Broadway if they ever revive it.

PC: What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned being a part of this industry?
Jaheem: Keep God first, surround yourself with people that are just as passionate as you, and never compromise.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Jaheem: Crazy Ex-Girlfriend

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Jaheem: High School Musical

PC: Favorite book?
Jaheem: The Maze Runner

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Jaheem: Right now, I would say Dear Evan Hansen or Aladdin.

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Jaheem: The Jonas Brothers. [laughs] Everyone knows I love Beyoncé.

PC: Last show you binge-watched?
Jaheem: The Office

PC: Hidden talent?
Jaheem: I can yodel.

To keep up with Jaheem, follow him on Twitter and Instagram.

Photo Credit: @photobyblaze