Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with She’s Gotta Have It’s Rafael V. DeLeon

There’s a lot of buzz surrounding Rafael V. DeLeon, and it’s easy to see why. A fresh face in Hollywood, Rafael has inspired others to follow their dreams and never settle. He pursued his many passions, which led him from athletics to politics to the world of film making.

He’s quickly established himself as one of Hollywood’s most exciting young actors for his portrayal as Manny Garciela in Spike Lee’s She’s Gotta Have It, which returned for its second season this past May. Pop Culturalist caught up with Rafael to chat about the series, his expanded role, and his career journey.

PC: Tell us about She’s Gotta Have It, your character, and what drew you to this project.
Rafael: Well, I’ve been familiar with Spike’s work for years now, so when I found out he was rebooting the film as a show, I was immediately interested! It has always been a dream to be able to work on something with Spike. When this audition came in, it was definitely a moment for me.

PC: What should fans expect with season two?
Rafael: Fans should expect character development and real-life situations. The show does an amazing job of continuing the story and building it out in new and exciting ways.

PC: How has Manny changed since we’ve last seen him? What can you tease about his arc this season?
Rafael: Gentrification sucks! The way it affects people really leads to a ripple effect on us all, and you will see that it is something Manny feels a certain way about this season.

PC: We read that Manny has an expansive role this season. What was that preparation like? Was it different from season one?
Rafael: The preparation was the same for the most part both seasons: I do the character analysis and the work to find Manny. One thing that was a bit different from season one was that my character plays a larger part in Mars’ storyline in season two, which meant more time spent preparing for additional scenes.

PC: What’s the biggest lesson that Manny/this series has taught you?
Rafael: There are levels to this. I have learned that knowing your role and playing it to the best of your ability is all you can do. Doing that and allowing the chips to fall where they may is tried and true.

PC: You’ve had an interesting career path to the industry. Can you tell us about that?
Rafael: I have! I played sports all of my life, including in college. I, then, transitioned to politics post-graduation. After some time in D.C., I decided to pursue my passion in film, which led me to New York. It’s worked out so far!

PC: What did you learn from your experience playing collegiate basketball that you’ve been able to transition into your acting career?
Rafael: I have learned that patience and staying focused even when the bright lights aren’t on are equally important. Game time is the culmination of months of preparation and struggle to become better—sounds a lot like the highs and lows of a career in acting.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Rafael: Fast Money on CNBC

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Rafael: Revolver by Guy Ritchie. Critics hate that film, but I love it.

PC: Favorite book?
Rafael: The 48 Laws of Power

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Rafael: Ain’t Too Proud

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Rafael: Washed Out

PC: Last show you binge-watched?
Rafael: Ozark

PC: Hidden talent?
Rafael: I enjoy trading stocks and investing in equities.

To keep up with Rafael, follow him on Twitter and Instagram, and catch She’s Gotta Have It season two on Netflix today.

Photo Credit: Shannon Wallace