Exclusive Interview: Deborah Cox Talks ‘Sidelined: The QB and Me,’ Grammy Nomination, and New Music

Deborah Cox is a true icon whose unparalleled talent and dedication have solidified her as a legend in music, theater, and on screen. With a voice that transcends genres and performances that leave audiences in awe, she has carved a legacy of excellence, inspiring countless artists and fans alike. From her chart-topping hits and unforgettable ballads to her groundbreaking work on Broadway and her advocacy for inclusivity and representation, Deborah continues to redefine what it means to be a multifaceted artist.

In her latest project, Deborah takes on a pivotal role in the film adaptation of Tay Marley’s breakout YA novel The QB Bad Boy and Me. The film follows Dallas (Siena Agudong), a burdened yet determined dancer striving to follow in her late mother’s footsteps by earning a spot at the country’s top dance school. Her focus is disrupted by Drayton (Noah Beck), a cheeky yet secretly grieving high school heartthrob with his own dreams and struggles. As Miss Alicia, Dallas’s mentor and dance teacher, Deborah brings warmth and strength to the character, guiding Dallas through the challenges of balancing ambition, love, and self-discovery. Her portrayal adds depth and heart to a story about resilience, passion, and finding the courage to pursue one’s dreams.

Pop Culturalist was lucky enough to speak with Deborah about Sidelined: The QB and Me, her recent Grammy nomination, and upcoming new music.

PC: You’ve done it all throughout your career. What was it about this script and character that resonated with you and made you want to be a part of it?
Deborah: The script was so endearing and charming—I absolutely loved it. Justin [Wu] approached me years ago, and it’s been a long time coming for us to work together. He was so open to the ideas I had for Miss Alicia and what I felt I needed to bring to the character. It was very collaborative, which is wonderful when you’re working with a director who knows what he wants, is focused, but also open to collaboration to help create these characters. It was a lot of fun. I just adore Siena [Agudong] and Noah [Beck]. They’re the only ones I got to do scenes with. I didn’t get the opportunity to work with the others, but after seeing the film last night, I’m so thrilled with how it turned out.

PC: Miss Alicia is such a mentor to Dallas. You’ve been that for so many people. But who have been the people in your own life who’ve shaped your journey as a storyteller and an artist? Did you channel that dynamic between those two characters?
Deborah: One of the biggest inspirations in my life has been my mother. When I found out that Miss Alicia was a dance teacher, I immediately thought, “I need to channel Miss Debbie Allen.” I also remember working alongside really great, strong women who helped shape who I am today. I took little bits and pieces from the people who have been in my life to draw inspiration for this role.

PC: One of the lessons I took away from this film is the importance of finding fulfillment outside of your craft and work. How do you personally find that balance, and how has that fed into your art and made you a stronger storyteller and artist?
Deborah: Saying yes to projects that I’m passionate about. It’s easier when you’re working on a passion project—something that allows you to bring something unique to the table and challenges you. I loved the idea of this role because I’ve never played a character like Miss Alicia before. As much as she’s nurturing, she’s also driven. She makes sure Dallas stays focused because she recognizes her gift. At the same time, she understands the stakes are very high if Dallas becomes too emotionally involved with Drayton. But Miss Alicia also sees the connection between Dallas and Drayton and understands that it’s what fuels her dance. It’s a balancing act—you’ve got to find that equilibrium when it comes to love, child.

PC: There’s also this beautiful sentiment that your character shares with Dallas about embracing spontaneity, about making every performance feel like it’s the first and last time. You touched upon this already, but this is the first feature for director Justin Wu and co-star Noah Beck. How did you feed off their energy? What was it like collaborating with them and also Siena?
Deborah: When I got on set, I immediately noticed this incredible chemistry—it’s something very rare and hard to find. Often, people have to work to create it, but with Noah and Siena, it just clicked right away. They look so beautiful on camera together, and you completely believe in their relationship and connection. I loved it. I was drawn in and so thrilled to share that scene we had together. There was a real connection on set, and it made the experience even more special.

Justin is incredibly talented. He’s so gifted in the way he tells a story through the camera. I’m like, “Dude, your Instagram posts and reels are like a movie!” It’s his unique perspective and the way he tells a story visually—that’s what makes him brilliant. He has his own distinct style. I’m thrilled to have worked with him, and I definitely want to collaborate with him again. He’s amazing.

PC: The two of you need to work together again—you’re a dream team. It’s so rare to come onto a project with an existing fan base. What are you most excited for audiences to see? How does this project pay homage to the source material while also bringing your own creative stamp to it?
Deborah: It’s always tricky to bring something to life that’s already beloved as a book, but I think people will be pleasantly surprised. It all comes down to the storytelling—not just the words, but the way emotions are conveyed through dance or music. Justin took all the elements and pieces he had to work with and beautifully brought them together. He created a warm, charming, and brilliantly crafted film. Watching it last night, I couldn’t stop smiling. I was even brought to tears a few times. It’s such a lovely, heartfelt project.

PC: Feel-good is the perfect way to describe this film. Outside of this project, what’s next for you?
Deborah: Vacation. [laughs] I just came off Broadway, so I’m going to enjoy some time off, get inspired, and spend time with my family. The Grammys are coming up—I got nominated. I’m also going to start writing some new music. People have been waiting, and I’ve heard all the requests. I’ll be back in the studio at the top of the new year with new music.

Make sure to follow Deborah on X and Instagram. Sidelined: The QB and Me premieres on Tubi on November 29th.