Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Jahzir Bruno

The future of Hollywood looks bright with Jahzir Bruno leading the charge. Already in his young career, he’s shared the screen with everyone including Tyrese Gibson, Octavia Spencer, Anne Hathaway, and Chris Rock.

This year, he stars in The Witches and The Christmas Chronicles 2.

We caught up with this rising star to learn how he discovered his passion for the arts, his two new films, and what he hopes audiences take away.

Career

PC: How did you discover your passion for acting?
Jahzir: It happened completely by happenstance, so much so that I truly believe it was my destiny. In elementary school, I attended Dream Keepers Academy, a performing arts school in Fayetteville, GA. In 2016, several of the students in the drama class were selected to go on a field trip to J Pervis Talent Agency. I wasn’t one of the chosen ones, but because my aunt owns the school, she allowed me to go.

After a short tour of the agency, we did a cold read for Mrs. Pervis. She chose five out of the fifteen students to represent, and I was one of the five. Everyone was in shock, including me. So, I guess I’m not the kid that always wanted to be an actor. I would say my passion for acting was ignited the first time I set foot on a set, and it continues to grow with each project I do.

PC: You’re just starting out in your career. Is it ever challenging to balance life as a normal kid and your career?
Jahzir: I have an incredible support system that helps me schedule and manage life. I come from a family of educators, so managing my academic demands has been easy. My grandmother usually travels with me, and she is very strict about my education being a priority. The hardest part, I think, is missing school events, parties, and family functions.

PC: You’ve shared the screen with some of Hollywood’s biggest actors. Have any of them shared any words of wisdom with you?
Jahzir: Of course. Mr. Zemeckis told me to be a child as long as I can and to remain humble. Tyrese told me to educate myself and learn the business of being an actor so I can control my brand. Octavia Spencer, well, all I had to do was watch her. It was, as my grandmother often said, “A masterclass in acting and professionalism.” Ms. Spencer is amazing.

The Witches

PC: Your film, The Witches, is out now on HBO Max. Tell us about the project, your character, and what drew you to the role.
Jahzir: After I was selected for the role, I read the book and watched the original movie. I immediately loved my character and the relationship he had with his grandmother. I’m very close to my grandmother and felt an instant connection to the Hero boy. The Witches was my first big movie, and it was an incredible experience. Robert Zemeckis, Octavia Spencer, Anne Hathaway, London…come on! It doesn’t get any better than that. Does it? Don’t get me wrong, the work was hard, but the experience is one I will never forget. I feel like I grew by leaps and bounds as an actor.

PC: This is your debut feature film. When you look back at the experience, what do you remember the most? What did you take away?
Jahzir: I remember the people. Everyone involved was there to help guide me on this amazing journey. I remember the kindness of the people, and how everyone worked towards making sure this project was a success. I walked away knowing I was doing what I was meant to do.

The Christmas Chronicles 2

PC: You’re also starring in The Christmas Chronicles 2. What can fans expect?
Jahzir: Fans will be taken on an action-packed adventure, filled with hysterical one liners and Christmas joy.

PC: What was your favorite scene to film? What was the most challenging?
Jahzir: My favorite scene is when my character, Jack, musters up the courage to take on the crazy elves. He runs through Santa’s Village armed with a super-powered Nerf gun and a giant lollipop. It is hilarious! The most challenging was when Jack had to climb the glacier to get the flower to save Dasher’s life. I had to wear a harness and it wasn’t the easiest to shoot.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Favorite TV show?
Jahzir: Stranger Things.

PC: Favorite movie?
Jahzir: Titanic.

PC: Favorite book?
Jahzir: Henry’s Freedom Box by Ellen Levine.

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Jahzir: The Wiz.

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Jahzir: Drake.

PC: Hidden talent?
Jahzir: Boxing.

To keep up with Jahzir, follow him on Instagram. Watch The Witches on HBO Max and The Christmas Chronicles 2 on Netflix.