Pop-Culturalist.com

Lance Alexander is a rising young actor who knows a thing or two about making sacrifices. For nearly three years, he and his family lived a part so that Lance could follow his dreams in Los Angeles. And he’s made the most of each opportunity, landing coveted roles in projects like Raven’s Home and Family Reunion. Pop Culturalist caught up with Lance to learn more about his journey as an artist and playing Elvis in Family Reunion.

PC: How did you discover your passion for acting?
Lance: I discovered my passion for acting by simply watching how people responded to my presence. For as long as I can remember, I have always loved to entertain, and whatever room I went in, I seemed to get a lot of attention. Back then, I was just simply dancing or telling jokes, but that’s how it all started. I discovered I had a special way with people. I liked them, and they liked me back!

PC: You’ve had a lot of success already in your young career. When you look back, is there a particular moment that stands out?
Lance: Thank you! Yes, one of the biggest moments was when I booked my first TV show role on Disney’s Raven’s Home! At the time, it was my favorite show. When I received the audition, I prayed to the good Lord to book that role. A few days after, I remember leaving another audition and getting the call that I booked the role on Raven’s Home. I screamed so loud and I was so proud, and I will forever be grateful for that opportunity!

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Lance: My parents have definitely had the biggest influence on my career. I learned very early what it meant to work hard for the things you want in life. Both of my parents are highly educated. My father is an attorney, and my mother has a PhD. I have listened to so many stories about their education and careers, which has given me insight on how to develop good work habits and nurture good healthy relationships along the way. Their willingness to share with me and teach me has given me the desire to work hard in every aspect of my life and career. I have learned there are no shortcuts, and it’s better to take the long route around to explore and experience more.

PC: When you started acting, you and your family split your time between Ohio and Los Angeles. Was that a challenge? What did you learn about yourself during that time?
Lance: Yes, this was one of the biggest challenges in my journey. In the words of my mom though, “Nothing good comes without sacrifice.”

When my journey started, my mom and I came to Los Angeles alone. My older sister and dad remained in our Ohio home. It was hard being separated from the rest of my family and friends. I mean I even missed fighting with my sister.

It was also hard traveling back and forth because of the very long plane rides. A simple phone call had to be planned because of the three-hour time difference, and over time, we began to talk less and less.

Every three weeks, they traveled to California or we traveled to Ohio. The best part about the flights were the frequent flyer miles! During those times, my mom and I only had each other, but this is when I definitely learned that I was extremely blessed.

My family made the sacrifice to run two households for nearly three years so that I could live my dream. From the very beginning, I remember my mom would often say this is for Team Lance, and it was always so nice to hear. So when I work and find success, I’m not only doing it for me but for my team!

Family Reunion

PC: Tell us about Family Reunion, your character, and how you celebrated landing your breakout TV role.
Lance: I play a country boy named Elvis. He is a funny guy. He’s patient and very optimistic. One of the things I love so much about this character is that he is so much like me!

We share a lot of the same interests, like starting our own business. Elvis has his own lawn service, and I used to have a fidget spinner business and a one-man concession stand. The girl he’s in love with, Jade, barely knows he exists, but he’s so confident. He doesn’t let her rejection bother him. No matter how many boys Jade meets, Elvis won’t give up on his love interest. He will fight for Jade until the end of time. It takes a lot to break my spirit, and Elvis is the same way.

I still celebrate landing this role. One of the ways I celebrate is putting my all into this character every time he shows up on screen! That is truly the best way I can celebrate my role and the gift of this enormous opportunity. My community back in Ohio is very supportive and encouraging. When I left to pursue this dream, they all came out for a huge send-off celebration. So as a thank-you when I landed the Netflix role, I returned for a community watch party for Family Reunion. The celebration was epic!

PC: What’s been the biggest takeaway being a part of Family Reunion?
Lance: The biggest takeaway from Family Reunion definitely has to be how much I’ve learned and grown as an actor! I am so grateful to the creator of the show, Meg DeLoatch, for the opportunity! Family Reunion is what I consider a teaching set: the directors and casts are always supportive and willing to help the younger actors.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Lance: The Flash on the CW.

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Lance: John Wick 3.

PC: Favorite book?
Lance: Lord of the Flies.

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Lance: Hamilton.

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Lance: Marvin Sapp.

PC: Who would play you in the story of your life?
Lance: When Hollywood calls to make a movie about my life, I hope to be so super busy that I can’t drop everything to star in it, so I hope they cast the funniest talented newcomer in Hollywood. If the newcomer is too busy, Adam Sandler will do.

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