Jessie T. Usher who plays basketball phenom Cab Calloway, in the new original Starz series “Survivor’s Remorse”and Ronreaco Lee , who plays his manger and "voice of reason," are two artists that are headed toward long, and fruitful careers in television,film and in Mr. Lee's case—theatre.
At the risk of sounding like a hippie, Jessie and Ronreaco give off good vibes and they inspired me to push my own creative envelope. That might sound simple but I'm a New Yorker and seasoned Hollywood veteran with a veneer that rarely cracks. Yet, these "youngsters" had me smiling all week and dreaming.
"Survivor’s Remorse," which is set in Atlanta is a modern morality tale about the lure of fame, riches and family ties.
The story follows Cam Calloway (Jessie T. Usher) the b-ball wonder who, just in his early 20’s is suddenly thrust into the limelight after signing a multi-million dollar contract with a professional basketball team.
More money equals more problems and the comedy/drama around that rise to fame is what makes this story bounce. It's that microscopic examination of what happens when you “make it out" that makes this Starz original series "one to watch."
When Cab's cousin and confidant Reggie Vaughn (Ronreaco Lee) relocates to Georgia (to participate in his journey to success) they both confront the challenges of balancing their colorful family and upholding those inherited values.
Their roots are planted inside an impoverished community and it's those experiences that shape them for better or worse.
In the end, this series has created powerful,and unforgettable characters that wrestle with the rewards and pitfalls of stardom, love and loyalty.
The cast also includes Erica Ash as M-Chuck, the sister of Cam and Tichina Arnold as Cassie, Cam’s mother and Mike Epps (“Being Mary Jane") as Cam’s Uncle Julius.
“Survivor’s Remorse” premieres Saturday, October 4th at 9pm ET/PT exclusively on STARZ with a six-episode season. It's executive produced by actor/writer Michael O' Malley, who played Burt on the series "Glee"—a role that was created for him by Ryan Murphy.
Here's what Mr. Usher and Mr. Lee shared about working in Hollywood.
myNewYorkeye: Are there any similarities between you and your character?
Jessie Usher: Yes, Cab is new to the game and this is my first leading role. So, I connect with the pressure. He's also has a giving heart and I'm also very close to my family. I still live at home with my parents.
Ronreaco Lee: There are a few parallels with Reggie. I am cautious and always thinking and planning ahead. I'm the "consilleri" ( Robert Duvall) character.
myNewYorkeye: I enjoyed the dialogue, it flowed. Can you give me some insight?
Ronreaco Lee: One of the most exciting elements about the series is the writing. The show runner is Michael O' Malley. He's also earned an Emmy nomination for his role as Burt on "Glee."
Jessie Usher: Michael is wonderful to work with. The pacing of the show and the camaraderie that he makes happen, it just inspires you to want the best from yourself.
myNewYorkeye: I'm getting the strongest sense that you both aspire for careers behind the camera. Correct?
Ronreaco Lee: Correct, The writing drew me to this project and Michael is an excellent show-runner. He has the actors and the show's best interest firmly in hand. That's a solid quality.
John Nelson, our first AD also makes the working experience special.
myNewYorkeye: The series feels cinematic. Why?
Ronreaco Lee: Good eye Lapacazo, Our director of photography Oliver (from "Scandal") really knows how to make every frame beautiful. It's by design not accident.
myNewYorkeye: You both spoke about being "ahead of the game" —elaborate.
Jessie Usher: I'm falling in love with the art of the DP (director of photography). I'm working on that journey.
Ronreaco Lee: I'm on the directing path. I'm paying my dues. Matt Nicks, who is a show runner and creator of "Burn Notice" noticed that I really wanted to direct, so he extended an invitation to shadow a director. It was a tremendous opportunity and that's part of my creative journey. I also feel the stage calling.
myNewYorkeye: I'm feeling an EGOT for you both. Well maybe not the "Grammy" so well make up our own word to describe the winning circle.