Tywayne Wheatt’s Stories, Lessons & Insights

Tywayne Wheatt shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Tywayne, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
Authenticity. Most people want to belong to something or feel they belong. It is a longing for connection that makes us feel like we are not alone in the world. This struggle is a battle that can be won by accepting the truth of oneself. Be weird, strange, unyielding, etc. It is totally normal to not be normal. If we learn to love ourselves, that struggle ascends to a badge of acceptance.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Tywayne Wheatt. I am a child of God, first and foremost. I am also a father to an amazing teenage son. I am a member of a loving family. My passion and career is being a dramatic artist, AKA an Actor. My Acting has blessed me to work with some of today’s best talent. I have worked with Emmy and Oscar award-nominated and winning actors. Actors like Viola Davis, Samuel L Jackson, Don Cheadle, Monique, Patricia Arquette, Jamie Foxx, and Gabriel Labelle, amongst many other great artists. My credits include The Burial, Shaft(2019), BMF, Stargirl, Fight Night, First Lady, Ms Pat Show, Rap Sh*t, First Wives Club, to name a few. I was born and raised in Newark, NJ, where dreams can be deterred at times. My community and family made me believe that anything is possible. I have overcome the obstacles of obesity, poverty, and self-confidence. Being an actor has blessed me with exploring the human condition and behavior so audiences can get a better understanding of the world and themselves. Art is a form of expression that I’m proud to be a part of.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My mother and family have always seen and encouraged my potential. They maintained a positive outlook regardless of the environment or conditions. Even though people laughed at my dreams, my family reinforced them. My mother, Priscilla Wheatt,in particular, is the most gracious and giving woman of God that has ever lived. She saw my light at an early age and dosed it with love to illuminate my future.
My father,Charles Wheatt, taught me integrity and commitment. He was all in on Family and being disciplined with love.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
As artists, we are very sensitive about Art. Being an actor means being vulnerable for the world to see. That caveat comes with scrutiny and rejection. As humans, we are our worst critics. When I first moved to Atlanta, I auditioned for every platform and network. I got nowhere. It was becoming normal to be rejected in my mind. I was frustrated because I sacrificed and trained hard to be a competent actor. The constant No’s made me feel inadequate and fraudulent. That impostor syndrome was real. I almost quit and gave up the very thing that gave me joy. I prayed and spoke with my family and the acting community for encouragement. I also studied my art vehemently. It made me realize that the journey is the reward, not the results. I teach my son that it is not about falling but how you get back up.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lie in the entertainment industry is that being You is not enough. Be unabashedly You. There are many actors, but only one You. Period.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I would give it my all regardless of praise; I do things only to please myself. I don’t get involved in things that I have no passion for. Talent is great, but discipline and passion will sustain. When the applause is gone, your self-love will endure.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: tywaynewheatt
• Twitter: wheattt86562
• Facebook: Tywayne Wheatt