I got the chance to interview actor Tony Delerme, whose latest project is the role of Tony in the award-nominated, Ty Hodges-directed, Jacquelin DeLeon-co-written drama A Girl Like Grace. His role in that film is a departure from his past roles, in which he usually played variations of Don Juan. Dancing In the Shadow of Hell found him playing opposite actress Blondedy Ferdinand, Johanne Vilma and Hubermann Saintil. He’s already gone behind the cameras once, helming Miami Hound Dogs, Where’s The Justice and Practice What You Preach. With A Girl Like Grace, he’s showing his growth as a dramatic actor, and his desire to go spread his wings in bigger markets.
Kreyolicious: Were you the class clown or quiet kid growing up?
I was very shy, but did have mad jokes—once I felt comfortable around people.
Kreyolicious: Who’s inspired you the most in your career?
My Dad, Raynald Delerme. He has so much drive and determination. He doesn’t wait for opportunities. He creates his own.
Kreyolicious: You’ve been in a couple of films. I think a lot of times the public sees a movie, and doesn’t really think much of the behind-the-scenes. Which film was the most fun to film?
I can’t pick just one as my favorite because they are all adventures. They all great high moments. In this industry, you meet so many fascinating people and travel to amazing destinations.
Kreyolicious: Which was the most challenging?
The most challenging film I worked on has to be A Girl Like Grace. That character changes so drastically and I had to go to a dark place with him. I also did a project named Joy, where I played a cancer survivor. That character was quite challenging because I’m such a strong person and a healthy person it was hard visiting an ailment.
Kreyolicious: A Girl Like Grace finds you working alongside Garcelle Beauvais. How was that? Did you guys film any scenes together. What was like working alongside Meagan Good, Romeo Miller and Raven Simone?
Garcelle, Meagan, Raven, Ryan and the whole cast where so amazing. We treated one another like one big family. I did act in some scenes with them. They are very professional and as professional you never try to out act someone else. So our scenes where more of a give and take.
Kreyolicious: How do you personally stay on top of your game?
I stay on top of my game by keeping myself grounded. I don’t let the industry get the best of me. I do my work, then go home. A lot of people love fame, but I don’t. I do this because I am a true artist. Fame is like a drug and people will do anything for it. I don’t feel like I always need to be in the spotlight. So once I’m done promoting a project or working on one, I go home and take care of Tony. I regroup, get my mind together—then think about what I want to do next and what will be good for my career. I keep moving. I don’t stop, and I never get too comfortable. In this life, you must be present. You can’t expect for things to happen for you in life. You have to go out and get it.
Kreyolicious: Your parents call from time to time to congratulate you on your roles, or nah?
[Laughter] My parents are always congratulating me. My line of work isn’t your typical 9-5, so I usually mention what I’m doing when I’m halfway through the job so it catches them off guard.
Kreyolicious: What project are you working on right now?
I just finished a documentary about five artists being on the road together and showing their movie in different cities. I’m finishing up edits on two films Tribulation and The Just Come. And up next I will write and shoot a web series called “Dating In Your 30s”.
Kreyolicious: What would you say to someone who wants to be an actor?
My advice to an aspiring actor would be is to do it! Don’t question yourself, or listen to what others have to say. Live your dream and don’t do it for the fame. Go to your local college and find the film or theater department. Find out if they are casting, then audition. Find local theaters and audition. Take professional headshots to present to acting agencies. You have to get yourself out there. It doesn’t happen overnight, so you have to be ready for the long haul. A lot of ups and downs in this business. If you’re doing it to be famous, just give up now. Do it for the love of the art. Do it for passion. Do it with all your heart.
TONY DELERME ON INSTAGRAM | TONY DELERME ON TWITTER
[Photo Credit: Getty]
