Boardroom sat down with Jay Ellis to talk about his latest and greatest on-screen roles and how his passion for acting is taking him to new heights.
Jay Ellis frequently draws parallels between his acting career and his background in basketball. When working within large ensembles, from Insecure to Top Gun, he views every person on set like a team.
“We’re all here to achieve a goal and everybody’s got to play a part,” he explained. “If I set you up to play your part, then I only look better.”
His process centers on a collaborative spirit that honors diverse approaches and fosters a sense of family. He found a similar dynamic on the set of his newest film, Freaky Tales.
Ahead of its release, Ellis stopped by our offices for a wide-ranging conversation for Boardroom Talks. The multifaceted actor sat down with Michelai Graham to discuss his dynamic career, delving into recent projects like Freaky Tales and Running Point, the monumental success of Top Gun: Maverick, and his upcoming foray into theater this summer.
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In his latest film, Freaky Tales, Ellis was met with a different kind of challenge compared to the rigorous training program Tom Cruise designed for Top Gun: Maverick. Ellis recalled his stunned reaction to the highly original script, particularly its blend of 1980s Oakland culture, basketball, and martial arts. Playing a fictionalized version of former NBA star Sleepy Floyd allowed him to honor a real figure while embracing the fantastical elements. He hopes the film offers audiences a fun escape from reality, allowing them to connect with its underlying themes of underdogs finding their power.
Looking ahead, Ellis is starring in the off-Broadway play Duke and Roya this summer. While admittedly “terrified” by the prospect of live theater with no second takes, he views it as an essential opportunity for growth. Ellis said he’s most intrigued by the play’s exploration of self-identity through cross-cultural connection.
“If I’m not challenging myself, then there’s no growth, and if there’s no growth, then why am I doing it?,” Ellis said.
Whether tackling blockbuster action, unique indie films, television comedy-drama, or the live stage, Ellis approaches his craft with a spirit of collaboration and a desire to continually evolve. His primary passion remains acting, or the “study of people” as he described it, and using it as a vehicle to tell compelling, diverse stories.
Watch the full Boardroom Talks interview for deeper insights into Ellis’ journey and experiences.
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