Brett Gray, an American actor, is best known for his role in Netflix’s hit series “On My Block” or the Emmy winning, limited series from Ava DuVernay, “When They See Us.” In addition to acting on the screen, he has also acted on stage in an off-Broadway production of “The Secret Life of Bees.” He has a passion for music. His latest EP, “Blue,” released in 2020, includes tracks ranging from soulful R&B to upbeat hip-hop and dance beats. Following these projects, He landed a role in Boots Riley’s new Amazon coming of age series, “I’m A Virgo,” in which he plays the role of Felix, a friend of protagonist, Cootie, who is a 13 ft tall young Black man in Oakland, who explores the outside world for the first time. You can watch Brett Gray as Felix in the new series, “I’m A Virgo,” on Amazon now.

Jacket by VETEMENTS at YOOX #YOOXmyLOOK
T-shirt by Calvin Klein at a YOOX #YOOXmyLOOK
Jeans by Off White at YOOX #YOOXmyLOOK
Streamline Tag in 18K yellow Gold by David Yurman
DY Helios Band Ring in 18K Yellow Gold by David Yurman
Faceted Band Ring in 18K Yellow Gold with Center Diamond by David Yurman
Sneakers by MAGNANNI

When did you know you wanted to become an actor?
Acting really chose ME. I think performing gave me a channel to express myself super early. I remember being in second or third grade, and my music teacher calling my mom after school one day. I thought I was in trouble because I talked so much in class, but it was to let my mom know my teacher thought I was a really talented singer for my age. My mom placed me in a performing arts training program from the age of maybe 7 or 8, and it was just a natural fit from there. I was like 10 in a production of “Porgy and Bess” with the Metropolitan Opera. I don’t ever think I chose it. It was just in me I think.

How was your journey to becoming an actor?
It was long. I’ve been acting now for more than 20 years. Lots of training, lots of trying, and lots of “no.” But I’ve been so blessed and so lucky to have so much success. And I’m pinching myself every day.

**Left:**
Shirt Description: Coated Mesh George Washington Graphic Tee by Moschino
Cardigan Description: Hand Painted Anarchy Open Weave Cardigan by Moschino
Sub Pant Description: Cargo Pant with Zipper by Moschino
**Right:**
Outfit by ZILIOX at The Confessional Showroom
Box Chain Necklace in 18K White Gold by David Yurman
Curb Chain Necklace in Sterling Silver by David Yurman
Woven Tile Bracelet in Sterling Silver by David Yurman
Box Chain Necklace in Sterling Silver by David Yurman
Sneakers by Maison Margiela

In addition to acting, you also released an EP in 2020 called “Blue.” What inspired you to produce this music?
I was super into Picasso’s Blue Period paintings at the time. I really related to them; they were melancholy but dynamic and full of drama even with just the blue tones. At the time, I felt lost in the sauce a bit , not really knowing how to be. I was super young with some success and having trouble connecting to my new life. The music had to come out or I would’ve exploded.

Tell us about your character Felix in “I’m A Virgo.”
Felix is my guy. He’s the homie with the car and one of the leaders of the friends’ group. He’s funny, adventurous, and open to anything. He’s honestly just a good time.

What similarities or differences do you find between yourself and your character Felix in “I’m A Virgo?”
I try to bring myself to every role I play, so Felix and I are super similar. I like to input my mannerisms and idiosyncrasies into my characters so that they feel more connected to me, more real. I think the biggest difference now is that I HATE driving. I definitely Uber everywhere.

**Left:**
Shirt Description: Camouflage Jersey Tank by Moschino
Blazer Description: Camouflage Tuxedo Jacket by Moschino
Pant Description: Camouflage Tapered Five Pocket Pant by Moschino
DY Helios Band Ring in 18K Yellow Gold by David Yurman
Faceted Band Ring in 18K Yellow Gold with Center Diamond by David Yurman
**Right:**
Jacket by VETEMENTS at YOOX #YOOXmyLOOK
T-shirt by Calvin Klein at a YOOX #YOOXmyLOOK
Jeans by Off White at YOOX #YOOXmyLOOK
Sneakers by MAGNANNI
Streamline Tag in 18K yellow Gold by David Yurman
DY Helios Band Ring in 18K Yellow Gold by David Yurman
Faceted Band Ring in 18K Yellow Gold with Center Diamond by David Yurman

What was it like working with the cast of “I’m A Virgo?”
It was one of the greatest experiences of my career so far. Each and every cast member is a force to be reckoned with, and I really enjoyed learning from them and learning about them and being a part of a team full of people I’d never thought I’d be in their company. They make me want to be better, and through working with them, I’m sure that I am.

You acted in the off-Broadway production of “The Secret Life of Bees.” Tell us about this experience.
Another highlight and a huge challenge. Eight shows a week is NO JOKE. My whole life was the show. There’s something about being fully immersed in it though, you learn something new every night. There’s truly nothing like live theater, and the writing is usually exquisite. I would jump at the next opportunity to do theater again when the time is right, and it makes sense.

**Left:**
Monte Shirt, The Ed Jacket, Paddy Baggy Trackees all by @docbillybarber at Death to Tennis
Streamline Tag in 18K yellow Gold by David Yurman
**Right:**
Kes Distressed Plaid Shirt, Rohan Burnt Faux Moleskin Pants all
by @docbillybarber at Death to Tennis
Jacket by Self Made Leather at The Confessional Showroom
Sneakers by MAGNANNI

How does acting in an off-Broadway show differ from acting in a TV series?
I think the preparation process for me is the same. Mostly just that there’s a camera. Your reactions have to be softer, more subtle, especially when in close up your face is the whole frame. In theater you can really use your body. I’m still working on quieter talking though I have such a “theater voice” as my teachers would say, ha-ha.

Tell us about your new series, “I’m A Virgo.”
It is a wild hood fairytale through the eyes of a 13 ft tall Black man growing up in Oakland. It’s fun, political, and revolutionary and one of the greatest examples of high absurdity in cinematic history. But I’m a little biased.

“I’m A Virgo” is a coming-of-age series that covers friendship, finding love, and more. What do you hope audiences take away from this series and from your character, Felix?
I hope that it can really bring light to the social backdrop of our country. Specifically with Felix and his storyline, I really hope people can relate too and form opinions about our healthcare system and the way the media can portray Black men.

What advice would you give a person who wants to start working in the acting industry
Take it easy. Go to class, get great photos, and focus on the work. The rest will come. And if not, or if not in your timing, that’s OK too.

How do you prepare for an acting role?
Starting with reading the role 100 million times. I really like to know where I’m at and every single moment that turns the story. Once I figure out the story in general and know it well, I start to figure out how my character fits and what will be required of me to pull those things off. It’s all in support of the full story.

Which actor inspires you the most and who would you like to work with in the future?
Since I was a kid, I have always loved Jamie Foxx. What he’s done with both comedy and drama in the cinematic space is extraordinary, and that's not even including what he’s done on the music end too. I’d love to work with him in any capacity.

What is your dream role?
I have this pipe dream of playing the scarecrow if they were ever to make another version of The Wiz. I’d get to use all my skills, and it’d be a great challenge. That would be amazing, That or like, The Joker or something. But everyone’s done that now.

What’s next for you? Should fans expect new music in the future?
Yes, I won’t be going anywhere. One hundred percent more music and one hundred percent more acting roles.

Social Media.
Instagram: @brettgray

CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz + @mikeruiz.one
Photographer: Michael Creagh
Talent: Brett Gray
Fashion Stylist: Alison Hernon at Exclusive Artists
Groomer: Allie J
Photography Assistant: Thomas Chimney
Editorial Assistant: Skylar Elizabeth
Assistant Fashion Stylists: Sienna Ropert, Alexis Rolph
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Mariana Apostolatos, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Location: Georgia Room at Freehand New York