Sterling K. Brown, known for his role in Hulu’s ‘Washington Black’, recently shared how a piece of advice from Mark Harmon transformed his entire perspective. Brown, who plays the character Medwin Harris in the period drama, spoke exclusively to PEOPLE about the valuable lesson he learned from Harmon during their time together on ‘NCIS’. The Emmy-winning actor emphasized the significance of creating an inclusive and welcoming environment on set, an ethos he adopted after a conversation with Harmon. Brown stressed the importance of making everyone, regardless of their role, feel appreciated and valued, drawing from his own experiences on sets where he felt both included and excluded.
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Brown reflected on the impact of Harmon’s kindness during his guest appearance on ‘NCIS’ in 2013, where the seasoned actor made him feel welcomed and appreciated. He highlighted Harmon’s natural ability to cultivate a positive and supportive atmosphere, leaving a lasting impression on Brown. The advice that Harmon shared with Brown about the importance of loving what you do resonated deeply with the actor, encouraging him to approach his work with passion and dedication. Brown expressed how this simple yet profound insight has guided him in his career, allowing him to focus on his craft and strive for success.
In his current role on ‘Washington Black’, Brown applied the lessons learned from Harmon, ensuring that the warm and inclusive environment extended beyond the screen. Collaborating with newcomer Ernest Kingsley Jr., who plays George Washington “Wash” Black, Brown prioritized fostering a genuine connection off-camera. Kingsley reciprocated the sentiment, praising Brown for his mentorship and supportive presence throughout their filming experience. Their bond transcended the professional realm, evolving into a friendship built on mutual respect and shared experiences.
The camaraderie between Brown and Kingsley exemplified the positive impact of mentorship and open communication on set. Kingsley commended Brown for his unwavering support and guidance, emphasizing the value of their conversations and shared insights. As they navigated their roles in the period drama based on Esi Edugyan’s novel, the actors leaned on each other for encouragement and advice. Brown’s willingness to listen, offer wisdom, and provide a listening ear resonated with Kingsley, underscoring the importance of fostering meaningful connections in the industry.
The collaborative spirit and genuine rapport between Brown and Kingsley mirrored the ethos of inclusivity and support that Brown champions in his work. By embracing Harmon’s advice and embodying a nurturing presence on set, Brown has not only elevated his performances but also cultivated meaningful relationships with his co-stars. As ‘Washington Black’ continues to captivate audiences on Hulu, Brown’s commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment serves as a testament to the transformative power of kindness and mentorship in the entertainment industry. His journey from a brief encounter with Harmon to becoming a mentor and friend to Kingsley exemplifies the profound impact of positive relationships in shaping one’s career and fostering personal growth.
In conclusion, Sterling K. Brown’s revelation about the advice he received from Mark Harmon sheds light on the transformative nature of supportive relationships in the world of entertainment. Through his experiences on and off-screen, Brown exemplifies the values of inclusivity, mentorship, and genuine connection, creating a ripple effect of positivity in his work environment. As audiences continue to be enthralled by ‘Washington Black’ and Brown’s portrayal, his story serves as a reminder of the profound influence that acts of kindness and mentorship can have on an individual’s journey in the industry.