Troy Kotsur makes strides as he takes on a challenging role in the Netflix crime thriller ‘Black Rabbit’. Kotsur, who made history as the first deaf actor to win an Oscar, portrays mobster Joe Mancuso in the new series. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at the show’s New York premiere, Kotsur shared his aspirations of creating more opportunities for deaf actors in the industry.
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The 57-year-old actor expressed his excitement at embodying a character rarely seen before – a deaf mobster. He highlighted the importance of representation and diversity in roles, stating, “We’re not just actors who use sign language, we’re characters and we can play all different types of characters.” Kotsur’s groundbreaking win at the Oscars in 2022 serves as a testament to his talent and dedication to the craft.
Kotsur’s extensive acting experience includes roles in popular TV shows like ‘Foundation’, ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’, ‘The Mandalorian’, ‘Criminal Minds’, and ‘Scrubs’. Despite his impressive resume, ‘Black Rabbit’ presented new challenges for the seasoned actor, pushing him to explore complex emotions in his portrayal of Joe Mancuso.
The Netflix series follows the story of two brothers in New York City, played by Jude Law and Jason Bateman. Kotsur, who plays alongside Law and Bateman, shared his admiration for his co-stars and the close bond they formed on set. He particularly cherished the opportunity to interact with his fellow cast members who also knew sign language, creating a supportive and inclusive work environment.
Reflecting on his approach to portraying the reserved yet powerful mobster character, Kotsur emphasised the importance of subtlety in his performance. He aimed to convey emotions subtly, maintaining control and composure in the midst of intense scenes. His nuanced portrayal of Joe Mancuso is a testament to his skill as an actor and his ability to inhabit complex roles with depth and authenticity.
‘Black Rabbit’, created by Zach Baylin and Kate Susman, promises a riveting storyline that delves into family dynamics, old traumas, and new dangers. The show boasts a talented ensemble cast including Amaka Okafor, Cleopatra Coleman, Morgan Spector, and Odessa Young, offering viewers a compelling narrative filled with suspense and intrigue.
As ‘Black Rabbit’ premieres on Netflix, Kotsur’s performance as Joe Mancuso shines as a testament to the importance of inclusive casting and diverse storytelling in the entertainment industry. His dedication to his craft and his commitment to breaking barriers for deaf actors pave the way for a more inclusive and representative landscape in film and television.
In conclusion, Troy Kotsur’s role in ‘Black Rabbit’ not only showcases his versatility and talent as an actor but also highlights the significance of authentic representation in media. As he continues to make strides in his career, Kotsur’s portrayal of Joe Mancuso serves as a milestone in the journey towards greater diversity and inclusion on screen.