Clifton Davis, the veteran actor renowned for his long and varied career, is currently captivating audiences with his portrayal of Vernon Dupree, the patriarch in the CBS soap opera *Beyond the Gates*. In an exclusive interview with *PEOPLE*, Davis opens up about the challenges he faced stepping into this pivotal role, his sources of inspiration, and the life lessons garnered from playing Dupree over the course of more than 350 episodes.
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Despite his extensive experience, which spans nearly six decades, Davis admits that the transition to the fast-paced world of soap operas presented specific hurdles. One significant challenge was the memorisation of scripts. “When I first started, I found the memorisation a bit of a challenge,” he reveals. “I made sure I took all the time I needed to be prepared for the next day’s work and scenes, but it took some time.” However, after nearly two years in the role, he has honed this skill. “You develop muscles in those areas and it’s not a big challenge anymore,” he states confidently.
Davis elaborates on how understanding his character has significantly eased the demands of soap acting. “By this time, knowing who your character is and having a sense of how they communicate helps. Those emotions come quickly to the surface,” he explains. This evolution in his performance style displays the depth of engagement he has crafted with Vernon Dupree, a role he describes as embodying a multitude of personal influences.
Drawing on a rich tapestry of experiences, Davis reveals that the essence of Vernon Dupree is built upon the figures who have shaped him throughout his life. He credits his father, a preacher, for influencing how Dupree speaks and carries himself, while his mother contributes to the character’s compassion. Furthermore, the love and care Vernon shows towards others are rooted in Davis’s relationship with his wife, Monica Durant, whom he married in 2000.
The actor also reveals that his professional interactions with politicians have influenced Dupree’s character, while his darker moments are informed by past roles. “I’m not so much acting as I’m drawing from truth inside of me and my experience,” Davis elucidates, highlighting a genuine approach to his craft that resonates with viewers.
Every new script invites Davis to learn and grow in his portrayal of Dupree. He shares that the character has provided him with deeper insights into love, particularly in the context of his relationship with Anita, played by Tamara Tunie. “With Vernon, I’ve explored a deeper sense of love,” he states, reflecting on the unique bond between the two characters, which encompasses entertainment, philosophy, politics, and ideology. “They can finish each other’s sentences on many subjects,” he adds, appreciating the richness this brings to their relationship on-screen.
Davis also expresses gratitude for his collaboration with Tunie. “Each time we have a scene together, sparks fly for me and for her too. She’s such a fine actor and so experienced,” he notes. The duo’s chemistry, nurtured by their well-crafted scripts, enhances the authenticity of their performances, making their on-screen relationship all the more compelling.
As he reflects on his legacy, Davis hopes audiences will remember the passion, devotion, and truth he pours into his work. He aspires for people to recognise not just his acting prowess but also his deep love for God, family, and fellow human beings. “In the body of my work, I want them to see that I love the Lord with all my heart,” he shares earnestly.
Davis acknowledges that although his characters may not always reflect his theological views, he strives to embody a sense of love and compassion with every role he takes on. This intent is apparent in his portrayal of Vernon Dupree, capturing the intricate balance of strength and vulnerability that defines the character.
*Beyond the Gates* airs weekdays on CBS, inviting viewers into the tumultuous world of the Dupree family. Clifton Davis’s performance as Vernon Dupree not only entertains but also inspires, reminding audiences of the deep and multifaceted connections that define human relationships.