(Photo credit to Dwayne Boyd Photography)
Andrene Ward-Hammond chats about her role as “Big Mo” in Showtime’s latest hit series “Your Honor.”
The talented actress tells how her new show ‘holds a light to the ugly truths of how privilege and social inequality play a part in everyday life in America’ She also offers up a few binge-worthy shows to watch.
In her spare time, she volunteers in schools in low-income areas. Recognized for her many guest star roles in “Lovecraft Country,” “The Righteous Gemstones,” “Claws,” “Mindhunter,” “Atlanta,” and so many others. Then there are the films such as “Project Power,” “Just Mercy,” “The Lovebirds,” “Instant Family, “The Hate U Give,” “Assassination Nation,” and “Loving,” and the list rolls on. Born and raised in Brooklyn and is a graduate of Georgie State University, she calls both Atlanta and New York home.
Colleen Bement: Congrats on your role as “Big Mo” on Showtime’s new “Your Honor.” It’s a fabulous new series! For those who haven’t seen it yet, tell us all about it.
Andrene Ward-Hammond: Thank you! Thank you! The series is about family, and how far a father would go to protect his son. It holds a light to the ugly truths of how privilege and social inequality play a part in everyday life in America…and all those affected by a father’s decisions. Don’t be surprised if you’re searching for understanding or find yourself a little uncomfortable/triggered…it is definitely suspenseful.
CB: “Lovecraft Country” is a “must-binge” for anyone who hasn’t seen it. What behind the scenes stories can you share with your fans.
AWH: Definitely a “MUST-BINGE!!” First off, Misha Green is a BEAST! Also, as I’m a fan of Jurnee Smollett and Jonathan Majors, it was such a pleasure working with them. The attention to detail on the show was crazy! I’m a horror fan, so I was already drawn in with the special effects and stunt work I was able to do. I always find it interesting working with animals. You never know how they’re going to perform once the camera rolls. The goat that was used in the scene was SUPER friendly…but was definitely annoyed about having to the scenes multiple times. And goats by nature are stubborn…so he needed a little coaxing to keep him consistent. Needless to say, those snacks in my pocket came in handy because the flowers he passed while we were walking were a huge distraction for him. Lol.
CB: I definitely remember you from your role in “Manifest.” It is such a clever show. Would you happen to have any stories from the set?
AWH: I love being on set there! There is never a dull moment. Everyone is fun to work with…and ALL of my scenes with Melissa are fun. Even in the heaviest of scenes, Mel and I giggle between takes. I cry when I laugh hard…and when we have scenes, makeup artists are always nearby. I remember one scene was like a big reveal, and it took us a couple of takes because we couldn’t keep it together. I have a soft-spot for the cast and crew of Manifest.
CB: When you’re not studying scripts, what do you do with your spare time?
AWH: Since the pandemic began, I’ve discovered a new love for jigsaw puzzles. Five hundred pieces or more…start them and leave it on the table for whoever in the house feels compelled to partake. No pressure to complete, just something to stimulate the mind. I love puzzles in general, so anything relating to strategy will keep me distracted for hours. Drawing and adult coloring books are super therapeutic to me, especially given our current social climate.
CB: Would you happen to have any causes that your support?
AWH: For years, because I volunteered in schools in low-income areas, it was providing youth with access to arts programs that were cut from their curriculum. COVID and scheduling has changed how I’m able to do it now, but I try to remain active there. I’m big on voter’s rights and social justice, as it relates to racial and gender equality. And given our social climate, I share information and volunteer where I can there.
CB: What shows have you binged lately?
AWH: Binging feels like the only way to watch TV now! Lol. Now currently binging “The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina,” “Barry,” “Cobra Kai,” re-binging “Lovecraft Country,” “The Chi,” “Evil,” “Helstrom,” old seasons of “American Horror Story” (never gets old) … and I wanna say I’m on my 4th go-round of watching the “Veep” series (forever funny). If I feel like burning brain cells, “Love & Hip Hop” or any “Housewives” series. Also sleeping is a pastime, lol.
Watch “Your Honor” on Showtime.
Lynn Makes
Evan Conroy
Ron Peterson