Brandon T. Jackson recently joined The Baller Alert Show with hosts Ferrari Simmons and BT, giving fans a deep dive into his evolution as an actor, comedian, and father. Known for his roles in Tropic Thunder and Lottery Ticket, Jackson opened up about stepping away from Hollywood, his spiritual journey, and his determination to create a lasting legacy on his own terms.
Reflecting on His Break from Hollywood
Jackson has been notably absent from the big screen in recent years, but he’s been hard at work on a new comedy tour and his latest project, Family Business: New Orleans, coming this December. Reflecting on why he stepped away, Jackson revealed that his break was intentional. He wanted to focus on building a sustainable community and tackle deeper issues that Hollywood often overlooks.
“People always ask where I’ve been,” Jackson said. “I took time to build and uplift the Black community—and really, all communities. It wasn’t just a break for myself; I wanted to make a difference and work on things that were more fulfilling than just fame.”
Addressing Hollywood’s Struggles and Staying Grounded
In a candid moment, Jackson touched on the challenges of working in an industry that often doesn’t support people in telling authentic Black stories. He shared that it’s a struggle he knows too well. Joking about his experience in Hollywood, he referenced comedian Cat Williams’ comments that have circulated about him over the years, including the infamous rumor about him joining the Illuminati.
“I’m not in the Illuminati!” Jackson laughed, dismissing the outlandish claims. “The industry is a challenge for everyone, and I had to find my way to be true to myself in it.”
He also highlighted how crucial it is for Black artists to create solutions, rather than dwelling on the industry’s shortcomings. “One Cat Williams show could fund 10 indie films on Tubi. We have the resources; we just need to prioritize telling our stories.”
New Ventures and Family Life
Now, Jackson is busy writing, producing, and creating films that reflect the Black experience on his terms. He’s also a proud father, and while he embraces single parenthood, he doesn’t shy away from the struggles that come with it.
Speaking on fatherhood, Jackson explained, “It’s about knowing what kind of legacy I want to leave for my kids. Everything I’m doing now, all the writing and film projects, it’s all so I can leave a positive impact.” Jackson admitted he’s come a long way since his earlier days in Hollywood, embracing wisdom and spirituality as he continues to work on new creative ventures.
What’s Next for Brandon T. Jackson?
With Family Business: New Orleans coming soon, Jackson has high hopes for the role, saying it’s one of his most exciting projects to date. “This series really lets me play the type of characters I’ve grown into. It’s got action, drama, and a grown-man energy that I think will really resonate,” he explained.
Jackson also hinted at future projects, including more films and even a book titled Actor State of Mind to help aspiring artists navigate the ups and downs of the entertainment industry.
From independent films to his comedy special and upcoming books, Brandon T. Jackson is proving that sometimes stepping away can be the best way to refocus and come back stronger. Fans can expect to see a lot more of him—on his own terms.
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