Keith Powers on Therapy, Growth & Ryan Destiny

Summary

Podcast Summary: Baby, This Is Keke Palmer

Episode: Keith Powers on Therapy, Growth & Ryan Destiny
Host: Keke Palmer
Guest: Keith Powers
Date: March 24, 2026

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Episode Overview

In this heartfelt and entertaining episode, Keke Palmer sits down with actor and model Keith Powers to discuss his journey of personal and professional growth. Their conversation moves effortlessly from family roots and Hollywood hustle to mental wellness, sobriety, love, and the power of vulnerability. With their long friendship adding warmth and authenticity, this episode offers not only insight into Keith’s life and career but also practical reflections on identity, relationships, and sustaining joy in a demanding industry.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Astrology, Identity, and Friendship

Timestamps: 02:00 – 05:00

• Keke and Keith, friends for years, chat about their Big Three astrology signs and how that plays into their personalities.
• Keith shares: “I feel like it go back and forth... When I was younger, it was more Leo... but at home, it was more Virgo.” (02:14)
• Both reflect on how personality traits can shift with age and experience.

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2. Family, Upbringing, and Community

Timestamps: 07:46 – 09:41

• Keith talks about growing up as the oldest of five siblings in Sacramento, surrounded by a large extended family: “It stresses me out if I feel like... my family got to be good in order for me to truly feel good.” (09:25)
• Emphasis on how a close-knit community upbringing still grounds him today.

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3. Transition From Sports to Modeling to Acting

Timestamps: 10:10 – 13:14

• Keith discusses the end of his football dreams after high school, being recruited by a modeling agency, and the leap from NorCal to LA.
• He describes the modeling world as a “culture shock”, where initially he suppressed parts of himself to fit in: “I just felt like I need to stay like this so I could work...I didn't really like own a room.” (11:42)
• Modeling introduced him to diverse people and broadened his empathy.

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4. Fatherhood and Generational Lessons

Timestamps: 13:39 – 17:52

• Keith describes the influence and flaws of his father: “My dad is so flawed... but he lays it out on the table for you. I could really respect that about my dad.” (14:01)
• Important lessons about intention, slowing down life, and the value of reflection.
• Vulnerability wasn’t modeled by his dad, but Keith credits the internet and therapy for helping him be more open: “I realized how heavy that wall was once I started going to therapy.” (17:20)

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5. Therapy, Mental Health & The Power of Story

Timestamps: 18:20 – 19:57

• Keith shares how seeing others talk about mental health online encouraged him to seek therapy, especially after experiencing undiagnosed anxiety and depression in his mid-20s.
• Keke echoes the healing in finding community stories: “It really minimizes what we're worried about because we realize we're not alone.” (19:28)
• Both stress the importance of hearing, sharing, and normalizing mental health struggles.

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6. Breaking into Acting & Early Hustle

Timestamps: 20:08 – 26:46

• Keith’s start in acting began with a nudge from a Wilhelmina agent.
• Early auditions were awkward: “We had to act like we was diving into water but we were in a room.” (21:07)
• Acting classes presented imposter syndrome: “I would see these aspiring actors...and I would have empathy... they acting wherever.” (25:46)

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7. Acting Technique, Craft, and Vulnerability

Timestamps: 26:50 – 28:35

• A playful demonstration of the Meisner repetition exercise.
• Keith recalls learning how to safely access and use emotion for scenes: “Crying in class was like therapy... but I was like, nah, I need to go see a therapist.” (28:07)
• Keke describes Angela Bassett’s lesson that helped her connect her real emotions to characters.

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8. Major Career Milestones: 'Straight Outta Compton' & 'The New Edition Story'

Timestamps: 33:05 – 40:26

'Straight Outta Compton'

• Keith shares a behind-the-scenes story of recording his self-tape for the role of Tyree in Milan after a Calvin Klein show.
• “My older brother's name is Tyree too, actually.” (34:09), showing surreal overlap.
• The set was both fun and serious, with surprise visitors like Steve Nash and Snoop Dogg. “Everybody just pulling up. I was just. I was like, this is crazy.”

'The New Edition Story'

• Keith was the last to be cast, had to learn intense choreography in two weeks: “I do not do choreography...That process was really stressful for me.” (37:13)
• Dancing anxiety overshadowed the acting for him at first.

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9. Integrity in Telling Black Stories

Timestamps: 38:52 – 40:26

• The challenge of faithfully representing real people’s experiences, especially when different group members recall things differently.
• Importance of finding a “middle ground” and collaborating with subjects to maintain honesty and respect.

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10. Navigating Fame, Success, and Authenticity

Timestamps: 41:00 – 44:03

• Keith reflects on embracing who he is: “I'm confident in who I'm not.”
• Both discuss myths about breakthrough moments in Hollywood, stressing continuity over isolated achievements.

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11. Creativity, The Hollywood Strike, and Having a Plan B

Timestamps: 44:06 – 45:46

• The 2024-25 strike taught Keith the importance of diversifying identity beyond “actor,” deepening gratitude for crew, and the value of having backup plans.

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12. Romance and Working With Gabrielle Union

Timestamps: 46:34 – 48:12

• On starring opposite Gabrielle Union in "The Perfect Find": “I gotta match her energy... she made me feel like I was where I was supposed to be.” (47:05)

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13. Mentorship and the Importance of Being Yourself

Timestamps: 50:50 – 52:17

• Keith names acting coach Dustin Felder as his primary mentor, sharing, “He was like, it's gonna click for you, Keith, when you bring whatever you have off set bring that on set.” (51:14)

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14. Redefining ‘Leading Man’ and Embracing Goofiness

Timestamps: 52:41 – 54:47

• Keith talks about battling confidence issues and how today’s inclusive landscape has helped him redefine strength and leadership: “What do I have naturally that people gravitate towards? That can be leading man.” (53:44)
• Keke notes the lack of humor and joy among male leads, encouraging more openness and complexity.

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15. Sobriety and Social Anxiety

Timestamps: 56:03 – 58:16

• Keith celebrates a year alcohol-free: “It kind of feels like I got, like, myself back when I stopped drinking completely.” (57:33)
• Discusses how sobriety helped him ease social anxiety and reclaim comfort in his own skin.

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16. Physical Wellness: Running & the Power of Community

Timestamps: 58:52 – 61:13

• On training for a half-marathon: “I realized how, like, present I am when I run. It's like meditation.” (59:16)
• Both reflect on finding fulfillment in physical routines and real-life community, not just consumption.

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17. Love & Partnership: Keith and Ryan Destiny

Timestamps: 62:13 – 68:45

• Keith shares how he and Ryan met, the beauty and intention behind their brief breakup and couples counseling: “It was a break with intention.” (65:04)
• Emphasis on maintaining individuality in relationships and supporting each other's dreams.
• On proposal timing: “The right time is really when you set the intention to just do it.” (66:21)

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18. New Projects: 'The Gates' and the Legacy of James Van Der Beek

Timestamps: 69:16 – 73:53

• Keith discusses his work on the new thriller "The Gates"—a dark, demanding project.
• Remembers late co-star James Van Der Beek’s wisdom: “He was able to, like, really appreciate the now where he was at and what he had now. And I was just like, that's literally something I'm dealing with today...” (71:06)

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19. Dating Hotline Game

Timestamps: 73:58 – 78:25

• Keke quizzes Keith with relatable dating scenarios—labels, splitting checks, texting differences, trust issues, and love timelines.
• Notable advice:
  • “Set a boundary.” (74:26)
  • On love after a month: “That might...come off love bomb-y...maybe just give it another month.” (77:56)
  • On healing and avoidance: “He’s not healed...it’s all about unpacking that.” (79:12)

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Notable Quotes

• On Being Yourself in Relationships:
  “Just be you... It makes it more fun, honestly.” – Keith Powers (03:50)

• On the Weight of Vulnerability:
  “I realized how heavy that wall was once I started going to therapy.” – Keith Powers (17:20)

• On Success:
  “I'm confident in who I'm not.” – Keith Powers (41:14)

• On Creating Your Path:
  “Plan A. Beautiful. But you don’t have to plan for failure, you have to plan for these pivots.” – Keith Powers (45:21)

• On Sobriety:
  “It kind of feels like I got, like, myself back when I stopped drinking completely.” – Keith Powers (57:33)

• On Relationship Growth:
  “We took a break...a healthy break...with intention.” – Keith Powers (65:04)

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Memorable Moments

• Keith and Keke giggling through acting exercises and reminiscing on the awkwardness of early Hollywood auditions. (Meisner technique demo, 27:13)
• Behind-the-scenes stories from sets, from A-list drop-ins to dance nightmares.
• Their open discussion on the intersection of digital culture, therapy, and vulnerability for Black men.
• Keith’s candid reflections on imposter syndrome, both in modeling and acting.

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Conclusion

This episode of Baby, This Is Keke Palmer offers a candid, funny, and deeply insightful look into Keith Powers’ evolution as an artist and a man. Covering topics from therapy and sobriety to Black storytelling, love, and expanding definitions of masculinity and success, Keith’s honesty—and his easy rapport with Keke—make this essential listening for fans and newcomers alike.

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Listen to the full episode for more authenticity and heart!

Transcript

[A]

Okay, y', all, you've seen my next guest. In the New Edition story. You felt his chemistry opposite Gabrielle Union in the Perfect Find, A performance that earned him an NAACP Image Award. And now he's stepping into darker territory with the new thriller, the Gates. But what makes him stand out isn't just the roles. It's how intentional he is about his life. The clarity, the way he moves with purpose in his love, his craft, and his commitment to stories that resonate beyond the screen. Keith Powers is here, y'. All. And we're getting into all of it because, baby, this is Kiki Palmer. No matter what we doing in the car, just chilling, pop on Amazon music, sit back and listen. Life, love, sex, science, hovering it all, especially the bad cuz money always evolves. No matter what it is. We going to make it make sense. Nothing else to do but kick it with the homies and K. So grab you a drink and a snack, you enjoy and get into the vibe that only wants you know it's your girl. This is Kiki, baby. This is Kiki Palma. Please welcome Keith Powers. Hey, Keith. Oh, my gosh. I don't know. I didn't realize you cut your hair.

[B]

Yes, I did.

[A]

What made you cut your hair look good, though?

[B]

I got tired of it.

[A]

Dealing with it, getting it ready.

[B]

All that woman. Yeah.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Waking up and it's all matted down.

[A]

I'm so glad that you here. It's like, I'm like, that's crazy. It took a minute.

[B]

Like, I feel like it's the right time to be here, too. Anytime I see a show that I'm like, yo, I would love to be on that show. I'm like, it gotta be the right time.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

You know what I'm saying?

[A]

You got a new movie coming out, a lot of good things going on. I can't wait to get into it with you. But first, we gonna get into these pre show pull up questions.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. Excuse my handwriting. I feel like so many people probably say that.

[A]

It's actually better than you would imagine. Like, I feel like mine looks like chicken scraps.

[B]

That's me when I was trying. I'm trying very hard for it not to look crazy right there.

[A]

So obviously I know your sign because we go way back. Like when we've been friends for like 10. I mean, since I was like 21. I feel like I met you when I was like 24.

[B]

It's been a minute.

[A]

Yeah, it's been forever. So I already knew you were on the Leo, Virgo, Cusp.

[B]

Ye. Yes, yes.

[A]

But your big three Leo, Sag, Gemini. So do you feel more defined? Like you take the Leo more than the Virgo, you think?

[B]

I don't know. I feel like it go back and forth. Like, I feel like when I was younger, it was more Leo.

[A]

Yeah, yeah.

[B]

But I feel like it was Leo on the outside, but at home it was more Virgo.

[A]

Virgos are homebodies.

[B]

You know what I'm saying? And as I've gotten older, I just feel like it's more Virgo. Yes.

[A]

Cause I feel like now you be repping the Virgo low key.

[B]

I do low key. I do. But people get mad at me. If I told somebody I was a Leo before, they'd be like, bro, you're a Leo. I'm like, I'm both, bro.

[A]

And then the sag of it all. Your sag is the moon.

[B]

My Gemini is in the moon.

[A]

Your Gemini is the moon and your sag is a rising.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Okay. I'm a sag moon and my rising is a cancer. That's a lot going on with me.

[B]

That's a lot going on.

[A]

How do you feel that the Gemini plays out? Do you connect to the Gemini of it all?

[B]

I feel like I do. I don't know too much about Geminis, though. I just know that a lot of my favorite rappers are Geminis.

[A]

Okay. Tupac Shakur.

[B]

Tupac Shakur. K. Lamar.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Prince.

[A]

I know he's not a rapper, but he is a popular Gemini.

[B]

No. Facts, facts.

[A]

What are you most grateful for today? You said my family and life itself. I feel like anybody that knows you, that's the vibe. You are so close to your family. I remember when I just met your mom and your dad at.

[B]

Was it Ryan Bir couple years ago.

[A]

And you was like, it was very church like I was living. I'm like, that is so Keith. You're so like family, community. I love that.

[B]

Yeah. No, for sure.

[A]

A relationship or friendship non negotiable for you to be yourself. Some people do be out here not being theyself.

[B]

Yeah. I just feel like it's easier when you just you unapologetically and we ain't got to worry about nothing. You know what I'm saying? You ain't got to show off. I just used this song on my last post that Kendrick Kamara, you ain't got a lie to kick it.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

You feel me? Don't just be you.

[A]

It's like. And it's a hard thing to approach because sometimes I've had relationships with people where it's like, I really do think you're dope, but you do this thing where you don't think you're dope. And so now how am I supposed to tell you that?

[B]

Yeah. Then it's awkward, too. Like, just be you. Like, you good. Like, you good around me. Please just be you. Cause that just. It makes it more fun. Honestly.

[A]

Yes. I feel like, especially now, at our age, now we're seeing a lot of that. Like, in our early 20s, it was like, we playing, we kicking it, but then now we getting in our 30s, it's like, it's time to be serious. Like, whatever avatar you were using before, like, we have to change it. Like, I feel that approaching me. What's a question you wish you were asking more interviews? Asked more in interviews. I don't have one that stands out yet. A lot of people say that to me.

[B]

That's a tough one, because I'm always more so. I never just leave an interview. Like, man, I wish they would have asked this. It's more like, dang, they asked a dope question. I was not expecting that.

[A]

Right.

[B]

You know what I'm saying?

[A]

So you're here for the vibes of it all?

[B]

Yeah, I'm here for the vibes.

[A]

Okay. Who is someone you've met that made you feel starstruck? You met Frank Ocean? I met Frank Ocean once, and I also gagged. He's really gaggy.

[B]

I didn't meet him. I seen him. I was with Ryan. We was at Coachella. We had just got done seeing. We was on our way to see Sza and everybody. He had on the mask. This is before, you know, Covid. He had on the mask, and I knew it was him. I said, yo, Ryan, that's Frank. She was like, keith, relax. I'm like, no, Frank. Yo, hold on. That's.

[A]

No, because why? Because this is. The thing about Frank is that his music is so global. Like, it has the R and B, but then it also has the alternative. Then it also has, like, he just hits it on every accord, and you

[B]

feel like you're never gonna see him out.

[A]

I know.

[B]

You know what I'm saying? I'm like, yo, that's Frank. She was, like, relaxing. Ryan was embarrassed.

[A]

I really wonder, like, what he's doing right now and if he cares that we miss him so much, you know?

[B]

I know, right? He just living his life. And then I put Beyonce and Denzel and Will, too.

[A]

Wait a minute. So tell me the story of meeting Beyonce. Denzel and Will.

[B]

I met Beyonce for The first time at Michael B. Jordan's party, I think. Birthday party in, like, 2019.

[A]

I love that Michael just had her casually showing up.

[B]

Yeah. That was crazy. It was Beyonce and Jay Z. I met her that night. I tried to play it cool. Me and Ryan actually met her for the first time. And then.

[A]

Gosh.

[B]

Yeah. And then I never met Denzel, but I seen him at the ABFF Honors, and he just walked through so much.

[A]

I love the ABFF Honors. That is a wonderful event. Food is always slamming.

[B]

Food good. Everybody looks so nice. It's bright in there.

[A]

And then they have that moment where everybody walk around and get real.

[B]

Church. No fact.

[A]

Cause, like, we gotta sit back down, y'.

[B]

All.

[A]

The show gotta go on.

[B]

No facts, but Denzel walked through there, and I was just like, bro, that's Zelda. What?

[A]

Not Zell. Y' all tight like that.

[B]

That's how I feel. That's Zell. That's Uncle.

[A]

I live for Zell.

[B]

He don't even know he unked. He don't even know he unk all day. And then I met Will Smith in a table read, actually randomly.

[A]

I know that's right. Doing a table read with Will Smith. Okay.

[B]

No, that was dope. When I met him, I was just like, yo, that's Will. So, yeah, those are the four that stick out.

[A]

I feel like Will Smith is so Will Smithy. It's like the same thing I think about Tom Hanks, where it's like, y' all are just. Y' all, like, what's up?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Like, he's so. Well, what's the mantra you live by? And why? Stay ready. You ain't gotta be ready. That's also me.

[B]

For real.

[A]

Cause, honey, I'm staying ready at all times.

[B]

Yeah, no, you really do. So you ain't never gotta get ready.

[A]

Do you feel like that's something you grew up learning? I mean, I know you played football. I feel like that is also very athletic minded, you know?

[B]

Yeah. My dad used to just say it all the time.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Stay ready. You ain't got to get ready, period. And I needed that for my. You know, I was serial procrastinator, and I never really moved with intention, like, growing up. And I just feel like looking now. I'm like, I see what Pops was saying. You stay ready.

[A]

You seem like such an intentional person in my mind, too, so it's crazy to hear you say that.

[B]

I just really got there, like, around my 30s.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Like, to really understand what it means to be intentional. You know what I'm Saying I've always had goals, but now I feel like I move with intention. For sure.

[A]

Okay, we're gonna get into that. But I wanna start at the beginning because you were born in Sacramento.

[B]

Yep.

[A]

And you're the oldest of four.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

I have not seen all of your, like, four boys. Four.

[B]

It's. No, no, it's the old. Yeah, well. Yeah, no. So, okay, let's get into it. So I have.

[A]

See, there's a story here.

[B]

I have two sisters and two brothers.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

So five of us total.

[A]

All right.

[B]

My older brother I just found out about in 2017. Yes.

[A]

Your older brother.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Who's the brother? That's fine with you. All the time that I see with

[B]

the locks, that's Kevin.

[A]

I believe this. We all the brother. Your brother is fine. You remember, smart guy. Your brother is fine. Yes. Very handsome young man.

[B]

Oh, yes. That's my little brother. And then I have a little sister who is 26. Her name is Kaylin. And then I have a 13 year old sister who is Skylar.

[A]

Okay. Parents kept going.

[B]

Yes, they did.

[A]

Now are they still in Sacramento? I know Kevin's here.

[B]

Yeah, my sisters are and my older brother is still in Sacramento.

[A]

Okay. So growing up, what was it like? You were in sports? You know, y' all was always kicking it. Family very close, tight knit.

[B]

Yeah, like, very. It was really community based. I played sports growing up. I feel like I played sports because that's what I seen around me.

[A]

Sure.

[B]

Like, I mean, I seen the streets, but then I seen sports. And sports is more glamorous. Like, of course I played sports and like, just growing up with a lot of kids, like a lot of cousins. I already had a lot of siblings, had a lot of. I'm blessed to have all my grandparents, except for my great grandparents who just passed. Yeah. It's crazy to think about. So, like, it was just always going house to house, you know what I'm saying? So that was just my upbringing. I think that's why family matters so much to me like that. Like, it's very important. Like, it stresses me out if I feel like I'm having a good time in my life or I'm doing something successful and my family, like, my family got to be good in order for me to truly feel good. You know what I'm saying? It was just. The upbringing was just all about community.

[A]

Yeah. And it seems like your family is very much so a part of everything that you do.

[B]

Oh, for sure.

[A]

And I could see that you. I'm the same way where I'm Thinking about them with every move I make. Because I can't embarrass y'. All.

[B]

Yeah. No.

[A]

Like, I cannot do the wrong. You know what I'm saying?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

How did entertainment find its way to you? Because I know you said you, you know, entertainment was always the dream, but doing sports, even though I do think sports is entertainment, it's a sport, but it's also entertainment. We show up, you know, all that type of stuff. When did you know that maybe you wanted to take it a step further?

[B]

I would, honestly. After high school, football didn't work out and I was lost, to be real.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And I got recruited by a modeling agency in San Francisco.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

It was called a look agency at the time. And they recruited me, looked out. They said they liked my look. At the time, I'm like, what am I going to do in NorCal model? Like, it didn't sound. It was too close to home to feel like it was going to do anything.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So then I was like, I just got to leave. I ended up leaving just to. Just leaving the la. My godmom stayed out here. My dad said he was going to be trucking from Northern California to Southern California. I was like, I'm going with you. And I went with him. And in my agency out here, I mean, in San Francisco, they were just like, it was JE Model. Actually, it was Look Agency when I was nine. Because I modeled when I was nine. This is crazy. That's a whole other thing.

[A]

I got some photos from them. 9 year old.

[B]

I know I got to find them. And then I stopped because my mom was like, you either doing this or playing sports? I was like, I'm playing sports.

[A]

Right.

[B]

So then it was JE Model. Later I left. JE Model was like, why did you leave without telling us? Because they were like, we could recommend you to other people over there in la.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

And then I end up. They end up recommending me to Wilhelmina. And that's how I got into the industry.

[A]

Really? That seems I don't know a lot about the modeling world. Like, I feel like many of us, we look on, you know, I mean, I'm in entertainment and I've had friends of mine be like, hey, do you know anybody helping with the model? It's a totally different world.

[B]

It's very different.

[A]

So what was it like being a model?

[B]

Being a model? At first it was. It was just like, it was a culture shock for me at first.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Because I felt like I couldn't really be myself. When I would pull up to like, like Auditions and stuff. And I always stayed with my face shaved, my hair low. That was my look. I didn't have no tattoos at the time. And I just felt like I need to stay like this so I could work. I'm not mad I can't grow out my hair. And I wanted to, but I was just like, I don't know how, I don't know how I'll be accepted, you know what I'm saying? And it sucks that you kind of gotta like do that. And I wasn't like acting different or anything, but I feel like I took a step back into like the corner. When I walked into those spaces. I didn't really like own a room, you feel what I'm saying? I was just like middle of the pack. Let me make sure I do what I gotta do so I could make my money, go back home, chill, be comfortable. You feel what I'm saying? So that's how I was. But it was actually really cool. Like I met a lot of people. Being a model really opened my mind to more people in the, like, different people in the world, variety of people.

[A]

Probably cause you had to do so much traveling too. I'd imagine you were exposed to a lot.

[B]

A lot. And I just met really beautiful people where I was like, it like helped with my empathy. I would say, wow. I really would say. Because I feel like I was meeting people that I wasn't meeting back home and they were telling me stories and I was just like, bro, that's crazy. Like I grew up in a very close minded environment, you know what I'm saying? So to meet certain people, I was just like, dang, I really love your story and I could relate to it.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Which is crazy. Like I feel that even where I'm coming from. And I think that's what I really loved about the modeling industry. And then on top of that, you got the castings and stuff and how the industry goes and booking campaigns and you got commercial modeling versus high fashion modeling.

[A]

It's just, did you ever have a preference? I feel like when you're on the carpets now, it's giving high fashion all the way.

[B]

High fashion?

[A]

Yeah, like it's giving you. I don't know if you were mostly

[B]

commercial or I think for the look, fashion, but commercial used to pay.

[A]

Yeah, I would imagine stuff.

[B]

Commercial used to pay. Yeah. Like I, I do commercial any day, but I felt like fashion for your portfolio. I was like, yeah, you see, I just did that right there. Didn't really get paid nothing. But you know, it just Looked cooler.

[A]

So how them fashion magazines is. Yeah. Speaking of empathy, you. You've called your dad the most significant man in my life, and I feel the same way about my dad. But what do you feel like he really protected you from growing up, you know, and how he. You know, how he's impacted the man you've become today.

[B]

Yeah. My dad is. I love my dad so much. My dad is so flawed as. I mean, we're all flawed.

[A]

Exactly.

[B]

But my dad is flawed, and he lays it out on the table for you. I could really respect that about my dad. And we might bump heads about how we think about things, but he's. He's gonna listen to what you have to say. Like, my dad was always the one that just would say certain things to me young to make sure I stayed grounded like always. He used to just be like, it was a stay ready, you ain't got to get ready thing. But then he used to be. He used to always tell me this when I was younger. He used to be like, you need to slow your life down. I'm like, what are you talking? Like, at like, 16, 17, like, what are you talking. He was like, some days just. Just get on the bus. He used to tell me this when I first moved to la. Just get on the bus and just sit and just watch people. I didn't know what he was talking about until now. I'm like, yo, pops, that was real. Like, he used to always just be like, you just gotta slow your life down and just enjoy it. He was like, because it just. It's gonna go, and you're gonna look back and be like, dang, I really wish I just would have Paul, you know what I'm saying? And my dad was so funny about him saying that he lived a fast life, Right?

[A]

Well, that's probably. He must have been speaking from the experience of things. He's like, I don't want my son to have to.

[B]

That's one thing my dad would do. He would preach the opposite of what he was living to protect us. You know what I'm saying? So even if I didn't feel like he was practicing what he preached all the way, I knew it was coming from a place of like, I'm figuring this out, and I need you to know it when you get to this age. Cause my dad was 20 years old when he had me, and my mom was like, 17, 18, you know what I'm saying? So I'm like, dang. I watch my parents grow, and I watch my dad grow and go through things, and he'll come back to me like, you need to do this. This. This. You know what I'm saying? And that's so important to me because I could sit here and tell you what my dad needed to work on, but at the same time, he did a lot, like. And I really appreciate that because it's tough. I'm looking now, like, you know, growing up, we be like, we gonna have, like, five kids, 10 kids.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. That has changed. Because it's really a lot with these kids. When we think my parents. I'm one of four.

[B]

Okay. Yeah.

[A]

And my parents, still young, got married. You know, same similar vibe as your family. Honestly, when I think about them at my age already having all these damn kids.

[B]

No way.

[A]

What were they doing, y'?

[B]

All, there's no way. I applaud your parents, Kiki.

[A]

And I applaud the Powers. The Powers parents, too. How do you feel like having that relationship helped you with vulnerability? And I asked because I feel like you're somebody, as a young black man out there that speaks on a lot of stuff that I think, you know, a lot of people don't. And I've always thought to myself that, like, the relationship with a father and son, especially when the son is able to see how his father expresses vulnerability, I think it's just a really powerful thing for young men to see. How do you feel that that has, you know, helped you in that regard?

[B]

To be honest with you, my dad is not the most vulnerable person. He. Not. He. Like, he. He don't. He won't let you see him cry. He keep a lot of stuff in. To be real, I think what helped me. And this is crazy. I think what helped me mostly understand and become more vulnerable and be able to talk about things and be more transparent, is online, is the Internet, is hearing other people's stories. I'm gonna be real. Cause I grew up really with the idea, like, I can't. My dad used to always say, don't let nobody see you sweat. And I would confuse that with like, I can't cry in front of people. I was a crybaby growing up, and I feel like I put up a wall because my parents used to always be like, you cry too much. So I end up putting up a wall. And I realized how heavy that wall was once I started going to therapy. And I'm like, dang. I was really, like. I was told to put. I was not told to put this wall up, but basically I was told to put this wall up and now it's like, damn, how do I get. How do I break this down and be more open as a person and be able to speak on my emotions and stuff? And I think, like, my dad is not the best at that, but I'm better at that. And I'll just. I like, when we talk now, it feels like he could be vulnerable, like, without even second guessing or feeling like, oh, I shouldn't probably say this to my son. And I think that's because I'm so open to that now.

[A]

I love what you said because I do feel like our generation, like, we are such digital kids. I mean, I'm sure you feel like MySpace, like, Facebook. I had a MySpace page at 12, 13. And I feel like it really helped me. It really did help me to learn how to talk and also just build my story, build my world where I could actually, like, try stuff out and figure out who I am. And so I really love that. Like, when you decided to start doing therapy, was that something that the people around you were speaking of, or were you seeing it online and say, well, let me give it a little try? How did you, you know, make your way there?

[B]

I was seeing it online, seeing my friend, hearing my friends go, was feeling like I went through a little depression at one point, and I didn't know it was depression, you know what I'm saying? So I started doing. When I went through that, I think I was like 24, 25. And I think when I went through that, I didn't know what it was. And I didn't know my whole life I had anxiety. So I started learning out. I started learning about this. This stuff. And then I was like, I need to go to therapy. I need to talk somebody about me

[A]

feeling like we in the movie Conjuring.

[B]

No, for sure.

[A]

Naming the demon in our lives. Anxiety, depression, no, ptsd.

[B]

All that. For real. Like, it's real. So I was like, I was just. That's why stories are so important, because I'm hearing other people's story and I'm like, that's me.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Like, yo, I'm going through that same thing now. I'm looking online, like, therapist, near you.

[A]

Yeah, therapist. That's the same way it was for me. Like, literally just putting in words. I remember I used to love this website called thinkexist.com and I would put in like a vibe or something I was feeling, and I would get all these philosopher quotes and I'm like, oh, wait a minute. So this is a weighted people in humanity feels and has dealt with over the course of time.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

And it really minimizes what we're worried about because we realize we're not alone.

[B]

Yeah. That's the best feeling to know. Like, oh, okay. So all these people I look up to going through the same thing.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So, okay, okay. So I just got to find a way to cope with it and just understand it, really, because it's just life. It is. You know what I'm saying? You just got to know that you're going to run into. This is like, how do you. How do you find peace within it and get better and deal with it in a healthy way?

[A]

Yeah. Yeah. I couldn't agree with you more. Going back to Wilhelmina, that agency, they're the ones who first mentioned it. Maybe not first mentioned it, but said, hey, do you want to branch off into acting? Is that correct?

[B]

Yeah. I had an agent at Wilhelmina that was just like. You ever thought about acting? I was like, yeah, but I ain't think I was going to actually act. I was in Sacramento. I remember they used to do these Disney. I don't know if you remember, they used to have these Disney commercials where they would show you somebody who booked, and it would show their audition process. I don't know how real that was. They could have shot that after.

[A]

I think it would always be like, a once in a lifetime thing. And then that company would keep on getting more money to be like, we found Hillary Duff. And it's like, no, the hell y' all didn't.

[B]

No facts. So I would see, like, kids doing, like, little front flips on the ground and stuff for roles. And I'm like, man, I want to do that. Like, but in my head, I'm like, it's no way I could. Who can I. Like, how can I do that where I'm at?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But, yeah, she was just like. She asked me, and I was like, yeah, like, heck, yeah. Like what? And then that's when she introduced me to my first boutique agency, who was a commercial agent at the time. So I just started off doing, like, commercial auditions.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And they were so awkward and crazy, and I was like, what is this?

[A]

What was you doing up in them, man?

[B]

It was one audition where we had to act like we was diving into water, but we were in a room

[A]

right here like this.

[B]

It was crazy. So we had to act like we was in line waiting to jump off the diver board. And he was like, y' all ready? Yeah, we'll just jump and literally just, like, squat on the floor, get up. But then you can't get too high, so the camera, see, you gotta squat off.

[A]

Why do you have us do all this crazy stuff? It's like, why are we up in this room doing this?

[B]

No, for sure.

[A]

For a job.

[B]

For a job. We was gonna make it happen for a job.

[A]

When did it become something where it's like, okay, now I got lines and now there's a script I gotta read?

[B]

Yeah, that was like. That was once I was blessed enough for my boutique agency to become a TV and film agency as well.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

So they were just. They. They just moved me right over and I was going out for auditions and that was like, oh, man, I got a lot of auditions from back then. Like the early self tapes. Because we wasn't doing self tapes like that. I got them still.

[A]

I got them still.

[B]

I look at them and just laugh. Because the stakes are so high when you first start. You know what I'm saying?

[A]

So high.

[B]

You gotta learn to, like, do it and move on. But then like, no, like, that was like the month highlight. Like, yo, I got this audition.

[A]

Yeah. Did you prefer the tapes or the in persons? I remember going to so many when I was a kid, and then as I got it to be a young adult, it was very little in person. Everything was.

[B]

Yeah, I feel like when you started too, it was like prime too, of

[A]

like, it was like so og.

[B]

I feel like when I started. I feel like when I started, it was a lot of in person and I. I hated in person during that time. Yeah. And unless I felt like I really had a chance to get it, like get the job. But I would say, now I miss in person.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Like, I took that for granted. Granted, granted. I miss walking in and seeing 20 people look like you.

[A]

Yeah. They'd be like, hey, hey, what up? I didn't know you was going out for this. That is very Hollywood shuffle.

[B]

Have you seen, you know, it's like,

[A]

hey, what's up, brother? How you doing, man? Okay. Yeah, me too. Like that.

[B]

You going to the next one. And then everybody trying to figure each other out too. They size each other up like. So you just came from one. Which one was that one? I didn't have that one.

[A]

That was the moment in the vibe. It was very much community building, especially for us young black actors. I remember, like, you know, Chelsea Tavares, so Robin Tavares, her mom. When we were kids, my mom, we would go on auditions and we would start seeing the same people all the time. That's literally Robin Tavares is how we got Our whole, like, child actor of young black actors community. Because she would host parties and she would say, hey, y'. All, Did y' all hear about this movie? Like, make sure your daughter auditions. Like, that is so fire. Shout out to Justin Javar. Shout out to Robert Tavares. They literally. We just celebrated my son's birthday. But it's like, that community stuff is everything.

[B]

Yeah, no, I've met a lot of friends in those auditions. That's how I met Mel.

[A]

Oh, my gosh.

[B]

I met Melvin in a commercial audition.

[A]

That's crazy.

[B]

Yeah, I remember he had, like, a shirt on. That's when we all used to wear, like, the same thing, too. It was like the colored shirt, the skinny jeans with the boots. No, like.

[A]

And the silhouette of that was also insane.

[B]

Yeah, it was.

[A]

Because why a boot with a silhouette?

[B]

Why a boot?

[A]

I mean, I guess it was kind of punk.

[B]

No facts.

[A]

You guys are kind of giving, like, one year.

[B]

No. Cause tonight will be the night.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

No facts. No.

[A]

Nah, that's too funny.

[B]

That is hilarious. Like, we all had the same silhouette. So I remember meeting Mel at one of those. But, yeah, we met friends.

[A]

And I remember all y' all used to always go to this one barber that was right up in Fairfield. I don't know who this bar. I would see so many, you know. Cause I would be dating some people. We'd be at the barbershop, and I'd be like, oh, that's the dude. Oh. I was like, this is the after barbershop.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Whoa. I think you just unlocked a memory.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

I forgot about that barbershop. I didn't even go. But I just heard about a lot of people going there.

[A]

Everybody went to this barbershop. It was a hangout.

[B]

What in the world?

[A]

Barbershops be like that, though.

[B]

No, it do.

[A]

Okay, so when was the point that you were like, oh, I model, but, like, now I'm really an actor? Where it became the main. The front runner in terms of your career.

[B]

I feel like I used to battle. I mean, I feel like I always battle with a little imposter syndrome. Like, that's just what I battle with. But I feel like at that time, when I was a model getting into acting and going into those. It was acting classes that made me feel like that. I was just saying it was acting classes where I was like, okay, I could say I'm an actor, but it would be times where I'll be in those acting classes. And I would see these aspiring actors who really live, sleep, drink, breathe. Acting you know what I'm saying? So I never felt comfortable calling myself an actor at first, because I was like, I need to get like that. Because they really respect the craft, and they don't just. Of course they want to get in the business. Like, of course we want to do this on a higher level, but they really. They acting wherever.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Like, they like how you would play pickup basketball if you threw some dialogue down on the paper, some sizes. They getting after it, like, off real.

[A]

Seriously. That was definitely, like. I feel like that's. Even though I didn't go to, like, you know, school for acting or anything like that, I was using every opportunity to act, and that's why I fell in love with digital. Like, the whole vine, the whole Instagram. Like, I was like, I'm acting on there.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

You know what I mean?

[B]

That's what I love about Kiki. Because you. You've done stuff on a higher level, but you. You going to always take, like, the chance to act wherever, whatever platform that is. And I could respect that. That's like. That's like on some athlete stuff. That's really like, yo, we going to the park, and we just going to get it. You know what I'm saying? I respect that. Like, that's fire. And I feel like I would see, like, inspiring actors like that, like I said, in classes like that, and I would have empathy for that because I'm like, man, I'm blessed enough to even have auditions weekly. They can't see an audition. So I didn't call myself an actor for a minute. It wasn't until, like, my third class, like, I'm talking not like, class within a class.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

My third acting class, I switched to where I was like, okay, now I'm an actor.

[A]

Yeah. And the acting class is like, what do they be? What do they have y' all doing

[B]

up in there, man, when you're doing Meisner? Is that repetition? So what it do, like, if I. If you say something to me, like, if I say, your shirt is white, and you be like, my shirt. My shirt is white. I'd be like, your shirt is white.

[A]

Okay. And then find different ways to.

[B]

Different ways to do.

[A]

Wait, let's go.

[B]

Okay, let's do it.

[A]

My shirt is white.

[B]

Your shirt is white.

[A]

My shirt is white.

[B]

Your shirt is white.

[A]

My shirt is white.

[B]

Your shirt is white.

[A]

My shirt is white.

[B]

Your shirt is white.

[A]

Yes. I'm with the miser of it all. So that's one of his main gags.

[B]

Yes. That was what repetition was. Something like, we Would do that in class, and it would get super awkward sometimes.

[A]

Cause, yeah.

[B]

Like, somebody will start off a question that's just crazy. Like, I remember I had on the Nike tech sweatsuit, and this one girl was like, why are you dressed like an assassin? I wanted to say, I ain't want. Then I had to respond. I was like, oh, snow. Like, what you mean it's a Nike tech? Like, what you talking about? It just got really awkward in some classes, but.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. Yeah. I always would think about what's going on. Cause in my mind, I know some. Sometimes the classes, they'll have y' all going so deep, and now you crying, and you. Damn. They need somebody to pick you up.

[B]

No, like, it used to be therapy for real. I remember, like, that was one. I remember crying in one of my classes for the first time. And, like, I was just sitting there, like, embarrassed after. But they. They loved it and everything. But they was like, no, that's beautiful that you felt vulnerable enough to even, like, to get to that place. But I was like, nah, I need to go see a therapist. That was crazy.

[A]

And was it in a scene or was it an improv session?

[B]

It was like a. It was like an improv session. It was like finding. It was like getting to that place.

[A]

Yeah. Yeah. Find that place. So you're thinking about a lot of different things.

[B]

You just think about a lot.

[A]

The crying thing is really. It's really a thing. Right. Because when I was younger, I would honestly be thinking about the worst possible.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

You know, my mom was. Because I was a kid, so I didn't. I didn't have a lot of tools of. Of experience to know how to cry from. You know what I mean? What would make me sad? And so it would be like something happened to your father. Like.

[B]

Yeah. Like, you had to take it there. Poor young Keke.

[A]

I used my grandma so many times when she passed, I was like, she's gone. Because it was so many times that I had to think about her being gone. It's actually kind of weird. Like, damn. But that was, like, the early years of me finding the ways of knowing how to cry. It wasn't until I became, like. I remember Angela Bassett taught me a really good form that I didn't really settle in until my older years, where she really just helped me to connect to what my character was going through.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

To my own situation. So. Okay. Dr. Larrabee can't be for the bee. Dr. Larrabee, in your life is your mom. If your mom can't take you to your auditions. How would that make you feel then? It's like it's more real as opposed to having to catastrophize everything.

[B]

And you already an empath too. So it's really just about finding what that feeling is and just. You know what I'm saying? It goes hand in hand and. Yeah. And I feel like that's a more healthier way, way more. Because when you just.

[A]

You just. I was like emotionally self. I'm at nine. Like somebody died.

[B]

Yeah, exactly. That's craz. That's crazy. Nine is so young, yo.

[A]

That was too much. I was literally on that. Okay, you were straight outta Compton. That must have been crazy getting the call that you made into that movie. I mean, cultural impact. This is black history. This is American history. What were you thinking, baby? This is Icky Palma. Yeah. You know your girl loves to travel. Some of my favorite trips have been with my fam to far off places like Rome. But this spring, eyeing a more local spot like South Carolina. Because our non negotiables are delicious food and a beach where we can have fun, but also get some much needed rnr. And when I'm planning where we're going to stay, I'm not only thinking about logistics, like where is everyone going to sleep, but also how can I really experience the place I'm visiting. That's why I book a stay on Airbnb for family trips. We get to stay in neighborhoods where locals actually live and really connect with the city through authentic experiences. Plus, everyone can spread out with separate bedrooms. Like my son's bedtime doesn't have to be my bedtime. And we've got a real kitchen to cook some meals together. If we end up staying in, it's also way more cost effective than booking multiple hotel rooms. We all get our own space, but still come together to create those genuine memories for that kind of trip. Hotels just don't give us what we need. Find a home for your next family adventure on Airbnb. You know what? I love when people show up with genuine intentions, especially when it comes to dating. My girls and I were just talking about how the best connections happen when someone puts in real effort from the jump. And Bumble is definitely onto something because they're making it easy to find people who really want to get to know and date the real you from the beginning. Through features like Bumble compliments, someone can show genuine interest in something on your profile. Like your love of cooking or that cute hiking photo. I see you, boo. All before you even Match. That kind of meaningful connection changes the whole vibe. That's why it's the dating app my girlfriends use and trust. And let's talk about safety, because that matters. Bumble has photo verification and ID verification built right in. You can be at ease knowing the person you're chatting with is actually who they say they are. That peace of mind, it's a non negotiable. Ready to connect with people who bring the same energy as you. Download Bumble now.

[B]

It was actually my old acting coach who passed away. Dustin Felder.

[A]

Oh, shout out to Dustin Felder.

[B]

Dustin Felder was the one who told me. I booked the job before he was supposed to tell me. Oh, yes.

[A]

Oh my. Cause he just knew he was the inside.

[B]

He knew and like. Cause he was the acting coach. No, well, he knew he was the inside because he was the acting coach on set too.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

And so he told me he wasn't supposed to tell me. And I was like, bro, it's no way. I just booked this. But what's so funny is when I auditioned for Straight Outta Compton, it was a self tape that I did in Milan after a Calvin Klein show.

[A]

Come on. Yes, Keith.

[B]

I had my. They used to put us. They used to put us. I'm looking at the camera. They used to put models in one room. Like four models with the roll in beds.

[A]

Oh my gosh.

[B]

One model I became friends with. I said, yo, bro, I need you to read this audition for me. White dude, I forgot where he was from. You had to read the Strata Comp audition for me, right? Mind you, you know the lines. Get to a part where you gotta say the N word. He said, keith, I said, yeah. Now you ain't gotta say all that. Just skip over that and just keep it going and everything is gonna be good. But we did it. It was great. But that's how I end up. I got a call to come in to read for Ev Gary Gray after that. But that was. It was just so funny to be on that grind of like doing it in Milan, then reading for Ev Gary Gray and then my acting coach spilling the beans on accident. It was just a crazy process, but it was lovely.

[A]

I mean, you played Dr. Dre's brother. Your middle name Tyree. Character name Tyree. That's right.

[B]

My older brother's name is Tyree too, actually.

[A]

That's crazy.

[B]

That's insane.

[A]

Tyree is up in here.

[B]

Tyree is crazy. Tyree is so specific.

[A]

It's so black. It's like.

[B]

It's very.

[A]

You know what I Mean, it's almost like Tyreek, sista, sist. No. So why did I go there? Y' all just saw my mind. That's what my mind be doing. It's crazy.

[B]

We love it.

[A]

So what was it like on the set? Like, was y' all laughing? Was y' all all serious as hell?

[B]

I was serious. Cause I didn't wanna get fired. But everybody else was, like, laughing and joking and, like. Everybody was really cool, though. Like, Corey Hawkins.

[A]

Oh, my gosh.

[B]

Real thespian, like, locked in. But he also had a lot of fun. Jason had a lot of fun. O' Shea had. It was o' Shea's first job.

[A]

Can you imagine? O', Shea. I'm doing my dad. I'm being my dad.

[B]

I know that's crazy. And he was killing it. Like, he was super cool. I feel like o', Shea, he was the most relatable for me because, I mean, he just played video games, loves sports, and then Outis Hodge. I love how this.

[A]

I love Aldis, man. Shout out to him.

[B]

He's got a great show out on him. That's where I met Aldis Nate. It was just. It was a great set. And then, like. But people would visit that set where it was like, yo, this is a regular day on set. And people just pulling up. I remember, like, Steve Nash pulled up one time. I'm like, what?

[A]

How y' all even know him?

[B]

I'm like, yo, hip hop. Yeah, hip hop. Snoop would pull up. Everyone would just pull up. And I was just. I was like, this is crazy. But at the same time, I was like, okay, this is real. Like, this movie is going. Like, it's a lot being put into this film, and I can't get fired.

[A]

And being so close to the people and the history of it. I think one thing we think we, like, when I think about hip hop, I think about, like, rock and roll. Like, this might as well have been, like, a movie about Guns N Roses. This is, like, literally the beginning of what became one of the biggest things in pop culture. So, see, like, did it click? Like, did you. Was you pinching yourself? Like, damn. Like, I'm really. You know, like, this is, like, history that.

[B]

I'm like, yeah, I think it was the premiere.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Even though it hadn't come out yet, I think the premieres with. First of all, that theater was huge. I forgot exactly what theater we were at.

[A]

Chinese Man's.

[B]

Was it. I can't remember. I can't remember. But it was a lot of people there. It was a lot of people And I remember just, like, my part coming up, and the theater was laughing, and I was like, yo. But I just felt like the whole time, people were loving the film. And in my head, I'm like, whoa, this is. I think I'm a part of history with this one. Even this little, small part, like, just to be in it. Cause I'm a Watch it anyway. So the fact you get to watch yourself. Yeah, like what? I was juiced, so.

[A]

And you've done it, like, twice. I mean, like the New Edition movie. That was crazy. Big moment in culture. I mean, you play Ronnie Devoe, like, tell me what. What that experience was like. And the process of getting that role.

[B]

That process was crazy. I'm not gonna lie. I was the last person to be cast. And I had to learn how to. I don't dance. Like, I really don't dance. So I had to do. I had to learn, like, six routines.

[A]

That's all they was doing was dancing.

[B]

That's all I had to learn that in two weeks.

[A]

Wow.

[B]

And everyone was already cast. Like, everyone was set. I was the last person. So I was going into these rehearsals really stressed out. I remember, like, having dreams about the dance moves. I would wake up, like, kind of, like, moving my arms. Like, they just.

[A]

This feels very Virgo.

[B]

No facts.

[A]

I know that you're Leo cousin, but this is like, me. I'm going to my head.

[B]

Yes. I was, like, going through it, and Woody helped me. Woody McLain helped me. Yeah. Shout out, Woody. Woody came over. He showed me some moves. He really helped me. And then, like, we went to do the audition, and I was like, bro, I'm not about to book this. Like, I was like, this is. I can't. These moves are crazy. But I. I got through it. They end up telling me last that I booked it. Everybody from bet My cast mates came out, clapped and everything. But that process was, like, really stressful for me because I do not do choreography.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And I was just like. I was like. I couldn't even think about the acting effort. I was like, how am I gonna get through these dance moves?

[A]

Right.

[B]

It was like. It was one of those things where it was like, you know, you go through that for a reason. You look back, and now I'm proud of it.

[A]

Like, you know what I just thought about? Brashear was in there.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Had you ever spoke to him again? I know he going through a lot. Did you guys ever speak again? I haven't seen him in ages.

[B]

I haven't spoken to Bryce in a minute. I'M not gonna lie. But I mean, yeah, the last time was really during that time. Yeah. And that was crazy. Yeah. It was all of us. Even, like. Even the younger, like, Caleb and everybody and Miles. Truth.

[A]

Oh, my gosh.

[B]

Yes. Like, Jahi. It was just like, we had so much. Jahi.

[A]

Winston. Yes. I love Jaheed.

[B]

The cast is insane.

[A]

Like, it's so good. I mean, doing those films. What did you take away on making sure that you're telling black story with honesty? And then obviously, the integrity.

[B]

I learned that it's important, obviously, and it's like. But I also learned that it could be, like, kind of difficult because everyone also has their own point of view about what happened at that time.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

So it's like, you have to find a middle ground. You got all the members who are alive today who I love so much. Bobby, Ronny, Bobby, Ricky, Mike. Come on, Everybody. Like Ricky.

[A]

Like, yes.

[B]

I love them so much. And they were so, like, cooperative of, like, making sure the story was right. And even if they disagreed on some things, they figure it out. That's why they still able to tour today. Everything that they've been through, it's crazy how they could go do solo projects and then come back together, still do a New Edition project and go back. So it's like they a family, though Brooke Payne instilled that. And I feel like doing a biopic about them. It's easy for them to come in and be like, oh, no, this is what I remember. This is what I remember. And that's their truth. You can't say that they. But then how do you put that in TV form, film form, you know what I'm saying? In the script and still keep the integrity and stuff. And it's tough. But, I mean, kudos to New Edition for just, like, being there and making sure it was on point and not bumping heads to the point where we couldn't get stuff in the film that makes the. Or the series that makes the series what it is today.

[A]

You know what I'm saying? I mean, you guys did an incredible job, but it can be a lot playing iconic people. Like, even when I remember when I did tlc, when we got casted, everybody on Twitter was like, and why would you. But then when the movie came out, they were like, we love, you know, love the movie. You know, I have people to this day, but it can be, you know, when you're playing somebody that everybody loves, it's like, you gotta really.

[B]

When our first casting picture dropped, people was roasting. I remember I was like, dang, they don't think we give us a chance. But that was when I was younger, too. So I'm like, hey, we ain't showed you nothing yet. Y' all ain't get to see the wigs or nothing yet. This was before they seen the wigs. They was already.

[A]

Cause it'd be like that. It always ends up turning out. And you guys did a great job with that.

[B]

Thank you.

[A]

Now, when you did your Teen Vogue New Hollywood cover, you said, I'm built for this. Now I'm ready for it. I'm curious of what. What. That. What clicked for you where you said, you know what? I'm ready for success. Because success is a lot.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

You know, when. Whether it's fame, you know, more visibility, more money, access, it can be a lot for somebody to handle.

[B]

I think it's just me just understanding. I like to say this thing of, I'm confident in who I'm not.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

You know what I'm saying? Like, I'm confident knowing that I don't have to. To be something. You know what I'm saying? I know exactly who I am. So coming into the industry was always about finding validation in any way possible just to feel accepted and keep working. It was just like, I'm not gonna do nothing to, like, you know, your integrity go against my integrity or nothing like that. But it was just still, like, I just wasn't confident in anything that I was doing, you know? And it took time for me to, you know what you gotta go. You gotta go through, like. Like booking something and thinking it's going to be, like, the marvel of everything, Right? And it's just going to change your life forever. And you got to go through hitting that wall and then feeling like, dang, what happened? But then realizing, like, the gift was in doing it and meeting the people. You know what I'm saying?

[A]

What you just said is, I really hope people really take that in, because nobody remembers Oprah Winfrey and says that one episode.

[B]

Yes, no facts, we don't even think of.

[A]

Cause you know what? It was a collection of moments. It was so many episodes. It was so many, you know, critical moments in anybody's career that we can imagine. And when Fresh Prince of Bel Air came out, people love the show. It's a popular show. But that ain't the only thing you think about. When we think about why we love Will Smith, that's one of the moments where we fell in love with him. And I do think, as young entertainers, like, we've gotta remember that, and we've gotta tell each other that. And that's gotta be the thing that people understand, because there is not gonna be one job that changes your life.

[B]

Yeah. It's not.

[A]

There's gonna be continuity in what you do and what you bring to every project that people are gonna start identifying you as. And so what I'm hearing you say, too, is just like the process of finding what my brand is.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

You came into the game. You're a model number one, you know, so it's like, that was not a training ground for this. And then now I'm playing these different people where I'm. Now I'm jumping into being, performing this person. And so now you feel like you know what your voice is.

[B]

Yeah. And I feel confident in it now. It's just like, okay, if that's not where I'm at right now, that's fine. It might come back around later. You know what I'm saying? I know who I am right now. How do I service my. How do I become serviceable now rather than trying to be something I'm not and stressing out that I can't get. You know what I'm saying? It's like. And then I just enjoy it more.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Like, sitting here talking with you, I enjoy it. I don't feel pressure of like, oh, I gotta say this or anything. It's like, nah, Kiki the homie, we chilling. We talking like, it's cool. You know what I'm saying?

[A]

For sure.

[B]

Sometimes I felt like the stakes was too high in the wrong places when I first was starting. And I'm just like, now I'm able to enjoy it and understand, like, I'm always work hard and push myself, but I'm not going, like, it's going to be what it is, and I'm going to keep it pushing. Like, I'm not about to sit here and, like, stress over it to the point where it stops me from moving forward and becoming jaded. That's like the scariest thing in this industry. And it's easy to become jaded in this industry.

[A]

It's also faith, too, that I'm hearing what you're saying. Having faith. What's mine is mine.

[B]

No facts.

[A]

Can't nobody take it away. I believe that God has a spot for me.

[B]

Yep.

[A]

Period, Full stop. And that's. That saved us from a lot of. A lot of stress during the strike a couple years back. You said it was a challenging time, but it opened my eyes and changed my whole perspective of the energy industry, for good and bad. What did you take away? Cause, I mean, it was a tough time.

[B]

Yeah, it was a tough time. But it also showed me, like, you do have to, like, prioritize things outside the industry as well with your loved ones. But then there's also, like, your hobbies and stuff, too. That's why I love that.

[A]

You.

[B]

You do so much. And that's fire. But it's also too, because you just. You're an artist. You know what I'm saying? And it's is you an artist in every aspect, and you got to find that within yourself. Like, I would just be like, I'm an actor and that's it.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

And I would also be scared to be anything outside of that. But the strike taught me, like, yo, they could just. If they take the business away, what do you have? And then it's also, like, you got to remember this is an art form and it's different from the business.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

How do you still find the art within your community and still be able to express yourself as an actor while this is going on? But then it also showed, like, my mom and dad used to always be like, you need to have a plan B. I was like, no, I don't plan A. Like, why would you tell me to have a plan B? But now I see why stuff like this happen. You do need to have a plan B.

[A]

You really do. Or just some other ways. Some other ways that you can diversify your portfolio.

[B]

Exactly.

[A]

You know what I mean?

[B]

Exactly. It could be part of your plan A. It's like plan A. Beautiful. You know what I'm saying? Like, you don't have to plan for failure, but you do have to plan for these pivots. And I feel like that's what it taught me, you know? And it also showed me just how, like, it made me really grateful for, like, crew members and stuff.

[A]

Come on.

[B]

Being on set, around your crew, your craft person.

[A]

Like, Crafty is my favorite, folks. I love the actors.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[A]

The crew.

[B]

The crew. The crew is what get you to set up.

[A]

What up, my homeboy key grip? What's up, Electric? What up, Crafty? Can I get a sandwich?

[B]

Crafty is always my favorite.

[A]

Crafty is we be eating too much by week two.

[B]

I got the usual.

[A]

And baby, in Atlanta. Oh, yeah, the Atlanta Crafty.

[B]

I don't wanna talk about it.

[A]

They be doing I done gain weight.

[B]

Nah, facts. It's crazy.

[A]

I used to love being on Star. They food was good.

[B]

Oh, yeah. Star was. No Star has so much I used to visit, literally. And hit lunch during my visit. Cause I knew the food was gonna be crazy.

[A]

Yes, the food is crazy. Okay, this gagged me. You and Gabrielle Union, you must have been. I mean, we grew up. Gabrielle Union is like the quintessential it girl. You know what I'm saying? And now you're playing her love interest in Perfect Fine. I remember when I saw that, I was like, keith, is you ready?

[B]

In my mind. No. Right? No, I said, I asked the same thing in my mind.

[A]

Oh, my God. So what was it like? I mean, you get this movie, you're doing this thing, and this is like a romance. Like, are you comfortable in Rome? I'm very awkward with romance. I've never really done many of them, you know, so it's really like. So, like, how did you feel going into this romance?

[B]

I feel like I was like. I mean, I'm opposite of Gabrielle Union.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So. And I feel like I got like a real boyish look. I'm gonna be real.

[A]

So I was like, yo, there's nothing wrong with that.

[B]

Yeah. I was just like, yo, this is gonna be tough. Like, I gotta. I gotta match her energy. You know what I'm saying? And it was just about, like, me understanding I was there for a reason. That's when I was running into that imposter syndrome a lot too. Gabby always made me feel like I was where I was supposed to be too. She never, like, looked down on me or anything. Gabby is so fun. Like, she's so chill.

[A]

Her and Dwayne, they both.

[B]

I really love them. And she, like, she made it fun. And I didn't stress too much about like, how I looked across from her on screen. It was just really about being truthful in the moments.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

And that made it easy too. Numa, our director, Numa Perrier, she really made it. It very easy for us to just live in the space on set and have fun and play. And I think that that, that really helped me, you know what I'm saying? And that was one of the first sets where I really felt like I just let go and just didn't think too much, you know? And that's the. That's the beauty about doing a rom com is like, you really get to play and have fun.

[A]

Yeah. Cuz I need that funny.

[B]

I need that funny.

[A]

I'm not about to give you the Titanic hand on a window steaming.

[B]

You could do both though.

[A]

That would piss me off, Keith. I don't know why I'm like that. You know, maybe it's like, I got, you know, I don't know. Look, if Gina Prince Blythewood said, we're doing something like love and basketball and it's lovers in the city, and then I'm gonna pull up. You know what I mean? I'm do what it takes, but I'm going to be nervous. I'm gonna have to go to that guy and be like, look, dude, we got to make out today because we

[B]

gotta break the ice.

[A]

We gotta break. Break the ice.

[B]

You don't wanna go first date and

[A]

then it looks stupid. No tongue. Tongue. How far are we going? I gotta get into it.

[B]

No facts.

[A]

Because that's so. You don't wanna offend anyone. It's just so much to think about.

[B]

Shout out to intimacy coordinators. For real. That's like, one of the best things a set could ever have. Like, you really create, like, a routine out of the kiss scenes, sex scenes, all that. Like, the intimate scenes in general. You just really create a routine. You understand what everybody comfortable with that mediator is like, nah, that's like that.

[A]

Just thought about a choreographed moan.

[B]

No facts. No. But that's how I go. Like, she'll literally let you know. Like, you know, in this moment, if you want to do a little something there, you can everything. Are you cool with that? Yeah, it is like, okay. Okay. Cool. That really helps. Because ain't nothing worse than getting on set. You just kind of like.

[A]

You know what I'm saying?

[B]

That first take, like, what we doing? You know what I'm saying?

[A]

So weird.

[B]

Baby.

[A]

This is Icky Palma. Yeah, y'. All, I have questions about everything. What should I cook tonight? Is it jacket weather or am I overthinking this? Should I take that opportunity? And I've been using Claude. It's changed how I make decisions. Because here's the thing. Most AI just gives you information, and that's it. Claude. Claude actually helps you decide, think things through fully and take action. Like when I'm prepping for guests or trying to figure out whether something I read is legit, I'll go back and forth with Claude, and it won't just hand me some surface level answer. It pushes back and asks me what I mean. It treats the question like it deserves more than 30 seconds. I also love that you can now connect your health data to Claude through Apple Health. And when I'm trying to figure out if my sleep is off, Claude helps me see the patterns. Try Clawd for free at Claude AI Keke Palmer and see why problem solvers choose Claude as Their thinking partner. You've mentioned mentorship being a big part of your life. Who are some people behind the scenes that have supported you in your career? And even if you don't know the name, you know, celebrities, it's really like my.

[B]

It's Dustin Felder for sure. My first acting coach, Dustin Felder was super mentor. I mean he the one. I think he the reason that I kept acting. Cause I was like, it was just tough at first. And he had a class that was majority people of color, black people, a lot of people of color, a lot of black and brown people. And we really just would bring a scene to set and just play. And it was a lot of us in those classes. Like it was a lot of us. And I think he was like my first mentor. Cause he used to just tell me, he was like, it's gonna click for you, Keith, when you bring whatever you have offset bring that onset. He was like, you need to bring that to your character. Once you do that, it's gonna click. And he just really always helped me when I had questions about just different roles and what I should be doing. He always just tell me to live in the moment and not really stress about like what to do next. And just like, bro, just work and get that experience being on set and stuff. And I think that was very important. Cause you want to get. You want to start off and then start being like picky about moves. When you first start out, if you're able to start off and your first thing hit like that and you're able to play that type of game, that's beautiful. But sometimes you just got to get out there, you got to get in the field and just, you know what I'm saying, get those reps in. I would say he was my closest thing to a mentor in this industry for sure. Besides like my family, my manager, my team, you know what I'm saying? It was like Dustin Felder, he. He was. Rest in peace, Dustin. I miss him so much. He was like my true mentor for sure.

[A]

I really love that shout outs to him and the impact he made on your life. I mean, you are a leading man. How does it feel settling into that vibe and how does it also help? Because this is the thing, once we've been labeled as something, it can sometimes make us overthink the roles we take or the roles we do. So how are you taking on being, being, you know, being seen as that without letting it stop your creativity?

[B]

Yeah, I think, I think like lead man. I think now we live in such A time that's like, we see so many different type of people. It's a progressive time, it's an inclusive time. Even though they trying to, you know, stop that and like. And like, take away, you know, just seeing that diversity, I think that's what helps me understand that I'm able to be a leading man is seeing the different types of lead men. I think that really helps for me because I just feel like I've always, like, dealt with like, confidence issues and stuff growing up. And even though people I feel like would gravitate towards me just on some natural, like, yo, you cool? I just always felt like for some reason I'm like, you think so? Like, but like, ah, like, I have

[A]

always felt that about you everywhere. They always like, Keith is so awesome. He's so cool. I literally, every friend, they be like, you're the guy's guy, you know? Like, I love that.

[B]

I love that too. Like, that's. And I'm like, okay, what do I have naturally that people gravitate towards? That can be leading man, whatever that is. You know what I'm saying? And that's why even sometimes I wear glasses. I got my contacts on. I'll be like, man, I need to wear my glasses more. Like some.

[A]

Come on. I love glasses. Get you a glasses, dick.

[B]

No facts. No facts. And I'm like, I need that to be part of my leading man vibe. Cause that's me. You know what I'm saying? And it's really the times of, like, seeing different types of leading men help me even more. Even if someone may look at me as like a prototype lead man, I feel like, because sometimes my confidence wasn't always there. I would feel like. Or sometimes I feel like I wouldn't bring my goofiness to my role.

[A]

Come on.

[B]

You know what I'm saying? We need that. And I don't know how, I don't know how. Wouldn't bring knowing Will Smith and growing up and seeing freshmen. How, like what?

[A]

Because I think that the world tries to tell you guys, and by you guys, I mean male actors that want to be leading men and then black guys. That's silly.

[B]

That, you know you shouldn't be.

[A]

But it's like it's opposite. Women love men with sense of humor. That's why we love the Will Smiths. That's why we love the Martin Lawrence. That's why we love the Jamie Foxx's, because they're funny. And so when, when you guys do let that off, it's. It's really it's what we're missing, honestly. We don't see a lot of it. It's always very serious. Very buttoned up, very. I'm saving the world.

[B]

No, for sure.

[A]

And it's like, I would love for you to save the world with joy.

[B]

Yeah. No facts. Yeah. I think. I think, like, just the different. The times that we're in also helps too, because I'm just like, oh, okay. Nah, I could live in this space and be my own version of a lead man in and like, make a. Make a stamp.

[A]

I like the. It was kind of comedy, you know, but commentary. The one you did with Avin. Avan Jogia.

[B]

Oh, yeah, yeah. Doormouse.

[A]

Yeah, Door Mouse. I thought it was a very cool, interesting tone and it showed a little bit quirkiness.

[B]

That was fun. Yeah, that was. I played. I really, like. I really enjoy doing that. And Avin. Ivan really set the stage. Yeah. Shout out to Avin. He really set the stage and just allowed me to, like, like, live in it and like, play with my body more in ways that I. You know what I'm saying? The way I stand and stuff.

[A]

It was very cool. I watched the whole thing and I was like, what is this? I was like, what is cool?

[B]

Yeah. Like, hold on.

[A]

This isn't his usual shoes.

[B]

I had the locks and everything like that.

[A]

I loved it. Very cool.

[B]

Yeah. No, that was fun. Yeah.

[A]

You celebrated one year alcohol free this January, and this has been a big thing that you've been talking about. And then as somebody, I mean, I know I'm not your best friend, but I've known you for years. I never saw you really drinking crazy or anything like that. And so I thought it was very interesting, you taking this stance and really making it a big thing, especially because it doesn't come from you having had a problem in particular. You know what I mean? So. Yeah. So what made you want to be vocal about that? And congratulations.

[B]

Thank you so much. Nah, I think really it was just like the feeling of, like, I have a lot of social anxiety in certain places within the industry, Going to certain parties and knowing that you have to talk to a lot of people and then having those moments. I don't know if you have this moment and you probably do, where it's like, what if I run out of things to talk about and we just sitting there.

[A]

Yeah, that's why my ass is being mean. Because I'm like, It's because I'm anxious. Like, people think I'm just being. She knows what to say. No, I'M I'm vomiting.

[B]

No.

[A]

Because this is so weird.

[B]

Yes. And I think in spaces, what happens is you become a social drinker.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Then I started depending on it. It's like, I started, like. I would, like, take. To be full, transparent. I would, like, take a shot before going on a carpet.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And that's when I knew. I was like, wait, what am I doing right? Like, to take. Like, that's kind of crazy. And then. And it just led from that. And then hearing other people's stories. I didn't realize a lot of actors are sober, like, 100%. And I would just see a lot of interviews. I think one of the latest ones was Tom Holland. He was talking about his sobriety journey. And just because it was just so normal to have a beer, especially being from England. Yeah. You know what I'm saying? They be like, yeah, exactly. And he was like, man, he had to take a break from that. And I was just listening. I'm like, man, I kind of like, like, relate to that in a way where I just feel like it's easy for me to be like, yo, let me just pour up real quick. Let me. Let me. You know, and that's cool, you know, And. And if you do. If you drink in moderation, whatever. I'm not trying to tell nobody how to live their life or nothing like that, but I know for me, it was like, man, I don't like the idea that I'm dependent on this.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So I was like, I'm gonna do 30 dry January. Dry January turned into, all right, I'm gonna move that dry January to February. Then it turned in, like, okay, 75 days. I could. Then it was like, I gotta go for the 100. And I felt so. I've been feeling so good, like, mentally, physically. When I got to that day 100, I was like, I'm going the rest of the year. I feel way too good. And it's crazy. It kind of feels like I got, like, myself back when I stopped drinking completely. Like, I feel like I could just. I could live in a space and then, like, be me and not worry, like, what people thinking. I'm gonna run to the. Let's get a drink at the bar so that, like, to loosen up a bit. None of that. I'm just like. Like, n. I'm chilling.

[A]

Like, sometimes we have to listen to our bodies when it's like, something's just not working for us, you know, when we feel like it's keeping us from ourselves. And that could be in a number of things, whether it's alcohol or food. I remember I did a movie or TV show in Berlin, and, you know, smoking out there is very casual. So then now, now I'm on the nicotine.

[B]

And now facts.

[A]

Now my head is aching. And now I don't know when I'm hungry no more. You know, like. And now it's like, this isn't working for me, you know? And so it happens. And as long as we. We keep checking in with ourselves, I think it's important. So I love that you shared that. Something else that really is amazing to me, which it's always been my dream to one day do, is run a marathon. And you just ran a marathon?

[B]

Yeah. Well, no, I didn't run a marathon.

[A]

You didn't?

[B]

No, not yet. I signed up for my first half.

[A]

Oh, my God.

[B]

Yes. But I've been running a lot, though, so.

[A]

So you want to run a marathon? I do, too. How has the training been? I mean, I like to run, but as a woman, sometimes my hormones get out of whack from the running. I know that you can't relate, but, you know, that's always been my running and hang up with it. But I wanted to run a marathon. So what do you, you know, what made you want to do it?

[B]

I don't know. I just. One day I was just like. I think that started from, like, being sober and having this sort of energy where I'm like, I want to start. I ran track in high school, and I was like, I want to run. I'm going to go run. Cause I've been seeing a lot of people getting into running and joining run clubs. And I was like, let me go run a mile. And that first one hurt. I was like, man, why did I just do this? Like, hold on. My win ain't what I thought it was. Then I did it again. I did it again. I just kept doing it. And, you know, that's the beauty. Also about today. You find that community on TikTok or Instagram running. You just look up and you hear all these stories. And I just kept doing it. And I realized how, like, present I am when I run. And it's like sort of like meditation where, like, when I'm running, I just feel like I just get this time to just be with myself, breathe and like, you know what I'm saying?

[A]

That's how I feel about Pilates. And I love how you also talked about the. You know, how taking something out of your life. Because this is the thing, what I think happens to us Sometimes with consumption, we're in such a consumerism and we're always being told that we need something outside of us in order to feel comfortable with ourselves. And look, sometimes, you know, whatever it is, you might get into it every now and then, but a lot of times we think we need that. And really what we need is to run.

[B]

No facts.

[A]

Or to go join a knitting.

[B]

No, that's real. No real.

[A]

Or to do something that's going to allow to be more in community. You know, for me, it was Pilates going up every morning.

[B]

Pilates is amazing.

[A]

Going to my class and seeing my girls, and it's like, hey, girl. Like, oh, I just got this coffee. I'm about to go over there. You coming with me. Like, that's actually what I wanted to feed me. Not this thing or this new whatever, but actually I wanted to be engaged with life deeper. And so it's so. I love how you brought that around to that. Because. Yes. Like, sometimes you just want to be out in the life, running and feeling the air, the wind beneath your wings.

[B]

No, for real. And that's. Running is just for my mental health. Honestly, it's really a hobby. Like, I'm gonna do my first. First half marathon, and I'm gonna do, you know, a full marathon. I gotta get there mentally for the full. I'm not quite there yet.

[A]

Can you run the whole time or can you walk a little bit?

[B]

You can do whatever you want. I run the whole time. But, like, I tell people, like, if you wanna stop, stop. Like, don't. Don't be out there and stress yourself out. Like, do whatever. Yeah, yeah. No, it's crazy. Every run is different. You learn a lot. I've definitely learned, like, running slow and taking my time. It's just like life. It's the great mantra to life. Like, take your time, you gonna win the race. It's your race to run. It's tunnel vision. You're not racing anyone else in the streets that you by yourself, you know, spend that time and take your time and breathe. Breathe. And just realize you don't have to impress nobody. I never want something to become a chore. Or I feel like I gotta get validated from it, too. That's the other thing. You can also get lost with that with these apps. Like, I love my Strava honey.

[A]

My aura ring had me judging my sleep. It's like, girl, you supposed to be at rest.

[B]

No facts, though. Like.

[A]

But yeah, only two hours of rem. Okay, let's get into the love of it all, because Congratulations to you and Ryan for cutting Engaged.

[B]

Thank you so much.

[A]

Yeah, I got a big old wide picture of it. Yeah, I do.

[B]

Oh, I love that.

[A]

Cause get into it. They look very hot.

[B]

Nah, that printout is fire.

[A]

They're a very beautiful couple. And no, you can't have it. Keith in my room. It's from. Congratulations.

[B]

Thank you so much.

[A]

I mean, I know you guys have been together forever. When did y' all meet? Did y' all meet in the industry?

[B]

We did.

[A]

Ok. Joe Gay.

[B]

It's very industry. The way we met. We met at a Teen Vogue party.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

In like, 2015. Like, but it's crazy. We both did, like, this. This African awards show. I forgot what it was called.

[A]

Oh, African awards.

[B]

It was so fire, though. Like, it was so fun. And it was downtown. And I remember, you know, that's when you would do PR and you don't know what type of PR you're doing.

[A]

You just show up, they told you to come.

[B]

Yeah, yeah. And I pulled up, and I remember being backstage. Cause I had to present and she had to present as well. And I remember this was crazy, too. Cause I remember sitting next to my cat. One of my castmates, one of my old castmates. And I was talking to him, and I looked to my right and I seen her fixing her hair. She had, like a green dress on. And I was like, yo. And then he called me back to talk, and I looked, she wasn't there no more. And I was like, who was that? You know what I'm saying?

[A]

She's so graceful. So I know how she touched that head. You know how she be.

[B]

And then, like, fast forward, I see her at the Teen Vogue party. And I was just like, yo, who is that? And I was like, wait, that's her from the awards. So she was across the pool. And I just went over there and introduced myself. And then I said bye to her and her mom. And then we reconnected on socials, and we were just friends for, like, two years.

[A]

Oh, my God. And then obviously you introduced yourself to us as a couple. But then there was a brief moment where you guys like, oh, maybe. I don't know when, I don't remember exactly was even posted. But you guys were still together. So was it kind of like a way up to get people out? Yalls business?

[B]

Yeah, everybody. Yeah, everybody. Always. I see people make up, like, narratives around that time. And I don't mind talking about it. We just took a break, honestly.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Yeah, we took a break. We was having little issues within our relationship. Just like anybody does. Yeah, it wasn't nothing crazy. We were just like, let's. So let's take a break. And we took a break. And during that break, we actually went to counseling as well, independent counseling together. And that was really. Yeah, that was really. That was really helpful.

[A]

Like, I just love this. This is rock.

[B]

That was really helpful. I think, like, that really opened my eyes to, like, a lot, just having someone, like a mediator to, like, talk to you about things. And it was just something that I never really talk to. To any my. To any adults in my family about. In their marriage or anything. So I never. It was very new to me, but it worked out for the best. Like, it helped us come back together, understand each other's side. You know what I'm saying? Understand each. Understand each other a little more. And, yeah, we end up getting back together after that. But, yeah, we took a break, and it was needed, and it was health. It was a healthy break. Like, it was a. It was a break with an intention.

[A]

Well, sometimes, I don't know know that this is what happened with you guys, but sometimes what can happen in relationships is now we just a unit.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

You know, and it's like, I love the wheel unit, but it's like, I also miss me.

[B]

Yeah. No, you know, when we talk about

[A]

that a lot, you know, so I think. I don't know that that's what happened with you guys, but I know for me, a lot of times, like, when I've had moments where it's like, let's take a break or let's try to find a, you know, deconfigure ourselves from being totally just us so we can still be ourselves and us when we come back together, you know, kind of things.

[B]

Yeah, that. And me and Ryan talk about that a lot. We never want to lose our love. Like, individual.

[A]

Yes, individuality.

[B]

Individuality within our couple. Like, we. We are a couple, but we also have our own dreams, and we respect each other's dreams, you know what I'm saying? Like, I love the fact. I mean, Ryan is super talented, and she been wanting to do this way longer than I have. I learned a lot from her, you know what I'm saying? And I never want her to, like, lose that because of me, you know? I don't ever want her to lose that fire. I'm gonna be behind you. I'm gonna have your back the whole way, so you ain't gotta worry about it. Just do you. And then vice versa. So. Yeah, it's cool.

[A]

So what lets you know? Cause it's also. It's like a big jump to be like, I want to spend the rest of my life with you.

[B]

Yeah. Yeah.

[A]

And you. Your parents are still together? They've been together. So marriage, I'm sure your representation of it is, like, you know, it's the

[B]

long haul, no facts.

[A]

So what made you say now's the time?

[B]

It was crazy.

[A]

Like, I. I've had this moment with a lot of girls on my show, but I don't know that I had it with many guys. So I'm like, stop.

[B]

I think, like, I think I always wanted to get. Like, I knew once I fell in love with Ryan, I knew I wanted to marry her. And I guess, like, when you always hear these stories about when it's the right time to do it. And, like, the right time is really when you set the intention to just do it. When you start ring shopping, you understand. Like, you start listening to your partner about what she want and, like, how she want her proposal and stuff. And I know I wanted to. I know I wanna be with her for the rest of my life. And I was just like. I was just like, man, like, after the break and we got back together, I was like, I don't wanna waste no more time with Ryan being my girlfriend, you know, I want her to be my fiance and my wife. And I was just like. I started planning instantly because I was just like, getting through that meant so much to me. You know what I'm saying? It's like. I was like. And it's crazy. Cause, like, when I say, like, we were together for a minute before I got engaged with Ryan, when I say it, I'd be like. Like, I like to make the joke to myself. Like, man, I took a long time, but it wasn't because I wasn't, like, trying to put it off. It was like. I don't know, I just. I was having so much fun. And me and Ryan are, like, best friends. And like this. She never put pressure on me to do it. But yeah, once it hit where I was like, yo, hold on, I gotta do this. I gotta make it happen. It was quick. It wasn't. No. You know what I'm saying?

[A]

Did you tell your parents first?

[B]

Yeah, for sure.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

I told my parents. And I was like. I told my parents, though, like, the second year of us being together, I'm like. And I remember telling my Uncle Curtie that. Rest in peace, my uncle, he was like, hey, you think Ryan will win? I'm like, yeah, nah, for sure. Like, that's that I know for 100% fact. And yeah, it's really, like, no timetable on it. I mean, I wouldn't advise y' all to wait years. Like, don't. I'm not saying that. Don't leave somebody just, you know, your partner just sitting there, you know, but do it when you, you know, is the right time for you and do it your way. I think that's what stopped a lot of people.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And that's what I think growing up, thinking about. I always would think about getting engaged in a way that felt very highlight. Really?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

You know, and not like a real, like, do it your way. What makes you happy, how you could do it in that time. Because that matters more than anything else. You can get to all the logistics and stuff later. Just do it how you want to do it. I think sometimes we get lost in, like, the glamorous side of it all.

[A]

Absolutely. That's the show.

[B]

Yeah. And I think a lot of people use that as an excuse to prolong it. You know what I'm saying? You ain't gotta do that. Just, like, do it your way and then make it happen.

[A]

I could see y' all having a book. I'm ready for a little Julie Wed show. I live for y' all individually and I live for the unit. Like, I'm seeing all the IP that we can do. Call me as a producer. Jeffrey. Okay, we have to talk about you reunited with your new addition, co star Al G. Smith in the Gates. That trailer looks crazy.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

No, it's like. I mean, so this is a horror film. How are you feeling? Is this your first horror film?

[B]

It's a thriller.

[A]

Okay. Is this your first kind of discount?

[B]

It is my first kind of thriller. Yeah, it is, actually.

[A]

It looks so good. I mean, you guys end up. Oh, first of all, we gotta say, rest in peace, James.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Rest in peace James Vanderbeek, who passed away. But you guys got to work together before he passed, where he's kind of the villain in this movie and he's hunting y' all down. I mean, what was it like for film the movie?

[B]

I mean, filming a movie was fun. We shot in Tulsa for 18 days. All night. Shoots.

[A]

Tulsa. That feels historical.

[B]

Tulsa, Oklahoma. It was. Yeah. We went to the museum. We learned a lot about the Black Wall street riots. The Tulsa riots.

[A]

And a lot of hunting down.

[B]

Yeah. No, facts, facts. And we spent a. We spent a lot of time together. Me, Mason, and Algae spent a lot of time together.

[A]

Shout out to Mason.

[B]

Yep. Mason. We. We spent a Lot of time together off set and like we. To stay on track with our sleeping. We used to stay up on the weekends so then it can match our schedule going back into the week. Because all night shoots for 18 days is intense.

[A]

It makes your brain hurt. Like I did a horror movie one time called Animal and it was all night shoots.

[B]

All night shoots.

[A]

And it makes you just. Your life is upside down.

[B]

Literally upside down. It was crazy. And then of course I met James on set. James was like, like amazing to be around. Like, I just really respected his POV on life.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

You know what I'm saying? Like man. And that's why I'm like really going to miss James even more. And I, I wish, you know, I just want to pick his brain more and like just, just be in his presence because he just really talked about his family in a way that really made me happy. And I'm at a point in my life too where I have, I have this dream, like we all do in this industry, but also I don't want to lose sight of like my loved ones and what really matters.

[A]

Amen.

[B]

And to him talk about that. And then what happened? It was just like. It hit me hard when I heard the news because I had no idea, you know, he, he announced what he was dealing with after we were filming. I don't know what he was going through when we were filming, but when, when I heard the news that he transitioned, I was just like, I love the transition. Yeah, it hit me really hard because I was just like, I just remember him inviting us to his trailer one day at lunch and just talking to us about his family and how his kids, you know, know, talking to us about like his kids, the idea of possibly wanting to act and stuff. And him talking about, you know, being in a TV show, being on a TV show and you know, his whole life. Yeah, his whole life like you know, chasing. Well, we all chase like that next job, that next job, that next job. And he was able to like really appreciate the now where he was at and what he had now. And I was just like, that's literally something I'm dealing with today of just like, like understanding. Like yeah, I'm always have my goal, but if I don't appreciate where I'm at now, what I have around me, it ain't going to matter if I get there. Cuz I'm is. I'mma get there and then I'mma. It's like the movie Soul.

[A]

Yeah, the movie.

[B]

Yeah, he did shout out to Jimmy Fox. Shout out Jimmy Fox. Yeah, that's Jamie. He got to that point where he finally performed and he was like, man, this ain't what I thought it was going to be. And he stepped outside and he realized, oh, it was always here the whole time, you know what I'm saying? Everything that I wanted. And I feel like that's where James was, you know, And I really respected that about him.

[A]

It's important that he shared that with young men like yourselves.

[B]

And he was a beast on set, too. And, like, he was playing, like, this really crazy. He was playing an evil pastor. So, like, I didn't even know the pastor part. Yeah, that's wicked. It's. Man, it's. And for him.

[A]

Cynthia. I'm kidding. No.

[B]

Fact.

[A]

I don't know why I have to do this stuff for him to.

[B]

For him to do that and then be who he was off set. It was just like. Like to see him so present in the work, you know, regardless our movie, you could say it's a small movie. But he didn't treat it like that, you know what I'm saying? And he treated it with so much like disrespect and just intention. And I. I really appreciated about him and I wish, you know, I had more time with him, of course.

[A]

But he changed how I thought completely about New Year's resolutions. He randomly did a post at the beginning of the year and he was like, you know, everybody's talking about, you know, but why would we do New Year's resolutions at the top of January when things are dying and taking a break and hibernation and birds are flying? He's like, we should do it in spring when things are growing.

[B]

Yeah, I see that pose. That's fire.

[A]

I love that. Now I'm throwing a New Year's resolution party in the spring. That's crazy because I'm like, yeah, let's set our intentions for all the girls.

[B]

No, that's actually a really dope POV of doing resolution.

[A]

I love. Because why wouldn't we do it when we ready to blossom?

[B]

We'd be stressed out after Christmas, you know what I mean?

[A]

Like, and now we gotta think about resolutions.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Like, the year just ended.

[B]

Damn.

[A]

So, yeah, shout out to James.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And I'm excited about the movie the Gates. Okay. Well, I hate that this is ending.

[B]

I know.

[A]

This is so fun, but I always play a game with all my guests. So we're going to play the Keith Powers dating hotline. Here's how it goes. I'm going to give you a real life dating Scenario.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

And you will give us your best advice. This is one of the show pilots that I have. I'm kidding. Okay, here we go.

[B]

All right.

[A]

I've been dating him for six months. We act like a couple, but he says he doesn't like labels. What should I do?

[B]

Set a boundary?

[A]

Now? What are my boundaries? Limits? Cause what if I love him? You know what I mean? I don't really want to lose him, so how would I do it without totally losing my man?

[B]

I mean, you just. I feel like you tell somebody what you want and he don't like labels, but you do for some reason, and you feel like that makes you feel official, and you feel like that's. That's what you want. You say that and you, like, you set that boundary, like, this is what it is. This is what I want. And y' all figure out a way to talk about it. But if you act like you cool with that, then that's what it's gonna be. You know what I'm saying? Like, you set a boundary. Yeah.

[A]

Okay. She says she doesn't believe in splitting the bill. Thoughts. That's a crazy question.

[B]

I mean, not believing in it is crazy, but. Nah. Yeah. Yeah.

[A]

I mean, sometimes we gotta go dutch.

[B]

I'm the person that always trying to pay for the meal, regardless, of course, with my partner, with Ryan, but then, like, with my friends, too. So it's like not believing in it is like, so you don't believe at all. But then at the same time, it's like, I got it anyway. But, like, sometimes it might switch up. Sometimes you might want.

[A]

You know what I'm saying? Exactly.

[B]

I just. When somebody live in such, like, such absolutes, I'm just like, come on, bro, we human. Like, sometimes you're gonna be like, nah, I'll help you. And you don't have to, like, it's. I'm never gonna be that dude fighting over the building.

[A]

Yeah. Yeah.

[B]

I'd like to get up out of

[A]

there too, also, you know, sometimes, you know, you be the one to treat. I don't know, maybe I'm a little non gender. Okay. He's amazing in person, but he barely texts. Is that maturity or lack of interest? Interest. This is a difficult one in the digital age.

[B]

I think that's. It's funny because it could be both, but I think, like, some people just not good texters. Like, honestly. And if they. And if they're dope in person, that's what really matters. Honestly, I'll be. You know how trash that would be to Text somebody and it's fired. Like over texting and y' all meet in person and it's like.

[A]

That actually happens to me.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

I've had that happen because I. I'm such a texter that somebody will be texting me back and forth.

[B]

No, you are actually a texter.

[A]

Well, you know, I love.

[B]

No, no. But yeah, no, I feel like. I feel like that's not. I feel like that's neither. I just feel like everyone's different. Some people like, you know what I'm saying?

[A]

Some people are great in person and they just don't. They just don't text.

[B]

I mean, if they cool in person, that's all that matters, period.

[A]

Okay. I found out she went through my phone while I was asleep. She says it's because she has trust issues. Yeah.

[B]

What happens next now y' all gotta unpack that. You gotta unpack where the trust issues come from. Nah, for real. Like, you gotta unpack it. Like, if you have trust issues, why do you have trust issues? What did you find now that you went there? Do we have to talk about something? So I feel like we gotta unpack that now. Cause that's a deeper. That's gonna keep happening. I ain't just like. You know what I'm saying? That's gonna spill over into other categories within a relationship.

[A]

I'm seeing the dating show podcast. You and Ryan.

[B]

No, I'm not. I'm seeing. I am still learning, y'. All. I am still.

[A]

No. Okay, just a couple more because I'm loving this. They say, I love you after a month of dating. Is it too soon after a month after?

[B]

I don't know why I heard year. Yeah, that might be a little too soon. I don't know why I heard year after. I'm like, yeah, then you think, I

[A]

love you after a month is too soon.

[B]

That might.

[A]

I've been doing it all wrong.

[B]

This is why my. Cause it depends.

[A]

I thought it was real.

[B]

You could love somebody, like, as a person. Like, oh, that's tough. Like, yeah, everyone receive.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Cuz you might be love bombed.

[B]

You might. That's what I was going to say. It could come off very love bomb me if you're doing that too early. It's like a month is kind of. Maybe just give it another month.

[A]

You know, I think you're right.

[B]

What happen when does something become a habit? 60 days, then it becomes a life. Or 66 and after lifestyle, Steve Harvey said, yeah, let's. Let's weigh 66 and 90 before we start saying I love you. Cause that could get. You could get into really crazy territory at that point.

[A]

Trust me.

[B]

I know. You just don't know everyone. Everyone don't. That love word is different for everybody. Everybody got different pov.

[A]

Infatuation, I feel.

[B]

Yeah. I think sometimes somebody. And then you on a high. It's the honeymoon stage. Y' all on a high. Love you. I love you. And then that first argument, y' all wondering if it's just like, are we gonna make it? Yeah, exactly.

[A]

Okay, this is the last one.

[B]

All right.

[A]

But this has been. I got. I got to find the best one to end this on. Okay, hold on. Okay. Because you're too good. Okay, here it is.

[B]

All right.

[A]

He says he's healed, but every disagreement turns into him shutting down, and he refuses there. What happens next?

[B]

He's not healed. It's pretty. It's pretty clear that he's not healed, unfortunately.

[A]

But I love him.

[B]

My dog is Avoidant. Yeah. So he gotta unpack that. It's all about unpacking that.

[A]

I know who's not Avoidant? It's you, Keith Powers. And you are so awesome.

[B]

Thank you.

[A]

And I'm so happy that you came on the podcast.

[B]

Thank you.

[A]

That was everything. Keith Powers is proof that when you get honest about who you're becoming and you move with clarity in your love, your craft, and your purpose, everything else starts to align. Keith, thank you so much for opening up, for being thoughtful, and for having fun with us today. And we'll see y' all next time on Baby, this is Keke Palmer. Baby, this is. This is Kiki. Baby, this is Kiki Palmer.