INTERVIEW: Ryan Destiny Talks 'The Fire Inside,' Claressa Shields, Acting & Music, Keith Powers + More

Summary

The Breakfast Club: Interview with Charlamagne Tha God on 'The Fire Inside,' Acting & Music

Release Date: December 13, 2024
Host/Authors: DJ Envy and Charlamagne Tha God
Guest: Charlamagne Tha God

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In this captivating episode of The Breakfast Club, Charlamagne Tha God delves deep into his multifaceted career, focusing on his recent role in the film "The Fire Inside," his journey in acting and music, and personal insights into his growth over the years. The conversation offers listeners an intimate look at the challenges and triumphs Charlamagne has experienced while transitioning from a media personality to an actor portraying a real-life sports icon.

1. Embracing the Role of Claressa Shields

Charlamagne opens up about his decision to take on the role of Claressa Shields, a two-time Olympic gold medalist boxer. He emphasizes the significance of portraying such an influential figure and the responsibility that comes with it.

"I really wanted to make sure I could grasp that because she's just superhuman to me."
— Charlamagne Tha God [06:14]

2. Intensive Training and Physical Preparation

Discussing the physical demands of embodying a boxer, Charlamagne shares his rigorous training regimen. He highlights the months spent in the gym, sparring sessions, and the mental fortitude required to authentically represent an athlete's life.

"I trained for months with my boxing coach. It was a lot, I think, just because I wasn't a boxer or just an athlete in general."
— Charlamagne Tha God [04:08]

3. Overcoming Challenges During Filming

The production faced significant hurdles, including the COVID-19 pandemic and a writers' strike, which led to delays. Charlamagne discusses how these interruptions tested his patience and commitment but ultimately strengthened his resolve.

"The delays helped in so many ways. Even with Brian coming in the second go around, it was a lot better."
— Charlamagne Tha God [22:35]

4. Building a Relationship with Claressa Shields

Charlamagne emphasizes the importance of collaboration and understanding when portraying a real person. He recounts his interactions with Claressa Shields, noting her openness and the emotional depth she brought to the project.

"She was an open book with me, which I appreciated a lot. Her reaction to the final product being so emotional was everything I hoped for."
— Charlamagne Tha God [29:03]

5. Balancing Acting and Music

Exploring his dual passions, Charlamagne discusses the distinct creative processes involved in acting versus music. He expresses his love for both fields, highlighting the unique freedoms and challenges each presents.

"I really love both. They both have a sense of freedom that I really appreciate."
— Charlamagne Tha God [10:05]

6. Musical Heritage and Family Influence

Charlamagne reflects on his musical roots, attributing his passion for music to his father, a singer who inspired him from a young age. This familial influence shaped his artistic endeavors and commitment to his craft.

"My dad is a singer. I was in the studio with him when I was a baby, and all those things."
— Charlamagne Tha God [10:31]

7. Personal Growth and Industry Insights

Over the past five years, Charlamagne has experienced significant personal and professional growth. He discusses the evolving nature of the entertainment industry, especially post-pandemic, and his strategies for navigating its challenges.

"I'm trying to go with my gut and continue to do things that I'm really proud of."
— Charlamagne Tha God [13:40]

8. Defining Success in Entertainment

Charlamagne shares his perspective on success, emphasizing the importance of meaningful projects and representation. He aims to contribute positively to the narrative surrounding Black women in the industry.

"I want to represent for a lot of girls, a lot of Black women, and be a part of projects that have a great narrative behind it."
— Charlamagne Tha God [14:39]

9. Navigating Comparisons and Self-Expectation

Acknowledging the pressures of the industry, Charlamagne admits to occasionally comparing himself to peers but strives to focus on his potential and personal benchmarks of success.

"It's probably a combination. I do want to continue to push myself to those points, but also not get too caught up in looking at who's next to me."
— Charlamagne Tha God [25:54]

10. Anticipation for Movie Release and Audience Reception

As "The Fire Inside" approaches its Christmas Day release, Charlamagne expresses his excitement and hopes for widespread support. He underscores the film's universal appeal and its inspirational message.

"I'm really grateful and thankful to be able to even say that. I'm hoping that a lot of people do go out to the theaters to see it because it is something that I think is for everyone in all ages."
— Charlamagne Tha God [26:51]

Notable Quotes

• "I think it's still in me a little bit, but in a good way. I've walked away from this experiment with a new confidence in myself." [08:18]
• "If I'm gonna train for this gold medal, I'm gonna need exactly what the man gets." [09:14]
• "Success varies, and if I'm happy and at peace with everything, that's successful in itself." [14:39]
• "People really do want to see stories like this. These stories don't get made otherwise." [24:39]

Conclusion

Charlamagne Tha God's interview provides a profound look into the dedication required to transform into a real-life athlete, the emotional journey of collaborating with Claressa Shields, and his unwavering commitment to meaningful storytelling. His reflections on personal growth and success offer inspiration to aspiring artists navigating the complex landscape of the entertainment industry. As "The Fire Inside" gears up for its Christmas release, Charlamagne's heartfelt insights underscore the film's anticipated impact and his growth as a versatile artist.

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Transcript

[Ryan Destiny]

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[Clarissa Shields]

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[Charlamagne Tha God]

Books on Amazon, there's a reading feeling for everyone. For example, Juan's as he drifts away to nirvana after only the first chapter.

[DJ Envy]

Is different to Maya's when she discovered.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

The narrator was in fact the evil twin, which is also different to Noah's. Aw, anytime the cute cyberpunk is mentioned.

[DJ Envy]

Even though in reality he'd be totally.

[Ryan Destiny]

Out of his league.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

From two to Amazon books, that reading feeling awaits.

[Jess]

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[Clarissa Shields]

This Christmas.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

So you're her, right?

[Clarissa Shields]

You're the boxer Experience the incredible true story.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

As long as I'm boxing, I'm going to be okay.

[Clarissa Shields]

Of Clarissa Shield my baby going to the Olympics.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Let's go.

[Clarissa Shields]

Critics are calling the Fire Inside an inspirational knockout crowd pleaser.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

If I'm gonna train for this gold medal, I'm gonna need exactly what the man gets.

[Clarissa Shields]

It's a monumental achievement.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I've been working my whole life for this.

[Clarissa Shields]

The Fire Inside, based on the incredible True Story rated PG13, may be inappropriate for children under 13. Only in theaters everywhere. Christmas day, Wake that ass up.

[Ryan Destiny]

Early in the morning, the Breakfast Club.

[Hillary]

Morning, everybody. It's DJ Envy.

[Jess]

Jess.

[Hillary]

Hilarious. Charlamagne Deguy. We are the Breakfast Club. We got a special guest in the building.

[Ryan Destiny]

Yes, indeed.

[Hillary]

She's been all over the news the last couple of days. Ladies and gentlemen, Clarissa Shields.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I'm just kidding.

[Ryan Destiny]

I'm just kidding. I'm just kidding.

[Hillary]

She's actually playing Clarissa Shields in the new film the Fire Inside, which comes out Christmas Day. Ladies and gentlemen, we have Ryan Destiny.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Welcome.

[Ryan Destiny]

Good morning.

[Angela Yee]

How are you?

[Ryan Destiny]

How you feeling?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I'm feeling good. It's an early morning. I'm on L. A Time, so it's really early.

[Ryan Destiny]

Is it hard to get up and.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Do press a little bit sometimes if the. If the timing is weird like that. Just because I'm used to a different time zone, but other than that, I'm good.

[Ryan Destiny]

How long ago did you all film the Fire Inside?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

That was in 2022. We started to film in 2020 right before the pandemic, but then we got shut down and then all that.

[Angela Yee]

The writers strike as well.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

So we popped back in 2022.

[Hillary]

Were you boxing? I'm sorry? Were you boxing? Were you a boxer or were you training? Did you. So you had to learn boxing? How difficult was that? Because I seen the preview.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah.

[Hillary]

And I'm like, jesus, you.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

It's.

[Ryan Destiny]

And when Clarissa was here, she said that was the thing that had to be on point the most to boxing.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Absolutely. Yeah. It was very nerve wracking. But it was. It was a lot, I think, just because I wasn't a boxer or just an athlete in general. Like, that wasn't my thing. But. But I think it was. It was good because I was a little scared and that that helped just me go for it even more, you know, And I trained for months with my boxing coach. And did you have to. He was like textbook boxing coach. I sparred a little, but also we had the studio being like, don't hurt her. So it was also just them not wanting me to actually get hurt, but.

[Ryan Destiny]

So do you think you got hands in real life or Just on the.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Studio, everyone keeps asking me that. I really don't know y'all.

[Angela Yee]

I still get into a fight.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah.

[Angela Yee]

Like, Well, I mean, you Clarissa now, so.

[Ryan Destiny]

That's right. Remy Ma might run down on you, right?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

In New York.

[Ryan Destiny]

What's up with you and Papoo?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I feel like everything will just, like, disappear if I actually have to get into it, so. I don't know. We'll see.

[Hillary]

Meaning, disappear.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Like, you will not see.

[Hillary]

Like, you would run or you. Or you would just get in a.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Like, I just feel like you go blank. Like, you know, like, I don't.

[Angela Yee]

There's a role to you. This is not what you want to do. You don't want to box.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah, yeah. Like, if it's on camera, for sure. But outside of that, I don't know. I don't do this.

[Ryan Destiny]

Have you ever been in a fight in real life?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

No.

[Ryan Destiny]

Never?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

No, never. And that was one of the first things Clarissa asked me. She was like, have you ever been in a real. I'm like, girl, no, absolutely not. That's not me. And that scared her a little bit at first, but after she actually saw it, she cried all the. All the things and was really happy.

[Angela Yee]

How did you get that? Did you. You auditioned for that or they just picked you?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Oh, my God. No. It was an audition process like anything else, and they saw so many people, and I knew it was going to be competitive just because the story itself is incredible and also the people behind it are really great. So, yeah, it was just like the regular, regular thing. And I didn't think I was going to get it when I went into it, which I think helped because I didn't overthink everything.

[Angela Yee]

Yeah.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

You know how I usually do.

[Ryan Destiny]

So was it tougher to prepare for the role mentally, physically or emotionally? Because if you know anything about Clarissa's life, she had a very, very, very rough life. So mentally, physically or emotionally, what was.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

It was all of it. It was all very, very new and different for me and just a challenge across the board, which I liked. You know, I wanted that. I wanted something that would push me and, you know, do something that I've never done before, have people see me in a different light. That was something that was very important to me. But mentally, I think that was something that I had to really hone down on, because having the confidence of an athlete is just a whole nother beast that I don't think a lot of people think about. And then having the confidence of a boxer is another level, you know, So I just Wanted to make sure I could grasp that because she's just superhuman to me, you know. So, yeah, all of the things were very, very difficult mentally. I think that was probably the most. If I had to choose.

[Hillary]

So I was gonna say, how was Clarissa during the filming? Cause she's very intense.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah.

[Hillary]

And when she was up here, she talked about how she wanted to be perfect, like her life.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Right.

[Hillary]

So how was she when, you know, was she easy to talk to and say, well, how was your life during this y?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

She was very easy to talk to. And she was a really open book with me, which I appreciated a lot. There's also a documentary about her life. That's incredible. And it was like my notebook, my bible on set. You know, I referred back to that so many times, and it was so helpful because it's just so raw, and it's a front row seat into how she is with her family, her friends, with her coach, Jason. And it was so great to pick up on those things because it's one thing to talk to her as she is now and how old she is now, but she was kind of a different person too, a little bit at 16, 17, you know, so to have that was something that I definitely went back to and. And was really helpful for.

[Ryan Destiny]

Was she on satellite?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

No, no. It was also still pandemic times, but she was also training, I think, in that time, also in another country. So it was. It was a lot of things happening, but, no, she didn't actually go.

[Ryan Destiny]

How tough was it to release the spirit of Clarissa shield, so to speak?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Not too tough. I think it's still in me a little bit, but, you know, in a good way. You know, I think I've walked away from these, from this experiment with just a new confidence in myself that I don't think I had when I entered it, you know, And I think that I have her to thank for that. You know, she is somebody that really speaks life into you and also speaks life into herself. And I thought that that was something that I needed, you know, to have and to take. And I think that that's stayed with me and stuck with me, which I'm really happy about now.

[Hillary]

I seen the preview during. I think it was Wicked or Gladiator 2. Probably both of them.

[Angela Yee]

Probably.

[Hillary]

So it said Christmas Day, right. And I was excited for the preview. I mean, the preview was a long preview. I thought it was dope.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah.

[Hillary]

But Christmas Day, does that worry or make you nervous or scare you in this industry? Cause I'm like, Christmas is a time where families are together, they're at the house. And to come out on Christmas Day has to be like. I was like, why Christmas Day?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Apparently it's a good thing. It was a good day. If you. If you go to the studios, that's like a prime day for them. And I think it's also just because a lot of families don't have much to do and the theaters are open and, you know, everybody takes their family and, like, goes and has a good time. So I'm excited about it. I'm hoping that a lot of people do do that because it is something that I think is for everyone in all ages. So everyone literally can go. So I'm hoping that that happens. You know, I think it's such an incredible story that needs really to be heard and supported. So everyone go out.

[Ryan Destiny]

Yeah, I'm seeing on Christmas Day.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah.

[Ryan Destiny]

Because I got four daughters, so it's like once you open the gifts and everything.

[DJ Envy]

Yeah.

[Ryan Destiny]

You ain't doing nothing but laying around all day.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Nothing else to do.

[Angela Yee]

Eat food.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

So that's a good day.

[Angela Yee]

What is it? Because I know you love music, too. You're a singer. What do you like most? Acting or singing?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I can't choose. I really cannot choose. I really love both. And they both have a sense of freedom that I really appreciate. And just the creativity that I get to have with both of them and being able to push myself, it's very different. They're in two different worlds in my mind. But I really do appreciate both. So hopefully, if I'm blessed enough to be able to continue to do both, I would. I would love to do that. So we'll see. Yeah.

[Angela Yee]

Because you got. You got into music because of your dad, right?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

My dad is a singer. Yeah. And he started when I was, you know, I mean, he started way before I was born, but I was in the studio with him when I was a baby and all those things, so he definitely inspired me.

[Ryan Destiny]

I don't remember the group he was in. And I'm old. I was born in 1978.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Okay.

[Ryan Destiny]

I don't remember. Guess.

[Angela Yee]

Not that old.

[Ryan Destiny]

You remember guests. I don't. I don't remember. Guess what.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

You got it. You got to look at up guest. They had a song called Shoobie and a good. A few good other ones, too. But, you know, they didn't, like, have a big, big moment, you know, so it was also. I think he started at Warner Bros. And then went to Death Row. And that's just a weird transition, too. And when I think that was like their first time signing singers, I think.

[Angela Yee]

With the Death Row.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah. And I think it was right before. It was right before everything happened with Tupac and Biggie. So it was not the greatest time.

[Hillary]

To put out R and B music.

[Ryan Destiny]

During that time, I'm sure.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah. And things kind of went a little left with Sug and everything, but it was. It was a great, great, great group. And he's so, so talented. And he's still singing and doing his thing today, so I'm proud of him.

[Ryan Destiny]

Did he want you in the industry?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I think he just always supported it, you know, and he saw something in me. And him and my mom had just always uplifted me and been there and there to protect me too, because they also can see how crazy it can get, you know, so they were always in my corner and always, always there.

[Ryan Destiny]

What's the guidance they've. They've provided as far as this, industry wise? Like, what was some of the best advice he's giving you?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I don't know if there's something in particular. I think it's just me making sure I'm protecting myself, you know, and watching out for myself in these rooms, and especially within the music industry can just get a little shaky. It's a lot better, I think now because there's a lot more awareness around the weirdos that are out there, the.

[Ryan Destiny]

Freak offs, the freak off.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

It's a lot. It's a lot different now. People are checking it out and seeing what's wrong with it, but before people could get away with a lot more things. So I definitely made sure that I didn't put myself in any sort of position and knew when to walk away from something as well, so. Yeah.

[Angela Yee]

And how are you and Keith? I know y'all were. Y'all were dating, and then it was rumors speculating that y'all broke up because y'all took down each other's pictures. And we love y'all. We love y'all. So what is the status with that now?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

We're really good. We're great. Yeah. And we support each other so, so much. And what we're doing and, you know, the industry is just crazy, so it's nice to separate the two, you know?

[Angela Yee]

So that was just a little bump in the road.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah, yeah, exactly. Yeah.

[Angela Yee]

Because we get scared of stuff like, we love y'all. And I mean, we as in, like, not them.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah, yeah.

[Angela Yee]

The girls. Yes.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yes. Yeah.

[Angela Yee]

People my age. Cause they old.

[Ryan Destiny]

Yeah. I don't even know what you're talking about.

[Angela Yee]

That's why? It was my question.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Okay, thank you.

[Ryan Destiny]

How much has your life changed over the last five or six years, though? Like, you know, with the success you had with Star, like, and, you know, every. Everybody wants a star movie. We'll talk about that in a second. But how much has your life changed over the last five or six years?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

It's funny because, I mean, I started the process of the movie five years ago, so it's just been. It's just been a lot of ebb and flows, I think, you know, the pandemic has changed the industry a lot, and it's changed the way that I have seen myself in it and having to maneuver how. How I go about things, if that makes sense. So it's definitely something that I've grown from, and I'm starting to just realize what most important. And I have to remind myself of that a lot just because I think you can get caught up in just all of the noise and what you should be getting or what you haven't gotten yet. And so I think I'm just trying to go with my gut and continue to do things that I'm really proud of, because with this project, it's probably the most proud that I've been of something, and I really want to continue to feel that way. So I'm just letting that sort of guide me more than anything else.

[Ryan Destiny]

What does success look like for you in this business?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I think it's kind of like what I just said. I really want to feel like I continue to do things that really matter and have an important message, you know, and it doesn't have to always be so heavy. But I definitely want to represent for a lot of girls, a lot of black women, and hopefully, if I can, you know, be a part of projects that have a great narrative behind it and put us in a great light, then I'd be very, very happy. And hopefully, you know, that can continue to happen. But I think success varies. And if I'm happy and I get to a point where I feel a bit more at peace with everything, in a way, you know, I'm also very aware of accepting the fact that things won't always be just positive and great all the time, and I think, you know, getting more and more into that place is something that I think is successful in itself.

[Hillary]

So did you hear when Clarissa was up here when she was saying at first she didn't think you were good for the part, but then after, I guess, meeting with you and seeing, she was like, oh, you were the only person that can Play that part.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah.

[Hillary]

So how did you feel when you heard her say that?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I mean, I heard it before. You know, she was very vocal with me when we first started talking.

[Ryan Destiny]

I don't want you to play me.

[Angela Yee]

Shorty Ryan couldn't say nothing. She was gonna catch some hands. That's crazy.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

She was just like, yo, she's really pretty, you know, didn't really know what else could come from that. And I respected it. You know, there's not like there's this, you know, big amount of work that I have out there that showcases that side of me. This is the first of that. So I understood it and I knew that I was just gonna work, work just really, really hard on making sure that I execute, you know, to the best of my ability. And hopefully I did that. And her crying solidified that she approved. So I think that I'm very, very happy with it all now.

[Hillary]

She closed off at first though, was she closed off? Like, I really don't want her playing it. And then it kind of, she kind of broke down and was like, oh, she really is dope.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I mean, maybe to Rachel, our director, or maybe Barry, I don't know. I don't know who she was, you know, vocal about that.

[Clarissa Shields]

The holidays are about spending time with your loved ones and creating magical memories that will a lifetime. So whether it's family and friends you haven't seen in a while or those who you see all the time, share holiday magic this season with an ice cold Coca Cola. Copyright 2024 the Coca Cola Company.

[Hillary]

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[Clarissa Shields]

Today Available features compatible device service and consumer activation of Nissan Connect services package required use only when safe and legal subject to third party service availability. For more information see Nissan USA.com connect/legal. Apple CarPlay is a trademark of Apple Inc. Intelligent all Wheel drive cannot prevent collisions or provide enhanced traction in all conditions. Always monitor traffic and weather conditions.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

We have one more act for you this evening. I don't even need to say his name.

[Clarissa Shields]

Mr. Bob Dylan from the director of Walk the Line and Ford versus Ferrari.

[Ryan Destiny]

If anyone is going to hold your attention on stage, you have to kind.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Of be a freak.

[Clarissa Shields]

And starring Timothee Chalamet as Bob Dylan.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Are you a freak? Hope so.

[Clarissa Shields]

Once Upon a Time Inspired by the true story I want to know which side he's on this Christmas.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

They just want me singing blowing in.

[Ryan Destiny]

The wind for the rest of my life.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Bobby, what do you want to be?

[Ryan Destiny]

Whatever it is they don't want me to be.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

How does it feel?

[Clarissa Shields]

He defied everyone.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Turn it down.

[Clarissa Shields]

Pay loud to be on your own to change everything. Azar Elvis with no Direction Timothee Chalamet Edward Norton Nell Fanny Monica Barbaro make.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Some noise BD Track some mud on.

[Clarissa Shields]

The carpet A complete unknown A complete unknown Only theater's Christmas Day rated R.

[DJ Envy]

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[Ashley]

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[Charlamagne Tha God]

Really all the way to. But she definitely, like I said, she asked me if I could fight, and I knew that scared her when I said no.

[Angela Yee]

So.

[Ryan Destiny]

Did it scare you when she asked me that? Like, why is she just randomly asking?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I mean, no, you could fight. No, it was fair. You know, this is her life. This is her life story. So I really. I understood the caution, you know, so I didn't take offense to it, but it definitely put some pressure on me. I was like, if she don't like this, it's gonna be real awkward. So I knew that it was. It was important.

[Hillary]

How long did you train before y'all started filming? Like, how long did y'all train before y'all even turned the camera on?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

So it was a little split up. I. I did three or four months the first time, and then when we shut down, I had to do it all over again for three or four more months. So all in all, it was like six, seven months, I think, in total, which I. I appreciate looking back on because before, it felt like everything was crashing down when, you know, the pandemic happened. But I think that time really helped. And I went into weight training the second go round too, and it just. It just made me even more sharp, I think. So it was good for me.

[Ryan Destiny]

Did the delays help or hurt?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Did the what?

[Ryan Destiny]

Did the delays help or hurt the film?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I think it helped.

[Ryan Destiny]

Okay.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

It helped, like, in so, so many ways. Even with Brian. He came in the second go around.

[Ryan Destiny]

And Ryan Tyree Henry, paper boy from Atlanta.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah, yeah. He's so incredible, and I'm just so thankful that he wanted to do this as well. And he really was someone that was just amazing to work with and like a brother to me now. So I love him. And I think that we really hit it off as soon as we met. And I think it shows on the screen, which is really good. And, yeah, I'm excited for people to see that.

[Angela Yee]

Ryan, do you feel like you get your just due as a young black woman in entertainment because you've been. You've been working for a while and you are one of them.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Oh, thank you.

[Angela Yee]

You know what I'm saying? So do you ever feel like that, that you get your dress do.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I mean, I also feel like, you know, I still have so much to do, so it's a little weird. I go back and forth between, you know, wanting people to, I guess, see me and. And see the work that I've done. But also I have an understanding of how there's been so many other people, you know, that have worked even longer than me and still haven't gotten there. So it's. It's a little bit back and forth for me, you know, and I just am, I guess, in the headspace of when it's time. It's time. When it's your time for people to see you, they will. So I'm hoping with this film in particular, because it speaks to that a lot, I think, with Clarissa herself and not getting her respect and just do. And not getting her flowers when she should have back in 2012. So I think that it's a reflection of that. And I'm hoping that a lot of people and our people do go out to the theaters to see, because I think that it just would mean so, so much, you know, And I don't know if people truly understand how important even that is, you know, in showing up, because it really, really does so, so much, you know, and for the people in the industry to see, like, oh, people really do want to see stories like this. You know, these stories don't get made.

[Ryan Destiny]

If we don't spend the money at the box office.

[Hillary]

Right.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

They really don't. So I'm hoping people understand the gravity of that. So it's a little bit of always a balance between knowing that I have a lot more to go and a lot more to show. Yeah.

[Ryan Destiny]

You said something earlier that made me think. You said. I can't remember how you worded it, but you're not. You're not at peace with where you are.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I think it's just always a battle a little bit with knowing that I want to do more, you know, so knowing that I haven't hit the spaces that I want to yet, it's just kind of always feeling like, okay, I gotta work harder and I gotta do more, and after this project, I gotta do this one and this one to just show people. So I think that's what I mean. And not exactly. At peace. But learning to be and learning to, I guess, go with the flows of everything and not to put too, too much pressure on myself is something that I want to get to now.

[Angela Yee]

Do you feel that way because you're looking at everybody else or is that just something like inner for you? Because a lot of times people you can look at, you can measure your success where you are based on what you see others doing around you.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

It's probably a combination. I think naturally you do compare yourself a little bit, but it's also when you see the potential that you have and you believe in yourself and know where you could go is. It's something that I think I pay attention to a lot. I know, I know what I'm capable of. And even with this project in particular, there's a lot of people that didn't see it for me, you know, and probably wouldn't have even casted me if it were in different hands. So I think it's just stuff like that where I know what I can do and I know what I'm capable of. So I do want to continue to push myself to those points, but also not get too caught up in looking at who's next to me and where they're at. So I think it's always a combo.

[Ryan Destiny]

Because they probably looking at you like, damn, Ryan got a movie coming out Christmas Day. I went to go see Wicked. I went to go see this film and I keep seeing it, the trailer. Damn, I need that look right there.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I know the rarity of it and I'm super thankful for this time because even after the pandemic, I didn't think. I didn't think it would be as possible for me anymore to get a movie out in the theaters because streaming hit an all time high during that time. And I'm like, oh, man, that's every actor's dream to have a movie at the theater. So things like that I definitely put into perspective because I know how much of a blessing it is and I'm just really grateful and thankful to be able to even say that.

[Hillary]

Charlamagne. You asked about Star. That's what you asked about.

[Angela Yee]

Hopefully we get a Star Movie.

[Hillary]

Star movie. So is that in the works?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Y'all looking at me like I have answers? I really don't know.

[Angela Yee]

Okay.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

You know, Lee Daniels is always bringing it up, bringing it up to us and different things that he has going on, but he has so many things going on all the time. And I don't know. I really. I wish I had a better Answer for everybody.

[Angela Yee]

But I don't, because we not okay with just it ending like that. Like, it got.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

It did end very abruptly. I agree. It was very weird.

[Angela Yee]

Yeah.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

So I get it.

[Angela Yee]

My last question. So who plays Papoose in the movie?

[Hillary]

You are stupid.

[Angela Yee]

Okay, never mind.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I don't even know. Like, I honestly, I don't even know what's going on. I just woke up. You know what? I'm hoping that a lot of people, because a lot of these blogs and everything have really picked this up, but I really hope they pick up the fact that she has an entire movie about her life.

[Ryan Destiny]

Oh, yeah. Well, she's going to feel that she's doing the right. I see Clarissa doing the right thing now because all she's doing is promoting the movie.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Okay. Period. As she should.

[Ryan Destiny]

And I, I, I even hit her this morning and I told her, I said, you don't, don't, don't get distracted. Like, yeah, you got a movie coming out on Christmas Day. And a lot of times when you go into that next level, you'll start seeing all of these distractions. The devil start really playing with you in those moments.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Absolutely. Yeah. I'm glad you, I'm glad you texted that.

[Ryan Destiny]

Are you concerned with any of the current drama, like, overshadowing the movie?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

No, not at all. Especially because I know things blow over, you know, fairly quickly with the Internet. It's always onto the next thing. But I know Christmas Day, it'll be a really big time. And I know the more and more people go see it, the more they'll talk about that, I think, and how inspiring it is in itself.

[Angela Yee]

So I can't wait to see it.

[Ryan Destiny]

My last question. Is there more pressure playing a role of an actual person versus playing a character?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Absolutely. Especially when they're still alive. You know, it's just like, so, so much. Because then people also have things to compare it to, and they're like, if you don't get it, they're like, well, she didn't do this and she didn't do that. So, yeah, there's, there's a lot more pressure. But more than anything, I wanted her seal of approval. And that, that came with a lot of pressure as well. You know, when it's other people that aren't on the earth anymore, they can't really come back and be like, you did wrong. You did it. You did it horribly.

[Jess]

Right.

[Angela Yee]

That is so funny.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah, it's so. That's scary. So I was definitely, I was scared at first for sure. For her to see it. Because I thought about her every single day on set. And so, yeah, like I said when I. When I saw the video, there's a video of her reaction to it and she was so happy with the boxing and so happy with the story and she literally cries every time she sees it now. And I just. I couldn't ask for. For more. That's all I wanted.

[Angela Yee]

So you're saying the next person biopic that you play gotta be dead?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I mean, they don't have to be dead. I don't wish that.

[Jenny Garth]

I don't want that.

[Hillary]

You just prefer that they're dead.

[Ryan Destiny]

You mess up a line like, woo, I'm glad she dead.

[Angela Yee]

Okay.

[Hillary]

Jesus Christ. Well, the fire inside is coming out Christmas day. Make sure you go see it. I mean, the previews look amazing. Like I said, I seen Gladiator 2 and I seen Wicked and it was. The preview for it was just dope. My kids were super duper excited. I'm gonna see the day after Christmas. Christmas. My whole family come over, so we ain't going nowhere.

[Ryan Destiny]

I'm going Christmas day after Christmas. And I'm a huge Clarissa Shields fan.

[Hillary]

Me too.

[Ryan Destiny]

I gotta watch the documentary on Netflix. Like, I'm really into what she does, so.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Great. Well, you guys gotta let me know how you feel about it.

[Angela Yee]

Please, girl.

[Hillary]

Well, it's Ryan Destiny. It's the Breakfast Club. Good morning.

[Ryan Destiny]

Wake that ass up early in the morning.

[Clarissa Shields]

The Breakfast Club.

[Bob Dylan]

Hey, it's Jenny Garth here. The talk around GLP1s is inescapable these days. But are you familiar with Future Health? They've made accessing qualified doctors who specialize in GLP1s easier than ever before. My friend has struggled with their weight for many years. It was always up and down. She tried fad diets. Never saw lasting results. So she started using GLP ones. And not only did the weight come off, but she also gained more energy to do all those activities that she loved the most. I'm all about feeling my best and living my life in a healthy way. It's incredible how science is able to help us achieve that healthy lifestyle that we are all striving for. Future Health gives millions of people affordable access to knowledgeable providers who really know weight loss medications. For less than $3 a day, find out if weight loss meds are right for you in three minutes at trifh.com that's trifh.com Try fh.com FutureHealth is not a healthcare service provider. Meds are prescribed at provider's discretion. Results may vary sponsored by FutureHealth.

[DJ Envy]

Game on because ESPN content is now available on Disney for bundle subscribers, you can watch your favorites on Disney, the boldest stories from Hulu and the Greatest and sports from ESPN together like never before. With ESPN, unwrap a full day of NBA action streaming December 25th. Then with Hulu, watch the terrifying sci fi thriller Alien Romulus now streaming and on Disney, follow a new adventure across the galaxy in Star Wars Skeleton Crew now streaming terms apply. Visit disneyplus.com for details.

[Jess]

Hey listeners, have a gamer on your holiday gift list, but you're still not sure what to get them. Head to Lenovo to shop. Unexpectedly great deals on tech this season. Gift your number one player with a brand new PC. Help them go beyond performance in game without compromise with Intel Core i9 processors. Gaming happens with Intel. Shop now only at lenovo.com.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

We have one more act for you this evening. I don't even need to say his name. Mr. Bob Dylan.

[Clarissa Shields]

From the director of Walk the Line and Ford versus Ferrari.

[Ryan Destiny]

Anyone who's gonna hold your attention on stage, you have to kind of be a freak.

[Clarissa Shields]

And starring Timothee Chalamet as Bob Dylan.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Are you a freak? Hope so.

[Clarissa Shields]

Once Upon a Time Inspired by the true story I want to know which side he's on. Then you this Christmas they just want.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Me saying I'm blowing in the wind for the rest of my life. Bobby, what do you want to be?

[Ryan Destiny]

Whatever it is they don't want me to be.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

How does it feel?

[Clarissa Shields]

He defied everyone.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Turn it down. Be loud.

[Clarissa Shields]

To change everything.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

He's our Elvis with no direction.

[Clarissa Shields]

Timothy Chalamet Edward Norton El Fanning Monica.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Barbo make some noise BD Track some mud on the carpet.

[Clarissa Shields]

A complete unknown Only theater's Christmas Day. Rated R. Under $17.90minute without parent the.

[Jenny Garth]

Big holiday beauty sale at Ulta Beauty is happening now. Get the best gifts up to 50% off, including can't miss deals on Urban Decay palettes and the fabulous Shark Dryer and styler. My skin is so important to me. So you know I got the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair cream. Gotta make sure I hydrate my skin. But that's not all. New deals drop every week. So whether you're treating yourself or finding the perfect gifts for your crew, head to an Ulta Beauty store today. Get all the best gifts. All at Ulta Beauty.