Empire actor Morocco Omari shares his journey in film industry

The film industry is a vast and lucrative space, with over 57,000 production companies worldwide generating $87 billion in annual revenue. In Africa, Nollywood and talented actors are making waves, striving to claim a piece of the global pie. One such actor is Morocco Omari, known for his role as Tariq in the hit TV series Empire. Omari's journey in the industry spans two decades, with a focus on honing his craft both on stage and screen. He shared insights into his acting process, emphasizing the importance of dedication and preparation. Omari's commitment to his role in Empire led him to immerse himself in the character, showcasing his talent and dedication to the craft. Being raised in Chicago, filming in his hometown added a personal touch to his performance. His dedication to his craft extended to social outings, prioritizing his work and preparation over leisure. Omari's dedication paid off, allowing him to transition into substantial roles and negotiate better pay. While Empire provided significant exposure, Omari aims to avoid being typecast and explore diverse roles to showcase his versatility. His goal is not to be limited by a single character but to continually evolve and grow as an actor. Omari also touched on the importance of content in today's industry, highlighting the need for authentic storytelling and addressing social issues. He believes in 'edutainment,' where viewers are both entertained and educated through meaningful content. Africa's thriving population and artistic talent present a vast potential to impact the global entertainment industry. Omari expressed his readiness to collaborate with African artists and contribute to the industry's growth. He emphasized the power of unity among African and African-American creatives, advocating for mutual support and collaboration. The conversation delved into the challenges of penetrating the industry as an African actor, recognizing the need to adapt and learn diverse accents to succeed in an international market. Omari encouraged actors to embrace continuous learning and versatility to expand their opportunities. Beyond on-screen performances, Omari highlighted the value of theater in honing an actor's craft. He shared his upcoming off-Broadway project, emphasizing the unique challenges and rewards of stage performances. As the conversation shifted to movie distribution, Omari praised Nollywood's progress and expressed eagerness to engage with Nigerian filmmakers. He commended the industry's growth and emphasized the importance of supporting African content on the global stage. Omari's visit to Nigeria in December reflects his commitment to building connections and exploring opportunities in the burgeoning African film industry. With a keen eye on collaboration and growth, Omari's journey in the film industry continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations of African talent.