Derek Luke is riding a wave of success, and his enthusiasm is palpable. Approachable and grounded despite his rising star, the actor sat down to discuss his role in the high-octane motorcycle film, Biker Boyz, set to thrill audiences. This interview delves into Luke’s experiences filming Biker Boyz, offering a glimpse into his burgeoning career and thoughts on working alongside industry legends.
MS: Hi Derek, great to see you.
DL: Doing great, doing great. You know, you remind me of someone.
MS: Let me guess, Tracy Ross from Girlfriends?
DL: (Laughing) Absolutely, you do.
MS: Moving on swiftly! (Chuckles) It’s only been a short time since Antwone Fisher was released, and now we’re talking about Biker Boyz. These two roles couldn’t be more different, showcasing incredible range early in your career. Many actors worry about being typecast, but you’ve managed to demonstrate your versatility right from the start with these diverse projects. How fortunate do you feel?
DL: I feel incredibly blessed, especially working with actors like Lawrence Fishburne and Denzel Washington so early on. It’s something I truly value and am grateful for. Working with those two icons was an unbelievable experience.
MS: What was it like collaborating with Lawrence Fishburne?
DL: We connected instantly. It’s funny because our off-screen relationship was quite different from our characters. We had deep conversations, which was almost a challenge for me. I was trying to stay in character, which was emotionally driven, and I thought keeping my distance might help. But Lawrence is such a seasoned and generous actor, he was so open and talkative, and it made for a really great working environment.
MS: Your life has changed dramatically in recent months, hasn’t it?
DL: Absolutely, I’ve had the privilege of meeting some truly remarkable people – Al Pacino, Kathy Bates, Richard Gere, and the legendary Cicely Tyson, among many others.
MS: Has it all felt surreal?
DL: It is surreal, but it’s a comfortable kind of surreal, which is almost more unsettling in a way. Being around these people, I sometimes find myself quiet because I feel this strange sense of familiarity, not intimidation, but deep respect. It feels like I’m in the right place.
MS: For someone relatively new to acting, you possess a remarkable command of the craft. Where does this maturity come from? Formal training, natural talent, or something else?
DL: I believe my faith plays a significant role. I had a brief acting class experience when I first came to LA in ’95, maybe attended about 15 sessions over two years, as my focus was primarily on supporting my family. But I learned by observing people intently. I watch people closely, like I’m observing you now – noticing the nuances, the motivations behind questions. I’m fundamentally a watcher.
MS: So, after filming Biker Boyz, would you consider yourself a skilled motorcycle rider now?
DL: (Laughing) Skilled? No, come on, I’m an excellent rider now!
MS: What’s on the horizon for you next?
DL: I’m keeping an open mind. I believe the best is yet to come. I haven’t come this far to falter. I’m anticipating incredible opportunities. I’ve been meeting influential people who have exciting visions for my future.
MS: How do you unwind when you have downtime?
DL: I’m a huge movie fan. Now, going to the movies is a different experience. I try to be discreet, maybe hoping not to be recognized, but secretly, you know, it’s kind of fun when you are. Embracing the celebrity aspect is amusing. (Laughs)
MS: How do you maintain your Jersey roots while living in LA?
DL: I go back home whenever I can and stay connected with friends and family over the phone. Talking to my friends reminds me of the incredible opportunity I’ve been given. It’s not like achieving something like a Nobel Prize through sheer intellect; I feel there’s a larger purpose at play, and I’m honored to be a part of it.
MS: Will you be traveling internationally to promote Biker Boyz?
DL: Our promotional efforts will be focused stateside.
MS: So, Biker Boyz won’t be screened overseas with cast appearances?
DL: It will be released internationally, but we are conducting international press here, and it will be distributed to international media outlets.
MS: How are you reacting to all the increased attention you’ve been receiving lately?
DL: (Laughing) I might be developing a twitch! Seriously though, initially, it was overwhelming. So many people, so much attention. But I have a strong partner who keeps me grounded and helps me focus on what truly matters. The constant praise can be challenging to navigate.
MS: Thank you, Derek.
DL: My pleasure.
