Sterling K. Brown is making waves in the entertainment industry, not just as an actor but also as an executive producer, breathing life into two highly anticipated projects: *Paradise* and *Washington Black*. In an exclusive interview, Brown shared his thoughts on these shows, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and representation in Hollywood.
At 49, Brown reflects on his journey and the significance of timing in the creative process. “Everything happens in divine timing—exactly when it’s supposed to,” he remarked, discussing the release of *Washington Black* on Hulu. This adaptation of Esi Edugyan’s acclaimed novel chronicles the life of George Washington Black, a young boy born into slavery who embarks on a transformative journey across the globe.
In *Washington Black*, Brown plays Medwin Harris, a character who serves as a mentor to the titular character, Wash. “I’m tremendously proud of this role,” he said, highlighting the show’s rich narrative and breathtaking visuals. The production took place in stunning locations like Iceland, Nova Scotia, and Mexico, showcasing a “very melanated cast” that Brown believes is essential for representation on screen. “To see something with that level of expanse that has us centered gives me a tremendous amount of pride,” he added.
Fans of Brown have eagerly awaited the second season of *Paradise*, a political thriller that premiered in January 2025. Reuniting with *This Is Us* creator Dan Fogelman, Brown has kept himself busy since his time on the beloved NBC series. His involvement in both *Paradise* and *Washington Black* demonstrates his commitment to telling diverse stories and supporting fellow artists.
As an executive producer on *Washington Black*, Brown expressed his desire to elevate narratives that resonate with audiences. “By virtue of me being an executive producer, if that helped get the story told, then I hope to help get more stories like that told,” he explained. This project not only allowed him to act but also to mentor emerging talent, fostering a collaborative environment on set.
The character of Medwin, while a minor figure in the original novel, was expanded to give Brown a more substantial role. He described Medwin’s evolution from a mentor to a partner, highlighting the growth of Wash as he learns to rely on himself. “It’s interesting to see the difference in mentorship that Wash has throughout his life,” Brown noted, emphasizing the character’s journey toward self-discovery.
*Washington Black* premiered on July 23, 2025, and has been in development for some time. Interestingly, it was filmed prior to *Paradise*, which has already garnered critical acclaim and was renewed shortly after its debut. Brown’s dual involvement in these projects showcases his versatility and dedication to the craft.
The mentorship aspect of *Washington Black* resonated deeply with the cast, particularly with Kingsley Jr., who portrays adult Wash. “I kind of dragged Sterling into being a mentor,” he joked, reflecting on their dynamic during filming. Kingsley Jr. praised Brown for his ability to create an environment of vulnerability and support. “Sterling operates with a sense of power, and he encourages and incites it in you,” he said, highlighting the positive impact Brown had on the cast and crew.
Brown, ever humble, responded to the praise with humor, quipping, “I paid them all. That’s really the bottom line of the whole thing.” His playful demeanor belies a deep commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a sense of community on set.
Both *Paradise* and *Washington Black* reflect Brown’s passion for storytelling that challenges norms and offers fresh perspectives. As he continues to navigate his career, fans can expect more powerful narratives from this talented artist. *Washington Black* is currently streaming on Hulu, and viewers can look forward to more compelling stories from Brown in the future.
With his impressive body of work, Sterling K. Brown is not just a star but a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists and fans alike. His contributions to Hollywood are paving the way for more inclusive and diverse storytelling, ensuring that every voice is heard and celebrated.