Interview by Roman Portnoy
Photography by Storm Santos
Tahj Mowry is an American actor and singer. He is the brother of identical twin actresses Tia Mowry and Tamera Mowry and is known for his role on the show Smart Guy as the main character TJ. He will soon be seen in the upcoming show The Muppets Mayhem.
How did you prepare for your starring role in the upcoming Disney+ series “The Muppets Mayhem”?
I wanted to make sure that I watched all of the movies prior to filming to get a feel for that human /muppet interaction. I also took some inspiration from the Muppet “Walter” in the Jason Siegel Muppets film. Everything else was on the page for me. We have such incredible writers so it made it easy for me to find the character. We wanted to make sure that everything was grounded in reality – In the muppets universe the muppets are real so your performance has to stay grounded so the audience can believe that. Also, since Moog is a super fan, I myself was a super fan – getting to work with these iconic characters everyday – so I was able to use that genuine excitement for Moog as well.
What was the biggest challenge taking on this role and working with Muppets?
I had a fear that it would be difficult to act alongside a puppet but what I thought would be the biggest challenge wasn’t even an issue. Our muppet performers are so talented and they make it so easy to give an authentic and grounded performance.
Did you audition for the role? If so, how do think it went at the time?
It was a pretty fast process. I went on tape for it and then tested for it. I felt great about it instantly because it was easy for me to find the character – and it was one of those things where I knew in my heart that no one else could be Moog.
Who do you consider to be your acting role model?
Denzel Washington. He is the epitome of class. He is the embodiment of everything I aspire to be as an African American actor in this industry. He Inspires not only with his talent and career accomplishments, but with his wisdom and knowledge as well. He’s a true inspiration.
You’ve worked with some amazing talent so far in your career. What actor would you love to work with one day?
I’d love to work with the Rock and also Zendaya.
What’s your favorite activity outside of acting?
I’d say traveling. I could also spend all day museum hopping. I also love to cook.
What advice would you give to aspiring young actors?
You have to be sure that you have a true passion for it. It’s not about what you can gain from it. It’s about the art and the love you have for it. That’s what will keep you inspired, encouraged and motivated to keep going. Especially after you hear a no – and in this industry you hear no a lot. But that’s what makes a yes feel so good.
You’ve been on screen since you were five years old. What’s been the highlight of your journey as an actor?
The whole journey is a highlight. I’m so blessed and privileged to be able to get to do what I love as a career. I keep experiencing new highlights as I go as well – which is so awesome. But I think a main highlight is the fact that I’ve been a part of numerous projects that stand the test of time – there is nothing more rewarding in this business then seeing characters you play continuously be Introduced to younger generations. It’s a blessing and an honor.
What type of role do you see yourself playing in the future?
I would love to play more dramatic roles for sure – but ultimately, I want to play roles that can inspire and roles that make you smile.
If you could sit down with any actor (past or present), who would you pick and why?
Jim Carrey. I learned comedy from watching him. He’s an icon. I’d love to just hang with him and talk life.
What are the rest of your plans for 2023?
Binge watch THE MUPPETS MAYHEM over and over.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
