10 Things about Atkins Estimond
You’re originally from Florida and you were raised in Atlanta by Haitian immigrant parents. When did your love for acting and the entertainment business begin and how did you initially get your start?
My love for the acting and the entertainment industry really began as a kid just watching movies and TV, probably more than I should’ve been, to be honest. When it dawned on me that this was a job you could have, I thought that was so cool. I also was really inspired by my brother. When we were little, he was a part of this performing arts group that was involved with our Boys & Girls Club. Watching him perform, made me want to do it. I ended up doing theater in high school but I didn’t really get my start in the business until after I graduated. In Atlanta, around that time the industry really started to boom, I had just gotten laid off from my job. And, I decided I was going to get back into acting. I started taking classes and I got myself an agent. Opportunities started lining up and I started booking jobs.
What was your support system like at home when you decided to embark on a career as an actor?
My parents were a little concerned, but this was after I told them that I wanted to be in a band as my career. So I think that softened the blow for them. My biggest support system was my brother and my girlfriend who is now my wife. They were there for all the wins and losses and they were rooting for me the entire time. I’ve also been fortunate to have some great mentors who’ve guided me along my path.
Which actors made a positive impact on you, as you started your career and which ones would you want to work with if given the opportunity?
Earlier on in my career, I was fortunate that I was able to work on some really cool projects. Getting to work with Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels was a dream come true. I learned so much just from watching them work. I would love to work with Will Smith, Jack Black, Denzel Washington or Cate Blanchett. Truly the list is very long. I’m still very much a fan of it all. Someone else I would also love to work with is Viola Davis. I’ve been in three projects with her, but we’ve never actually had a scene together.
Currently, you’re on the STARZ series, Hightown. How were you first introduced to the project and what made you excited to jump on board?
The first time I was introduced to Hightown was by way of my agent sending me an audition. My first audition was actually for the role of Alan Saintille. I thought it was so cool that there was a Haitian detective. Later on, I read for Osito and with that role, I was really drawn in by the challenge of playing a bad guy.
As mentioned, you play the role of Osito. What can you tell us about his personality and what you enjoy most about bringing his character to life?
Osito is a Haitian-Dominican hitman and drug dealer working for this crew that’s trafficking drugs into Cape Cod. He’s a very dangerous guy but there is more to him than just that.
What can viewers expect to see from Osito and the rest of the cast in this first season?
With Osito and the rest of the cast you’re going to see some very flawed people. Each character has their ups and downs and they all have holes to fill.
We know that music is a big part of your life. Do you have any plans on further developing this into a career?
I love music but it’s just a hobby for me now. But, you never know what the future has in store.
Speaking of career, if you weren’t working in the entertainment industry, what else could you see yourself doing?
I think I would be a mechanic. I love cars and I love working with my hands. I’m a big fan of shows where they restore old cars.
When it comes to fashion, which designers and styles appeal most to your personality and personal sense of style?
Being a big guy, I’ve always had a difficult relationship with fashion. I have a tough time finding clothes in the style I like, that fit. I’ve had to learn to be creative and I find myself picking pieces from all over.
We look forward to seeing your work on STARZ’ Hightown. What other projects do you have coming up?
The quarantine has brought the business to a halt, so I’ve been primarily focused on the release of Hightown and waiting for the industry to get back in gear. You never know where I may pop up in the future.
Twitter: @AtkinsEstimond
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Facebook: Official Atkins Estimond
Photos: Eley Photography