James Lee Taylor is a model and an actor who is currently playing Gabrielle Union’s love interest on Being Mary Jane.
He modeled for Calvin Klein and Nivea before playing Tesla on on off Broadway show. Now, he’s our next TV heartthrob. I got the chance to chat with him this morning about the show and a few other topics, like modeling versus acting, for example: “Modeling gave me the foundation for where I am today.”
James really brings Eddie to life on Being Mary Jane. When I asked him to explain his character a bit, he told me that, “Eddie is a suave English guy. He meets Gabrielle at this sort of secret members club.” Eddie is the first white love interest on the show, which marks new territory.
BETOf working with Gabrielle Union, he had only the nicest things to say. He shared a story from his first day on set; he was watching her work before their first scene and getting a little nervous; but Union is so sweet that she put him at ease immediately. One of the first scenes they shot together was a kissing scene their chemistry was palpable!
What type of music does James enjoy? Well, we’re actually pretty similar in that respect. James answered, “I’m a disco baby. I love Earth, Wind and Fire and the Bee Gees.” The Bee Gees are amazing! He added that “there’s nothing like that out today.”
With his first TV role under his belt, I asked James what role he’d love to play. He had an answer for me instantly. “James Bond!” He described the trajectory he’d like his career to take and it starts with the rom com type and then transitions into action films, with the end game being James Bond. He recognizes that he may not be quite ready for that, yet and asked that we “Give me 10 years.” I know I can certainly picture it.
Check out James tonight on Being Mary Jane which airs on BET at 10 pm EST. Also follow him on Twitter and Instagram.
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