McKinley Belcher III
Our new year begins with the incomparable McKinley Belcher III, who has been gracing Broadway as Happy, the youngest son of Willy Loman, in Death of a Salesman. Belcher’s Broadway debut was in A Soldier’s Play which was, unfortunately, cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic. His screen credits range from, “Power”, to “Ozark”, “The Passage”, to “Mercy Street”.
Join us as we chat to McKinley about his favorite place in the world, his current obsession and more.
Questions & Answers:
What do you consider to be your best asset?
My curiosity, it’s the thing that led me to acting and the arts. It’s a thing that fuels my love for learning, it’s what makes me a good listener, and I’m sure sits at the root of my ability to empathize and desire to see things from someone else’s perspective.
What was your proudest moment?
When my fiancé came out to his family. I knew how much courage that took for him, and I couldn’t have been prouder. It’s a profound and beautiful thing to watch someone grow and come into themselves. Especially when they’re the love of your life!
What is your favorite drink?
I just had a lemon drop martini for the first time, so that’s a new favorite. But other than water, I really love Thai tea and a nice cafe latte.
What is your favorite food?
Thai curry, cheesecake and sour gummies make up a top three of sorts.
What is your favorite condiment?
Sriracha mayo, add some spice to life.
What is your current obsession?
I’m obsessed with Cate Blanchett, did you see Tár?! My God!
If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?
I’d probably eat less sugar. Maybe not give it up altogether, but definitely less.
What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?
To lead a film or television series. I think it’ll feel like an accomplishment when I’m #1 on the call sheet, getting to tell a story with my experience and journey at the center.
What is the one thing you waste too much money on?
Food, I love food. So it’s always the thing I spend the most money on.
What is the one activity you waste too much time doing?
YouTube can become a black hole that sucks me in and hours later I’m like, “what have I been doing with my life?!”
What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?
Hate and fear that unfortunately run rampant.
What’s the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
Both of my parents have worked hard for most of their lives. I’d say they instilled a strong work ethic in me, and I’m proud of that. I’m not afraid of hard work, I’d even say I lean into it. The best things don’t come easy.
What’s the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
I have my father’s impatience. It’s a thing I try to temper and be conscious of though. Awareness is all. I’d also say I can be a workaholic, so my “best trait” clearly has a shadow side. Again, awareness!
What in the world most thrills you?
Great music thrills me! I love live music and how it actually affects your body in real time. And I am thrilled by witnessing and experiencing the simple joys in life. Like a dog playing in a puddle, a kid laughing, being silly with my fiancé, cuddling, a delicious bite…the small things really do it for me.
What current trend in popular culture most irritates you?
Posting everything on social media, I think it’s a fun tool and a great way to share, but I wish people kept some things for themselves. Something has to be sacred to you.
What was the most embarrassing moment you’ve ever experienced on the job?
I toss up between falling on a Broadway stage during Death of a Salesman or during press for Mercy Street I randomly broke out in a full blown sweat while wearing a white button down. I looked like I should be entering a wet t-shirt contest. It was not a good look!
What is your favorite place in the world?
Capetown, South Africa! My soon-to-be husband and I are planning to hopefully get a place there. We love it that much!
What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?
Kindness and wit. My baby has both in spades!
Do you prefer the company of dogs or cats?
I actually love both.
What would have to happen to make today the best day of your life?
We’d be moving into the house of our dreams, and both have accomplished something professionally that we’d been yearning for. The rest, is really simple for me, it’d be about having time and space to enjoy the simple beautiful things with my love.
What is your personal motto?
Be the change and don’t be afraid to color outside the lines, find your way.
