LOS ANGELES — In an industry often criticized for lacking diversity and authentic representation, actors Emayatzy Corinealdi and McKinley Freeman are experiencing a transformative journey on their latest project, Reasonable Doubt, season two. With an all-Black writers’ room and an inclusive production crew, the environment fosters genuine connections and allows for impactful storytelling. Corinealdi and Freeman sat down with members of AAFCA (African-American Film Critics Association) to discuss various topics surrounding the masterful series.
Emayatzy Corinealdi (Jax Stewart) emphasized the importance of shaping real connections and authentic representation on screen, especially with co-star Morris Chestnut (Corey Cash).
“It’s incredibly important,” she said. “It’s about creating an environment where you feel safe to express yourself and bring depth to your character.“
Corinealdi shared a touching moment about the crew, particularly the sound team led by Ron and Brittany, who were both Black. “When I walked on set that first season, and it was all Black everything, down to the sound crew—it’s a job often dominated by White men. To have Brittany, a Black woman, there, it was comforting. It’s one less thing to worry about, and it let me focus entirely on my craft,” she explained, emphasizing that such experiences are rare but vital in the industry, underscoring the urgency of the need for diversity.
For McKinley Freeman (Lewis Stewart), seeing representation in tech on-screen resonates deeply with his personal experiences. “In the tech space, I see fewer people who look like me, and it’s important to change that narrative,” Freeman noted. “Playing a character in tech in a show like ‘Reasonable Doubt’ showcases the possibilities. It’s crucial for audiences to see Black people in powerful, decision-making roles, whether in fiction or reality.”
Freeman also delved into the nuanced portrayal of his character. “Lewis, in his tech world, can create anything, but real-life challenges like communicating with his wife show a different side. It’s about balancing aspirational roles in tech with everyday human experiences. This representation matters because it influences the narrative on and off the screen.”
In their roles, both actors are not only performing but championing a transformative movement within the industry. With each scene, they reinforce the importance of representation and the profound impact of diversity behind the scenes on storytelling. Their experiences underscore a profound truth: authentic representation can drive more meaningful storytelling and create worlds where everyone feels seen and heard, highlighting the power of representation in storytelling.
As the industry continues to evolve, projects like this one, with its commitment to diversity and authenticity, light the path forward. For Emayatzy Corinealdi and McKinley Freeman, their journey is as much about breaking barriers as it is about bringing genuine stories to life, stressing the significance of their work in the industry.
The Reasonable Doubt season finale airs Wednesday 9PM E/P exclusively on Hulu.
