LOS ANGELES — Apple TV+’s intense true-crime thriller series, “Smoke,” plunges viewers into the lives of its characters, and Jurnee Smollett‘s portrayal of Michelle is a standout. In a recent interview, Smollett discussed the nuances of her character, the importance of showcasing mental health struggles, and the potential for future exploration in a potential second season.
Smollett expressed her desire to move away from stereotypical portrayals of Black women.
“I’m not interested in perpetuating the stereotype that as a Black woman, we are always going to be strong,” she told Nitecast Media. “I mean, I’m really not, because I think that does us a disservice… We are not always strong. We are vulnerable. We’re afraid. We have panic attacks. We screw up… we are flawed.“
This commitment to authenticity is what drew her to the complex role of Michelle throughout the series.
“That is one of the things I so loved about playing Michelle, was really leaning into her flaws,” Smollett explained. “I just loved playing with that energy of her struggle.”
Smollett emphasized the importance of representation, particularly when it comes to mental health in the Black and communities of color.
“I think it’s also important to show her mental health issues,” she said. “We may… sometimes we don’t as a society, we don’t normalize those things enough. And so when we all struggle with moments of anxiety or depression or sadness… I think as artists, it’s our job to show the truth that folks, you’re not alone.“
During Michelle’s journey this season, Smollett desired to explore Michelle’s layers further in the first season, which also included her mom’s absence.
“If you notice, the mother’s not in this season… her presence is, but she’s not. And so that was very intentional… If we were to get a season two, you would have to explore that. Yeah, I would love to see that.“
“Smoke” boasts a stellar cast alongside Smollett, including Taron Egerton, John Leguizamo, Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine, and Hannah Emily Anderson. Catch up on episodes of “Smoke” on AppleTV+.
