1. What attracted you to the role of Jade in The Daughters of Dolemite, and how does it feel to help revitalize Rudy Ray Moore’s iconic blaxploitation-era universe in this high-octane, comedy-forward adventure? What aspects of the “Hardbody Crew” and Jade’s “muscle” personality did you most enjoy bringing to life?
I was honestly still a newer actress when Foster was casting for this film, so when I received the audition, I went in with a head full of blonde braids, a little worried I wouldn’t get the part because of it. Ironically, that’s actually what helped me book the role, and he kept my hair like that throughout the entire film. I really loved bringing Jade to life because I got to tap into that strong, feisty side of myself that already exists. I leaned into my tough-girl persona, which made the character feel natural and gave me an extra sense of power and confidence. Being part of Rudy Ray Moore’s legacy is an absolute honor, especially working alongside such talented veterans in the game.
2. In The Daughters of Dolemite, you lean into gritty action and sharp comedy as part of a fierce female crew hunting for Dolemite and a lottery ticket. How has this role pushed or expanded your physicality and comedic timing compared to your previous work?
To be honest, I didn’t even realize how much comedic humor was in the film while we were shooting. I was just focused on playing my character as real and grounded as possible. Watching it back was a treat because the comedy hits harder when you’re taking everything seriously in the moment. I’ve always been a pretty physical person, so the action side of the role came naturally to me and felt right up my alley.
3. Your performance as Peaches in BMF (especially seasons 2 and 3) made a strong impression on audiences. What was it like portraying such a bold, “ride-or-die” character, and did you get to meet the real-life inspiration for Peaches? How did that experience prepare you for bigger opportunities like this film?
Portraying Peaches in BMF has definitely been one of the highlights of my career so far. Parts of her character resonated with me, making it easier to step into that role and bring her to life. While we were filming in Detroit, I actually ended up meeting the real Peaches in the most random way. I was waiting to meet K-9 (Rayan Lawrence) for dinner, and the bartender at the hotel casino turned out to be his ex-girlfriend. She ended up calling his son, who then called his mother, who happened to be the real Peaches. We met up for dinner the next night, and I got to hear her stories from her BMF days firsthand. It was a surreal moment in my career that I’ll never forget, and experiences like that definitely helped prepare me for bigger opportunities like this film.
4. You hold an honorary Doctor of Philosophy in Humanities. How does your scholarly background and intellectual depth shape the way you approach roles, character development, or even the cultural significance of projects like honoring Dolemite’s legacy?
I received my honorary doctorate last year after doing a lot of work in the community, including organizing women’s empowerment events and career days, and launching my nonprofit organization, Create O’Rama. The program gives high school students a platform to tap into their creativity early and shows them how they can turn that into a real career through guidance and mentorship. Earning that doctorate really shaped how I want to approach giving back and supporting the next generation, especially young creatives. Being part of honoring the Dolemite legacy was just an added blessing, especially since the film was done years before I even received it.
5. As an Iranian-American actress whose family arrived in the U.S. as refugees shortly before your birth, how has your personal story and cultural identity informed your acting choices and resilience in building a career from independent films to major series and now this franchise revival?
It’s truly an honor to be recognized for my work as an actress, especially coming from a family that came to America chasing freedom and opportunity. With everything going on in my home country, I’m even more grateful for the life my parents were able to give me. I lost both of them about eight or nine years ago, and that loss has pushed me to go even harder for my dreams. It reminds me every day that life is short, so you have to go after what you want while you can.
6. Beyond acting, you’re known as a celebrity golfer who’s competed in numerous tournaments in just a few years, a public speaker, and a philanthropist focused on women, youth, and mental health. How do these different passions intersect with or fuel your work on screen?
Golf came into my life about 2.5 years ago and has completely taken over, in the best way. When I first started, I never expected it to grow into what it has, but once I became part of the community and saw how diverse and welcoming it was, I never looked back. At the same time, I love sharing my journey and motivating others to pursue their goals. I always try to remind people that nothing is too hard or impossible, and I want to help give them the confidence and direction to pursue whatever they’re passionate about!
7. The film is directed by veteran producer-director Foster Corder, who has deep ties to Rudy Ray Moore and the original franchise. What was it like collaborating with him, and what insights did he share about preserving Dolemite’s spirit in this new chapter?
Foster Corder is an incredible man who really saw something in me early on as a young, hungry actress with little to no credits. He trusted me to bring Jade to life, and I was able to do that in ways even he didn’t expect. He always told me I was one of the biggest pleasant surprises on the project because he didn’t know what I was going to bring to the table. I have a lot of love and respect for him, and I’ll always appreciate him for taking that chance on me.
8. The film marks a relaunch of the Dolemite universe in celebration of what would have been Rudy Ray Moore’s 99th birthday. Why do you think his bold, unapologetic comedic legacy still resonates today, and what message or energy do you hope audiences take away from The Daughters of Dolemite?
Dolemite’s legacy has always been relevant, and I think now is the perfect time to bring it back in a full way. The Daughters of Dolemite adds a new layer by highlighting female bosses and strong women, especially in a time when women’s empowerment and independence are at the forefront. It keeps that original energy but gives it a fresh perspective.
9. In a competitive market, you’ve built momentum quickly without initial major representation. What advice would you give to emerging actors, especially women from immigrant backgrounds, about persistence, self-advocacy, and creating longevity?
I’ve always said this from the beginning: no one is going to go as hard for you as you will for yourself. If this is something you’re truly passionate about, especially without money being your main motivation, you have to be willing to put in the work. Start wherever you can, even if that means doing background work, just to get on set and learn. Make a strong impression so people want to bring you back again and again. The money doesn’t come right away, so you have to stay consistent and committed. I used to submit myself to 10–20 castings a day and might only get one or two auditions from that, but I kept pushing. You really have to be your own manager, agent, and biggest supporter.
10. With your growing body of work across film and television, plus your philanthropic and athletic pursuits, what excites you most about the next phase of your career? Are there any dream roles, genres, or impact-driven projects you’re hoping to tackle soon?
I’m excited for every new phase, stage, and level of my career because it’s always evolving. You have to stay ready and learn how to roll with the punches. Golf has opened up a whole new lane for me, especially in film, and has brought opportunities I didn’t even expect. It’s something I plan to pursue long-term, so I’m just excited to see where it all takes me next.
- Email: neill@outloudculture.com
- Socials: @frazer.live
- @neill.outloud
