David Makes Man
Season 2 Me (*115) 22:30 Drama
Season 2 of drama series David Makes Man leaps to David’s (Kwame Patterson, Lurp in drama show Snowfall) adult life, but the storylines occasionally revisit the titular character’s teens years, portrayed by Akili McDowell (Savion in drama series Billions).
By exploring trials such as bullying and isolation that David faces at a prestigious private school, audiences have a better understanding of his personality in his adulthood. “David goes through a lot in his childhood, and the challenges that he faces are neither normal nor healthy,” reveals Akili. Throughout the season, David seeks ways to deal with his trauma. “As an adult, he barely sleeps or has time to gather his thoughts. David’s emotions are always heightened but he eventually comes to himself and figures out how to be a man,” adds the actor.
Akili’s first time in the spotlight was when he was seven and his video dancing to Michael
Jackson’s 1982 song Beat It went viral. “I was on the news, which was exciting,” says Akili. The 19-year-old adds that Kyle Massey’s character Corey Baxter in youth comedy show That’s So Raven inspired him to act. “Corey reminded me of myself. He’s energetic and full of life. After watching the series, I begged my mother to sign me into an acting class. She said, ‘Don’t waste my money!’ And I think I’ve done her proud.”
Akili’s first TV role was in 2015 as Zavier Gibbs in period drama show The Astronaut Wives Club, and he’s loving his current role. “I was excited to find out that I’d got the part. Meeting show producer Oprah Winfrey was simply incredible.”