There’s something about a classic character that’s hard to shake. Ice Cube as Doughboy in Boyz N’ The Hood, Chris Tucker as Smokie in Friday, Queen Latifah’s Cleo in Set It Off, Larenz Tate in Menace II Society and Love Jones – all iconic characters that will forever be engrained in Black film culture. Based on his portrayal of  Eazy-E in Straight Outta Compton, Jason Mitchell is heading for the same trajectory, but definitely on his own terms.

Next up is an opportunity for fans to see the actor’s range: Mitchell stars in Keanu, an action comedy with the wildly popular duo Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele. The movie is based on two cousins who head into a gang war over their beloved kitten, Keanu. Alongside Key and Peele, the movie is packed with comedic talents including Nia Long, and Tiffany Haddish (The Carmichael Show).  The star takes on the role of one of Method Man’s gang members, “Bud” a skeptic who’s having a hard time wrapping his head around the entire ordeal.

The New Orleans native recently visited Chicago to talk about his new role and working with comedic legends, his growth as it relates to his craft and the impact he wants to make on the world. Check out the film, which is in theaters nationwide.

Melissa Kimble is the Senior Social Media Manager for the EBONY brand. An advocate for Black Creatives through My Creative Connection, you can connect with her on Twitter at @Melissa_Kimble.