This interview took place on June 20th, 2023. Araloyin Oshunremi was not involved in any way in the production of this feature past July 14th, 2023 due to the SAG-AFTRA strike.

“I try to find moments in my life in which I can relate to the characters I portray so I can bring aspects of myself into the characters.”— Araloyin Oshunremi

Born in America and raised in London Araloyin Oshunremi’s story is truly inspiring. Despite his modest background the talented and inspiring actor has defied the odds to make his mark in the competitive world of acting. Hailing from inner-city London, where opportunities for pursuing a career in the arts were limited, Araloyin's journey to success is a testament to his unwavering passion and determination. From a young age, Araloyin's heart was torn between his love for football and his burgeoning interest in acting. Little did he know that a chance encounter at the age of 13, while sitting in a barber shop, would alter the course of his life forever. Approached by a street caster with a leaflet about auditions for the acclaimed Netflix’s TV series Top Boy, Araloyin saw an opportunity he couldn't resist. Araloyin went through several rounds of auditions and landed the role of Stefan in Top Boy. Critics agreed that Araloyin was a natural and described his rendition as outstanding and a breakout performance. With the success of Top Boy propelling him into the spotlight, Araloyin's career gained momentum, leading him to join the cast of another Netflix’s hit series: Heartstopper. Top Boy’s final season will premiere in September bringing a close to the decade-long show.

Violeta Nicola __ Reflecting on your journey in the acting industry, can you share the pivotal moment when you first realized your passion for pursuing acting? What sparked that realization and set you on this path?

Araloyin Oshunremi __ The first moment where I realized that I really wanted to pursue acting was when I was at my first premier and I witnessed the reaction of the audience to my performance. The words of praise and encouragement from those who watched me on screen resonated deeply, solidifying my conviction that this was the path I was meant to follow. That was the moment when I decided I wanna take acting seriously and the passion and drive kicked in.

VN __ The story of how you started in the acting industry is quite interesting. Can you share with us how it happened?

AO __ I was in a barbershop, literally about to leave the barber shop, when a street caster came to me and asked me if I wanted to do an audition for Top Boy.  I really loved acting, but I didn't know if it was possible for me to be an actor or how to get into it. I saw the opportunity presented before me and then I went for it. The rest is, as they say, history.

VN __ Your first role was as Stefan on Top Boy. How did it feel to be on a set for the first time?

AO __ At first, I was overwhelmed. I was quite young [thirteen] and I was never on a set before so I was a bit scared and shy. But being a part of that cast crew taught me a lot. I became more comfortable as time went on and I am so grateful for the time I spent on that set.

VN __ With your current project, Top Boy, what aspects of the project or story intrigued you and drew you in? What made you excited to be a part of it?

AO __ I think what drew me to Top Boy most was being able to tell stories of people that don't usually get heard. And I really enjoyed the fact that the character was very similar to me because it was quite a young character growing up in Haney trying to find his way in life. 

VN __ We'd love to hear some behind-the-scenes stories or memorable moments from your time on the set of Top Boy. Are there any anecdotes or experiences you'd like to share with us?

AO __ There's not a particular moment that stands out, but most days on set were so fun, being with Michael Ward and Hope Ikpoku was a lot of fun. I was chilling with my brothers. It was always just goofy and fun energy.  This was in the final days of shooting so some of us weren’t even supposed to come on set some days but we just enjoyed each other’s company so much.

VN __ When approaching a new role, what is your process for preparing? Do you have any specific techniques or rituals that you follow to delve into the character's mindset and bring them to life on screen?

AO __ I like to prepare for every role I get. I like to do a fair amount of research on the characters about their background and their upbringing. Then I try to find moments in my life in which I can relate to them so I can bring aspects of myself into the characters. 

VN __ Looking towards the future, is there a particular genre or type of character that you're eager to explore? Can you envision your dream role and share what it would look like?

AO __ I would love to play historical figures and characters, which were influential in the past, specifically American historical figures who paved the way for black people in America. I’d also like to explore playing African influential figures.

VN __ Throughout your experiences in the acting industry, what are some of the most valuable life lessons you have learned? How have these lessons shaped you both personally and professionally?

AO __ One lesson that I learned while in this industry and that will stay with me for the rest of my life is that every single person is important. From the cast, all the way to the crew members. If one person from the team isn’t there, the story doesn’t get told the same way, the masterpiece can't be finished. 

VN __ As you continue to evolve in your career, are there any artists or fellow creatives you would love to collaborate with? Who inspires you and sparks your curiosity?

AO __  I would love to work with Spike Lee and Steve McQueen. Honestly, there are so many other creatives that don’t come to mind right now, but I would just love to work with as many wonderful people as possible.

VN __ Looking ahead, what personal goals have you set for yourself as an actor? Are there any specific areas of your craft you are eager to explore further and develop?

AO __ I would like to inspire and support young people on their journey to success. In today's world, many of us face the belief that achieving our dreams is a daunting task, especially for those from challenging backgrounds. There's often a prevailing notion that we must settle for whatever pays the bills rather than pursuing our passions. I would like to show people that we can do it and do not need to sacrifice our aspirations. Together, we can break barriers and prove that nothing is beyond our reach. We just gotta work hard and we can achieve anything we put our mind to. Young people these days are strong and resilient and there is no telling how much they will achieve in the future.

“Together, we can break barriers and prove that nothing is beyond our reach. We just gotta work hard and we can achieve anything we put our mind to.”

Photography Thomas Tebet, Styling Wilow Diallo, Hair Nathalie Luanga-Moyassa, Grooming Claire Boutelier, Assistant Stylist Nathalie Aptecar, Assistant Photographer Renaud Labelle, Talent Araloyin Oshunremi (AMPR)