A few months back, I had the opportunity to interview a sweet young girl and her brother (Kayla and Tyler Huth), and through them, I heard about a regional show called Ray’s Rookies. Kayla introduced me to her co-host, Zachary S.Williams, and about that time, he booked a national show which coincided with my intent to interview him. Thankfully, he was able to carve out some time in his hectic schedule to tell us more about his career and his role in the new show Greenleaf.
RH: What inspired you to become an actor?
ZW: When I was younger, my mom was in the model industry. So I grew up watching her in music videos, magazines, etc. When I was in the third grade, I attended this summer camp called “Kid’s College,” where I was able to choose the summer activities I wanted to participate in. All of mine were involving theatre!
How did you become the co-host of Ray’s Rookies? Please describe your experience on that show.
My agent sent me an email about an audition for a host for a TV show for a local baseball team. Originally I didn’t send in an audition tape because the casting was so generic and they were looking for all types of people to fill the role. About a week later, I received another email saying that the producers were interested and wanted to see me. So that’s when I sent in my audition tape, and the next day I got a callback over Skype and was in Tampa, FL the following day to film episode one.
I recently interviewed your co-host, Kayla Huth. What was it like working with her?
It is absolutely amazing working with Kayla! She brings so much to the show, and I’m blessed to have the opportunity to work with her.
Do you know if there are plans for Ray’s Rookies to return?
Yes! The last episode of season two will air next Sunday, July 17. As for season three, we shall wait and see!
Recently, you got to be a part of the show Greenleaf. How did that come about?
I received another email from my agent about a recurring role on OWN’s new series Greenleaf. When I read the audition scene, I was immediately drawn to how amazing the script was! Also, in my audition scene, I had to play piano, which I have been doing since I was four, so I believe that was an advantage for me.
Please tell us something about your character on this show. What can we expect (without spoiling anything)?
William is a troubled teenager who comes from a home of drugs, alcohol and occasional violence. He loves playing the piano, espsecially at Mavis’ (Oprah Winfrey) bar. Music is a way for him to get away from all of the negativity at home.
How does the experience on Greenleaf compare with Ray’s Rookies? What would you say is the difference in being a part of a local, regional show as compared to a national show?
Yes. I would definitely say the biggest difference is Ray’s Rookies airs only in Florida, and Greenleaf is national! My experiences on both Greenleaf and Ray’s Rookies have both been awesome and very memorable.
Any other upcoming works you can mention?
As of right now, not yet! But you can follow me on social media to stay tuned. (See links at the end of the article)
In a world where far too many young people get involved with questionable things, how have you been able to keep away from those kinds of negative things?
My parents are my role models, and they have done an amazing job setting great examples and keeping my brothers and I on track to succeed!
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I love watching musicals, TV shows and movies. Most of my attention focuses solely on the acting to learn new techniques.
What advice would you give to young people who are considering becoming actors?
Advice I would give to young aspiring actors is to never give up because it doesn’t happen overnight! There will be times where you feel discouraged and you feel as if you will never book your dream role, but keep your head high and keep moving forward. No matter what.
While Zachary is still new to this world of entertainment in one sense, his parents have ensured that he knows what is expected and have been able to support him in his various endeavors to make his dreams come true. It’s not every young man who can state that they worked with Oprah Winfrey, and there is no doubt his career is about to spring into high gear after this astounding opportunity. While only time will tell what the next step in his career is going to be, there is no doubt in my mind that he will succeed and do it with gratitude, perseverance, and effervescence. As long as he remains on his current path and stays true to the values he has adopted, he will not be one who slips through the cracks and casts aspersion on his promising career. With his pragmatic and humble outlook, it staggers the imagination to ponder exactly where he will end up next. Be sure that you check him out on Greenleaf Wednesday nights on the OWN network, and please follow him via social media below!
FOLLOW ZACHARY
2 Comments
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It’s such an honor and pleasure that I’ve met this young man, I’m so excited about his future, you would think I was his mom lol his parents are doing an amazing job, and definitely have paved the way for his success, it gives me hope that I can do the same for my children while in this industry, and though we’re on a project together, we film on different dates, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed for the day I actually get to share the screen with this young man😊God bless you and your family Zachary, never lose that humbleness and awesome personality my friend!!
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Thank you so much for sharing!
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