Cory Hardrict, Mitchell Edwards and Peyton Alex Smith have seen big success as the cast of All American: Homecoming. While they surely enjoy the fun of filming, they admit the messages they’re spreading are the most important part of the job to them.
LISTEN NOW: Cast of 'All American: Homecoming' on The Big Tigger Morning Show - Part 1
Joining The Big Tigger Morning Show, the guys talked about the importance of mental health and the role it plays in the show — something they find incredibly important during this day and age. “What’s cool about the show is, our writers, they write stuff that’s going on in the real world like mental health.” said Hardrict. “I had a whole arc the first season kinda going into the second season dealing with mental health. They show you that it’s OK for us, the Black community, to go ask for help.”
Added Peyton Alex Smith, "after COVID, people kind of being alone with themselves, and just the way the world’s at right now, I think mental health is more important than ever.”
Not only is their vulnerable acting helping viewers, but helping themselves as well. Smith opened up about how he had a strong scene surrounding mental health that happened to film on the morning his cousin died by suicide.
“When we were doing the episode, the morning that we had that episode my cousin had actually committed suicide that morning," said Smith. "It was huge for me to do [film] that. It was tough with that going on.”
Hear more from the guys about the importance of mental health, their connection to their characters and more by checking out Part 1 and Part 2 of their conversation on The Big Tigger Morning Show.
LISTEN NOW: Cast of 'All American: Homecoming' on The Big Tigger Morning Show - Part 2
Audacy's I’m Listening initiative aims to encourage those who are dealing with mental health issues to understand they are not alone. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or anxiety, know that someone is always there. Additionally, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 988. Find a full list of additional resources here.