For Latino and African American actors Y'lan Noel, Byron Bowers, and Josiah Cross, Apple TV+'s "Lady in the Lake" isn't just another period drama; it's a portal to the past that has profoundly influenced its cast. Embodying characters from the 1960s—a time of seismic social change—has been both a personal and professional journey, pushing them to reflect on the past and inspiring them to contribute to a better future.
In an interview with the Latin Times, Noel, Bowers, and Cross talked about the impact the project and their characters had on how they see young people of color and their struggles today. It became evident that this was more than just a role for them, and it became pivotal for more reasons than being in a high-profile show with Natalie Portman.
Reconnecting with Heritage and History
Y'lan Noel, who became known as part of the cast of "Insecure," portrays Officer Ferdie Platt. This Latino actor found himself deeply connected to the story through his character and Panamanian heritage.
"Yeah, my mom was born in Panama. I'm a first-generation American," Noel shared, highlighting how his "immigrant background gave him a unique perspective on the struggles Ferdie faces as a Black cop in a racially divided Baltimore." For Noel, the role was more than just a job—it was an opportunity to channel the experiences of those who have fought to carve out a place in a society that often marginalizes them. "I liked the fact that [Ferdie] was the connective tissue," Noel said, appreciating how his character brings together the disparate worlds of Maddie and Cleo, the show's two female leads.
Byron Bowers, who plays Slappy Johnson, Cleo's husband, approached his role with a similar sense of personal connection.
Bowers, a comedian known for being part of the "Eric Andre Show" and "Adult Swim, " found that portraying a Black man during the 1960s allowed him to explore his identity's deep cultural and historical roots. "I felt I had a chance to experience what we lost as a community," Bowers reflected, referring to the era of Black hope and progress that was tragically cut short by the assassinations of key leaders and the devastation brought by drugs like heroin and crack.
Bowers' portrayal of Slappy isn't just a reflection of the past—it's a meditation on the resilience and strength that have defined Black communities, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. "It just made us seem stronger," he said, underscoring his pride in his heritage.
Lessons from the Past, Hopes for the Future
Josiah Cross, who plays Reggie, found that his role resonated deeply with his family history. "My grandfather, who's still alive today, was Reggie's age during this period, " Cross shared, noting that having a living connection to the era helped him bring authenticity to his performance. For Cross, "Lady in the Lake" isn't just about looking back—it's about understanding how the past shapes the present and the future. He pointed out that, torn between loyalty to his sister Cleo and his moral compass, Reggie's character mirrors the struggles many young Black men still face today. "I think that the mystery behind Reggie is so intriguing because in many ways he's an anti-hero," Cross said, suggesting that Reggie's journey is one of self-discovery as much as it is about navigating the dangerous world he inhabits.
The show also allowed Bowers to reflect on the power of truth and loyalty—values central to his character and the broader narrative of Lady in the Lake. "Sometimes, the truth gets people in trouble...It's loyalty in finding truth and sticking by it," Bowers said, emphasizing how Slappy's unwavering commitment to his wife Cleo mirrors the struggles faced by many Black families during the 1960s.
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