CARL CLEMONS-HOPKINS
in HBO MAX series
Hacks
Photography Matthew Priestly
Interview Tessa Swantek
Stylist Michael J Cook
Carl Clemons-Hopkins, Emmy nominated actor for their role as Marcus in the critically acclaimed HBO Max series Hacks, is not one to be put in a box. When discussing their gorgeous off-shoulder Christian Siriano non-binary flag Emmy’s look, Clemons-Hopkins tells us, “One has the choice as to how many expressions of self one wants to give at any given time. Personally, I don’t like to limit myself in acting nor in my own life, and fashion helps with that.” Clemons-Hopkins understands that a person’s identity isn’t just one singular 2D image, it is robust and complex. This understanding is clear in each of their roles as Clemons-Hopkins expresses many dimensions of each character. In Hacks, in particular, they play Marcus Vaughn, CEO of comedian Deborah Vance’s company, spending most of his time working out of her Las Vegas mansion. As Marcus, Clemons-Hopkins shows a lot of the character’s vulnerability and fear in work and relationships as well as inner desires to fit in and be what he’s not. In our interview with them, Clemons-Hopkins talks in more detail about Marcus, discusses the importance of restoring media for education specifically relative to the Black experience, and imagines their dream road trip!
Before getting into Hacks, I wanted to talk about your experience in theater a bit. A lot of actors describe theater as their first love, and they associate a lot of positive feelings with the environment. What is the first memory/association that comes to your mind when I say “theater?”
Definitely the feeling of first love. The theater was my first real safe space as a child, the place where my imagination could fly without judgment or shame. That sense of safety has dynamically shifted since childhood, but the theater still possesses very real magic!
You just recently concluded your role as James Baldwin in Lessons in Survival: 1971 at the Vineyard Theater, based on the 1971 interview of novelist James Baldwin by poet Nikki Giovanni. It’s really so beautiful because of how both parties really listen and hear each other but there’s also a huge sadness in how much it still resonates today. Was there a part of that conversation that particularly touches you?
The factors of the 1971 conversation that still resonate today are worlds beyond sad. They are the very real putrid and disgusting shit upon which this nation and system are built upon, and the fact that we as Black people have the opportunity to recall and revisit these conversations is a blessing! Conversations and educations such as these are necessary to our survival- they serve as a balm to our souls; and my prayer is that our art continues to fortify and equip us for the battles ahead.
Coat: Christain Siriano, Tights: Flake
The 1971 conversation is introduced with, “The universe can use something as cold, gray and impersonal as an electron. These electrons that fill your television screen can bring you an experience as warm and as rich and as human as the program you are about to see.” Is there a form of media you’ve ever seen that has made you feel that way?
While I do not claim to be an authority on all the new forms of media, one thing that has given me a very positive experience has been the recent ability to access aspects of my own history in visual formats. From documentaries to restored footage, to the beginning of the return of centuries-old stolen art; the fact that we are in an age where we are able to use media for the purposes of re-education and restorative care has definitely made certain times less cold and gray.
Now Getting into your role as Marcus on Hacks, first I need to congratulate you on your Emmy nomination! So many people loved your Christian Siriano non-binary flag inspired red carpet look! In both acting and in your own life, how much do you feel that fashion reflects identity?
Thank you! And yes, Christian is simply brilliant!! Fashion and identity are reflective in the sense that one’s self-expression is how they present themselves. Unfortunately, for several reasons, one is seldom simply naked at all times, therefore how you adorn your human body is an expression of who you are. Now, that is never one singular simple thing for anybody, but one has the choice as to how many expressions of self one wants to give at any given time. Personally, I don’t like to limit myself in acting nor in my own life, and fashion helps with that.
In Season 2, there’s a scene when Marcus and Ava are sitting for a caricature drawing and the artist is asking them their interests, but they can’t really think of anything outside of work. Have you ever struggled with this?
No. I like to keep work in its own box so I can live my life.
In Season 2, Deborah and Ava are on the road for the comedy tour. A bit of a fun question, if you could go on a month-long road trip anywhere in the world, what would your trip look like?
Well, it definitely would include multiple modes of transportation, Beyoncé music, and something like a world tour where I just visit friends and explore new places.
You’ve said in an interview with Thrillist on Marcus’ identity crisis this season, “Honestly, if you want my take of it, he’s a game-night gay who tried to be a party gay and he’s very clearly wonderfully, beautifully a game-night gay.” What do you imagine Marcus’ favorite game night game to be?
Scattergories.
I know a lot of work and effort went into the production design of Deborah Vance’s luxurious mansion which your character works out of. Was there a small detail or part of the set that was your favorite?
Yes! The production designer, Jon Carlos, had so many brilliant details in that and every set, but my personal favorite part is the chair rail in the living room that looks like it may be ornate leaves, but are actually wicked tongues! It’s amazing!
What can we look forward to next from you?
We can look forward to me having as much fun as possible.