Amir O’Neil is unquestionably one diversely talented young entertainer. As an actor, rapper, and breakdancer, he is unquestionably making his mark as a member of #younghollywood. If Amir’s face looks familiar, then it should as he was a series regular on the hit NBC television show, Marlon. In addition to the fan favorite series, Amir has a resume of credits that any seasoned professional would covet. Adding to the list is his latest project, The Crossover. BCKOnline caught up with the diversely-talented teen to get to know him better and find out about his role in the series and much more.
BCKOnline: What made you want to start acting?
I wanted to start acting after my twin brother, Amari and I watched Zack and Cody on Disney. The idea of twins being on a show together excited our little 5-year-old selves so much that we knew even at our young age that acting was something we wanted to pursue.
BCKOnline: What is the most difficult thing about being an actor?
The most difficult thing about being an actor would be all the no’s you hear while auditioning. It can mess with your head sometimes and make you question your skills and abilities, but the important thing is to never give up, keep working on your craft, and to remember that God has a plan for you.
BCKOnline: What has been the most rewarding thing about being an actor?
The most rewarding thing about being an actor would be all the lessons I learned along the way. The no’s teach you a lesson, the yes’s teach you a lesson – and everybody you meet and work with on your journey to success teaches you lessons. Just learning from so many different amazing actors and professionals in the business has been a blessing.
BCKOnline: You have an identical twin brother that is also in the industry. Tell us how it has been to have that unique support as an actor?
It’s been so amazing to have an identical twin brother in the industry with me. We help each other out with scripts all the time and he is the best support team I could ask for. Even when we go out for the same roles on auditions, we’re still rooting for each other and I love him with everything I have.
BCKOnline: For your latest project, The Crossover, tell us about your character. How different or similar is he to your real personality?
Jordan Bell aka JB and I are similar in many ways and yet different. We’re the same in the sense that we’re both creative, we love to hoop, and we look out for our family and friends. I would say we’re different in the sense that he stresses out a lot and I’m pretty laid back.
BCKOnline: In the new Disney series, you and Jalyn Hall play brothers. What has been your favorite thing about working with Jalyn?
Jalyn is my best friend, my brother, and it has been amazing working with him. We got so close during filming and he is a spectacular actor and human being.
BCKOnline: If you could put together the “dream basketball team,” who would be in your starting five lineup?
My dream team starting five would be Michael Jordan at SG, Shaquille O’Neal at Center, LeBron James at PF, Kevin Durant at SF, and Kyrie Irving at PG.
BCKOnline: In addition to acting, what other things are you passionate about?
In addition to acting I’m passionate about writing, drawing, studying various topics I’m interested in, and music. I’m also passionate about giving back to the community and I pray that with my success I am able to help the less fortunate.
BCKOnline: What advice would you give other kids that want to break into acting?
My advice to kids who want to break into acting would be to study your craft, hone in on your skills, and just go for it. It can be hard sometimes but keep persevering and you will go far.
BCKOnline: What is next for you?
My twin brother, Amari, and I have been writing and working on a few scripts and we hope to share that with the world in the following months and years to come.
Tune-in to catch Amir in The Crossover, which is now streaming now on Disney+. We can’t wait to see what he and his brother Amari are cooking up for us to come!
Photo Credit(s)/Featured Image: Amir and Amari Instagram; Amir O’Neal Instagram
