Cassandra Freeman
Cassandra “Cassie" Freeman has made her mark in everything from drama to laugh-out-loud comedy across film, television and the stage. She currently stars as Aunt Viv in Peacock’s critically acclaimed “BEL-AIR” television series, which is a dramatic retelling of “THE FRESH PRINCE OF BEL-AIR” set in modern-day America. An NYU Grad and former stand-up comedian, she is known for a slew of impactful roles. She has appeared with some of the most prolific actors and directors around today, including Spike Lee, Denzel Washington, and Chris Rock.
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When did you first decide to pursue acting?
I started off as a musician. I played the xylophone and I used that skill to audition for the art-focused high school Douglas Anderson. I also auditioned for acting. When I got accepted for both, I begged my dad to let me try out acting for a year. It changed my life and allowed me the opportunity to feel safe to feel all my emotions. I haven't stopped acting since 9th grade.
What has been your favorite role so far?
The role Monique Allen, that I played on the FX show “Atlanta,” is definitely one of my favorite roles. And Shelly Wayne on “Blue Bloods.” Those roles are literally night and day from one another. Monique is so bougie and fake, and yet is so authentically herself. And Shelly is a fighter and courageous with so much heart.
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Right:
Dress by Fouy Chov Couture
How do you prepare for a role?
Each role is different. Sometimes it just starts off with a feeling in my gut that leads me to a knowing, and sometimes it's music. I prepared for a role once by only listening to an Aretha Franklin song, "Bridge over Troubled Water," on repeat.
What has been your favorite part of filming “Bel-Air” so far?
Meeting and working with the cast and producers. They are all just warm hearted and kind people!. I also love that we portray a loving American family.
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Dress by Stello
Right:
Dress by Fouy Chov Couture
Is there anything in this season of the show you are particularly excited for audiences to see?
Yes, but I can't say what. It will definitely be exciting for fans of the original show.
Do you have any dream roles?
Yes. I'd love to do a Romantic comedy. I used to be a standup comedian, so it's in my blood to be silly and funny.
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If you weren’t acting, what would you be doing?
I'd be a professor at a college leading young people to their joy. I taught at and guest lectured at a few universities for more than a decade.
Who or what inspires you?
My son! His joy and courage in life are so inspiring to me. He constantly awakens me to my own joy.
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When you’re not acting, what are you doing?
Meditating, painting, developing new projects, and spending time with my family. I actually spend most of my time building forts for my son.
Do you have any goals—acting or otherwise—for the next few years?
Yes. I am currently developing a tech business. I'll be talking more about it soon.
Social Media.
Instagram: @cassiedamsel
Twitter & TikTok: @cassiefreestyle
Jumpsuit by RC Caylan
CREW CREDITS:
Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
Creative Director: Mike Ruiz
Photographer: Sequoia Emmanuelle
Talent: Cassandra Freeman
Fashion Stylist: Jennifer Austin at Opus Beauty
Hair: Enoch Williams
Makeup: Kai Pritchard
Photographer’s Assistant: Kristen Woo
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Associate Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Flora Medina, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
PhotoBook Logo Designed by Paul Sych
