Bias Wool Palazzo Trousers by Landeros
Bias Wool Trench Coat by Landeros
Shirt by Brooks Brothers
Stretch Supima® Cotton Non-Iron Pinpoint Oxford Button-Down Collar Dress Shirt
by Brooks Brothers
Hat by Worth & Worth by Orlando Palacios
Shoes by Dolce & Gabbana
Tie by Stylist Own

Actor Omari Hardwick is best known for his lead role of James 'Ghost' St. Patrick on the hit Starz series, POWER. It was one of Starz's most highly rated shows and one of cable's most watched shows. His performance was critically lauded, earning him the 2018, 2019 and 2020 Image Awards (NAACP) for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series. The show went on to produce multiple spinoffs for the network.

Most recently, Hardwick starred opposite Jennifer Lopez in THE MOTHER for Netflix. The film follows a military-trained assassin who comes out of hiding to protect the daughter she's never met from ruthless criminals gunning for revenge. Hardwick played agent William Cruise who is an ally to Lopez’s character. The action thriller was watched by 2.8M U.S. households over its debut weekend.

Next up, Hardwick will star in XENO from Kevin Hart’s Heartbeat production company. The film follows a teenage girl who befriends a terrifying alien that crash-lands in the desert near her home. As government agents close in, the girl protects her dangerous new companion while also dealing with her depressed mother and the mother’s abusive boyfriend.

In 2022 he starred opposite Marsai Martin in the family sports comedy FANTASY FOOTBALL, on Paramount+. He also recently starred opposite Toni Collette in the limited series PIECES OF HER, and Zack Snyder’s zombie heist film ARMY OF THE DEAD, both for Netflix. Other notable film credits include Boots Riley’s SORRY TO BOTHER YOU and Matthew Vaughn’s KICK-ASS.

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Hat by Worth & Worth by Orlando Palacios

Hardwick was born in Savannah, Georgia and raised in Decatur, GA. He grew up in the world of sports where he excelled in basketball, baseball, and football. He played football at the University of Georgia and minored in theater. After graduating, Hardwick relocated to San Diego for the San Diego Chargers however a knee injury cut his NFL career short.

In 2000, Hardwick made his move to Los Angeles and his big break came in 2003 when he was cast in his first major role as a series regular in Spike Lee's SUCKER FREE CITY. Throughout 2007-2009, Omari worked on various projects including guest starring on several television series and filming several movies including Summit Entertainment's NEXT DAY AIR and Touchstone Picture's MIRACLE AT ST. ANNA. In 2008, he landed the role of "Ty Curtis" on the TNT series DARK BLUE Season 1 which aired throughout 2009.

In addition to acting, Hardwick established his production company, Bravelife, in 2010. As a poet and musical artist, he continues to write poetry and make music, with his debut album “Concrete & Wiskey” soon to be released.

Classic Fit Stretch Wool Pinstripe 1818 Suit by Brooks Brothers
Stretch Supima® Cotton Non-Iron Twill Ainsley Collar Dress Shirt by Brooks Brothers
Silk Pocket Square by Brooks Brothers
Hat by Worth & Worth by Orlando Palacios
Tie by Stylist Own

Tell us about your childhood growing up interested in theater and sports. How did you
balance the two interests?
Because we are all born with our respective preproduction or gifts graced by nature, it’s important that these innate interest and talents be recognized, supported, and pushed. Fortunately, my formative years came with an understanding that there was a range of gifts in my eight-year- old self. This clarity was aided by both my parents to push me. By 11, I was writing poetry and was playing four sports for the majority of my life up to 18. As an artist, I showed interest in music and theatre. The balancing act was made easy because I had permission to try all of this. During my adult years, that balance has been more difficult to achieve.

What attracted you to Hollywood as opposed to being a football player?
It was less damaging to my body to pursue a career in Tinsel Town. As a physical actor, that has not always been the case. This side of the entertainment industry takes quite a toll on one’s mental and emotional space. I reckon that no matter which one worked out for me, my attraction to both worlds make me cuckoo.

**Left:**
Bias Wool Palazzo Trousers by Landeros
Bias Wool Trench Coat by Landeros
Shirt by Brooks Brothers
Stretch Supima® Cotton Non-Iron Pinpoint Oxford Button-Down Collar Dress Shirt
by Brooks Brothers
Hat by Worth & Worth by Orlando Palacios
Shoes by Dolce & Gabbana
Tie by Stylist Own
**Right:**
Classic Fit Stretch Wool Pinstripe 1818 Suit by Brooks Brothers
Stretch Supima® Cotton Non-Iron Twill Ainsley Collar Dress Shirt by Brooks Brothers
Silk Pocket Square by Brooks Brothers
Hat by Worth & Worth by Orlando Palacios
Tie by Stylist Own
Shoes by Florsheim Shoes

You spent your early days as a struggling actor. What advice would you give to aspiring actors about making it in Hollywood?
Make certain acting is a calling and not simply a desire. Once that clarity hits you, hit the
pavement running hard, but patiently. Work, work, work on crafting yourself EVERY day.

Do you choose scripts based on the character or plot, or is it a mixture of both?
It is definitely a mixture of story, character, and whether that character will allow me to add a perspective or complexity that makes the character even more relatable and grounded (this applies even to the vilest character). At this point of my career, I am also drawn to projects that would include teammates whom I enjoy being around. Of course, this desire is made easier with the projects I’m producing.

Full look by Dolce & Gabbana
Double-breasted technical wool jersey coat by Dolce & Gabbana
Stretch flannel straight-leg pants by Dolce & Gabbana
Daymaster sneakers by Dolce & Gabbana
Hat by Worth & Worth by Orlando Palacios

Is there a type of role or character that you haven’t played yet that interests you?
I have long wanted to play a homeless character who possesses a secret that will change the world for the better. My kids would like me to play some hybrid or combination of Peter Pan and Captain Hook. And there are several others I have in mind, but I can’t give all away (wink).

Is there a character who has had a significant impact on your own life?
Kutcher from “‘Shotcaller,” Vanderohe from “Army of The Dead,” and Bobby Coleman from “Fantasy Football.”

Can actors champion minority directors, writers, and people behind the-scenes?
Those of us with a substantial enough stature, a platform, and microphone are afforded these opportunities to voice these desires for an increase in minority directors, writers, and producers.

And those of us not of such stature can continue to do the actor’s part of nailing that character he or she is paid to bring to life. Ultimately reflecting (more times than not) the hefty work and talent of the director steering these performances. Small picture gains are BIG picture wins.

**Left:**
Suit + Shirt + Cuff links by Christopher Korey
Tie by Brooks Brothers
Silk Tie Fleece Mini Square Pattern Tie by Brooks Brothers
Hat by Worth & Worth by Orlando Palacios
Boots by Carlos Santos Shoes
**Right:**
Navy and White Pinstripe Double-Breasted Suit by Brioni
Shirt by Descendants of Thieves
Hat by Worth & Worth by Orlando Palacios
Pocket Square by Stylist Own

Your most recent project is “The Mother,” an action thriller an action thriller opposite J.Lo. What attracted you to the film and the role of an FBI agent?
The story was first and foremost compelling. And perhaps most importantly, because Jen was set to portray the role of this “rogue,” misunderstood, broken warrior and loving parent that typically we’ve seen played by a male actor. And with Niki Caro directing only made it even more reason to say yes. Add to this, the casting of the other male actors joining to be present for the special and talented Jennifer Lopez. And the icing on the cake was the opportunity to embody the similarly misunderstood, subtle, quietly powerful lone wolf, William Cruise, who found his fellow lone wolf in “The Mother.”

You starred in” Pieces of Her,” another Netflix release. What was it like working alongside Toni Collette?
She was fabulous to work with. She is a funny, passionate, bright, and present artist. Toni Collette, Minkie Spiro, & Bella Heathcote all had the task of being the first huddle of gifted women to help me get out the gate in 2021. A year in which I did four films back-to-back films, all headlined by strong female leads, which I loved.

Hat by East Village Hats
Tank Top by Calvin Klein
Wool Cloth Tailored Trouser by Moschino
Moschino Logo Leather Belt by Moschino
Jewelry by Model’s Own

What is the behind-the-scenes environment like when shooting such high intensity and taxing projects?
These mediums have consistently proven to be the opposite of the weight, urgency, and intensity of said projects. Thank God, loads of levity and laughter. Particularly if the leadership doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Do you prefer television or film?
I’m innately more of a film actor but we are certainly in an era where many TV shows are written by the best of film writers and directed often by the same director. So, dare I say television and film have become much more parallel.

You started the production company, BraveLife Films? What is your goal behind the company?
To bring to the industry, to my fans, and the world the greatest range and variety of storytelling of all genres and formats while never sacrificing an ounce of quality or equity and while granting as much opportunity as we can (in front of and behind the camera).

**Left:**
Navy and White Pinstripe Double-Breasted Suit by Brioni
Shirt by Descendants of Thieves
Hat by Worth & Worth by Orlando Palacios
Pocket Square by Stylist Own
**Right:**
Full look by Dolce & Gabbana
Double-breasted technical wool jersey coat by Dolce & Gabbana
Stretch flannel straight-leg pants by Dolce & Gabbana
Daymaster sneakers by Dolce & Gabbana
Hat by Worth & Worth by Orlando Palacios

Does your interest in poetry influence your decisions as an actor? How so?
My ear is bent toward the poetry of my favorite musical artist at a young age. From Nina Simone to Stevie Wonder, to Rakim and and Big Daddy Kane and LL Cool J, to Donny Hathaway, James Brown, Marvin Gaye, Johnny Cash, to George Harrison and John Lennon, to Suzzane Vega, to Phil Collins, to Bonnie Raitt. They were all THE poets for me pre-10 years of age before I found the Sonia Sanchez’s, the Nikki Giovanni’s, Langston Hughes, the Maya Angelou’s, the Wordsworth’s, the Whitman’s & Frost, the Rumi’ and ultimate the Tupac’s & the me’s. I think God must’ve put poetry and words in my Mother’s stomach while she was pregnant with me.

Yes, it does from the overall point of view of not only the story but also how I see a character and what I see in a character. I have often heard it stated by those closest to me (namely Jae) that if I’m not writing poetry, I’m not the actor I should be and if I’m not acting. I’m not the poet I should be. The two for me have to be bosom buddies at all times. I had a great, long and soulful conversation with Viggo Mortensen once. And he insinuated it’s the same for him. Two poets (called actors) on a plane are seen by each other. If that, in and of itself, is not poetic, I don’t know what is (smiles).

Are there any young actors or actresses that you are in awe of?
There are definitely some young heavyweights out there who I enjoy watching tell a story (whether drama or comedy). Awe would be too dramatic of a description. But yes, there are some I find myself intrigued by and rooting for.

What an upcoming movie or television show are you most excited to watch this year?
”1923.” Let’s Go.

Instagram: @omarihardwickofficial

Hat by East Village Hats
Wool Cloth Tailored Trouser by Moschino
Moschino Logo Leather Belt by Moschino
Jewelry by Model’s Own

CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director + Photographer + Producer: Mike Ruiz @mikeruiz.one
Talent: Omari Hardwick
Fashion Stylist: Alison Hernon at Exclusive Artists
Groomer: Geno at Opus Beauty
Fashion Market Assistant: Skylar Elizabeth
Fashion Stylist Interns: Richelle Hodson
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Sneha KC, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine