Da'Vinchi says overseas Black actors may be 'more focused' on the work

Actor Da'Vinchi said on Cam Newton's podcast that Hollywood producers may favor overseas Black actors because they appear "more focused" on the work, adding to a debate about casting opportunities for Black Americans. His comments address tensions within the Black diaspora over who lands prominent American roles. Da'Vinchi, star of Starz's "BMF," made the remarks while discussing British actors taking American roles and perceptions of work ethic. He recently joined NBC's "Chicago Fire" and appeared in Tyler Perry's "Why Did I Get Married Again?", so his observations come from an active career. The debate follows a viral sketch by comedian Druski and backlash against actor David Oyelowo over comments about Southern Black speech. Actors like Daniel Kaluuya and Idris Elba have built major careers, raising questions about casting in stories rooted in Black American experiences.