Model, actor and almost every woman’s #MCM, Broderick Hunter is one of the leading voices for black millennials. As the face for major brands like Ralph Lauren, Phillip Plein and his quirky daily thoughts on Twitter @BroderickHunter , he’s just an all around sports and dog loving guy. Although his resume is quite impressive having walked for New York, Milan and Paris fashion week and appearances on HBO’s ‘Insecure’, Broderick is spending most of his time these days focusing on his philanthropic endeavors to showcase african fashion and bringing more #blackboyjoy to his community . I had the opportunity to catch up with the 27 year old in New York’s Soho district to discuss his love for black women, self-care and of course fashion.
Q: Favorite color?
A: I like burgundy and brown. Fall tones are the best.
Q: 3 words to describe your inner self?
A: Witty, confident, balanced.
Q: As a black man in entertainment, how important is it to discuss mental health in your industry as well as the black community?
A: It’s very important. At this point in my career, I have a platform where I can talk about it. I too used to struggle with mental health therefore I feel that it is my duty to elaborate on the subject. I have young black boys who look up to me and want to help them so I have to be vulnerable and hopefully my journey can be an inspiration to them.
Q: What would you like to see more of for black women in television?
A: I would like to see more black women in lead roles. I really want to see more black women behind the scenes as well from producers, stunt women, chefs, costume, editing etc. There’s many ways black women can be represented not just being on set, there’s also hair and nail techs. To this day majority hair and nail techs on set when I’m working are white and I would like to see more people of color being represented.
Q: How do you react to colorism in Hollywood and do you even notice it?
A: Absolutely. I am vocal about it but also encourage people to not let it hinder them in accomplishing their dreams. I’ve been a victim to colorism and have been stripped from opportunities because of it. As black people we’ve overcome so much and I want to continue to overcome obstacles to prove that we wont allow things like colorism get in our way. We need to continue to encourage each other.
Q: In the story of Nia Wilson, the young woman who was fatally stabbed in San Fransisco, do you think her murder was advocated fairly in the media?
A: I heard about that yes. I hate hearing about a death that could’ve been avoided. The way I saw it in the media, I don’t think it was fair how they portrayed her or just black murders in general. In cases like this the media tends to gravitate the negative about the person posting pictures that don’t seem to align with the person’s true character creating a negative connotation around the victim. That needs to change. She was only 18.
Q: What do you think black men can do to advocate for black women?
A: I think black men need to start showing up and respecting black women. Black men still don’t know the true value of black women in their life and I’ve mentioned that plenty of times. I’m always trying to advocate for black women especially dark skin women. I have a deep love for darks skinned women and want more men to appreciate them as well. Our communities start and end with black women. I’m grateful for black women.
Q: Favorite thing about New York?
A: I love the summers here! Every time I come for work, I get a new energy to recharge to become a better me. The ambiance, the fashion and love the energy it brings.
Q: Favorite thing about a black woman?
A: Black woman carry such a presence about them. When she walks into a room she commands attention without speaking.
Q: What’s on your workout playlist?
A: Old J. Cole of course. I also love Kid Cudi and EDM sometime to get my blood flowing.
Q: Favorite summer travel destination?
A: Bermuda! I was just there for a partnership with Cup Match. The people, food and overall experience was beautiful!
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
A: I’m really looking forward to doing more charitable work. Currently I’m starting an organization to bring more fashion to Nigeria, helping young black children struggling with mental health. I want to be an advocate for black women and bring the younger generation up to continue my legacy.
