I think the notion that we are different just because of skin color, and that we should be kept apart or kept from interbreeding, is very hurtful.

Considering how pervasive interracial marriage is, certainly in American society, it is rare we get to see it depicted on film.

For me, I'm always looking for opportunities to work with people who are better than me, who are more experienced than me, people from whom I can learn. And who could I learn more from than someone with an unprecedented movie star career that has spanned over thirty years whose name is Tom Cruise?

I have a bee in my bonnet as to how few black historical figures one sees on film; incredible stories, stories from which we are living the legacy and which just don't get made.

You're always looking for roles and other creatives who are going to be challenging to you, because you're always a better actor after the experience.

I like to think of myself as a physical actor.

I think until Britain acknowledges just how much of a presence black people had here before the Sixties, then there are certain stories that are not going to be inclusive of what I have to offer.