Pooch Hall is well known for starring on seven seasons of BET’s biggest hit original series “The Game” and then he went on to join the cast of Showtime’s critically acclaimed series “Ray Donovan.”
Hall stars on the show as Ray’s half-brother Daryll Donovan who is beloved by Mickey (Jon Voight) but trying to grow his relationship with his brothers. We spoke with him about working on the show, which will have its season finale on September 28.
How has the experience been like starring in the Emmy award winning show, “Ray Donovan”?
It has been amazing. It’s like if you were a star player in college and you’ve made it to the League. I’m the black Johnny Manziel!
Talk about what it’s like having “Ray Donovan” being renewed for a third season.
It means we are doing our thing as a cast and crew. It’s obvious we have a show that the fans are pulling and routing for.
How has being a boxer influenced your portrayal of your character on the show?
Being a boxer on the show gives my character purpose amongst the Donovan family because boxing is big in their family. My character is a fighter in development, so it will be interesting to see what metamorphosis Daryll will go through physically and mentally.
Talk about what it’s like working alongside some of these extremely talented actors like Live Schreiber and Jon Voight.
It’s amazing! It’s like working with Magic and Kareem, and I’m Kobe. I’m learning from two of the best and making my skills that much better by listening, watching and learning. They are great teachers who want to help you… love those cats.
Who has been like a mentor to you throughout your entire career? Who has helped you the most?
My mentor has been whoever believes in me and supports me. I have a lot and can’t name them all, but if I had to pick it would be God.
When did you realize that acting was something you wanted to do as a profession?
When I was a kid and said “I want to be able to fly the Millennium Falcon.” I’ve always been a fan of sci-fi and make believe. My imagination is crazy!
Looking back on your career so far, what has been the biggest highlight?
Achieving the opportunity to hold and share a place at the table with Jon Voight. I mean, he treats me like a son outside of the show.
Talk about what it’s like working on Showtime and how the experience has been like.
Showtime has been great and treats their artists with respect. They value their talent to where they have you doing a lot of amazing things within the network. One word to describe them: classy.
What was the transition like going from BET’s “The Game” to Showtime’s “Ray Donovan”?
It was graduation, and I was ready to move to the next level. I appreciate and am thankful to “The Game” and BET for all they’ve done for me, but “Ray Donovan” and Showtime have me in a whole new category. It’s like I made it to the pro’s…. and its DOPE!
Talk about some of your future projects.
I have an independent film called “Carter High” with Charles S. Dutton, David Banner and Vivica A. Fox, and a few projects that I’m trying to produce. I’m also looking forward to some more seasons on Showtime with “Ray Donovan.” My official Instagram is @iampoochhall for updates and pics.
Don’t miss “Ray Donovan” every Sunday nights at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Showtime.
-Vinesh Vora
