132 Quotes by Mahershala Ali

My dream role is Jack Johnson, the first black heavyweight champion.

I love hip hop. It's such an appendage for me. It's something that's always shaped my experience out in the world.

I think that black people, to a degree, need to have a certain level of dexterity. If we want to be at the highest level of whatever our field is, we have to be able to navigate both worlds. We all just know that you gotta be able to put that suit on and have a conversation with people that don't look like you or your family.

I'm excited about 'Luke Cage' with Michael Colter, who plays Luke Cage. I play the villain, Cottonmouth. It takes place in Harlem. It'll just be amazing for people to get to see an African-American superhero, which there weren't any when I was growing up.

If you're not careful as an actor, you can find yourself, at a certain point, a little bit bored.

I really love Tom Hardy. He makes really interesting choices.

Viola Davis is a perfect example of somebody who's so much better than the parts she has the opportunity to play.

I do think that there are people who are able to connect with and empathize with anyone who is going through something difficult, just naturally. I don't think it's a world of effort for everyone.

I think selfishly, as an actor, we always want to do more.