Actor Jacob Latimore Wants You To Know He's On His Grown Man Sh*t
Jacob Latimore has never owned a pair of Jordans.
In fact, it would be safe to say that he's not really into Jordans at all.
Timberlands, Air Force Ones, and high fashion shoes. That's more his speed.
This fact is surprising given his role as Emmett on The Chi, Showtime's coming-of-age drama directed by Emmy winner Lena Waithe, where he plays a sneaker-obsessed young father who has to learn how to provide for his child amidst the struggles and conflicts that come with living in Chicago's Southside.
In actuality, there are two things that make Jacob Latimore vastly different from his character. He's not that into Jordans nor does he have any children.
Although Jacob Latimore vastly differs from the sneaker head father on TV, there is one trait that is similar between Emmett and Jacob: the fact that they both aren't young kids anymore. And while they both have a lot more growing to do, they are both indeed grown young men.
Jacob Latimore as 'The Chi'Showtime
It's about mid-morning when we speak, Jacob has just gotten back from a store run and is in the middle of filming in Chicago. The Chi is expected to be back in 2019, though there's no word on the official date yet. It feels like it was just yesterday the show's first season ended even though it wrapped up back in March. But fans are awaiting its return, albeit impatiently as seen through various tweets expressing anticipation and melancholy for their beloved characters to be back on screen. Along with his cast mates, namely Jason Mitchell and Barton Fitzpatrick, Jacob actively participates in and enjoys the online interaction from fans of his character and the show as a whole.
According to him, Emmett is the closest character he's played to himself, in that he's a young, somewhat flashy Black man from the neighborhood. And while growth and evolution may be something his character has been somewhat forced into, for the 22-year-old Milwaukee native, it's something Jacob says was destined to happen all along. "I think the more things I go through, the more I'll be able to relate to my audience. I've never tried to force my 'grow up' on people. I've just always tried to be me and not put on a persona for anybody. People will see I'm growing up."
And if they haven't, one listen at Jacob's latest single "Is That What You Wanna Hear?" on his first project Connection, will definitely paint the picture clearer. With tracks such as "The Real," "Love Drug," "Climb," and his personal favorite "Mutual," it's evident that this isn't the young kid, young love version Jacob. No. This is the more mature Jacob whose dealt with drama in life, with relationships and women as well. And it's that type of growth that has proven to be a stepping stone into the next phase in his career, specifically when it comes to his music. "I feel like I made a smooth transition from the kiddie sound to really maturing. I think it's unfair to keep artists in a box and every artist should be true to themselves. Even if it means making other people uncomfortable."
Photo By Carissa Gallo
"Every artist should be true to themselves. Even if it means making other people uncomfortable."
It's this type of awareness that makes it very clear to see why Jacob has garnered a very good level of success and impeccable roster of acting projects under his belt. As much as he is purposeful about the types of projects he takes on, he is just as aware of his personal evolution and the pitfalls that can potentially halt it. Though somewhat humorous in his delivery, he expresses that he's cautious to not get too caught up in the lure and lights of the industry, as he feels it can easily corrupt your mind. "You can lose your essence that way. You have to stay grounded, remember why you're doing what you're doing, and remain humble."
And humility and preparation seem to be the overarching theme in this season for Jacob. It becomes clear that it's important, arguably now more than ever, to keep first things first. To minimize distractions and maintain his focus on the things that really matter. To keep singing, stay in shape, and keep his mind sharp. He knows money and fame don't always equal happiness and he also knows that with money and fame comes a lot of attention, especially when it comes to the ladies.
Admitting to having been in a somewhat long-term relationship "on the low" some years back, he reveals that while he is currently single, his career takes center stage in his life. However, he lets me know that the type of women he likes are the ones who know how to match his same energy. Essentially, sound-minded women that have their own thing going for themselves and who aren't looking for him to make them happy. She needs to have that joy within herself and drive to succeed in order to catch his attention. "I like independent, busy women. Some men may not like that or find that attractive, but I do. I love a woman that has goals and knows what they want to do in life and is working towards that. I want to be an addition to what she already has going [on]."
"I love a woman that has goals and knows what they want to do in life and is working towards that. I want to be an addition to what she already has going on."
And if you find yourself cozied up with him, get ready to talk about something more important than just the weather. "I like to see where her mind is at. I like to talk about her growth from a young girl to the woman she is today, trauma, and how she's learned to deal with it. A lot of people don't want to talk about things like that, but that's very important. You have to know those things."
As we wrap up, there's one question that's still hanging in the background: What's next for Jacob Latimore? With a handful of content expected to come in 2019 that include more TV/movie roles and potentially a new album, the short and simple answer? A LOT.
But the more we talk, the more it becomes evident that whatever this next chapter holds, it's going to be bigger than him. Much like his character Emmett, this next chapter will prove and serve two major lessons: longevity and legacy. Longevity in surviving the slippery slopes of the Southside and in real life, the enticing escapades of the industry. Legacy in the form of a young son fictionally, and legacy in the form of purposeful projects that propel his career.
And while most may think 22 is fairly young to be concerned about such lofty obligations, for Jacob, it's something he's ready to walk out one step at a time.
Just don't expect him to have any Jordans on while doing it.
To keep up with Jacob, follow him on Instagram. The Chi returns next year.
Featured image by Carissa Gallo.
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Writer. Empath. Escapist. Young, gifted, and Black. Shanelle Genai is a proud Southern girl in a serious relationship with celebrity interviews, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and long walks down Sephora aisles. Keep up with her on IG @shanellegenai.
ItGirl 100 Honors Black Women Who Create Culture & Put On For Their Cities
As they say, create the change you want to see in this world, besties. That’s why xoNecole linked up with Hyundai for the inaugural ItGirl 100 List, a celebration of 100 Genzennial women who aren’t afraid to pull up their own seats to the table. Across regions and industries, these women embody the essence of discovering self-value through purpose, honey! They're fierce, they’re ultra-creative, and we know they make their cities proud.
VIEW THE FULL ITGIRL 100 LIST HERE.
Don’t forget to also check out the ItGirl Directory, featuring 50 Black-woman-owned marketing and branding agencies, photographers and videographers, publicists, and more.
THE ITGIRL MEMO
I. An ItGirl puts on for her city and masters her self-worth through purpose.
II. An ItGirl celebrates all the things that make her unique.
III. An ItGirl empowers others to become the best versions of themselves.
IV. An ItGirl leads by example, inspiring others through her actions and integrity.
V. An ItGirl paves the way for authenticity and diversity in all aspects of life.
VI. An ItGirl uses the power of her voice to advocate for positive change in the world.
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ItGirl 100: Get To Know Some Of The Most Inspiring And Empowering Women On Our List
The ItGirl 100 List, in partnership with Hyundai, is a celebration of 100 Black women who aren’t afraid to pull up their own seats to the table.
We often see lists featuring amazing women who are seasoned in this thing called life, and our ItGirl 100 List gives flowers to the people they’ve passed the torch to: young millennial and Gen Z women who are innovating and disrupting in today’s world of advancement.
xoNecole has partnered with Hyundai for its inaugural ItGirl 100 List to give these women their flowers today. It’s a celebration of 100 Genzennial women who have built their own tables, launched new businesses, and redefined what it truly means to be blessed, booked, and busy.
Here’s a snapshot of fun facts from a few of the women listed on the ItGirl 100, representing the East, West, Midwest, and South:
EAST
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DJ 9AM: DJ & Curator
Representing: Brooklyn
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "On My Mama" by Victoria Monét
Favorite OG It Girl: Nia Long
Zodiac Big Three: Cancer Sun, Taurus Moon, Pisces Rising
Favoring open-format, multi-genre mixes, this DJ has created a winning reputation for rocking a crowd with seamless transitions and selections, always representing Southwest musical and cultural influences.
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Tiffany James, Founder, Modern BLK Girl
Representing:Brooklyn
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Lucky Girl" by Carlina
Favorite OG It Girl:Naomi Campbell
Zodiac Big Three: Sagittarius Sun, Leo Moon, Virgo Rising
Modern BLK Girl is one of the leading investment groups among women of color, and the founder serves as an avid investor, community builder, and advocate. Tiffany James is also a mentor, utilizing her unique combination of financial and fashion expertise.
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Kat Mateo, Casting Director
Representing: New Jersey
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Princess Going Digital" by Amaarae
Favorite OG It Girl: Kelis, Eve, Lil Kim
Zodiac Big Three: Aries Sun, Cancer Moon, Cancer Rising
Thriving as a casting director and stylist, Kat Mateo offers a unique point of view that has shaped New York Fashion Week shows, ad campaigns, and editorials. She has also been a major contributor to cultural conversations related to fashion and inclusivity.
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Denise Stephanie Hewitt, Photographer
Representing: Brooklyn
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Experience" by Victoria Monét
Favorite OG It Girl: Hannah Montana
Zodiac Big Three: Taurus Sun, Aquarius Moon, Aquarius Rising
This Gordon Parks Foundation scholar is a full-time student who has been working to expand her freelance career in photography. Denise is also been featured among Essence'sinaugural list of "Top 10 Creators Under 30," for her unique aesthetics and perceptions through her art.
WEST
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Nayamka Roberts-Smith, Aesthetician
Representing: Los Angeles
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Tomorrow 2" by GloRilla & Cardi B
Favorite OG It Girl: Meagan Good
Zodiac Big Three: Sagittarius Sun, Leo Moon, Capricorn Rising
Nayamka Roberts-Smith is an award-winning professional in the skincare industry and serves as an educator, offering knowledge on beauty culture. She also is a well-sought-after speaker on beauty and women’s issues, with a following of more than 1 million on social.
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Desiree L. Talley, Esq., Vice President, Legal & Business Affairs, Revolt TV
Representing: Los Angeles
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Nice" by The Carters
Favorite OG It Girl: Issa Rae
Zodiac Big Three: Cancer Sun, Scorpio Moon, Cancer Rising
An attorney and storyteller, Desiree L. Talley meshes relatability with her legal smarts for the culture. She advocates for cultural advancement and societal change through her POPLAW Podcast while balancing her executive duties at Revolt TV.
Marley Rae
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Marley Rae, Organizer, WalkGood
Representing: Los Angeles
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Nice For What" by Drake
Favorite OG It Girl: Mariah Carey
Zodiac Big Three: Capricorn Sun, Taurus Moon, Leo Rising
Marley Rae is a Nike Athlete, certified yoga instructor, COO, and Director of Health and Wellness for WalkGood LA, a family-founded non-profit organization. She is dedicated to fostering understanding and care in local and global communities.
MIDWEST
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Shawnee Dez
Representing: Chicago
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "FreeBody Freestyle" by Shawnee Dez
Favorite OG It Girl: Toni Morrison
Zodiac Big Three: Cancer Sun, Aquarius Moon, Cancer Rising
Shawnee Dez is an artist who's all about captivating her audience through encouragement and empowerment. Her music features fluid harmonic layering, live instrumentation fused with digital production, and her unique multi-talented voice in an alto melodic tone.
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Bianca Pastel, Visual Artist
Representing: Chicago
Ultimate ItGirl Song: Anything by Whitney Houston
Favorite OG It Girl: Grace Jones
Zodiac Big Three: Taurus Sun, Leo Moon, Sagittarius Rising
Bianca Pastel's artistic portfolio includes fine art, illustrations, and animation, and she's worked with clients including Disney Pixar, and the NFL, to name a few. Her focus is "empowering the experience of being a Black child and dealing with mental health issues."
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Donyale Walton, Founder, Hoop Mobb
Representing: Detroit
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Yeah I Said It" by Rihanna
Favorite OG It Girl: Aaliyah
Zodiac Big Three: Virgo Sun, Libra Moon, Capricorn Rising
Donyale Walton's brand Hoop Mobb, celebrates the Black and Brown fashion and cultural impact and presence of hoop earrings. It's grown to earn more than seven figures in annual revenue and a nationwide community of loyal consumers.
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Ticara Devone, Content Creator
Representing: Chicago
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "She's a Bitch" by Missy Elliott
Favorite OG It Girl: Ananda Lewis
The Zodiac Big Three: Libra Sun, Taurus Moon, Virgo Rising
A trusted sneaker enthusiast and content creator, Ticara Devone uses dynamic storytelling to hold space for others with a passion for sneakers. A published writer, she’s worked with brands including Nike and Footlocker and inspires us all by ensuring women are vocal and seen in the multi-billion dollar shoe space.
SOUTH
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AllyiahsFace, Content Creator
Representing: Atlanta
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Go Off" Doja Cat
Favorite OG It Girl: Gabrielle Union and Halle Berry
Zodiac Big Three: Gemini Sun, Leo Moon, Scorpio Rising
AllyiahsFace's YouTube channel has more than 830,000 subscribers, and she's been hitting the ground running since 2015. Her content creation, which centers on beauty, fashion, and lifestyle, has led to a lucrative career and drawn a close-knit social and real-life community to view and be inspired.
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Jaycina, Executive Director, Tender
Representing: Atlanta
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "All I Got" by Amel Larrieux
Favorite OG It Girl:Tracee Ellis Ross
Zodiac Big Three: Leo Sun, Sagittarius Moon, Sagittarius Rising
Jaycina is a signed model with a nonprofit that works to provide support and community for single mothers in Atlanta. She's also appeared in campaigns for brands including Fenty and GAP as well as features in all your favorite magazines and on billboards across the country.
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Asha Christian, Founder, Coily App
Representing: Atlanta
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "It's My Life" by Mariah Carey
Favorite OG It Girl: Toni Childs (Girlfriends)
Zodiac Big Three: Sagittarius Sun, Leo Moon, Leo Rising
Asha Christian created Coily to provide beauty recommendations utilizing social data. It offers a more personalized, AI-driven experience for users and part of her mission is to provide solutions related to diversity and put the focus back on the consumer. Meshing tech and culture, Christian is innovating with options that exemplify the Black girl magic needed in tech.
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