That was one aspect of it.
I enjoy their work.
I love the way they create characters and the way they tell their stories.
Credit: Carin Baer/The CW
Thank god, theres a lot of research out there because hes been around since 1977.
It was cool to be able to do that.
Im just happy to be part of a timely piece.
Carin Baer/The CW
Then, its up to you to do your homework and break the character down yourself.
She goes on this journey of self-discovery of both becoming a woman and also discovering her powers.
She believes its her passion and calling from god, and she walks in it boldly.
She loves being a teacher.
She loves being advocate for education.
She loves going into the community and actually trying to stop crime and fight social injustice.
In being a superhero, this is Anissas way of saving the world and helping people.
I love her strength and the power that she walks in.
Were there aspects of this character that you related to?
She walks in it fearlessly.
I have that aspect of myself of just knowing what I want from life.
We also know her sister Jennifer (China Anne McClain) will also develop powers.
If you ask my parents, Im a bit too eager without fully understanding [it].
Shes just really excited about going on the journey of being a superhero.
But its one of those things [where she wonders],Am I a freak?
Do I share it?
Its a parallel like that as well.
I believe love is love.
The Pierce family does a great job of doing that.
We also know you get a love interest in Grace Choi this season.
Whats their dynamic like?Anissa and Grace have a lot in common.
If youre familiar with the comics, they were a group called The Outsiders.
Shes a peace of mind for Anissa.
Its pretty cool to be able to tap into that.
This is something new for me, playing an openly lesbian [character] on television.
Im always opposite men, so its pretty cool to challenge myself and tap into something different.
I was excited for that aspect as well.
The journey right now is of Anissa discovering herself and its a huge secret.
One of my favorite parts of the show is Jeffersons relationship with his daughters.
What has it been like working with Cress?Oh my god, its so cool.
Hes like the big brother dad.
I grew up watching Cress.
Ive been watching him since I was a kid.
Her father is her hero.
This is her not knowing hes Black Lightning.
Hes just a great leader.
The way he loves and communicates with us on the show is awesome.
Hes just a great dad.
Our mother is in our life, but we live with him.
He is the parent who is there most of the time.
Yeah, its pretty cool because Cress has been in the game for a while.
He has some gems and jewels to share that Im always trying to listen to.
Hes very, very disciplined and hes very focused.
Hes always working out and studying.
Hes really into his craft and I respect his love for the craft.
Black Lightningairs Tuesdays at 9 p.m. on The CW.
