In what’s shaping up to be a breakthrough year, rising talent McKinzie J. Scott is carving out his place in Hollywood with two compelling roles set for 2025. The Harlem native caught the industry’s attention when he landed a part in the gritty urban drama “Southside Kev” and then surprised everyone by securing the lead role in the introspective coming-of-age film “Adulthood” – both films now wrapping up post-production.
The buzz around “Southside Kev” has been steadily growing since word got out about its raw portrayal of life in Southside Queens. Set to hit screens on April 4, 2025, the film sees Scott stepping into the role of Boy #1 under the thoughtful direction of Jamel Furlow. While Scott’s character details remain under wraps, his scenes alongside costars Anthony M. Walker and Naomi Taylor are said to pack an emotional punch. The production team’s decision to shoot entirely on location throughout Queens wasn’t just about authenticity – it was about capturing the beating heart of a neighborhood that’s often misunderstood.
But it’s his starring role in “Adulthood” that really has people talking. Scott brings to life the character of Micah, a young man whose journey through the messy landscape of growing up feels almost too real at times. Under Tyson Anthony’s direction, Scott digs deep to portray a character grappling with trust issues and the kind of personal demons that many twenty-somethings will recognize all too well. The chemistry between Scott and supporting actor Gregory Lenora adds another layer of authenticity to this unflinching look at modern maturity.
Those who’ve worked with Scott point to his training at New York’s Professional Performing Arts School as just the tip of the iceberg. Behind the scenes, he’s known as something of a renaissance man – equally comfortable behind a piano, guitar, or drum kit as he is in front of the camera. Perhaps most impressive is his near-photographic memory, which has become something of a legend among casting directors, allowing him to nail complex scenes with an efficiency that veterans twice his age would envy.
The path to these breakout roles wasn’t exactly handed to Scott on a silver platter. He cut his teeth in television and commercial work, with his memorable turn in Hulu’s “Right to Remain Silent” campaign catching the eye of a few industry insiders. Yet it’s his Harlem roots that seem to fuel his authentic approach to character work – something that becomes immediately apparent when watching him inhabit a role.
With both films targeting different genres and audiences, 2025 will give viewers their first real opportunity to see Scott’s range as an actor. “Southside Kev” lands in theaters and on streaming platforms this spring, while “Adulthood” is set to follow later in the year. More information about Scott’s journey and upcoming projects can be found on his official website.
