McKinley Freeman Talks Martial Arts & ‘Reasonable Doubt’

McKinley Freeman Talks Martial Arts & ‘Reasonable Doubt’

Before pursuing a career in acting and producing, McKinley Freeman had a lucrative corporate job that allowed him to travel the world. However, he couldn’t shake off the feeling that there was something else he was meant to do. On a whim, he started pursuing modeling opportunities, which led to TV and movie auditions. As he continued to pursue his dreams, he made a conscious decision to take control of his life and make sure he wasn’t looking back at his past with regret.

Lessons From Pops

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Freeman’s father was a Shaolin Kung Fu instructor at Song’s Kung-Fu in Champaign, Illinois, and he recalls that his father’s approach to martial arts was unique. Unlike many instructors, Freeman’s father would place him in adult classes even in elementary school, teaching him the importance of discipline and the application of each movement. His father’s commitment to training anyone who walked through the doors, regardless of their skill level or fitness, was another valuable lesson that Freeman took away. This level of attention to detail has shaped his philosophy on life and his approach to his craft.

"I think martial arts and things like jiu jitsu give you another opportunity to practice a perspective that gives you an alternative to the information as it’s presented to you," Freeman said. "There’s this book that talks about how if you’re ever having a bad day, walk outside and stare at the sky and realize that you’re on a rock revolving around a ball of fire in the middle of infinite nothing that’s expanding faster than anyone can count. When you start thinking about that, there’s no way that all these things have conspired to make it a bad day."

McKinley Freeman Has Learned To Separate Himself From Outcomes

In the entertainment industry, where success is often tied to outcomes, Freeman has learned to focus on what he can control and let go of the rest. This approach has allowed him to navigate the ups and downs of Hollywood with ease, knowing that he is doing everything he can to succeed.

"It’s me against me," he said. "It’s me against the ideas and the things I know I should be doing to be the best version of myself. If you’re prepared for anything, whatever happens kind of just happens. It’s almost the equivalent of having a surfboard on a wave. Whatever my discipline, the choices that I’ve built my life around, those are things that will allow me to float no matter what’s happening in life."

The Problem-Solving Aspect of Jiujitsu Appealed to McKinley Freeman

Freeman has trained in various martial arts disciplines, including Muay Thai, Jeet Kune Do, and BJJ. He compares jiujitsu to living Tetris – the blocks are trying to choke you to death. The art of being both offensive and defensive, while learning to find comfort in uncomfortable situations, is what appealed to him about jiujitsu. He encourages others to try it, and has had the opportunity to work with legendary instructors such as Chris Light and Bruno Frazatto.

It’s All About Discipline

As an actor, Freeman approaches his roles with a sense of discipline and focus. He thrives on the opportunity to dive into new worlds and bring out the subtleties and nuances of his characters. When it comes to auditioning, he’s not interested in wasting time – he’s in it to win it.

"It really comes down to are you going to audition to save your son’s life or are you going to save your son’s life?" he said.

Conclusion

Freeman’s journey from corporate executive to Hollywood actor and producer is a testament to his ability to take control of his life and pursue his passions. His martial arts background has given him a unique perspective on life, and he continues to draw from his experiences as he navigates the entertainment industry. With his latest role on Hulu’s "Reasonable Doubt" under his belt, Freeman is poised to take on new challenges and continue to make a name for himself in the industry.

FAQs

Q: What inspired you to leave your corporate job and pursue a career in acting and producing?

A: I couldn’t shake off the feeling that there was something else I was meant to do. On a whim, I started pursuing modeling opportunities, which led to TV and movie auditions.

Q: How has your martial arts background influenced your approach to life and your craft?

A: Martial arts and things like jiu jitsu give you another opportunity to practice a perspective that gives you an alternative to the information as it’s presented to you.

Q: How do you stay focused and motivated in the entertainment industry?

A: It’s me against me. It’s me against the ideas and the things I know I should be doing to be the best version of myself.