Exclusive: Gregg Wayans

We all know that you’re connected to the famous Wayans family. Your mother is Deidre Wayans a producer and screenwriter. Can you tell us a little bit more about yourself and the strong family values Deidra instilled in you growing up?

I am a second generation Wayans, son to Diedra Wayans and Gregory Benson Sr. My parents taught me that responsibility is key in life as well as hard work. I learned early that work comes before play, if you want to be successful.

Do you feel that added pressure that comes along with being a Wayans and living up to the Wayans name ?

I understand that people would expect for there to be pressure living up to the Wayans name, but I really feel none. I think I put pressure on myself to book every opportunity that comes my way, but I can live with that.

You currently star on Bounce TV show “My Crazy Roommate”. Can you tell us a little about the show and your character Sloan ?

“My Crazy Roommate” is the first scripted show on new network “Bounce T.V”.  I play the character of “Sloan” who is young man who grew up in the hood, but is far from being hood. The show primarily takes place in an apartment and in a coffee shop where Sloan is a regular, and regularly stirs things up and gets on peoples nerves.

Bentley Evans who Executive Produced such well known and loved shows Martin and The Jamie Foxx Show, is also the Creator & Executive Producer for My Crazy Roommate. How is it working with Bentley?

Bentley Evans is a creator, and very talented and bright industry great! Bentley gave me opportunity and freedom to create and improv on the show. He was open to any idea that I had for each episode, and it was great working with him.

How can we tune in to My Crazy Roommate?

For cable listings for “My Crazy Roommate” visit Bouncetv.com. The show airs every Monday night 7pm Pacific/ 10pm Eastern.

Are you Single, Married, Dating? Inquiring minds want to know.

I am in a very happy relationship, and I contribute part of my success to being so happy in my personal life.

What qualities do you look for in a woman?

The qualities that I look for in a woman is a great personality, an “it factor”, goal oriented, and someone who can capture my heart.

Who has been the biggest influence on your life and what lessons did that person teach you?

I have several role models including all of my famous relatives. I think the two biggest influences in my life have been my Dad, and my Godfather. I’ve watched my dad work his ass off my whole life and through it all he put his family first. My Godfather has been consistent in my life and his motto of “Be yourself, live your life for you, and don’t try to please others before yourself” always hit home with me.

Was acting something you always wanted to do? When did you realize you wanted to pursue a career in the industry?

I’ve always known that I would be an entertainer. However, I thought I would be entertaining from the football field in the NFL before jumping in front of the screen. Sports didn’t go as planned, so I got started acting a little earlier than expected but hey, that’s life.

 If there was anyone you could work beside, who would that be and why? 

Other than family members, I would love to work with Will Farrell, Denzel Washington, Michael Cera, Samuel L. Jackson and many others.

What are you some of the things you do in your spare time?

In my spare time I like to write, watch sports, watch movies, watch my favorite shows, ride horses with my girlfriend, etc.

We’re getting closer to the Holiday season, with Thanksgiving and Christmas soon approaching. With the Wayans being such a big and tight knit family, how is it this time of year when all of you gather together?

I love when the holidays arrive. My family is very busy, and Thanksgiving and Christmas are the times we really get to be around each other. It’s always fun when we’re around each other, and I love seeing all my little cousins.

What is your favorite Wayans holiday dish? And can you give details on the recipe?

My favorite holiday dish and I’m sure everyone would agree is theirs is my mom’s “Homemade Macaroni & Cheese”. Sorry, no recipe giveaways.

How can the readers keep up with you (Twitter, FaceBook, etc)?

Everyone follow me on Twitter: @GreggWayans Facebook: Actor Gregg Wayans and Instagram: @greggwayans

Lastly, Is there anything you wish to say to the readers of Prestige Magazine? 

To all the readers and fans I want to send my love and thanks, I appreciate you all. Remember to watch me every Monday on “My Crazy Roommate”, look out for me in “A Haunted House 2”, and a commercial feat myself and NBA Star Blake Griffin.

Click on Cover to View Digital Issue

Check out Gregg interview as well in our December issue