Crazy About Christine – A Look at A Star on the Rise
Recently FEMI had a chance to tap in with actress Christine Horn and we got the pleasure of finding out just “Who is Christine”.
This bombshell with an infectious smile is no stranger to grit. Whether it’s taking on a tough girl role and showing how gangsta and street a woman can be or showing tender love like a mother’s touch, it’s no secret, Christine can play it all. Check out just what makes this beauty go full stream ahead and take nothing lightly.
FEMI Magazine (Mo Clark): How did you get your start in theater?
CHRISTINE: My first foray into entertainment was through dance as a kid; I did tap, jazz, and ballet. Growing up in the Bronx, my mom would take me to see plays on and off Broadway, so performing was always in me. When we moved to Atlanta, I went to Tri-Cities High School and met my mentor, Freddie Hendricks. I began performing professionally in my sophomore year of high school when I joined The Freddie Hendricks Youth Ensemble of Atlanta.
FEMI: What has been your biggest accomplishment in the theater?
CHRISTINE: Booking The Lion King in 2006 and my official Broadway debut for the production in 2008.
FEMI: BMF is a very popular series. Was the role challenging for you? How did you personally feel about the character you played?
CHRISTINE: The most challenging part of playing Mabel was humanizing her because I knew people would see her purely as a home wrecker off the rip. So, I was tasked with finding her flaws and the “why” of how she was and how she operated without judging herself, and I think I did a good job at that. People still have their own opinions about her for sure, but I believe I was able to add another layer to the character. I personally feel Mabel was in search of love, and the love she needs most is self-love. Instead of working and searching within, she chose to operate out of her hurt and betrayal from her failed marriage, causing her to sabotage her relationships, platonic and romantic. At her core, she is a good person who just happens to make terrible choices.
FEMI: What do you like about theater that you don’t find in other forms of entertainment?
CHRISTINE: Nothing replaces theater with a live audience in front of you. The energy is electric, and there is no take two. It’s the perfect training ground for actors because it teaches you how to truly be in the moment. After all, there are no cuts or edits.
FENI: What’s your favorite thing about playing the role of Nala in “The Lion King”?
CHRISTINE: The highlight for me was the opportunity to perform Nala’s show-stopping song in Act II, “Shadowland.” It was a challenge and honor to sing it every day. Another thing I enjoyed was wearing the mask; it was a lot of fun.
FEMI: What do you like to do outside of performing?
CHRISTINE: I love spending time with my dog and pet turtle, teaching and helping other actors achieve their dreams, going to the movies, and cooking. I especially love gardening and traveling.
FEMI: Do you have any tips for aspiring actors and actresses?
CHRISTINE: Aside from following Hollywood Bound Actors on Instagram and YouTube, my general advice for others in the field is to believe in yourself, study, and train. Develop a thick skin; it’s a challenging industry, but it will be worth it if you are dedicated and truly love it. I would also suggest actors and actresses read my book, “Playing Small,” to learn how to break through psychological roadblocks, find the fun in acting, and become certified booking magnets.
FEMI: What is your “magnetic” quality that has helped you book many gigs?
CHRISTINE: Working on my mindset; my mindset is sexy as hell because I spent time on it. I now know the power of changing your thoughts and how it ultimately improves your life.
FEMI: When it comes to booking, what do you think is the key to success?
CHRISTINE: Again, it goes back to working on your mindset. It will change your personal and professional life, bookings included.
FEMI: So, how does it feel to attend the Emmys for the first time?
CHRISTINE: It was a dream come true. This time around, I was spectating, but I am a huge believer and student of the law of attraction, so I am manifesting attending in a more prominent capacity. The best thing about spectating was watching and seeing what takes place so I can be well prepared for when it’s my time to be recognized.
FEMI: Have you been surprised by the backlash you’ve received for playing a sultry character on “BMF?”
CHRISTINE: I’m not surprised at all. I am grateful for all the feedback, both positive and negative. It meant people were paying attention, and I understood the assignment well. It can be a little crazy sometimes, but I love seeing how invested the fans get in Mabel and the show.
FEMI: Do you think it’s harder for women to play strong and sexy roles without being sexualized or labeled?
CHRISTINE: Absolutely. In a male-dominated industry, we are always sexualized and labeled. This industry is a game. If you choose to play, you must take what comes with it, the good and the bad. However, look out for us queens because we are changing the game and carving out our own lanes.
FEMI: Do you think it’s essential for actresses to take risks and play diverse characters?
CHRISTINE: Of course, we are here to act and tell stories. Regardless of skin color, body type, or any other identifier, every actor should have the choice and ability to transform into any character they desire. It’s a significant component of acting; anyone from any demographic can do it.
FEMI: What do you love most about your roles on Snow Fall and BMF?
CHRISTINE: On Snowfall, I loved being badass. I was able to show my funny and tough sides. With BMF, I enjoyed being a leading lady and a chance to sink my teeth into a juicy role. Usually, I play a lawyer or a doctor, but it was nice to tap into and showcase the sexy side of Christine.
FEMI: Do you have any funny or interesting behind-the-scenes stories of working on BMF or Snow Fall that you can share with us?
CHRISTINE: In season five, my character Black Diamond and her cohort Dallas were dropping off our kids at school. In one of our outtakes, Aunt Louie, played by Angela Lewis, gives a lollipop to the kids. Amin Joseph, who plays Uncle Jerome, likes to adlib and improv in his scenes. This time, he snatched the lollipop from one of the little girl’s hands and made her cry. She was so upset that she refused to return to the set. Luckily, we got her back to set after bribing her with a bag of Skittles.
FEMI: What do you think sets Snowfall apart from other crime dramas?
CHRISTINE: Snowfall’s authenticity. John Singleton had a God-given gift connecting viewers with real-life stories; the acting and grit make Snowfall stand out from other crime dramas. I think the show will be a cult classic; hell, it already is!
FEMI: Are there any new projects you are working on that you can share with us?
CHRISTINE: I will be in the upcoming film “Fool’s Paradise,” which hits theaters May 12. I will also star in the forthcoming new tv drama series “Classified.” There has yet to be an official release date, but it will be available on Amazon Freevee in the US and Netflix in Africa.
FEMI: Tell me how Snow Fall came about. What made you audition and who did you audition for?
CHRISTINE: For the first season, it was just another job. The show had yet to air, but it was an opportunity to join the John Singleton legacy. When the show premiered, I watched and became a fan, further pushing me to want to land a role in Snowfall. After three seasons of failed self-tape submissions, I finally booked the role of Black Diamond for season four. Fun fact: I originally read for Dallas, and Taylor Polidore read for Black Diamond. They had us swap and reaudition with the different scripts when it got down to the wire. Liking us better in our new roles, we officially booked for Snowfall.
Well, we definitely like where she’s going! We love a good girl gone bad with a great wardrobe, don’t we? No matter the role or the title is clear that Christine has captured the heart of many and will continue to do just that. Make sure to follow her and stay tuned for all that’s next.
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All Images Courtesy of Christine Horn.
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