For Latin American and African American actors Y’lan Noel, Byron Bowers and Josiah Cross, Apple TV+’s Lady in the Lake isn’t just another period drama; it’s a portal into the past that has had a profound impact on the cast. Embodying characters from the 1960s – a time of profound social change – was both a personal and professional journey that made them reflect on the past and inspired them to contribute to a better future.

In an interview with the Latin Times Noel, Bowers and Cross spoke about the impact the project and their characters have had on their views on young people of color and the issues they face today. It became clear that this was more than just a role for her. It was vital for more reasons than just starring in a high-profile show with Natalie Portman.

Reconnecting with heritage and history

Y’lan Noelwho rose to fame as part of the cast of “Insecure,” plays Officer Ferdie Platt. This Latino actor felt a deep connection to the story through his character and his Panamanian heritage.

“Yes, my mother was born in Panama. I am a first generation American,” Noel said, emphasizing how his “The immigrant background gave him a unique perspective on the problems Ferdie faces as a black police officer in racially divided Baltimore.” For Noel, the role was more than just a job – it was an opportunity to channel the experiences of those who have struggled to carve out a place for themselves in a society that often marginalizes them.. “I liked the fact that (Ferdie) was the connective tissue,” Noel said he appreciated how his character brings together the different worlds of Maddie and Cleo, the show’s two main female characters.

Byron Bowers, who plays Slappy Johnson, Cleo’s husband, approached his role with a similar sense of personal connection.

Bowers, a comedian known for his appearances on “The Eric Andre Show” and “Adult Swim,” found that portraying a black man in the 1960s allowed him to explore the deep cultural and historical roots of his identity. “I felt like I had a chance to learn what we had lost as a community,” Bowers recalledand refers to the era of hope and progress for black people that was tragically ended by the assassinations of key leaders and the devastating effects of drugs such as heroin and crack.

Bowers’ portrayal of Slappy isn’t just a reflection of the past – it’s a meditation on the resilience and strength that characterized black communities even in the face of overwhelming adversity. “It just made us seem stronger,” he said, emphasizing his pride in his heritage.

Lessons from the past, hopes for the future

Josiah Crosswho plays Reggie, noted that his role had a strong connection to his family history. “My grandfather, who is still alive today, was the same age as Reggie at that time,” Cross shared, noting that living ties to the era helped him bring authenticity to his portrayal. For Cross, “Lady in the Lake” isn’t just about looking back — it’s about understanding how the past shapes the present and the future. He pointed out that Reggie’s character, torn between loyalty to his sister Cleo and his moral compass, reflects the struggles many young black men still face today. “I think the mystery surrounding Reggie is so fascinating because he is an antihero in many ways,” Cross said Reggie’s journey is both about self-discovery and navigating the dangerous world he lives in.

The show also allowed Bowers to reflect on the power of truth and loyalty – values ​​central to his character and the larger narrative Lady in the Lake. “Sometimes the truth gets people into trouble… It is loyalty to find the truth and stick to it,” Bowers said, emphasizing that Slappy’s unwavering devotion to his wife, Cleo, reflects the struggles many black families faced in the 1960s.

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