Emmanuel “Mann” Turner
Anyone who saw Emmanuel “Mann” Turner in the Rover Dramawerks production of Lobby Hero would find it difficult to believe that Mann is a relative newcomer to stage acting. Mann has the confidence, poise, and presence of a seasoned professional. Mann brought a quiet intensity to the conflicted character of William in Lobby Hero that many more experienced actors would find challenging. Mann is interested in both film and stage acting and in perfecting his craft. Let’s hope he will continue to share his skills with DFW for a long time. Take a few moments to read about the journey of the talented rising star Emmanuel “Mann” Turner so far.
When was your first time on stage?
My first time on stage was 2010-2011. I played Jim Fielder in the rendition of OUR TOWN in the T.A Taylor black box at KD Studios Actors Conservatory.
When did you know you wanted to be an actor?
I think I’ve always wanted to be in entertainment to some degree. I started out as a rapper, writing and making music. I’d say around 2010 is when I decided to give acting a try.
Who is your greatest mentor?
I would say life itself would be my greatest mentor, I’ve learned a lot just surviving life’s trials and tribulations. but I would say along the way my aunt and uncle (Cora and Melvin Walker) who I call my parents rest in peace pops, my uncle Ike and uncle Joey, Cathy Ward, some of my acting instructors like Linda Leonard, Mike Schraeder, Kinna Mclnroe, Micheal Childs have all helped, and guided me through troubled waters.
What role have you enjoyed most in your career so far?
I would say the role I’ve enjoyed most in my career is the character Logan/ferron in MIDNIGHT GHOULS, a sci-fi western.
Do you have a dream role?
My dream role would either be a historical figure, or anything alongside Denzel Washington
What person(s) would you like to be on stage with?
I’d love to share the stage with Denzel Washington, Don Cheadle, Will Smith, Idris Elba, Matt Damon, Brad Pitt, and Jonah Hill
What performances have you seen that impressed you?
Out of the millions of movies I’ve seen in my life some of the best roles that stick with me to this day would be Denzel Washington’s “John Q” and “American Gangster.” Jamie Foxx’s “Ray,” Will Smith’s “Pursuit of Happiness,” Tom Hanks in “Forrest Gump” and “Castaway.”. I really enjoy cinema I’ve seen A LOT of great performances.
What are your career goals?
I would say my career goals (at the moment) would be to book a gig in my hometown of Chicago Illinois, book a leading role in a feature film and to just continue to be a working actor.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
One thing that surprises people most to learn about me is the fact that I am an actor. I started late in life and just so happen to have a skill for it that surprises people to see for the first time.
