BET Awards 2024: Meet the Cast of 'The Book of Clarence'
The BET Awards 2024 are less than two weeks away, and it’s a night you won’t want to miss.
Culture’s biggest evening will feature special guest appearances by some of Hollywood's biggest names, show-stopping performances, and major award wins.
This year’s “Best Movie” category includes some of the biggest projects released over the past year, including Jeymes Samuel’s biblical comedy-dramaThe Book of Clarence. The film follows Clarence, played by LaKeith Stanfield, who’s facing hard times trying to provide a better future for his family while trying to escape his financial burdens. Drawn by the allure and majesty of a rising Messiah, he gambles everything to forge his own path toward a divine existence.
The film is nominated alongside several big projects, including American Fiction, The Little Mermaid, Bob Marley: One Love, Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé, Spider-man: Across the Spider-Verse, The Color Purple, and The Equalizer 3.
As we eagerly await the award ceremony, let's take a closer look at the eight main stars who brought this film to life with their outstanding performances. And don’t forget to tune into the BET Awards 2024, hosted by Golden Globe-winning actress Taraji P. Henson, when it airs on Sunday, June 30th, at 8 pm, live from Los Angeles, CA.
LaKeith Stanfield
Role: Clarence / Thomas
From his breakout role in Short Term 12 to his critically acclaimed performances in Sorry to Bother You and Judas and the Black Messiah, Stanfield has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood. His portrayal of Clarence is yet another compelling addition to his impressive filmography.
RJ Cyler
Role: Elijah / Clarence's best friend
RJ Cyler burst onto the scene with his standout role in Me and Earl and the Dying Girl, earning praise for his nuanced and heartfelt performance. Since then, he has continued to impress in films like Power Rangers and The Harder They Fall.
Caleb McLaughlin
Role: Dirty Zeke
Caleb McLaughlin has grown up in the spotlight, showcasing his acting prowess and charisma across various genres.
The young star began his acting career with several small television roles, including a notable performance as Young Simba in the Broadway musical The Lion King.
His breakthrough came with his role as Lucas Sinclair in the hit Netflix series "Stranger Things," where he quickly became a fan favorite and solidified his status as a rising talent in Hollywood.
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Anna Diop
Role: Varinia / Clarence's love-interest
Diop’s resume includes series such as The Messengers, 24:Legacy, and the DC Universe / HBO Max hit Titans.
Born in Senegal, Anna Diop moved to America at the age of six before moving to New York a decade later to pursue her career in acting and modeling. She ultimately debuted in 2006 on the hit series Everybody Hates Chris.
Omar Sy
Role: Barabbas
Omar Sy gained international fame with his role in the French film The Intouchables, which earned him a César Award for Best Actor, the first Black recipient. Since then, he has appeared in major Hollywood films such as Jurassic World and X-Men: Days of Future Past.
In The Book of Clarence, Sy's charismatic screen presence and exceptional acting talent shine through his portrayal of Barabbas the Immortal, a former gladiator slave.
Micheal Ward
Role: Judas Iscariot
Micheal Ward is a rising star who gained widespread recognition for his roles in the critically acclaimed film Blue Story and the popular Netflix British crime drama Top Boy.
His performances have earned him several accolades, including the BAFTA Rising Star Award in 2020. Ward’s talent and screen presence make him an exciting addition to the film’s cast.
Fun fact: Micheal Ward was a successful model before transitioning into acting, working with prominent brands like JD Sports. He even won the Face of JD Sports modeling competition.
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Alfre Woodard
Role: Virgin Mary
Legendary actress Alfre Woodard has garnered critical acclaim for her work in films like Cross Creek, Passion Fish, and Clemency, as well as TV series like Luke Cage and Desperate Housewives.
Woodard's inclusion in The Book of Clarence brings a wealth of experience and talent to the film.
Tune in to the BET Awards 2024 on Sunday, June 30 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET.
