Schoolkids - black and white - would call me Kunta Kinte as a cuss. If ever my hair was particularly messy, if ever I looked scruffy at school, I would be called Kunta Kinte. My first impression was that it… — Malachi Kirby Copy Share Image
Kunta Kinte's strength derives from the knowledge of where he comes from, but it struck me that I don't know where I come from.… — Malachi Kirby Copy Share Image
One of the biggest things that I took from playing Kunta Kinte was where his strength came from in knowing where he was from. — Malachi Kirby Copy Share Image
When I heard that 'Roots' was being remade, my first response was, 'Seriously?' I was a bit skeptical. Then I had an audition in… — Malachi Kirby Copy Share Image
I believe it's important to have equal opportunities as a black actor. My way of fighting for it is through my art, by not… — Malachi Kirby Copy Share Image
I found that there were things that God could reveal to me that I could never get myself physically. — Malachi Kirby Copy Share Image
I was 22 when my mother gave me the original box set of 'Roots' and she said, 'I want you to watch this.' I… — Malachi Kirby Copy Share Image
Playing Kunta Kinte is an emotional, physical, spiritual, and mental journey. — Malachi Kirby Copy Share Image
I was taught about slavery, but it was the ancient Egyptians. That's the closest I got to African history. — Malachi Kirby Copy Share Image
My roots go back to West Africa, but my last name is Kirby, which is not an African name. — Malachi Kirby Copy Share Image
There are many people still ashamed of their roots because of the negative connotations that come with being an 'African.' That sentiment exists many… — Malachi Kirby Copy Share Image
My dad passed when I was 6. I found out when I was about 21 that my dad always said acting would be the… — Malachi Kirby Copy Share Image
Kunta Kinte is the closest thing I've ever seen... to a superhero. He's amazing. He's inspirational. — Malachi Kirby Copy Share Image
It's really cheesy, but basically, 'Roots' got me to find out my own roots. — Malachi Kirby Copy Share Image
Kids under, I'd say, 14 are still maturing; they are still growing. They are still understanding themselves. To hit them with something like 'Roots,'… — Malachi Kirby Copy Share Image
