Yara Shahidi is back again with another episode of Yara Shahidi’s Day Off. This week’s episode features model/actor Alton Mason. Alton is the first Black male model to walk for Chanel. Yara and Alton hit the gymnastics mat while going into meaningful conversation. They discuss Alton’s career as a model, actor, his family, his desire to advance Africa, and the responsibility he has to represent other black people.

Episode Breakdown (Spoiler Alert)

They begin the episode with stretching. Since Alton Mason had a ten-year stint in the gymnastic world, he understands the importance of stretching. Alton invites a gymnastic trainer, Olivia, to teach them some moves. Hitting the balance beam and trampoline tested their abilities. After, Yara asked Alton to track her how to attack the runway. Yara was a good student but I’m sure she won’t be switching careers anytime soon.

With training over, Alton and Yara sat down for a deeper conversation. Alton opened up about his childhood and how traveling with his dad exposed him to different fashion, music, food, and culture. This exposure prepared Alton for his groundbreaking modeling career. He learned his body in and out, learning how to move with purpose.

“I think it definitely made me aware of my body, my movement…”

Alton Mason (Yara Shahidi’s Day Off)

This was a perfect transition into Alton’s acting career. Alton played Little Richard in the new Elvis movie released 2022.

“It’s so electrifying. It’s overwhelming. It’s transformative.”

Alton Mason (Yara Shahidi’s Day Off)

Alton did a great job impersonating the legend. Understanding Little Richard’s greatness was the first step for Alton. You can tell Alton did his research and it shows on scree.

A Deeper Connection

Yara Shahidi has an ability to dive deep into the mind of her interviewee organically. Yara asked Alton what his most random goal or aspiration was. Without much hesitation, Alton brought up wanting to advance Africa. This is a big goal for Alton but it is not impossible because he feels that is his one of his purposes on this Earth.

The last topic discussed was representing Black people in primarily white spaces. It can be a tough area to be in but it is important for someone to till the ground for those coming behind him.

“I navigate through it with grace.”

Alton Mason (Yara Shahidi’s Day Off)

Alton is navigating these spaces with a great perspective. He understands what his people has gone through to get him to where he is now. If his ancestors could deal with that, then he can’t complain about what he must endure to exist in these white spaces.

Don’t miss this episode titled Trampolines and Balance Beams with Alton Mason. Remember the show can be found on Facebook Watch. Catch all-new episodes of Yara Shahidi’s Day Off streaming every Thursday.