'COFFEE AND KAREEM’S' TERRENCE LITTLE GARDENHIGH ON COMEDY AND PLAYING THE CURSING KID ON FILM

12 years old Terrence Little Gardenhigh is the breakout star of Netflix’s recent police, adventure film COFFEE AND KAREEM. In the film, Gardenhigh plays Kareem, the son of Taraji P. Henson’s character Vanessa Manning who is dating the cop named Coffee (Ed Helms).

The film is a surprising rollercoaster of comedy, adventures and misadventures, mainly because of Gardenhigh and Helm’s witty, on-point, comedic banters. It’s a nice little take on a family drama, a kid growing-up, and a poke at the corrupt people in the police force.

In this exclusive interview, the young actor dishes on his role as Kareem, booking the role, working with Ed Helms and Taraji P. Henson, and playing Miles in the Nickolodeon comedy series danger force.

PHOTOGRAPHER: CALEB SHANE, STYLING: PATRICK LYNERE, GROOMING: ELIVEN QUIROS

What’s the best thing about playing Kareem in Coffee and Kareem?

The best thing about playing Kareem is that I was able to be in scenes with everybody. I actually got to experience how everybody gets into character and does their thing. It was amazing to witness!

How was it to work alongside Taraji P. Henson, Ed Helms and the cast of Coffee and Kareem?

Amazing and scary. I mean I was surrounded by the greats. People that have been doing this and killing it for years. All I could think about was how I'm going to have to curse Mr. Ed out, LOL and Miss Taraji (or Mama T as I call her) is going to hear me saying this stuff. Everyone will hear it! Once they talked to me and Mama T said, “Baby, don't worry, we got you, you are amazing. Just give it all you got. No one will judge you.” Then Mr. Ed said, “Terrence, do you want me to make you look bad? Well, you better bring it!” I just forgot about Terrence and became Kareem. It became easier every day.

How did you land the part?

I auditioned. I had 2 callbacks, a chemistry read, and then a table read. I did not find out for another two weeks, and boy did I suffer. I really wanted this role. I studied and practiced hard for it.

How much do you like doing comedy?

I love it so much that I binge watched stand-up comedy or anything funny I can find. I just like to make people laugh and smile. I got into trouble when I would do it in school, but now I can do it and get paid. That's crazy and so dope. I’m grateful.

What inspired you to pursue acting?

Visiting Disneyland with the Boys and Girls Club and dancing on stage. People were clapping and smiling and I felt so good. When I came home, I told my mommy I wanted to be an actor. She said “Oh baby, that's so nice! Now go sit down somewhere.” She did not take me seriously at first, but I didn't give up.

Tell us a little bit about your character Miles in Danger Force. What’s the coolest thing about paying Miles?

Miles is the twin brother to Mika who is also on the show. He is an old soul and proud of who he is. He is not afraid because he believes the Universe has his back— all he has to do is listen to his heart. Miles is so serious that he does not realize he is funny. I love playing him because he is a lot like me and I love bringing him to life.

How do you balance your time?

Prior to our isolation due to COVID-19 , it was pretty easy because we had a solid schedule for school and work. It was just about following the schedule. Now, I complete my homework and play PlayStation until I have some job-related obligations to complete.