In a world where success in Hollywood often seems like a roll of the dice, actor McKinley Freeman has found a source of inspiration and discipline in his martial arts training. Before making a name for himself in the entertainment industry, Freeman had a successful corporate career that allowed him to travel the world. However, he couldn’t shake the feeling that there was something more he was meant to do.
After booking some of his first acting roles, Freeman left behind his corporate job and moved to Los Angeles to pursue his dreams in Hollywood. He recently wrapped up his role as Lewis Stewart in Hulu’s legal drama “Reasonable Doubt,” where he stars alongside Emayatzy Corinealdi as Jax Stewart. The show delves into complex relationship issues and has garnered critical acclaim for its thought-provoking dialogue.
Freeman’s upbringing in martial arts, particularly Shaolin Kung Fu, has deeply influenced his approach to life and his career in Hollywood. His father, who taught Kung Fu, instilled a sense of discipline in Freeman from a young age. The focus on principles and functional application of movements in martial arts has translated into Freeman’s dedication to his craft and his ability to navigate the challenges of the entertainment industry.
For Freeman, martial arts isn’t just about physical training—it’s also about mental and emotional discipline. He has learned to separate himself from outcomes and focus on controlling what he can in any situation. Whether an audition goes well or not, Freeman treats himself to cupcakes as a way of celebrating his effort and dedication.
Freeman’s love for martial arts extends beyond Kung Fu, as he has trained in various disciplines like Muay Thai, Jeet Kune Do, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He sees jiujitsu as a way of problem-solving, akin to playing Tetris where blocks are trying to choke you. He encourages others to try martial arts for the offensive and defensive skills it cultivates, as well as the comfort it provides in uncomfortable situations.
In pursuit of his passion for martial arts, Freeman has invested in Breakdown Academy, a school in Hollywood that offers high-quality training in various disciplines. The discipline and dedication he brings to his training reflect his approach to acting, where he immerses himself in each role and strives to bring out the subtleties and nuances of the characters he portrays.
As Season 2 of “Reasonable Doubt” continues to stream on Hulu, Freeman is already working on landing his next opportunity in Hollywood. With his mornings dedicated to cardio and his days filled with acting and martial arts training, Freeman is a testament to the power of discipline and dedication in achieving one’s dreams. Keep an eye out for McKinley Freeman’s name on future productions, as his commitment to his craft continues to propel him forward in the entertainment industry.