Young, Fine & Black: Cory Hardrict Talks His ‘Rollercoaster’ Career And Playing The Villain In ‘Die Like A Man’ [Exclusive] - Page 2

You’ve played heroes, heartbreakers, and now a villain. Which type of role challenges you the most, and which one feels most authentic?

Action roles challenge me the most because of the physicality and emotional range—they give me an adrenaline rush. But I love gangster roles, too. They feel more grounded and human. I’m not a gangster, but I’ve got a little edge in me. That helps bring depth to those characters.

This film also addresses gentrification, gang culture, and LA’s changing identity. Why was it important for you to be a part of this story?

I’ve never done an LA story. I grew up watching LA films in the ’90s like Boyz n the Hood and Menace II Society. They made a lasting impact on me and inspired me to act. This film, directed by Eric Nazarian—who trained under John Singleton—gave me the chance to bring my Chicago background into an LA setting and represent the culture authentically. That was important to me.

You were spot on in your portrayal of Solo. He’s a complex father figure. Talk about the emotional weight of playing someone caught between survival and redemption.

I’m a father, so I channeled that energy into Solo, even though the advice he gives in the film is misguided. There’s always danger in his tone—you feel his control and need for power. He wants respect, he wants to be looked up to, and that’s what gives him life. That duality—of care and control—adds emotional weight to the role.

Your character Solo is also intimidating, even scary at times, but he’s also deeply layered. What do you hope viewers take away from this film?

I hope they see the humanity beneath the menace. Solo is a man shaped by his environment, driven by power and control, but also capable of emotion and mentorship. The film reflects real stories—of survival, gentrification, fatherhood—and I hope it resonates with people, especially those from communities like the one portrayed in the movie.

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