Best Of: ‘Wonder Man’ actor Yahya Abdul-Mateen II / John Coltrane centennial
Summary
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II discusses his Emmy-nominated role in the canceled Marvel series Wonder Man, his journey from city planner to actor, and his personal experiences with stuttering. Saxophonist Ravi Coltrane shares insights on his late father John Coltrane’s legacy, his new photo book, and the pressure of carrying the Coltrane name. The episode also features Ken Tucker’s review of new albums by the Womack Sisters and Margaret Glassby.
Topics discussed
Intro, sponsors, and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II overview
Yahya's career pivot from city planner to actor
Wonder Man: A comedy about auditioning and acting
Discussion on Black-led projects and cancellation
Childhood: Moving often and high school experiences
Family life, stuttering, and double consciousness
Architecture degree, city planning job, and layoff
Decision to attend Yale School of Drama
Review: The Womack Sisters' new soul album
Intro to Robi Coltrane and John Coltrane's legacy
Robi's first experience with Ascension and Elvin Jones
Playing with Elvin Jones and navigating his father's shadow
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