Quinn Hemphill on Acting in Bad Boys: Ride or Die – Interview

Published: September 24, 2024 | Last Updated: October 3, 2024

Actress Quinn Hemphill recently made her Hollywood big-screen debut as the 16-year-old Callie in the movie blockbuster Bad Boys: Ride or Die (2024), which starred Will Smith, Martin Lawrence, and Vanessa Hudgens.

I was interested in learning more about her experience. So here are five Q&A with a film industry pro:

Q: What was the audition process like?

My wonderful agent secured me the audition! When I get an audition, I receive a breakdown of the project including the director, producers, and location of the shoot. “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” was using a code name, but I used some context clues from the breakdown to figure out that it was the newest Bad Boys film!

I prepared by watching the three previous movies, which was super helpful. I filmed my audition from my home studio. I found out a few weeks later that I was “pinned” – which means the production wants to confirm that you will be available if they offer a booking. Then, five days later, I got the call that I had booked! I was on set ten days later and shot for three months.

Fun Fact: Did you know Quinn is a former writer on FilmDaft? Here’s a link to her great articles on acting.

How did you prepare for the role after you got the part?

I rewatched the movies several times to really get a sense of the world that Callie lived in.

I also did script analysis to get specific about my relationships to the other characters and to my environment. 

What was it like being on such a big set, and what surprised you the most?

It was incredible! I was really fortunate to have had this experience on a franchise film, because so many of the cast and crew have been working together for decades. Because of that, it was a very familial and welcoming environment.

I was most surprised by how accessible and down to earth all of the seasoned actors that I worked with were. Will and Martin treat the cast and crew with such respect and kindness, and it was a privilege to work under their leadership. I was also surprised by how many food and drink options there were at crafty! We even had a juice bar!

What are three things you learned and take with you in your acting career?

I learned a significant amount about stunt work!

I also gained skills in comedic timing simply by watching comedy legend Martin Lawrence work.

Finally, I learned how to make a cafecito while we were shooting overnight in Miami!

Do you have any advice for young actors who dream about making it to the big screen?

Just keep putting in the work. So much of the industry can feel like it is shouting into the void with virtual auditions right now, but you never know when that call will arrive! Trust yourself and trust that what is yours will not pass you.

Root for your friends and build a strong, supportive community in the industry—we are all the next generation of artists who will succeed together!

Get to Know Quinn Hemphill

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