Nelsan Ellis
Den of Geek Interviewed Nelsan at MCM Expon in London, last week.
One of the esteeemed guests at the MCM Expo back in October was Nelsan Ellis, whose performance as Lafayette in the southern-fried vampire series True Blood has brought the actor to the attention of TV fans and slash-fiction writers the world over. As part of the Expo’s festivities, he took part in a Q&A session on the main stage, fielding queries from all and sundry – speaking of his introduction to True Blood, the creation of Lafayette, and working with show creator Alan Ball.
What is it like for you, when you come to conventions like this, and you see all these people who respect your work?
It’s flattering. When an actor experiences people appreciating his work, it feels good.
How did you first become involved in the series?
I auditioned! I had four auditions, and for some reason, Alan Ball hired me.
Did you know anything about the books [The Southern Vampire Mysteries series] before you auditioned?
I did not know anything about Charlaine Harris’ books. My agent told me to audition, and I read seven of the books – I think at the time she had only seven done. My character dies after the first book, so I was like, ‘damn!’, but I read all seven before the audition.
The more I read of Nelsan the more interesting I find him. What would you do if you weren’t an actor? A lawyer, to represent all the criminals in my family. LOL
Nelsan really brought this character to life. Genius actor! I like how’s he’s like, “my agent told me to, so I did!” Still so happy AB didn’t kill him…
Nelsan is just the most colorful character on the show! what they have done with the character is so much more than one could imagine – and it “hints” that things are going to get even better! Hope they keep him on the show thruout it’s reign!!