The Tribune

CITIZENS' Review host Erin Ferguson conducted interviews with two of Hollywood's finest actors - Academy award winner Morgan Freeman and "24" star Dennis Haysbert.

The men discussed a number of topics, ranging from their experiences in the Bahamas, to their mentor and role model, Bahamian actor extraordinaire Sir Sidney Poitier.

Both spoke of watching him as young actors, and modelling themselves on his bearing on and off the screen.

The interviews were organised by organic farmer and Cat Islander Pamela Poitier, the daughter of Sir Sidney, and creative director of Citizens' Review David Hayes, his grand-nephew.

Pamela said she believes it is very important that young Bahamians who aspire to be artists get a chance to hear from some of the best in the business.

"Listening to their stories about persevering against the odds, and just not giving up, can help to spread a message to young people that it is possible for them to express themselves through the arts and our culture or in any way and enjoy life freely while doing it," she said. "We have to bear in mind the power behind the story of these amazing actors that were both inspired by a man who is from right here on our soil, a Bahamian from Cat Island, Sir Sidney Poitier.

"I think it is important that Bahamians begin to understand and engage the power that can be cultivated from the arts and culture of this country, the kind of power that has in history brought about revolutions and changed the world".

During the interview, Morgan Freeman talked about some of his past roles and working with different actors like Clint Eastwood in many films, especially Invictus, in which he played Nelson Mandela.

Mr Freeman also talked about qualifying to fly a plane at age 65, a pastime he shares with other A-list actors like John Travolta and Tom Cruise.

Turning to Sir Sidney, he said: "When I was a teenager and he hit the screen, I knew that was it for me. I read everything about him I could find, and everything he wrote.

"Then I got a chance to meet him, and he said to me 'You do good work' - that was a great moment for me".

His message to young people: "When you pick the right instrument, you know it! Keep it in your hand, whatever it is - scalpel, paint brush, wrench, doesn't matter, you know you've got the right tool when you get it in your hand. First time I stepped on stage I knew that's what I wanted."

Dennis Haysbert talked about understanding that his success has been "a mixture of luck and creating your own luck".

He said his father wanted him to get a trade and a stable line of work, fearing a life of instability - a common narrative for young artists - but his mother and siblings always supported his ambitions.

After seeing he was focused and determined to be successful, his father eventually supported him as well, Mr Haysbert said.

His message to young people was: "You can't go into it thinking you are going to change the world, you have to go in there as an artist and then find your way.

"It will come to you, it will come to you - all you have to do is go out and get started."