David Oyelowo opens up on 'surreal and unique' Apple series that's a 'career first'

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David Oyelowo Unveils ‘Government Cheese’: A Unique Apple TV+ Comedy-Drama

Acclaimed actor David Oyelowo is embarking on a distinctive project with his latest venture, the Apple TV+ series Government Cheese. The British star, known for his compelling performances in Selma and Apple’s Silo, describes the new comedy-drama as an unparalleled experience in his career. Premiering this Wednesday, April 16th, the show promises to captivate audiences with its fresh narrative and compelling characters.

Oyelowo Embodies Ex-Burglar on a Spiritual Quest

In this innovative historical dramedy, Oyelowo portrays Hampton Chambers, a former burglar who discovers religion while incarcerated during the 1960s. Following his three-year prison term, Chambers seeks to rebuild his life and invent the “Bit Magician,” a self-sharpening drill. However, his aspirations for both worldly success and spiritual awakening are met with numerous obstacles.

Unique and Surreal: Oyelowo’s Take on ‘Government Cheese’

In a recent interview, Oyelowo conveyed his enthusiasm for Government Cheese, emphasizing the originality of co-creator Paul Hunter’s concept, which inspired him to both star in and produce the series.

“It’s one thing to perceive it as unique and surreal, but it’s validating when numerous viewers share that sentiment,” Oyelowo stated. “That’s precisely what I felt when Paul initially presented me with the short film script that evolved into a short film and subsequently this show.”

He further elaborated on the show’s distinctive nature: “It’s genuinely challenging – in fact, this might mark the first instance in my career where I’ve participated in a project that feels genuinely unprecedented. I genuinely struggle to find a comparison; it doesn’t feel derivative. It feels as though we are pioneering something novel that might inspire imitation or serve as a benchmark for subsequent shows.”

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“That uniqueness alone is compelling, not to mention the relatable human elements, the familiar aspects. For my character, it’s fundamentally a spiritual quest,” Oyelowo explained.

Breaking Stereotypes: A Black Family in the 1960s

Government Cheese distinguishes itself in Hollywood by depicting the 1960s through the lens of a predominantly Black cast, notably without making racial conflict the central theme.

“Furthermore, presenting a Black, unconventional family within this context, during an era when depictions of Black individuals often revolve around Civil Rights or racial struggles, sets this apart,” Oyelowo added. “In this narrative, those elements are not at the forefront.”

“Numerous aspects contributed to the feeling that we were venturing off the beaten path, which is always a desirable quality in this art form.”

Family Dynamics and Character Bonds

Upon leaving prison, Hampton faces the dual challenge of reconnecting with his wife, Astoria (portrayed by Simone Missick), and forging relationships with his adult sons: Einstein (Evan Alexander Ellison), an aspiring pole vaulter, and Harrison (Jahi Di’Allo Winston), a skeptical and rebellious young man.

Cast Praises Show’s Originality

Winston, in conversation, lauded the series’ distinctive style, noting: “It possessed a quality reminiscent of filmmakers I admire, such as Wes Anderson or Tim Burton – this truly unique, wonderfully off-center essence. Yet, it revolved around a Black family.”

“I had never encountered anything quite like it, particularly my character, who is both deadpan and highly intelligent, exhibiting a firm defiance in his convictions,” Winston stated.

“It diverged from any character I had previously played. I’ve portrayed numerous troubled Black teenagers, but this character was rooted in something beyond mere stereotype.”

Ellison echoed this sentiment, remarking: “For me, it was refreshing to witness the story unfold and be presented in a manner that doesn’tsolely focus on race or Civil Rights. While these themes are present in subtle ways, they don’t dictate the overall tone of the show, which I found truly compelling.”

“My character specifically, a young Black man in the 60s rejecting offers from Harvard and MIT to pursue pole vaulting, presented a deeply intriguing dynamic, and I was eager to explore that. It was genuinely exciting to delve into Einstein’s motivations.”

Premiere Date and Episode Release Schedule

Apple TV+ subscribers are in for a treat as the first four episodes of Government Cheese will debut on the platform this Wednesday. Subsequent new episodes will be available weekly until May 28th.

‘Government Cheese’ Episode Release Dates:

• Premieres Wednesday, April 16th: First four episodes available
• Weekly Releases: New episodes every Wednesday
• Season Finale: May 28th

Government Cheese premieres Wednesday, April 16th on Apple TV+.

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