Actor Terrence Clowe Transforms for ‘Pretty Hurts’ and ‘Divorced Sistas’

Character actors breathe life into every film and television show by seamlessly transforming themselves into different worlds.

Terrence Clowe has been doing exactly that. Recently, he embodied the strict beauty pageant choreographer Martin in the original Lifetime movie Pretty Hurts starring Haylie Duff, and also emerged in the newest Tyler Perry drama series on BET, Divorced Sistas.

These are only the latest projects for the talented actor. Terrence is also known for his roles as the butler Cali in Hulu’s opioid drama Dopesick, and as Marvel Comics villain Saracen in Disney+ series She Hulk: Attorney at Law. His TV credits also include Mr. Throwback, Will Trent, Hightown, Just Beyond; and films include The Harder they Fall, The Glorias, Angry Neighbors, The Eyes, An Act of Terror among many others. In addition, the Maryland native has performed on stages around the world, from the US to UK, Germany to Japan and more.

What is Pretty Hurts about?

Terrence Clowe: The story centers around Lauren, a High school student who enters a Beauty Pageant her mom once dominated in her youth. In doing so, she is thrust into a dark, toxic world of cutthroat competition and manipulation.

Too preoccupied with the pageant, Lauren doesn’t realize that her best friend Rae is falling seriously ill with an uncommon and potentially deadly disease — meningitis B – prompting her to turn the pageant platform into a tool for awareness.

Where does Martin fit into the storyline?

Terrence Clowe: Martin is the resident choreographer of the Miss Starfire pageant. He was described in the breakdown as bitchy with a bevy of harsh comments for the girls, but I saw him much differently. He wants them all to win. Not necessarily the pageant per se but he wants them to achieve whatever personal goals this experience can offer them whether it be self-confidence and esteem or just excellence on their own terms. My coach Anthony Abeson gave me a great quote, “It is charity to teach.” So, although it is harsh love he’s giving, he ultimately has their best interest at heart.

The movie looks emotionally intense, so what was it like in-between takes?

Terrence Clowe: There are indeed some very emotionally driven moments however, my character was not involved. In reality, he is there when the incident occurs at the Pageant, but I was not called to set for those scenes. Every actor has their own regime to deal with such intensity. I personally have found ways of turning down the dial while still keeping the emotions bubbling for additional takes.  Ultimately it is technique. I trained in the Strasberg method at NYU but over the years I’ve created a tool box for myself using many methods. Sometimes to fully release its breath work or music or just a couple minutes of guided meditation. Whatever works.

How was it working with Haylie Duff?

Terrence Clowe: Crazy enough I didn’t get the chance to meet her. We unfortunately were not called on the same day. But I have been a fan for many years and was very excited to be a part of this project with her. But yeah, bit of a bummer.

Terrence Clowe on set of ‘Pretty Hurts’

You’re also in the new Tyler Perry spinoff Divorced Sistas. What can you tell us about your role in that?

Terrence Clowe: I’m pretty excited for Divorced Sistas! I’ve auditioned for a couple of years for Tyler Perry Studios before landing this gem so needless to say I was very grateful to get the call. I play Dr, Monroe, a passionate family doctor who is concerned for the youth of his community. He has had a front row seat to the perils of addiction and has decided to champion awareness and change the best way he can. Hopefully you’ll watch to see how integral his advice and methods are.

Do you prefer working on film or TV? And as an actor is there a difference in how you approach the work?

Terrence Clowe: I find joy in working in all mediums whether it be TV, Film, Stage, VoiceOvers or Commercials.  It is all the same for me, a chance to create. The pace can be a bit faster on some TV sets especially if you are popping in for a day on an episodic that is in its third season or so. They have established a rhythm and as a day player you need to be prepared to jump onto that moving train without creating any disruption.

Film tends to allow a tad bit more time because the shooting period is longer but depending on your role and the project it can be the same type of process. In theater, there are a few weeks of rehearsals before performing so you are able to establish relationships. I sometimes miss that. In terms of approach to the work I always start with breaking down the script, discovering how I fit into the overall storyline. Then the research and formation of character begins. My overall process is the same.

What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced so far in your career, and how did you overcome it?

Terrence Clowe: It’s all been challenging. No, but seriously I think when you are called to be an artist you suit yourself up for some hardships. I would say the inconsistency of work, keeping yourself motivated and creative during the slow times and financially sound. Also dealing with the emotional highs and lows of coming off a great gig working with Oscar, Emmy and Tony winners then back to auditioning in your living room can be jarring. But honestly, I can’t really imagine myself doing anything else. I’m blessed to tell powerful stories like Pretty hurts that have an important message. I’m also fortunate to meet wonderfully talented people like our great cast and our director Brian Herzlinger. I’m a lucky guy.

What inspires you most in your life and career?

Terrence Clowe: I lost my Father to cancer three years ago. He was a such a giving person who never fully realized his own dreams as he was always caring for others. His work ethic and compassion still resonates with me so I’m inspired to uphold his memory in everything I do. I am also inspired to tell stories that promote change and awareness. I feel as artists it’s our duty to inform society through our art.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Terrence Clowe: Watch Pretty Hurts and let me know how the story resonates with you. I can be found on Instagram: @TerrenceClowe