'I lost my mind': Colman Domingo reflects on 'Boardwalk Empire' rejection and its impact on his career

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Colman Domingo is enjoying his hard-earned success with critically acclaimed performances in ‘The Color Purple’ and ‘Rustin.’

Despite being a recognized actor, he struggled to secure significant roles in his early career. Speaking with the New York Times, the 'Candyman' star opened up about the moment he reached a breaking point, stating, "I couldn't take it anymore."

Facing rejection, Domingo contemplates the future of his acting career

He auditioned for a role in 'Boardwalk Empire,' an HBO drama series, vying for the position of the maitre d’ at a Black-owned nightclub.

Domingo showcased his talents, encompassing singing and tap dancing, which impressed producers. However, despite his efforts, he still couldn't secure the role.

His agent initiated the call by conveying that everyone on 'Boardwalk Empire' had admired his audition. Domingo, according to the New York Times, thought, "This is the one that’s going to change it up for me. This is the one that’s going to finally be my big break."

However, there was one issue, his agent pointed out. Following the callback, a historical researcher on the show reminded producers that the maitre d’s in those nightclubs were typically light-skinned, and Domingo did not fit that description. Consequently, 'Boardwalk Empire' decided to pass on him.

The 54-year-old revealed, “That’s when I lost my mind. I can’t take it anymore, I think this is going to kill me.”

Since then it has been a complete turnaround for the actor, Domingo has bagged an Emmy for ‘Euphoria,’ and featured in Oscar contenders, ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ (2018) and ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ (2020).

Domingo in ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ 

In the latter, he portrays Cutler, as a peacemaker. Acting as the equilibrium within the band, he connects Levee with the other older bandmates, embodying the role of the middle-aged man in the city, as reported by MEAWW.

This closely parallels Ali's character in 'Euphoria,' where Zendaya's portrayal depicts a fluctuation between mania and depression, set against the backdrop of a debilitating drug addiction.

“I became an actor that was ‘offer-only’ probably sooner than the industry thought I should have,” Domingo said. “But I decided I have a body of work. You can go and look at it, you can ask other directors about me, and you can make me the offer or not.”

Netflix's 'Rustin' is presently available for streaming on the platform, and Warner Bros is showcasing his film 'The Color Purple' in theaters across the nation.