Why is Donald Glover so cool? – Clacking in Color

It is common knowledge that role models can have a significant impact on the influence of some individuals. I don’t know if this theory has been proven, but I’d like to think that it has some sort of relevance. Generally in the African-American community, role models that tend to resemble us can be rather meaningful when it comes to career choices — at least this is what I’ve encountered. I certainly can’t speak for everyone. After all, we’re all different. With an interest in writing and acting, my family members generally chose Oprah as a prime example for me. I can’t argue with that. That woman runs the world. However, as I moved into college, some people — friends and teachers alike — would recommend Tyler Perry as a substantial archetype. Eh. There’s nothing wrong with a brother wearing a wig in a melodramatic comedy filled with tired clichés, but I don’t know if that’s for me. To each their own.

No, when I think of a role model, the ones that particularly share my same interests, only a select few come to mind. One of those groovy individuals is Donald Glover … no, not the guy from The Color Purple. No, y’all. That’s Danny. I’m talking about Donald. You may know him by his stage name of Childish Gambino or perhaps you may recognize him from NBC’s horribly underrated sitcom Community. Yeah? You do? Great! That’s the one!

So, now that we’ve got that cleared up, let’s chat! In my humble opinion, Donald Glover is all sorts of cool, and as someone that has big aspirations, I find his trajectory to be one of supreme inspiration. He’s someone that I admire. He’s someone that I want to be. He’s also someone that makes me sick. Yes, I said it. I’m insanely jealous of Glover’s career. Does that make me a bad person? Of course not. I haven’t robbed a bank. I haven’t slapped an infant in the face. I’m just saying that if Donald Glover and I knew each other, we’d probably be frenemies. I’d probably trip him at an awards show … and then run. I’m just saying.

In last week’s column, I focused on the talent that is Audra McDonald, and while I’ve never been envious of McDonald, the same can’t be said for Glover. Why am I so jealous (and proud) of him? Oh, let me count the ways …

1. He can write! You know, I had aspirations of attending New York University to study dramatic writing. True story. Unfortunately, my pockets said otherwise. Glover graduated from NYU with a degree in dramatic writing and went on to write for The Daily Show and 30 Rock. Anyone who knows me knows that I love me some Liz Lemon. I own every season on DVD. Every time I see Glover’s name in the credits, I want to go out and shoot a squirrel with a sling shot. I’m kidding. I promise! Still, it’s a nail in the coffin!
2. He can act! Anyone who’s seen an episode of Community knows what Glover is capable of. I’ve done a few community theatre shows, but I’ve never been on actual television. Well, there was that time that I wished to achieve stardom by wondering around the background of a local news report on campus, but that doesn’t count. Or does it? Can I put that on my resume? Anyway, Glover’s actually a pretty decent actor. He can deliver a line and he’s pretty good at conveying emotions.
3. He can rap! The closest I’ve come to be an effective rapper is wrapping Christmas presents. Zinger! Pow! However, the fact that Glover is able to add this third talent to his growing list is rather impressive. I have to give him his props.
   
4. He can dress! The dude just appeared in a campaign for Gap fashion! So, what — now he’s a model all of the sudden? When will it stop, folks? When will it stop?
   

And there you have it — the four top reasons why Glover makes me sick … and happy … but mostly just sick! However, despite how nauseous he may make me, I still have nothing but the utmost respect for the dude. You can’t deny talent, and there’s no way of doubting his capabilities. I’m just saying that I wish I could be him for a day. Ah, that would be nice. Hmmm. …

Sorry. I blacked out for a second. Generally that’s what happens when I envision myself being rich and famous. Make no doubt about it, Glover’s definitely going to make a name for himself and I’ll be watching his career with great interest. Who knows? Perchance I’ll find success and bump into him in Hollywood. Maybe we’ll be costars in a movie one day. Now there’s a thought! If that’s the case then he’d better get ready because the gloves are definitely coming off.

Clacked by Jaylen Christie
on Mar 13, 2012 @ 13:46 EST5EDT