Beyond the Gates
Maurice Johnson Opens Up About Time on ‘Beyond the Gates,’ Masculinity and the Roles He Refuses to Play
When Maurice Johnson became the first actor to be replaced in the history of daytime’s newest soap opera, Beyond the Gates, viewers of the show were mostly surprised since he had received positive feedback from many in the series online fanbase.
It was back in May on-screen that Keith D. Robinson stepped into the role, where it seemed the character of Ted was undergoing creatively a bit of a character shift. Robinson came into the story at a very dramatic point just after Ted learns that he has a daughter, Eva (Ambyr Michelle) with Leslie/Dana (Trisha Mann-Grant) and she outs their long-ago affair thus busting up Nicole (Daphnee Duplaix) and Ted’s happy marriage.
Now, for the first time since leaving the CBS soap opera, Maurice sat down for a full-fledged conversation with Brandi Harvey, the daughter of Steve Harvey, for her interview You Tube Series, Vault Empowers. During it, Johnson was very clear and direct about his desire to work in faith-based projects; given he is a pastor’s son and faith is an integral part of who he is, while continuing to be a part of film and TV projects that are in line with the characters he wants to portray, and that he sees himself as a good fit for including action-adventure types, plus his stance on why he chooses not to take on gay roles for himself.
Photo: YouTube
When speaking on how he embodied the role of Beyond the Gates’ plastic surgeon extraordinaire, Dr. Ted Richardson, Johnson shared the keys to becoming his version of Ted, asking yourself as an actor, “How did he walk? What was his mannerisms? How did he dress? What kind of suits he wore, his watches, everything was planned. Everything is intentional,” reflected Johnson. “I think we owe it to our society to show those things. We have an opportunity, we have a platform. We have got all of these eyes that are watching CBS right now. And it’s like, ‘OK, what story are we going to tell?”
Maurice informed Brandi, that when you saw his version of Ted, you were seeing him, which is what he feels viewers of the series resonated with. “I seemed authentic and what my wants and desires were. Every single time before I touched that soundstage, people would laugh at me. I said, ‘I love my wife, I love my kids.’And that was my momentum in that scene to make sure that I gave them that in that scene and hopefully, you know, it was captured.”
Representing a strong masculine man through his acting is important to Johnson, “Manhood is okay. We’ve gotten into the society where everything is just being pushed down our throats. I’m a heterosexual male. Those are the only roles that I play. I’m not going to play any other roles. I’m not going do it justice.” He added, “I want it to be believable. It’s not going to be believable for me. That’s the thing, we have to stand our ground in the roles that we take, as we make this ascent. There may be a lot of opportunities that have been missed out on, but you have to stay true to yourself.”
Photo: JPI
Clarifying why he would never take on a gay role, Johnson expressed, “I’m not gay. (Go) get a gay guy to play this role. If a gay guy saw me play that role they would be “uh-uh,” he’s not right. Ted is me. What you saw on TV (on Beyond the Gates) is me.”
Expanding on that, and the reactions he received from people on the street when he played Ted on Beyond the Gates, “Women walked up to me and would say, ‘I love how you play this role,’ the grandmamas and aunties who say, ‘We have a manly man on TV now.’ I think they need to see that. They need to see positive role models. I wanted kids and young men to look at me like I looked at Bill Cosby. I knew HBCUs because of all of the HBCUs that Cosby wore, every single episode. How did he treat his wife? How did he treat his kids? He raised every single one of them differently. So, you can be manly, empathetic, and be present with your wife.That’s what every woman wants.”
Right now, Johnson is very busy. He is actually getting ready to being production on a faith-based project that he is producing himself starting at the end of the year. He also shared whether its faith-based, action, or soap operas, all of these are the same types of characters with some of the same nuances that he likes to bring to the table.
Watch the full discussion with with Maurice Johnson and Brandi Harvey below.
Then let us know if you miss Maurice on Beyond the Gates, and your thoughts on his stance on the types of roles he will play in TV and film projects, via the comment section below.
This ‘interview’ is so off-putting, and his toxicity is on full display. His very shallow-minded views of what a man is… not the best look. Glad he is no longer in the role of Ted; that role firmly belongs to Keith D. Robinson, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
I had a similar reaction, Scott. “Toxicity” is a spot-on characterization of what comes through in the interview. The whole thing reeked of him trying to find acceptable-sounding ways to express ideas and concepts that totally are not. It’s all very under-the-surface (I have grown so, so tired of “faith-based” as a euphemism for “discriminatory and intolerant,” and I’m gratified whenever I see true Christians–you know, the ones who read the whole Bible and not just the parts that support their own prejudices–trying to take back the narrative), but it’s definitely there; I was actually kind of creeped-out as I read what he was saying because it felt (as it always does in cases like this) like I was being gaslighted.
Although I had no issues with how he played Ted, I have a lot of issues with how he expressed himself here. I mean, come on (and this is just one example): if only gay men can play gay men on screen (in his view), then why can someone who’s not a doctor play a doctor on screen–why is sexuality such a focus for him when he considers what roles he can and cannot/will and will not play? I can only imagine what he was like as a coworker, especially to the openly LGBTQ+ members of the cast.
I wondered, at the time, why he was being replaced; unfortunately, this interview gives a lot of insight, and it isn’t very flattering to him.
Like you, I’ve grown tired of the “faith-based” excuse. Faith does not preach hate from what I’ve seen and been told, and yet, that is exactly what Johnson’s words bleed out. And his attempts to try and make it polished on social media are quite… off-putting.
I absolutely agree; gay men have played ‘straight’ on film and television for years. I understand the sentiment of securing gay roles for gay actors, but I’m of the mind that is counterproductive to the cause.
I always believed the story told to the press that it was his own personal reasons for exiting the role, and his ‘personal reasons’, to me, are bigoted, toxic, and completely shallow-minded. The role is better without him in it. Truly.
I would think Mr. Johnson would have had an inkling of his character’s path as his storyline was one of the first to develop. I consider myself a man and a man of faith, too, but this is daytime drama and the plots often deal with human frailties and redemptions. I took some offense to his approach to roles. Acting is an art of acceptance, allowing others’ stories, experiences, and lives into the practitioner’s own. I accept choices but I am not pleased with the dismissive tone this interview seems to take.
I am curious as to which parts were off-putting, and which parts were toxic.
If you need to ask, then you too are part of the problem.
Good for him ! Bravo he is said it beautifully.
He said nothing but weird platitudes rooted in loopy logic, and clearly he has no desire for growth or challenges as a performer.
Straight men have a lot of growth and challenges … especially today.
Michael, this user continues to post hateful rhetoric throughout your site, especially where this soap is concerned. It’s highly offensive.
hes not an actor and probably closeted
Now that I’m up-to-date on what and why he left the show, I along with pretty much everyone who commented on his story below minus the 1 person who applauded his decision, I am glad he was replaced. I cannot imagine what it was like for the actors who are openly gay deal with his toxic “manhood if you will”. I also thought about the actress who plays Naomi who is a lesbian in real life had to deal with his toxic viewpoints on set. With that all said, I’m glad he’s gone. No more turtle neck shirt/sweater. Thank the top dogs at the show and network for getting his toxic ass as far away from the show as possible. No one needs to deal with that BS, especially his former co-workers! #boybye
A Devil really hates to go with stereotypes, but a guy in a lavender suit giving lectures about masculinity?? Really??
My exact thoughts. Choices were made.
Good one, Satan. And great points by others here! What an off-putting commentary by this actor! His obvious homophobia is offensive. His take on masculinity is vapid. His attachment to his faith is stifling. He’s trying to create such the narrowed niche for himself in the acting field. Good luck with that…
He mentions Bill Cosby as a role model. Is he aware of Cosby’s full story?!?!
Not buying the “holier than thou” attitude. This isn’t from the Bible, but Shakespeare: “Methinks thou doth protest too much.”
I wondered about the Cosby references too, Jamesj75. OK, sure, independent of Mr. Cosby himself, The Cosby Show was a wonderful show in many ways and was a landmark in Black television history (as is BTG). Cliff Huxtable was a fundamentally decent man and a good husband. Mr. Cosby is, by all accounts, neither one—so why oh why if you’re going to pick someone to point to as a role model, would you choose the actor rather than the character he played? It’s either unbelievably tone-deaf (which from this interview, I could believe Mr. Johnson is) or deliberately provocative, take your pick, and neither reflects well on Mr. Johnson.
James…as always…RIGHT ON BROTHER!!!!! To me, during that entire interview, that Maurice Johnson dude was nothing but egotistical, cocky and EVEN MORE arrogant!!!!! Brother…as you already know, I CANNOT STAND arrogant, cocky and egotistical people!!!!! And…to me, that Maurice Johnson jerk HORRIBLY REEKS of all 3 of those disgusting characteristics!!!!! BEYOND YUCK!!!!!
Happy Holidays, Brother.
Just to clarify ….
Gay men can be gay and proud and loud about it.
A straight man cannot be straight and proud of it and have convictions in the roles he chooses as an actor.
Got it.
Checks all the boxes and mantras of inclusivity, tolerance, and personal choice.
I missed the lecture part of this interview. Where is it?
Satan…oh I agree with what you’re saying. Also, to me, that white-looking outfit that he’s wearing in that photo…to me, that photo is sending seriously gay vibes. Just saying.
Oh my God! He sounds just like my toxic dad. That same old black man toxic masculinity syndrome. This article was a hard read, but it’s true. He has a very old school way of viewing the world. That’s fine for him, but he’s an actor….It’s his job to portray a character. With someone like him, you just have to pray for him and ignore him. But I will say this, he is probably on Grindr with no profile. SMH…
Sadly, this is probably why he was replaced.
He’s entitled to his beliefs, but it was not his job to preach to his cast mates or to direct story. His Ted was extremely stiff, and I guess that’s what he calls being masculine. Keith Robinson is doing a great job as Ted Richardson. I wish Mr. Johnson all the best in finding roles that fit his high Lewis standards. Question – Have we seen him in anything else since his departure?
.
I meant to write finding roles that meet his high standards.
I like the original ted very much it would be nice it he return that one acts like a fool like a mindless minion don’t mean to be disrespectful just saying I know it’s a soap he just seemed wrong for the part the original one looked like he was made for the part.
that part!
I actually prefer the new Ted for the role. I didnt care for the way the first Ted would seem to be slightly moving from side to side when speaking. I think the current Ted plays his role well. I remembered him from the movie This Christmas. He’s been acting for quite a while.
Beyond the Gates
‘Beyond the Gates’ Mike Manning Talks Smitty’s Emotional Visit with His Mother (Exclusive)
This week on all-new episodes of Beyond the Gates, as Smitty (Mike Manning) continues to be framed and in hot water for the murder of Dr. Lia Whitmore, he gets some familial back-up when his never-before-seen mother, Jenny Smith arrives in Fairmont Crest to see her son.
Jenny is played by Jennifer Van Horn who made her Beyond the Gates debut on the Wednesday, October 21, which was the same day that Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Daytime Drama Series Emmy nominee, Mike Manning participated in a livestream chat on You Tube’s Michael Fairman Channel.
In story, as Smitty was at home, he received a surprise visit from his mother, who resides in Ohio. Jenny came to support her son through this difficult time. Smitty made note of his disappointment that his father didn’t come with her on the trip, sharing that he knows his dad has never been comfortable around wealth or the Duprees. Smitty also acknowledged how his father didn’t approve of becoming a journalist or moving to the DMV. Later, when Smitty’s husband, Martin returned (Brandon Claybon) he walked in on Smitty getting a pep talk from Jenny.
Courtesy/CBS
SMITTY’S MOM ARRIVES
Manning addressed how he had to keep the appearance of Smitty’s mom on the down low. “I do have a mom now. Yes.! I couldn’t talk about it to anybody. Jennifer Van Horn who plays my mom was so lovely and so nice, and she was great. I love Smitty having some backstory and having a parent.”
And there could be even more Smitty drama to come! Mike shared, “They mentioned Smitty’s father too, so they kind of plant the seeds for maybe more to come, which is nice. I think it really shows that there’s just one more level to the community that is surrounding Smitty. One of my favorite scenes from this entire storyline is when Smitty gets hauled into jail and the entire Dupree family shows up and they all start taking shots at Jacob (Jibre Hordges) and everyone at the police station.”
BEING EMBRACED BY THE DUPREES
Manning, in particular, recalled a moment from fellow Daytime Emmy nominee, Tamara Tunie (Anita Dupree). “I loved when Anita goes, and this is not verbatim, but it was something along the lines of, ‘If Smitty’s not home for dinner, you’re gonna be hearing from Anita Dupree.’ Then, Vernon (Clifton Davis) says something, and Kat (Colby Nixon) comes in and she’s giving him so much sass. I remember watching the episode just being so touched that the entire Dupree family is wrapping around Smitty like this shield, this cocoon. So, it makes this storyline of him being framed a little bit easier to swallow.”
Courtesy/CBS
MORE OF SMITTY’S BACKSTORY TO BE REVEALED?
Speaking of the scenes between Smitty and his mom, Manning felt, “It was very touching. He spoke about how he loved his mom for what she sacrificed, It was one of those mother-son things, but it was poignantly done. I would like them to explore that more, and Smitty’s family, because, I think that it’ll also help inform some of the dynamic between Martin and Smitty. We know that Martin comes from a long line of successful people, whether it’s in entertainment or politicians. His grandfather’s a senator. So, we understand that he grew up in the country club, basically. We don’t really understand where Smitty grew up yet.”
The two-time Daytime Emmy winner also explained that he has his own origin story for Bradley “Smitty” Smith: “Obviously, I have an idea in my head with the backstory that I’ve sort of decided for Smitty, whether or not that’s exactly what the writers are going to throw at me, eventually, who knows? But, I certainly have an idea of why Smitty is the way he is, why he’s so driven, why he takes risks, why he’s so hungry to prove himself and be successful in journalism and everything else.”
You can check out a scene between Smitty and his never-before-seen-mom, Jenny below. Followed by our live chat with Mike Manning after the episode aired.
Now let us know, do you hope Beyond the Gates explores more of Smitty’s backstory? Did you enjoy the debut of Jennifer Van Horn as Smitty’s mom? Share your thoughts via the conversation below. And make sure to catch Mike on the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards streaming next Friday, October 30 to see if he takes home his third gold statuette!
Beyond the Gates
Tabitha Brown and Kandi Burruss Guest Star on ‘Beyond the Gates’ for Dani’s ‘Welcome to Your Life’ TV Special; What Could Go Wrong?
As previously announced, Beyond the Gates is bringing chef, author and actress Tabitha Brown and Grammy Award-winning songwriter, singer and actress Kandi Burruss to Fairmont Crest in a special episode of the CBS daytime drama airing Thursday, October 22.
In the episode, Dani’s (Karla Mosley) best friend Pamela Curtis (Cady McClain), arranges a “Welcome to Your Life” television special for her. As it turns out, Brown will play the show’s host, Tia Allen, while Burruss takes on the role of Dani’s first modeling agent, Kalista Kilroy, who turns the celebration of her life into a bad trip down memory lane.
Dani’s parents Anita and Vernon (Tamara Tunie, Clifton Davis), sister Nicole (Daphnee Duplaix), and daughters Chelsea (RhonniRose Mantilla) and Naomi (Arielle Prepetit) all join the show to celebrate and support her but also witness how things so south. Also appearing in the episode are Molly Figueroa as Tatum Stewart and fan-favorite Anita Williams (Tunie) impersonator Jackie Tyree!
PhotoL JPI
THE 411 ON TIA AND KALISTA
Speaking with TV Insider, about their soapy experience in Fairmont Crest, Tabitha Brown previewed about her host with the most, “Tia is very professional, but she’s a girl’s girl. She is a protector of women and wants to tell their stories in a beautiful way, but she also wants to make sure they’re seen in a very good light.”
However, Burruss previews that Kalista arrives with a score to settle. “She’s spicy,” shared the recording artist. “I always love playing somebody that has come to start trouble. It’s always fun to play a villain of sorts, but Kalista feels like she’s been done wrong and she’s hurt by what she feels has been done to her. So Kalista is stirring up trouble, but she feels justified putting Dani on blast. Kalista is ready for some payback.”
Beyond the Gates is produced by CBS Studios, as part of the CBS Studios/NAACP Venture, in partnership with P&G Studios, a division of Procter & Gamble. Created by head writer Michele Val Jean, executive producers include Val Jean, Sheila Ducksworth, Julie Carruthers, Tracey Thomson, Leon W. Russell, Derrick Johnson, Anna Saalfeld and Lela Coffey.
Beyond the Gates is broadcast weekdays on CBS (2:00-3:00 PM, ET/1:00-2:00 PM, PT) and is available to stream on Paramount+**.
So, looking forward to this special episode of Beyond the Gates when Dani is put on a blast during a blast from her past and Welcome to Your Life TV special? Share your thoughts via the comment section.
Beyond the Gates
‘Beyond the Gates’ and Daytime Emmy Nominee Mike Manning to Chat Live on the Michael Fairman Channel
While Bradley “Smitty: Smith finds himself currently in a whole heap of trouble on Beyond the Gates, his portrayer Mike Manning is getting set for the upcoming 53rd Daytime Emmy Awards where he finds himself nominated in the Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Daytime Drama Series category.
A previous two-time Daytime Emmy winner, Manning will visit You Tube’s Michael Fairman Channel for a livestream chat on Wednesday, October 21 beginning at 7pm ET/4pm PT.
This year, Beyond the Gates broke records becoming a 15-time Daytime Emmy nominated seres, a first in Daytime Emmy history for a new show entering the competition for the first time. Manning will discuss being part of the groundbreaking soap.
Photo: CBS
MIKE MANNING’S UPCOMING PROJECTS
While Manning has his series regular role on Beyond the Gates he is also involved in a myriad of other projects including: his role opposite Nicolas Cage in the film, Madden and the upcoming Anthony Hopkins starring motion picture, Eyes in the Tree, which Manning is featured and also produced.
LGBTQ+ ADVOCACY
Mike first gained nation attention back on MTV’s The Real World D.C., now almost 17 years ago, when he came out on the reality series, which served as an example of early LGBTQ+ representation, leading to thousands of letters from viewers who felt connected to, or felt represented by his journey. Through his advocacy, Manning has served as a youth ambassador for Boo2Bullying and advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, anti-bullying, and environmental protection.
Daytime fans first met Manning as uber-bad guy Charlie Dale on Days of our Lives (2020-2o22) and later for his Emmy-winning role as Caleb McKinnon on The Bay.
This week on all-new episodes of Beyond the Gates, viewers will see the pick-up after Smitty has been framed for the murder of Dr. Lia Whitmore, after being in possession of incriminating pills linked to her death, that were seemingly planted at his home.
If you have a question for Mike, but cannot be with us in the live chat, drop it in the comment section below and we just might ask it on the broadcast.
So, how do you think Smitty will get out of the charges against him? Rooting for Mike at the Daytime Emmys? Share your thoughts and theories via the comment section below.
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