Geek of the Week: Actor Courtney Rice aka Comedian Bangrice
Where are you from originally?
How would you describe growing up there – how’s it different from out here [in California]?
I am originally from Gulfport, Mississippi. Growing up in Mississippi is very family-oriented and super country.
What is your Hogwarts house and why?
My Hogwarts house would be Gryffindor. This would be my house because bravery, nerve, and chivalry are all attributes I value and apply to my daily life.
What are some geeky hobbies you partake in? Why do you like them?
I enjoy anime, comic books, shoes, and live streaming. In anime and comic books, I enjoy the characters, storylines, and variety. I have always been a “shoe head” since I began playing basketball as a kid. [And] live streaming is fun! Reaching out and getting to know people.
When did you realize comedy was something you were interested in actually doing?
I realized I was interested in comedy when I was seven years old after hearing Eddie Murphy’s show: Delirious.
If you could take the place of any fictional character from any book, TV show, comic, or film – who would you choose? And why?
If I could take the place of any character, I would choose Hancock, whom I relate to. [Hancock‘s] a movie with Will Smith. I relate [to him] because he’s a reluctant hero who feels under-appreciated but tries to act like it’s no big deal and once he gets himself together, a woman comes along and messes everything up for him. Oh, also it’s in his DNA to protect people. It’s just who he is. He can’t turn it off, no matter how hard he tries.
Who is someone you look up to and why?
Feel free to name two or three. (Preferably a real person)
I look up to my fourth-grade basketball coach, Haskell. He was a smart man who was very motivated and taught me a lot. I look up to the food vlogger, Mark Wiens. I love his lifestyle: traveling, getting to experience other cultures, and his overall positive attitude. I also look up to comedian, Jo Koy. He is a very down-to-earth and great guy.
Tell me about a time you had to pick yourself back up career-wise. What or who helped you get there?
I have to pick myself up every day. My biggest motivation for all I do is my family.
What are some current projects and/or goals you’re working on?
I am currently working on my own talk show: Get a Life Out of Bang.
Just because I think it would be funny to read about – what was it like working with me previously? How did we meet each other?
We met at Flappers. It was like meeting [and working with] a cool person at Flappers.
Do you have a favorite inspiring quote (by whom)?
“How you think so shall you become” – Courtney Rice
What is your dream show or project to work on?
My dream show is Saturday Night Live. Ever since I was a kid, I have watched this show and have dreamed about being on that stage.
What is the impact you want to leave on the world?
I want to make the world a better place than when I got here.
What has quarantine been like for you?
How are you keeping yourself occupied?
Quarantine has been good and bad. I have been staying busy writing, editing, and working on my health. It has been bad because not seeing people is difficult and all my shows got canceled.
Where can people follow you on social media?
Twitter: cbangrice
Instagram: @courtney_bangrice
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQhiUcHmQ0ig3uwKr3eUQrg
