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Part 3: Clifton Powell: Angela Bassett & I Were So Poor Coming Up We Only Had $11 Between Us
Part 1: Clifton Powell on Losing His Mother to Suicide at Age 4: She Just Walked Into the Night
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Clifton Powell recently shared memories of his debut film role in the 1990 classic *House Party*. Before landing the part, Powell balanced acting ambitions with a job at NYU, working in social services while navigating the challenges of breaking into Hollywood. He credits persistence and positivity for opening doors, recalling how a chance encounter with the Hudlin brothers at a Venice Beach party led to his audition and subsequent role as Brother Sam.
Despite the small role, Powell fondly remembers earning $500 for the week — a significant amount for him at the time. At the film’s premiere, he faced skepticism from others who didn’t immediately recognize his presence on screen, highlighting the struggles newcomers often face. Powell praised *House Party* for breaking ground, helping rappers transition into acting roles, and paving the way for influential hip-hop films like *Menace II Society*.
