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https://blackgirlnerds.com/ryan-michelle-bathe-discusses-her-new-role-on-nbcs-the-endgame/
We’ve seen her play the brilliant Rachel on the CBS legal drama All Rise and dedicated ex-attorney Ari Montgomery on First Wives Club for BET+. Now, Ryan Michelle Bathé is front and center as Agent Val Turner on NBC’s new thriller drama The Endgame.
The series co-stars Morena Baccarin as Elena Federova, an international arms dealer who has just been captured. Elena is always two steps ahead of everyone. The only person who can go toe-to-toe with her is Bathé’s character FBI Agent Val Turner. Val is smart and plays everything by the book. Viewers will quickly realize that these two have more going on than meets the eye. Seeing two women at the forefront of a show where we usually see men is hopeful and refreshing.
BGN had the opportunity to speak with Bathé via Zoom to discuss her new role, what we can expect from her character, and how she manages the pressures of Hollywood.
The Endgame is action-packed and such an exciting show. You play Agent Val Turner. Can you tell us more about this character and how you prepared to play her?
We have a fantastic woman on our show who is our FBI consultant, and she’s incredible. So, just very specifically, I worked with her, we spoke on the phone, we still speak on the phone, and she’s on set. She went with me when I did my weapons training and was there to help me out. So, those are much more tactical or tactile things that I did. Again, the situation that we find ourselves in is incredibly heightened. So, there’s only so much that she can help with, because it’s an impossible situation that we find ourselves in. It’s not based on anything real that she’s found herself doing in her career. Between her and working with the weapons, those are two things that pop out.
Right now, the writers haven’t necessarily developed Val in any way. Because what is needed right now is Val, the FBI agent, to show up and solve. When people watch the show, it’s moments very much happening in real time. So, we’re not dropping in on Val after a traumatic event or during a traumatic event. We’re dropping in on her at a very heightened time in her life, in a short amount of time in her life. She has a job to do. She has to continue to focus on the job because lives are in danger. It’s a little bit like Jack Bauer, in a sense.
There are two women at the forefront of this show — Agent Val Turner and Elena “The Queen.” Even being on opposite sides, would you agree they both have something to prove, while actually having a lot in common?
It’s interesting that you say that. Justin Lin who directed our pilot said something really interesting to me: “I see this as an example of the American Olympic and athletic system versus the Russian Olympic and athletic system.” Where Russia basically scours the countryside and the cities of their country, if they see a three-year-old do a flip they get picked. Whereas in the United States, we have a much more American idea of things. The movie Rocky is a classic example. He’s down and out, he doesn’t have much, he’s got a little grit. We as Americans feel like it’s our grit and our gravy, and that we do have something to prove. The American way of doing things is that we have to prove ourselves. The Eastern European way of doing things is that they don’t have anything to prove because they’ve been doing it all their lives. But Agent Val does have something to prove.
There are so many pressures in Hollywood, particularly for Black creatives. How do you keep yourself mindful and grounded?
To continue my Rocky metaphor, when I got this job, the recurring phrase was “You’ve worked so hard!” By the hundredth time, I’m like, “What have I been presenting to the world?” Yes, I’ve worked hard and I am proud of my hard work. I’ve been knocked down a lot. I think what helps me stay grounded is almost the reverse. I’ve never been handed anything. I’ve never been given anything. I’ve never looked the way you’re supposed to look in Hollywood. I’ve never been in the right place at the right time in Hollywood. I’ve never impressed the right people when I’ve gotten in front of them — they’ve been completely and totally unimpressed. What keeps me grounded is that there is nothing that’s ever inflated my ego. I’m grateful to God that all of my experiences haven’t made me bitter because it can also go the other way. I feel like I’ve had so many moments that have grounded me in deep wells of compassion for myself and other people.
The Endgame premieres Monday, February 21, 2022, on NBC.
We’ve seen her play the brilliant Rachel on the CBS legal drama All Rise and dedicated ex-attorney Ari Montgomery on First Wives Club for BET+. Now, Ryan Michelle Bathé is front and center as Agent Val Turner on NBC’s new thriller drama The Endgame.
The series co-stars Morena Baccarin as Elena Federova, an international arms dealer who has just been captured. Elena is always two steps ahead of everyone. The only person who can go toe-to-toe with her is Bathé’s character FBI Agent Val Turner. Val is smart and plays everything by the book. Viewers will quickly realize that these two have more going on than meets the eye. Seeing two women at the forefront of a show where we usually see men is hopeful and refreshing.
BGN had the opportunity to speak with Bathé via Zoom to discuss her new role, what we can expect from her character, and how she manages the pressures of Hollywood.
The Endgame is action-packed and such an exciting show. You play Agent Val Turner. Can you tell us more about this character and how you prepared to play her?
We have a fantastic woman on our show who is our FBI consultant, and she’s incredible. So, just very specifically, I worked with her, we spoke on the phone, we still speak on the phone, and she’s on set. She went with me when I did my weapons training and was there to help me out. So, those are much more tactical or tactile things that I did. Again, the situation that we find ourselves in is incredibly heightened. So, there’s only so much that she can help with, because it’s an impossible situation that we find ourselves in. It’s not based on anything real that she’s found herself doing in her career. Between her and working with the weapons, those are two things that pop out.
Right now, the writers haven’t necessarily developed Val in any way. Because what is needed right now is Val, the FBI agent, to show up and solve. When people watch the show, it’s moments very much happening in real time. So, we’re not dropping in on Val after a traumatic event or during a traumatic event. We’re dropping in on her at a very heightened time in her life, in a short amount of time in her life. She has a job to do. She has to continue to focus on the job because lives are in danger. It’s a little bit like Jack Bauer, in a sense.
There are two women at the forefront of this show — Agent Val Turner and Elena “The Queen.” Even being on opposite sides, would you agree they both have something to prove, while actually having a lot in common?
It’s interesting that you say that. Justin Lin who directed our pilot said something really interesting to me: “I see this as an example of the American Olympic and athletic system versus the Russian Olympic and athletic system.” Where Russia basically scours the countryside and the cities of their country, if they see a three-year-old do a flip they get picked. Whereas in the United States, we have a much more American idea of things. The movie Rocky is a classic example. He’s down and out, he doesn’t have much, he’s got a little grit. We as Americans feel like it’s our grit and our gravy, and that we do have something to prove. The American way of doing things is that we have to prove ourselves. The Eastern European way of doing things is that they don’t have anything to prove because they’ve been doing it all their lives. But Agent Val does have something to prove.
There are so many pressures in Hollywood, particularly for Black creatives. How do you keep yourself mindful and grounded?
To continue my Rocky metaphor, when I got this job, the recurring phrase was “You’ve worked so hard!” By the hundredth time, I’m like, “What have I been presenting to the world?” Yes, I’ve worked hard and I am proud of my hard work. I’ve been knocked down a lot. I think what helps me stay grounded is almost the reverse. I’ve never been handed anything. I’ve never been given anything. I’ve never looked the way you’re supposed to look in Hollywood. I’ve never been in the right place at the right time in Hollywood. I’ve never impressed the right people when I’ve gotten in front of them — they’ve been completely and totally unimpressed. What keeps me grounded is that there is nothing that’s ever inflated my ego. I’m grateful to God that all of my experiences haven’t made me bitter because it can also go the other way. I feel like I’ve had so many moments that have grounded me in deep wells of compassion for myself and other people.
The Endgame premieres Monday, February 21, 2022, on NBC.
Fans of Minecraft, young and old, dig into this list of the best Minecraft plush, Action Figures, and Lego sets, specially crafted just for you!
Hello all, I’m back, and once again I bring nerdy food for the soul. Today we’ll be diving into the game that’s held many in its grip for the last ten years: Minecraft! For this list, I uncovered the best Minecraft plush, action figures, and Lego sets out there. So, break out your pickaxes, protect your diamonds, and remember to watch your back—you never know if a creeper is nearby. Whether you’re into single player or multiplayer, crafting buildings or exploding them, I have some real interesting finds any fan of the franchise, new or old, will enjoy!
Want to expand the world Minecraft beyond the game? Check out our list of Minecraft-themed bedroom ideas for kids. Or take the love outdoors and explore our list of the best Minecraft clothes for kids.
Got all that? Now, let’s get crafting!
Minecraft Plush
Starting off this Minecraft plush section, we have the OG classic for you, but most of you know him as Steve! Or maybe you just prefer to call him “the player.” Hey, I don’t judge. Besides, I think as long as you’re crafting them mines, Steve doesn’t mind too much either. It’s funny to think about, but where we would be without good old Steve? Daytime or nighttime, he’s perfect for you or your little miner to snuggle up to.
Listen, just because someone looks at you kind of funny doesn’t mean you attack them, right? I mean, you were the one just standing there like a weirdo, but hey, we get it; you don’t like direct eye contact. Sorry for having eyeballs, I guess. Truth be told, I love this, and, honestly, I need it because just the thought of an Enderman running with those gangly limbs makes me laugh.
So, I know we’ve all been there but it must be mentioned. Don’t you just hate when you’re building away, “mining” your own business (I’m sorry), and some adorable yet slightly detestable creature sets out to ruin your morning? Yeah, me too. I mean, I get it creeper. My newly built house is too tempting for a ticking green bomb with legs. But hey, I guess I’m wrong for just wanting to have nice things. Sad.
When you look at this, how can you not want to snuggle it? Maybe you’ve even got the urge to squish it and watch it floof back up. Just a thought, but maybe it would be cool to have a life size one you can ride on like in the game. This ain’t that, so I guess you’ll have to settle for an adorable 7 inch plush version.
Sometimes dark, unsettling creatures can be weirdly cute. I mean, this Minecraft plush shouldn’t be as precious as it. Furthermore, I’m compelled to wonder how and why it was made so precious. In short, these things are literally designed to take you out in the game. And yet, there it is, looking at me with the most adorable eyes. Am–am I falling in love with the Ender Dragon?
Minecraft Action Figures
Alex appreciation time. Certainly, Steve might be the main face of the game but Alex her has her followers too. She’s often seen a lot in the game’s merchandise. However, to be honest, it’s sad that even thought she’s a playable character herself, she’s slightly overshadowed by Steve. So, it’s nice to see her featured in any type of form. In addition, the detail and care always great.
The normal response to seeing a zombie is to fight back and/or run. It’s logical and possibly the smartest thing to do. However, with this figure you can engage and not get infected. Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like it’s a missed opportunity not to have a pack with every variety of zombie. Get on it Mattel! Why you slacking?!
Hey, is your kid into zombies? Feast on our article about zombies for kids books, games, and toys!
I know what I said about the plush, and, honestly, with this I’m getting the same vibe. Long limbs, creepy purple eyes, and all cute! Seriously, I’m both afraid and in love with this guy! Between him and the Ender Dragon, I’m a lost cause, y’all. Good thing I think the End realm is actually kinda pretty…
So, when I saw this my first question was the following: who gets anxiety and who gets excited? Weird maybe, but hear me out before you judge. I love remembering the first time I experienced something in my favorite fandoms. On one hand, that led me to wonder who gets excited remembering the first time they encountered the Ender Dragon. While on the other hand, I wonder who gets anxious remembering trying to survive this super tough end boss. Just asking, I promise I’m trying to stress anyone out.
Minecraft Lego Sets
Mind you, I haven’t seriously touched Legos since I was young, and now I fear stepping on them as years of memes have ruined me. But these Minecraft sets are so impressive, I’m getting a serious case of FOMO. Also look, you get a tiny Steve, Alex in blacksmith gear, and a cow! Yes, I want those. Yes, I am an adult.
I’ve always wondered what it would be like to be a beekeeper, but a part of me would have hard time trusting them to not swarm me. Certainly, I get you’d have to be trained to deal with them but even then I’d worry. So, this Lego set makes me feel I can live out that thought experiment pretty safely. Finally, I need to call out just how dang cute those bees are, even the angry ones are adorable!
I think, out of all the sets, this one is my favorite. I love the Lego foxes, the parent and baby fox especially, but the arctic fox is great too. However, it’s the fact that the lodge is a giant sleeping fox that seals it for me. Pretty amazing, not going to lie. Maybe, I should keep foxes instead of bees. Hmm…
Let me tell you, I’ve experienced many things in life, but I never realized how much I’d enjoy seeing multiple chickens together. That’s probably one of the strangest things to ever come out of my mouth. Not the weirdest but definitely one of the strangest. I shouldn’t be as obsessed with this as I am, but part of my soul says I need it. So, who am I to ignore such an important call?
When I saw this, I was drawn to two things. First, there’s a Lego Alex in all her Lego glory! Second, there’s a red mooshroom (the little red cow with mushrooms growing on it). Certainly, there are plenty of great parts, like the bucket of milk and the mushroom house. I even really love the spider jockey! But still, mooshroom has my heart. I don’t make the rules.
The post Best Minecraft Plush, Action Figures, and Lego Sets appeared first on Nerdy With Children.
Writer: Tom Taylor / Artist: Bruno Redondo and Adriano Lucas / DC Comics
Nightwing, my favorite book, is back with yet another issue, and this one is a crossover with another Tom Taylor Book: Superman: Son of Kal-El.
Nightwing #89 takes a break from the main Nightwing story and instead we get a fun buddy adventure with the former Boy Wonder and Jon Kent Superman. The story revolves around some mysterious baddies killing super-powered people. Nightwing and Superman have to figure out who they are and why they’re killing people before they strike again.
Like all Tom Taylor stories, the story takes precedence to the characters. This is really a story about relationships, particularly Jon and Dick’s. Jon needs help with his father off-world. He can’t get his regular Clark Kent guidance, and the artificial holo version of our favorite Kryptonian in the Fortress of Solitude isn’t doing it for Jon. So Nightwing reaches out to see if he can help.
To really hit home their bond in Nightwing #89, Taylor shows us moments from the past when Jon was a child, and Dick was a new Nightwing, to show the crux of their relationship, which is a big brother/mentor type of alliance.
I don’t know how Taylor continues to do it, but he always gives us moments like these in almost every issue, that goes so far in reinforcing the audience into caring for these characters. I’m pretty sure this flashback with Dick and Jon was something Taylor made up solely for this issue, but it feels like something he pulled out of a book from ten years ago. That’s how potent it was.
Redondo and Lucas did a good job showing the audience that this flashback was far enough in the past by giving Nightwing an older look. He’s got a shorter haircut and that divisive red uniform that he wore during the New 52. Little things like that are small, but they really add to the validity of the story being told.
As I always say, I’m not usually the biggest fan of crossovers, but I’ve come to realize that anything Tom Taylor writes is absolute gold, so I will always be here for it when he’s involved. The second and final part of this issue takes place in Superman: Son of Kal-El #9. So, see you then!
10 Off-World Fathers out of 10
Enjoying Nightwing? Check out BNP’s other reviews here.
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The post Nightwing #89 Review appeared first on Black Nerd Problems.