Son of an educator and a psychologist, Cheadle has always been inspired by the greats. From fellow actors to musicians, Cheadle has used that inspiration to forge ahead of his career.
“In my career, I’ve seen a lot of people who are doing it in a way that makes sense, that works,” says Cheadle. “I’m thinking of Denzel Washington in Devil in a Blue Dress, of director Paul Thomas Anderson, and of George Clooney. But I wouldn’t trade my career with any of them. I focus on achieving longevity by being diverse and doing good work.”
Now, Cheadle is about to embark on a new path, his directorial debut in the film, Miles Ahead, featuring a glimpse into the life of jazz musician or social musician as he liked to be called, Miles Davis.