Cover + Editorial Photography: Danyel Jones
Breakout actor Dasan Frazier is taking his star profile from social media to “A Different World,” baring it all for the cover of our new October issue.
The viral content creator and groundbreaking influencer has added another notch to his belt, appearing as a recurring cast member on the hit Netflix series reboot. Detailing his journey to the spotlight while reliving his own HBCU experience, Frazier says: “Because Morehouse is my alma mater, there’s already such a personal connection to the legacy of the original series.”
As an ATL resident—via Minneapolis—Frazier has grown from a collegiate athlete into a rising Hollywood figure, having previously appeared in blockbuster projects including “Law & Order,” “Straw,” and “Beyond The Gates.” Reflecting on his foray into entertainment while looking excitedly towards the future, Frazier adds, “I’ve always been someone who enjoys entertaining people and telling stories!”
Frazier spoke exclusively to Brother while on set for this month’s cover shoot. Read below for more behind-the-scenes gems the 26-year-old talent shared with us.
BROTHER Magazine:
How has life changed since you appeared on the new “A Different World” series reboot?
DASAN FRAZIER:
Life has changed in many beautiful ways, and being part of “A Different World” is special to me. Because Morehouse is my alma mater, there’s already such a personal connection to the legacy of the original series, and to now be part of that story—in a new generation—feels surreal.
But beyond the career opportunities, it’s been a reminder that the work I’ve been putting in is starting to reach people. I’m getting to meet new audiences, connect with people who have followed the show for years, and continue growing as an actor and storyteller. It’s exciting, but it’s also humbling because I know this is only the beginning.
When did you first start creating content — and taking it seriously as a profession?
I’ve always been someone who enjoys entertaining people and telling stories! But I started looking at content creation differently when I realized I could use my personality and my experiences to connect with people beyond traditional acting. I started taking it seriously when I understood that social media wasn’t just a place to post, it was a platform to build community, tell stories, create opportunities, and develop a personal brand. Once I made that shift, I became much more intentional about what I was creating and what I wanted people to feel when they interacted with my content.
What motivates you when you wake up each morning?
My family and my purpose. I’ve been blessed to have a great support system throughout my life, and that means a lot to me. I want everything that I accomplish to not only make my family proud, but also contribute to the legacy we’re building together. I’m also motivated by where I come from.
I’m from Minneapolis, and I want kids from my city—and kids from places like it—to see that where you come from doesn’t have to determine where you’re going: you can create a way for yourself, you can dream bigger than your circumstances, and with God, faith, hard work, and the right people around you, you can make those dreams a reality. So, every morning, I’m motivated by the opportunity to keep building, to make my family proud, and to hopefully be an example to somebody who needs to see that it’s possible.
Who would you consider to be your “work bestie” on the cast of the new series?
I honestly don’t think I have a work bestie. We’ve all developed special connections with each other in different ways, and I’m grateful for that. So, in turn, I would say that I have a work family.
Everyone brings something different to the experience, and we’ve been able to support, laugh with, learn from, and grow alongside each other. When you spend that much time together—creating something special—those relationships become bigger than just co-workers. I really feel blessed to have a cast that feels like family.
Why do you think it’s important for people to chase their dreams?
Because nobody else can live your dream for you. I think a lot of people talk themselves out of what they really want because they’re afraid of failing, being judged, or not knowing exactly how they’re going to get there—but sometimes you have to start before you have the entire plan figured out.
My own journey has taught me that the path isn’t always going to be straight; I’ve been an athlete, an educator, a creator, and now I’m continuing to build my career as an actor. Every chapter taught me something that I needed for the next one. Your dream may evolve along the way, but you owe it to yourself to pursue it.
Where do you see the industry of content creation + social media influencing headed towards next?
I think we’re moving toward a world where creators are becoming full-fledged media companies. The lines between acting, entertainment, social media, and traditional media are becoming less defined. People aren’t necessarily waiting for someone to give them an opportunity anymore; they can build an audience, create their own stories, develop brands, and create their own opportunities.
I think authenticity is going to become even more valuable, too, because people can tell when something feels forced. The creators who can genuinely connect with their audience—while also evolving with technology—are going to have a lot of influence moving forward.
TALENT TEAM
Cover Star: Dasan Frazier
(via Marquiś Productions)
PRODUCTION TEAM
Cover + Editorial Photography: Danyel Jones
Producer: Nandi Dawson
Fashion Styling: Ryan Christopher
Fashion Designer: James King
Grooming: Michael E. Lindsey
Studio Location: BID Studios
BROTHER MAGAZINE STAFF
Founder + Editorial Director: Avon Dorsey
Creative Director-at-Large: Kelvin Williams
Editorial Projects Manager: Latease Lashley
Partnerships, Planning + Promotions Manager: Chanel Clemons
Community Manager: Tyler Harris
Editorial Team Lead: Dami Ariyo
Styling + VIP Team Lead: Jada Adkins
West Coast Team Lead: Imari Gabrielle
West Coast Coordinator: Marché Dorsey