McKinzie J. Scott Joins Cast of ‘Southside Kev’

Rising talent McKinzie J. Scott has landed a role in the eagerly awaited drama “Southside Kev,” which hits theaters and streaming platforms on April 4, 2025. The film, now wrapping up post-production, shines a spotlight on life in Southside Queens, New York, promising viewers an unvarnished look at this vibrant community.

Scott, who grew up in the busy streets of Harlem before finding his way to New York’s Professional Performing Arts School (PPAS), takes on the role of Boy #1 in the production. While the producers are keeping quiet about the specifics of his character, this casting represents yet another stepping stone in Scott’s steady climb through the entertainment industry. His growing body of work spans television, film, and commercials, including a notable collaboration with Hulu.

At its heart, “Southside Kev” tells the story of its namesake character, a young man pushing against the tide of circumstances in Southside Queens. The film comes from the mind of writer-director Jamel Furlow and features compelling performances from Anthony M. Walker and Naomi Taylor. Industry insiders have taken notice of the production’s unwavering commitment to capturing genuine neighborhood experiences.

Rather than relying on studio sets, the production team made the conscious decision to shoot entirely on the streets of Queens. The choice pays off, as Southside Queens – with its rich blend of cultural diversity and tight-knit community spirit – emerges as almost a character in itself. The story ties together universal themes of persistence, family bonds, and the daily struggle to carve out a better future.

The film’s distribution strategy smartly acknowledges changing viewer habits. While maintaining the traditional theatrical release, it will simultaneously launch on digital platforms, including Plex, making it accessible to audiences wherever they prefer to watch.

Scott’s journey to this role reflects his distinctive background. His early years saw him juggling sports commitments with acting pursuits, building the kind of discipline that continues to serve him well. His time at PPAS armed him with both technical expertise and artistic intuition – a combination that shows in his work, as visitors to his official website can attest.

The production’s dedication to authenticity goes beyond just choosing real locations. Everything from the cinematography to the dialogue aims to capture the true essence of life in this historic New York neighborhood. The result is a visual style that marries gritty urban realism with moments of unexpected beauty and emotional depth.

As April 2025 approaches, “Southside Kev” is positioning itself as more than just another New York story. It promises to offer audiences an intimate window into life in Southside Queens, while potentially marking a turning point in McKinzie J. Scott’s growing career. With its blend of fresh talent and seasoned performers, the film looks set to add a compelling new chapter to the rich tradition of New York storytelling.