The stars of P-Valley are still shining brightly, even though the neon lights of The Pynk have temporarily dimmed. The series became known as “the most electrifying show on television” because of the audience’s fascination with the unvarnished, unadulterated tales of the Chucalissa strip club. However, since our last visit to The Pynk, what has the cast been up to? Let’s take a look at the P-Valley cast during the hiatus.
Nicco Annan (Uncle Clifford)
The soul of P-Valley, Nicco Annan, has expanded his career in television and film by building on his breakthrough performance as Uncle Clifford. Along with Katori Hall, Annan created “Deep In the Valley,” a docuseries diving into the complex culture of the South, showcasing its sensuality, music, and diverse stories.
In addition to performing, he is promoting LGBTQ+ rights and real storytelling in Hollywood. In March, he hosted the 11th annual Truth Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel along with TS Madison, honoring people who have made a strong impact to the LGBTQ+ community. In addition to speaking at various industry panels, he has established a mentorship program to support LGBTQ+ youth who aspire to pursue careers in the arts.
Brandee Evans (Mercedes)
Known for her strong portrayal of Mercedes, Brandee Evans has maintained a busy schedule both on and off screen. She recently landed a supporting role with Academy Award winners in a big-budget feature film, The Fabulous Four.
She continues to prioritize advocating for caregivers. Motivated by her own experiences being the primary caregiver for her mother who has multiple sclerosis, she developed a documentary short about it called Black Women and Caregiving, which has been selected for several film festivals. In an interview, Evans stated in the early stages, “My mom was dramatic, and I thought Mama was looking for attention. I wish I had known then what I know now. I would have had more empathy.” Later stating, I believe MS is overshadowed a bit in the Black community, and we don’t realize how it affects us differently.”
Shannon Thornton (Miss Mississippi/Keyshawn)
Hollywood has continued to reward Shannon Thornton, who gave a riveting performance as Miss Mississippi. Shortly after P-Valley ended Thornton starred in a short film, “Wouldn’t Mean Nothin'”, that was aired on Fox Soul’s Screening Room hosted by Vivica A. Fox. She recently landed a role in Netflix movie drama Mea Culpa, directed by Tyler Perry, that showcases her dramatic abilities.
Her next project is another Tyler Perry film, where she will take on the lead role. The movie is called Joy Ridge and is currently in production right now. She has also emerged as a highly sought-after figure in the fashion industry, appearing in advertisements for high-end brands that highlight her remarkable appearance.
Elarica Johnson (Autumn Night)
Elarica Johnson left P-Valley on her on terms. She stated in an interview about saying goodbye to the character, “actually I knew when it was happening because it was my choice.” Adding, “Autumn’s journey felt like it was coming to an end. She has done what she needed to do and it was time for her to move on.” Since then, she has made waves in the world of film. Johnson recently added a new dimension to her acting career by lending her voice to the upcoming animated series “Castlevania: Nocturne” on Netflix. The show has been picking up steam and there are early signs for a season 3 to come.
She also is currently filming for Marvin Gaye biopic, Sexual Healing, where she will portray his wife, Janis Gaye. Diving into other endeavors, she started a skincare line off-screen for women of color, and celebrities and beauty influencers have already endorsed it.
J. Alphonse Nicholson (Lil Murda)
Significant opportunities have arisen as a result of J. Alphonse Nicholson‘s iconic portrayal of Lil Murda. A director who specializes in gritty, unvarnished storytelling gave him a lead role in a feature film and a recurring role in a popular streaming series, which was a perfect fit for Nicholson’s skill.
Nicholson is making waves in Hip-Hop while continuing to pursue his musical roots. He claimed that both acting and music are forms of storytelling. His latest single was released in 2023, garnering praise for its straightforward lyrics and polished production. He has also been giving live performances at a few different locations, bringing the same level of passion to the stage as he does to the screen.
Next, you can catch Nicholson on HBO’s ‘Lanterns‘, about two cops drawn into a dark, Earth-based mystery as they investigate a murder in the American heartland. Nicholson will have a recurring role playing the younger version of one of the main characters.
The Rest of the Cast
Additionally, the supporting cast has been very busy. Recently, Harriett D. Foy (Patrice) has been seen on episodes of ‘Law & Order’, adding her presence to a legendary show. Parker Sawyers (Andre), continuing to sharpen his acting skills, has been in a few TV shows including ‘Spy Master,’ ‘World On Fire,’ and ‘Dune: Prophecy.’ In contrast to his P-Valley persona, Morocco Omari (Big L) was cast for a role on an episode of ‘The Equalizer’ and is listed to have a few projects in the works. Lastly, Tyler Lepley (Diamond) continued his work on ‘Harlem’ and recently starred in Tyler Perry’s Duplicity.
What’s Next for P-Valley?
Creator Katori Hall has kept details of the upcoming season a secret while fans anxiously await news. She has, however, alluded to addressing social and economic changes in the South as well as examining new facets of the characters.
Fans can keep up with the most electrifying show on television’s cast’s exciting new endeavors until then, knowing that P-Valley’s influence is still felt in the entertainment sector. Sometimes the most beautiful flowers grow in the valley, as Uncle Clifford used to say.
