Shameik Moore
October 15, 2019
We spoke with Shameik Moore, the new voice of Miles Morales, “Spider-Man” in the Academy Award nominated film Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.
Photo Kelia Anne
Interview Satchel Lee & Caroline D’Arcy Gorman
Styling Timothy Chernyaev
Grooming Sascha Quarles
At this point the answer to the question is obvious, but for the people who still somehow don’t understand, can you explain the significance of having a person of color in this iconic role?
I think the fact that Miles is African and Puerto Rican is intriguing because it is new for Spider-Man himself. We all know the character Peter Parker from growing up. But Peter Parker is introducing Miles Morales in a very cool and new way. His character could be any ethnicity, but I think it’s iconic and important because he is bilingual. It’s cool that he is Puerto Rican and African American when he could be white, Asian, whatever—but he’s black. This character is very relatable and lovable. It’s a new take on who Spider-Man is and what it means to be Spider-Man, or any hero for that matter.
What do you bring to this Spider-Man that we haven’t seen before?
Sweetness and swagger, according to [Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse directors] Phil Lorde and Chris Miller.
Two years ago you wrote in your journal that you were going to play Miles Morales as Spider-Man. What else do you know that we don’t?
That we’re going to win the Oscar!
If you had superpowers what would they be?
I would want to be able to use 100% of my brain power and maybe even read minds.
Describe your sense of style.
I like to call it chic with a street twist.
How do you take time for yourself?
Going out on dinner dates. Going to the movies. Working out in the gym. Writing treatments. Coming up with ideas for music videos and short films. In 2019, I’m getting back into meditating, journaling and reading books. A good friend of mine just gave me three books that I’m excited to start reading.
What does 2019 hold for you?
I’m filming a movie, a TV show, and releasing a mixtape. I’ll also be releasing music videos that I directed. I’ll be directing other music artists that are friends on mine. But of course, I’ll continue to work on my original superhero series for the future!
What are your resolutions?
To be happy, mentally, physically and spiritually, to realign myself with the universe, to make sure I value my loved ones and they all feel my love for them. I just want to be a better version of myself. I want to push myself and the ones I love to the limits and do everything to the best of my ability.
One item you can’t leave the house without?
My wallet.
Where is your happy place? Why?
My house in Atlanta because I grew up there and it’s very special to me. I feel like I’m in my own world when I’m in my house…well technically, I guess I am in my own world.
When will you release your next music project?
Spring, after the Oscars.
Who are some of your musical inspirations?
Early Chris Brown, Confessions-era Usher, Michael Jackson, Avant, Music Soul Child, Aaliyah, Biggie Smalls and I’ll end if off with Sean de Paul.
What’s your morning routine?
I wake up, brush my teeth, wash my face, and work out. That’s the only true routine I have. Everything else varies after that.
What do you find to be most grounding for you in your life?
My mom and our relationship. I’m very close with her.

