Actor Xavier Mills is on the verge of something big.
The Greenville, NC native is stepping into one of the most stacked years any emerging talent could dream of, with a slate of high-profile projects across studios, streaming giants and genres—proving that he isn’t arriving in Hollywood; he’s already there.
Many were introduced to the Atlanta-based actor through his role as football player Nishan Leonard on Hulu’s Chad Powers, starring Glen Powell. Mills returns to the gridiron for season 2, reprising his role and giving viewers a deeper look into his witty character. His real-life athletic background as a college basketball player at Winston-Salem State is evident in his performances. In 2025, he appeared opposite comedic legend Wanda Sykes in Undercard, a dark drama about a boxing trainer reconnecting with the son she abandoned.
This fall, he appears on Netflix in Fight for 84, a boxing film that adds yet another dimension to Mills’ growing résumé. His presence on the platform continues into 2027 with his return as Christian in the teen romance drama Forever, one of the platform’s highest-performing series of 2025.
Perhaps Mills’ most anticipated career addition to date is his role in Amazon/MGM Studios’ Is God Is. In the gripping thriller, he stars alongside Emmy Award-winning Sterling K. Brown as his son. The revenge-driven film also features award-winning actresses Vivica A. Fox and Erika Alexander.
The young star’s ability to land roles opposite some of television and film’s most respected performers signals that he is no accidental discovery.
The Black Wall Street Times spoke with Mills about his soaring career and how his stacked résumé is just a foreshadowing of what’s to come.
The Black Wall Street Times: What led you to choose a career in acting?
Xavier Mills: I’ve always been a natural empath, drawn to understanding different perspectives. Film opened that door for me …but at a certain point, watching wasn’t enough. I wanted to step into those worlds and give those characters a voice.
You have racked up several meaningful on-screen moments and continue to do so. What was the specific moment in your journey when it clicked for you that things were really changing?
I used to think it would all change the moment I started training. But it really clicked when I booked a pilot as the lead. Even though it didn’t move forward after the strike, that moment was confirmation for me…like God saying, “This is your path.”
In ‘Is God Is,’ you play the son of Sterling K. Brown—what was it like stepping into that dynamic with such an acclaimed actor?
For me, I relate it to basketball. I stepped into it with the mindset that we’re on the same team, here to create something special. That allowed me to stay present and grounded. And with veterans like Sterling K. Brown, you recognize they’re the captains, so what I do is watch, learn, and then when it’s your turn, you step up and play your game.
What did you learn from working closely with him that you’re carrying into your future roles?
Working with Sterling K. Brown, I really learned the power of being relaxed. It showed me what true trust in your preparation looks like. He also has such a deep understanding of the camera, knowing how to use your instrument depending on the frame. That level of awareness is something I’m definitely carrying with me into every role moving forward.
The film has a strong emotional and psychological theme. How did you prepare to tap into that intensity with your character?
For me, it started with understanding what my character wanted most in the world. Then I explored what he’s a product of, what shaped him into who he is. At the core, I realized it all came down to control: if he can control his life, he believes he won’t be hurt or feel small.
What do you hope audiences take away from your performance when the film releases?
That’s always a tough question to answer, but I hope people walk away understanding that he’s human. Everything about him is learned behavior; he acts the way he does for a reason. And without the right guidance, people can become a certain way.
You’re moving between thrillers, sports-driven stories, and character-based dramas—how intentional are you about showing range this early in your career?
Very intentional. I’m young, I’m athletic, and I’ve never liked the feeling of being boxed in. I look at the paths ahead of me, and the people who were intentional about their choices are the ones who lasted. So for me, it’s about building range early and setting a foundation that can grow with me.
What draws you to a role at this stage in your career? Do you look for particular stories? Characters, directors, or something else?
All of those things matter, but for me, it starts with a feeling. When I read something and feel that pull in my spirit, like there’s something in that character I need to explore, that’s what draws me in. It makes me want to give those words life and a voice.
Are there any types of roles or genres you’re actively hoping to explore next?
I’m really drawn to stories where a character can lead people and push them to think bigger than their circumstances. Whether it’s a dystopian world or something grounded, I’m interested in roles where someone carries a vision that challenges others to rise, to see beyond what’s in front of them.
You return in season 2 of Chad Powers as Nishan Leonard. What can fans expect from your character this time around?
Definitely more swag, more leadership, and more competitiveness. Nishan’s stepping into his own this season. You’re going to see a more confident, assertive version of him.
How does your real-life background as a college basketball player influence the way you approach athletic roles on screen?
It gives me a real understanding of the discipline and sacrifice that go into it. I try to train as an athlete would, so I can tap into the mindset, the pace, and the way the body truly moves in that sport.
Is there a dream role, director, or collaborator you’re looking forward to working on/with one day?
There’s so much I want to explore that it’s hard to narrow it down to one dream role. But in terms of directors, I’m definitely inspired by filmmakers like Ryan Coogler, Jordan Peele, Denis Villeneuve, and Christopher Nolan. At the same time, I’ve already had the chance to work with some incredible directors, so I’m really just enjoying the path I’m on and continuing to grow with each project.
If audiences are just now discovering Xavier Mills, what’s the one thing you want them to understand about you, on screen and off?
That I wouldn’t be here without God. Everything I do comes from that foundation. I walk in my light, and I want others to feel empowered to do the same.
