PAPA J (THADDEUS J. MIXSON) A RISING STAR BY NADIA SIMMS, 8TH GRADE, PHOENIX

THADDEUS “Papa Jay” “Papa Jay”MIXSON

BY NADIA SIMMS, 8TH GRADE, PHOENIX

For most of his life Thaddeus J. Mixson has been a dancer and singer, but now he can add acting to his resume. He made his acting debut playing the role of “Fahmarr” in the Disney+ feature Safety. I was lucky enough to chop it up with the 13-year-old rising star, better known as Papa Jay, to talk about his first movie, celeb crush and his fitness challenge book Breaking Bad Habits.

True Star Jr.: What sparked your interest to become a singer? Thaddeus J. Mixson: I was always very motivated listening to my dad’s music because he used to be a rapper in Chicago which kind of made me want to rap. Years later when I was 11, I figured I could sing and I just took it from there.

TSJ: Who or what is your motivation? TJM: I would say my mom and my dad. They push me to do better in life.

TSJ: What was the best and worse thing that happened to you in 2020? TJM: The worse thing that happened was quarantine. I know a lot of people were going through it but 2020 [was actually] a good year for me. The best thing would be the release of my movie Safety.

TSJ: What is your favorite shoe brand? TJM: I love Nike and Jordan. I am a big sneakerhead ever since I was little. My parents always kept me fresh with the new Jordans as I was growing up and my collection keeps growing. TSJ: What is your favorite movie? TJM: It would probably have to be one of my favorite childhood movies called Big 5, along with Glory, Creed, and Black Panther.

TSJ: What is your all time favorite song and why? TJM: That would have to be Bruno Mars’ “Like It”. The music video was super clean and the vocals are super on point. It’s something that I always listen to.

TSJ: Who is your celebrity crush? TJM: Since I was little, I’ve always liked Zendaya. I actually met her. And also Skai Jackson.

TSJ: What is your dream role? TJM: I would like to play a superhero. I would like to fly. That would be super cool.

TSJ: How did you feel when you found out you booked the role of Fahmarr in Safety? TJM: I was screaming and running throughout the whole house. I didn’t even cry because I was

so in shock. In the beginning, my dad actually pranked me and told me someone needs to talk to you over the phone. He said, “I think it’s the principal of your school.” It ended up being my manager telling me I booked the movie! I was super happy!

TSJ: What message should the audience take away from that movie? TJM: Don’t give up. It’s about brotherly love so always be there for your family.

TSJ: Where do you see yourself in 10 years? TJM: I see myself doing more movies and shows. Hopefully the whole virus thing has cleared up by then, but movies and even writing more books. TSJ: What are five fun facts about you people may not know? TJM: I’m pretty funny. I like to joke around. I’m really into art. I don’t have the talent but I am very into it. I love football and basketball and I am pretty cool when you meet me.

TSJ: Tell me more about your book? TJM: It’s basically a 7-day challenge to get parents and kids active and healthy and to have fun while doing it.

Thaddeus “Papa Jay” Mixson is by far one of the hardest working kids in the industry, and he is just getting started. If you want to see, hear, or know more about Mixson, check out his website at papjayshow.com.