AJ Lovelace’s Onyx is unlike anything else on TV: it’s fresh and genre-bending, it’s unapologetically Black and queer, and it’s not on a streamer. Instead, both seasons of Onyx are available for free on YouTube: a bold and innovative foray into the world of emerging media over the typical television model. Following Webby and Telly award wins, Lovelace sat with us amidst Emmy® season to discuss all things Onyx, emerging media, and his multi-disciplinary role on the series as creator, showrunner, actor, and more.
How does the role of a creator on a web series differ from your typical series creator? Would you consider the freedom of more complete creative control an asset or a challenge?
In my experience, I’ve had to know from the moment I begin writing how I’ll produce the show. Many of the series creators and writers I know aren’t initially confronted with the burden of production in the writing process because it’s not theirs to bear alone; the support is typically built in. As a craftsperson (cinematographer, editor, costumer, lighting technician, and beyond), I’m acutely aware that while I write, I must consider the physical tools needed to craft each scene. My hands type it, and then they build it. Freedom is the ultimate asset. I’m fortunate that my abilities as a technician allow me to pivot when resources are limited. That’s the nature of the game.
ONYX has been praised for its intersectional Black and LGBTQ+ representation. How do you think the emerging media space differs in regards to inclusivity from the “standard” Hollywood model, and how could it continue to grow?
That actually means a lot to me because it shows we’re contributing to culture and society on a meaningful level. The more people with access to storytelling tools, independent of traditional pathways, promote authenticity and creativity, untethered from fiscal responsibilities. The motivation is connection and expression, which is how humanity thrives. Visibility for independent artists is often the limiting factor, and we’ve recently seen the notable impact when that hurdle is overcome.
What do you consider to be your biggest accomplishment in regards to the success of ONYX?
The biggest accomplishment thus far is that Onyx is recognized alongside other artistic works that have major backing and large production teams. That’s not the world that Onyx comes from. We’re a scrappy independent show full of heart, vision, and grit. My sheer force of will and collaborations have propelled the show to spaces I’ve long since dreamt of. Now we’re here (the cast and crew), together, and it’s only the beginning!
As media becomes increasingly inaccessible and further divided amongst more and more paid streaming platforms, ONYX being free to watch and easily accessible via YouTube is a rarity. Still, how do you find your audience amidst all the noise?
The nature of television as a medium continues to evolve, and that requires a great deal of creativity and adaptability, which isn’t easy to navigate. I believe the honesty in the storytelling is what people gravitate towards. They see themselves physically, situationally, or behaviorally, and that human desire to be understood is undeniable. Preserving humanity is the short answer. There’s no algorithm that can compete with that.
You wear a lot of hats on ONYX as creator, executive producer, director, star, cinematographer and editor. How do you balance all those roles and responsibilities, and what are both the advantages and disadvantages of owning a project from start to finish?
The balance shifts from moment to moment. I had to train myself to find people who share my vision and can keep up with me, quite frankly. I usually delegate short-term responsibilities so I can sustain the marathon. The advantage I value most in ownership, I’d say, is maintaining the clarity of the vision. I see everything I create as both an audience member and the creator. The disadvantage is that time is constantly confronting me, and my decision fatigue in other parts of my life can be prominent at times, ha! Sorry to everyone, I struggle to make plans with it.
What inspired you to enter the emerging media space, and what would you say to anyone inspired by ONYX?
I am too driven to wait for permission, and that inspired me to be who and what I wanted to see in the world. By any means necessary. I say thank you for being open to what Onyx has to offer and the talent and heart of everyone involved in making it. For anyone to take time out of their day to enjoy and experience the art I made alongside other amazing artists is something I deeply appreciate.
What’s something you want Emmy® voters and viewers alike to know about you and ONYX?
I want Emmy® voters to be reminded of why they started in the business. I want them to see that talent, passion, and a commitment to excellence in the arts are still here and come from more than one type of person. I want them to be inspired to show others that shows like Onyx are welcome, valued, and respected, and so are the people behind the work. Art is the human language, and we can never forget that. I want viewers to receive that message loud and clear. Showing the world a commitment to embracing all of humanity is the best thing any platform, especially with impact like the Emmys®, should be proud to do.
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Check out more of Onyx, and keep up with AJ’s work via his Instagram.
