I’m personally a huge fan of ‘The Game’, did you watch the show before the reboot? And how did you find out about the show’s revival?

I did! I’ve always been a huge fan of The Game! I found out about the reboot via social media from a post that stated it was being picked back up by the CW. Later I received an audition this time for Paramount+ The Game. I loved the character breakdown and the original so of course I was down.

You’ve starred in Chicago Fire, Atlanta, Vagrant Queen, and more- I actually remember seeing you in ‘Star’! What’s it like going from all these completely different roles, to now a sports related show? Is there anything you’ve taken from your past projects, to your role on The Game?

I’ve been really blessed to be able to play a wide range of roles. That’s one of the reasons I love acting so much; the fact that I get to experience life as so many different people! The transition to The Game was similar to all the other transitions. I try to release past characters completely and dive into the current project; so the characters are different and fresh. I’ve always been an athletic, sport loving (especially football), low key tom boy; so diving into this world wasn’t very difficult. The main gem I’ve taken from the other projects to this one is my experience. Learning how to own my space, how to create without judgement, and how to build a safe space for my characters. It’s really helped me with my work and process.

You had a pretty big fan base on Chicago Fire, and I know they were sad to see you go. How does it feel going into a series regular role, something many actors spend years trying to accomplish?

To gently shine some clarity, The Game is my 4th series regular role. My first was Light as a Feather in 2019, then Vagrant Queen in 2020, and Chicago Fire 2020-2021. The ChiHards, I just love them. They are fantastic & I’m super grateful to have them on this journey with me. How does it feel to be a series regular? It honestly feels great, you get the opportunity to live as a character as a series regular. Having time and arcs to really build and grow with the character, while simultaneously learning new things about yourself along the way. It’s a blessing that shouldn’t be taken lightly regarding gratitude & the work it takes to sustain it. It’s hard work, but sooo much fun!

Your character Brittany, what’s her story? How is her relationship with her parents now?

Brittany is an entrepreneur on the road to finding herself, her voice, and her own path. She a loving, (sometimes naive) risk taker, and looks out for as many people as possible along the way. Initially we open the season with Brittany not being as close to either parent really. She’s hiding from them and avoiding them. Throughout the season, she’s confronted head on by her Dad and we get to see them have some really beautiful/touching moments. And we learn that behind the scenes, she has been in touch with her mother as well and that things are getting better. She’s definitely at that point in her life where she realizes being independent of her parents doesn’t mean shutting herself off from them.

What advice do you have for young actors/creatives?

Create authentically knowing that whatever is meant for you/every blessing with your name on it, will find you.

Any projects coming up?

I can be seen in Atlanta Season 3 which is premiering March 24th on FX. Streaming next day on Hulu. And of course, The Game Season 2!

adriyan rae talks 'the game' reboot + transitioning from 'chicago fire'