Charles Malik Whitfield is a man that really needs no introduction. He's portrayed icons like Otis Williams of The Temptations and acted opposite legends like Gene Hackman in Behind Enemy Lines. He's risen through the ranks and starred in hit franchises like NCIS, American Horror Story and Fox's recent smash, Empire . For all his success, he still marvels that he gets to work with innovators like Tasha Smith and that he's presently working alongside industry titan Tyler Perry for Oprah's OWN TV show, "If Loving You Is Wrong."

But what was great about our conversation is that Malik has an abiding empathy and connection to the underdog, those striving hard to make it. He remembers when he was in that position and he opens up to us in great detail about those tough days at the dawn of his stellar career. His heart is full of encouragement, wisdom and kindness. He believes in the success of others and you will hear him uplift his friends mightily while down playng his own accomplishments. This was my second time speaking with Malik, this veritable Future Legend, and he's still grounded, still maintains the outlook that he's just a kid from the Bronx doing his best to make it for himself as well as with a strong emphasis on helping others along in the process. Salute.