Theodore Barnes A Star in His Own Right

Acting began as a recreational hobby for California native Theodore Barnes. Before he hit puberty, he was already a background actor on set. Being a child actor was not set in stone for Barnes but acting allowed him to do something out of the ordinary. 

Barnes’ mother’s friend knew an agent looking to recruit child actors and wanted to diversify, but his parents wanted to ensure he was not forced into acting.

“I had a choice, my parents asked me if I wanted to go to auditions. I was 10 or 11; acting was not in the future plans or a possible career. I was thinking about recess and lunch. It was just something fun for me to do on the weekends and weekdays,” said Barnes. 

In the end, Barnes’ hard work and dedication to the craft landed him his first vast role on the ABC sitcoms “Back in the Game,” with James Caan and Maggie Lawson, and “The Goldbergs.” He also appeared on the Netflix series “Prince of Peoria,” and guest appearances on the shows “Goliath” on Amazon and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” on Fox.

His latest role is playing Junebug Carson, the youngest child of Terry and Pat, on the Emmy-nominated BET+ show, The Ms. Pat Show. The comedy series is based on the semi-autographical life of comedy legend Ms. Pat.

In Season 2, Barnes says Junebug and the rest of the cast targets specific issues in everyday life, such as abortion, sexual orientation, past traumas, and gun control. However, during this season, they are not holding back and would like the audience to pay close attention to the topics.

“I would say Season 1 was a broad intro to the world, but Season 2 is more head-on; we are targeting specific current events. And Junebug is finding his niche, his comfort zone. So we are trying to make each take better than the previous one,” Barnes said. 

Barnes recognizes the similarities between him and Junebug and does not have a problem bringing his personality to his character. He wants Junebug to represent him, whether it’s looks, ad-libs, or anything that represents Theodore. While it was a blessing to work with Ms. Pat on the series, Barnes remembered his first audition with her when he was 19. It was pre-Covid, and while the reading with Ms. Pat was slim to none, it was an enlightening experience for Barnes. 

“We just had a good time; she recognized that I was a people person, had great eye contact, and had chemistry during our take. You saw Junebug while working with her, and it led to two more waves of auditions before I was selected for the role,” said Barnes. Barnes was thrilled about being selected for Junebug after his final audition and Ms. Pat sending him a “Hey” while driving with his mother. Though Ms. Pat didn’t reply to his message instantly, he discovered his life-changing news from his agent and manager. 

Outside of acting, Barnes is a strong advocate for philanthropy and giving back to the community. He partakes in California’s Heal the Bay Coastal Cleanup and Habitat for Humanity. He firmly believes there are many ways to give back, direct or indirect, or giving a compliment can make a difference in someone’s life. 

“I remember when I was 13 or 14 years old and a freshman in high school. I was on line at 7/11 and someone tapped me on the shoulder, it was an older black man and asked how I was doing. At first, I was defensive, but I understood that it was hard being a young and black man, and I won’t ever forget that day or his name, Walter,” said Barnes. “It was powerful. I had a terrible day in the world, angry at the world, but his approach right there put a smile on my face. The world needs those genuine conversations.” 

Juggling a career in Hollywood and a personal life can be strenuous at times, but Barnes says it is rewarding that he can put his energy into things that are meaningful and set himself up for his lifestyle. “I am using the word, juggle less and less in my vocabulary; what I do contributes to my happiness and lifestyle, so it’s not a juggle. It’s just me; I’m working; I’m on the go and working on my mental and physical health, real estate, and brand; I sleep when it’s time,” said Barnes. 

Barnes may not know all of his plans for the remainder of the year, but he is looking forward to what’s to come as far as projects. His greatest accomplishment is living abundantly and putting his best foot forward.”Well, without giving away too much, I am auditioning for a few things; I have a few irons on the stove, sort of speak; things are brewing. I am alive and living well; you will know more when I know more.”