Stephan Conner Talks Acting, Training, and His Next Chapter in Film

Tammy Reese
20 minutes ago
4 min read

By Tammy Reese

Stephan Conner isn’t chasing the spotlight, he’s earning it. The Detroit-born actor has quietly built momentum through discipline, training, and an unshakable respect for the craft. Since stepping into acting in 2019, Conner has carved out space in film and television with performances that feel intentional, grounded, and emotionally present.

Now based in Atlanta, Conner’s journey reflects both preparation and purpose. Influenced by the range of Wesley Snipes and the commanding truth of Denzel Washington, he approaches each role with a clear understanding that storytelling carries weight. His formal training at Greg Alan Williams Studio and I.S. Studio sharpened that perspective, giving him the tools to tap into vulnerability while maintaining control on screen.

With projects like Broken Covenant, Intentions, and EverMore streaming on Amazon Prime Video, alongside Jack Squad 2 and The Love Coach on Tubi, Conner continues to expand his body of work and his range. For Heart of Hollywood Magazine, he opens up about his path from behind-the-camera ambitions to becoming a rising force in front of it, the values that guide him, and the purpose driving his next chapter.

You began your acting journey in 2019. What initially inspired you to pursue acting, and what was the defining moment that made you take the leap professionally?

Stephan: I originally wanted to work behind the camera, focusing on producing and directing my own films. Acting wasn’t really on my radar at first. I started doing background work on a few episodes of The Walking Dead to get a sense of how things worked on set. Watching the actors perform up close sparked something in me, and I realized I wanted to explore acting myself. After that, I started taking acting classes and began training professionally.

Growing up in Detroit, how did your environment shape your perspective, work ethic, and approach to storytelling?

Stephan: Growing up as an Army kid, I moved around a lot, which taught me to adapt and connect with new people. Experiencing different places and communities gave me a lot of perspective and helped shape how I see stories. It also gave me a strong work ethic and a creative way to express myself.

You’ve cited Wesley Snipes and Denzel Washington as inspirations. What specific qualities in their artistry influenced your passion for acting?

Stephan: Wesley Snipes inspired me through his versatility. His ability to excel in drama, comedy, and action showed me the power of range as an actor. Denzel Washington inspired me through his complete embodiment of character. He doesn’t just perform a role, he becomes it, with a level of truth and authority that’s undeniable.

You’ve trained under respected coaches at Greg Alan Williams Studio and l.S. Studio. How has formal training shaped your confidence and versatility as an actor?

Stephan: Training at Greg Alan Williams Studio and LS Studios helped me find my vulnerability and connect with real emotion, which has made me more confident and adaptable in my work.

What do you hope audiences take away from your performances across these projects now streaming on Amazon Prime Video and Tubi?

Stephan: From each performance, I hope audiences can clearly see the range and depth of my work recognizing that each character is distinct and grounded in its own truth. My goal is for viewers to experience something different with every role and understand that I’m not limited to a single type, but committed to bringing authenticity and versatility to every project.

As a rising force based in Atlanta, what types of roles or genres are you hoping to explore next?

Stephan: I’m really interested in exploring both villain and hero roles. I enjoy characters with edge and depth, and I’d love the opportunity to step into an action project next. Action films feel like a great space for me to grow and challenge myself as an actor.

Where do you see your career evolving over the next five years, both creatively and professionally?

Stephan: Over the next five years, I see myself continuously evolving and taking on diverse roles that challenge me creatively and help me grow as an artist. My goal is to keep refining my craft, learning from every experience, and building a career rooted in purpose, authenticity, and long term greatness.

Beyond acting, who is Stephen Conner as a person? What values guide you on and off set?

Stephan: Beyond acting, I’m a caring ,and easygoing laid back person who loves to laugh, and have a good time. I value kindness, authenticity, and bringing positive energy wherever I go on set and off.

What advice would you give to aspiring actors who are just beginning their journey, especially those coming from cities like Detroit with big dreams?

Stephan: For aspiring actors, especially those coming from cities like Detroit with big dreams, my advice is to start with training build your skills and never stop learning. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you, go out and create your own. The journey will have ups and downs, but stay persistent, stay positive, and never give up on your dreams.

What else would you like our readers to know at this time?

Stephan: Everyone should be on the lookout for my next projects! I’m starring in and co-producing Feel the Burn, coming out later this year. I’m also executive producing a powerful documentary series about a case tied to the George Floyd story, exploring a tragic wrongful death caused by police brutality. It’s a story that needs to be told, and I’m honored to help bring it to light.

How can we keep up to date on social media?

Stephan: Stay connected with my journey follow me on Instagram @IamStephenConner for the latest updates, behind the scenes moments, and everything I’m working on.