The Power of Preparation: Elijah M. Cooper on Growth, Grit, and Grounding

Elijah M. Cooper’s rise hasn’t followed the usual shortcuts of today’s entertainment economy. Instead of chasing attention, he chased access—making the pivotal move from Georgia to Los Angeles with a clear-eyed understanding of how opportunity truly works. From indie films to network television, and roles on 9-1-1, Goosebumps: The Vanishing, and All American, Cooper has built momentum through preparation, presence, and restraint. In conversation with Greay, he reflects on growth, grounding, and the discipline required to stay true to oneself while stepping into larger cultural spaces.

You’ve made the journey from indie films to major TV roles. What was the turning point that helped you transition into more mainstream projects?

For me, the big transition came from moving from Georgia to LA. LA really presented the opportunity for me to hone in on my craft and be around a lot of influential people in the business. Georgia is great for filming, but at the end of the day, the shot-callers are in LA. Being here gave me more access and the ability to get into the right rooms with the right people.

The courage to make that move also came from a castmate of mine, Katie Lowes. I did a film called A Million Eyes with her, and she really helped my journey—introducing me to the right people, helping me get representation, and ultimately book jobs. I’m very grateful to her. That was the big turning point.

You’re currently juggling roles on 9-1-1, Goosebumps: The Vanishing, and All American. How do you keep each character distinct?

I’m a big believer in following what the story has there for you. I want to understand the overall direction, the motivation of the characters, and how I contribute to the story. From there, I build up the specifics—who this character is, how they operate, even small things like what their favorite food might be. It all starts with understanding the story first, then building upward.

With Goosebumps: The Vanishing, you’re stepping into a beloved universe with a massive, multi-generational fanbase. What excites you most about that experience?

Goosebumps is such a huge franchise that touched so many generations. I grew up with it through the Scholastic Book Fair, my mom grew up on it, and younger generations are discovering it now. To be part of something that has made such a mark on culture is a huge honor. I’m grateful I got to play a role in bringing that story to life

On All American, the show tackles sports, identity, and youth culture. What personal insights have you gained from being part of that world?

What’s really great about All American is that the characters are around my age and actively growing as people. That makes it easier to bring authenticity to the role. My character, Yasi, is a bit of a bully, but he’s really trying to find his sense of belonging—how to feel seen and appreciated. Meanwhile, Khalil is navigating his own identity and challenges. Even when Yasi’s struggles show up in negative ways, there’s redemption there. That realism resonates with a lot of people.

Is there a character from your past work that you’d like to revisit or expand on in the future?

I really enjoyed playing CJ on Goosebumps: The Vanishing. He has a strong entrepreneurial side, like I do. We see him grow from not fully trusting himself into becoming a leader willing to speak up. It’d be interesting to explore how he continues developing into manhood and becoming the hero he wants to be.

How do you stay grounded while navigating multiple high-profile roles?

I really attribute that to my family. They remind me who I am and what matters most. I still take the trash out at home. I still have chores. There’s a line between what is work and what is life. Work is great, but it shouldn’t spill into your identity. You can’t let the glamour of Hollywood overtake who you are.

What advice would you give to rising actors who look up to your path?

You don’t have to struggle silently. If you’re having trouble—stage fright, getting out of your head—asking for help isn’t a weakness. It’s necessary. Be willing to ask questions, be vulnerable, and put yourself out there. That’s where you’ll find the biggest growth.

Is there a genre or type of project you’re hoping to explore next?

I love romantic tragedy. When that kind of storytelling is done well, it’s beautiful. Love stories bring complexity, and the tragedy within them can be powerful. I’m actually writing my own project right now that leans into that space.

Across every answer, one truth emerges: Elijah M. Cooper’s approach to success is rooted in intention. He draws clear boundaries between ambition and identity, performance and personhood. Grounded by family, guided by craft, and open to vulnerability, Cooper represents a new generation of actors focused less on immediacy and more on meaning. As his career continues to expand, his clarity remains his anchor—proof that the most compelling trajectories aren’t built in a rush, but sustained through self-awareness, patience, and purpose.

Photography By Danielle Herzog @danielleherzogphoto

Words By Kyra Greene @noteasybingreen

Make Up ShaDara Holmes shadaraholmes.mua

Wardrobe Estelle Aporongao @estella.png

Produced By Kyree L. frazier for @firstsight.intl & Airport Famous Agency