Is Taye Diggs Mid?

Name: Is Taye Diggs Mid?
Uploaded: 2026-08-18T09:07:28-07:00
Duration: 54 min 29 s
Channel: Open Thoughts
Description: Tay Digs discusses his journey from growing up poor in Rochester, NY, to becoming an actor, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and avoiding…

Open Thoughts

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About this episode Tay Digs discusses his journey from growing up poor in Rochester, NY, to becoming an actor, emphasizing the im… AI summary

Tay Digs discusses his journey from growing up poor in Rochester, NY, to becoming an actor, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and avoiding the label of 'poor' when one is born into that reality. He shares insights on his career, including roles in 'The Wood' and 'Paid in Full,' and offers advice on maintaining focus and authenticity in the entertainment industry.

Key takeaways 4

Reframing poverty: Digs argues that if you are born into a situation, you cannot call yourself 'poor' because it is your normal; poverty is a relative term that only applies when status changes.
Career longevity through authenticity: Digs notes that playing characters similar to himself (like in 'The Wood') has been successful, comparing his approach to Ice Cube and Denzel Washington who often play versions of themselves.
The 'Mid' status evolution: Digs discusses growing into his looks, moving from a 'mid' status in early roles to a more recognized handsome status later in his career.
Networking with celebrities: Digs advises that becoming friends with celebrities is no different than normal life; it involves striking up conversations and being genuine, though he notes that busy celebrities rarely pick up calls.

Notable quotes 4 AI-generated: wording and quote attribution may be wrong. Use the play link to verify.

“If you wasn't born with it, why like that was normal for you? We got to stop using the word poor because if this is what we know growing up, this is all we know.”

▶ 6:14 Digs explains why he rejects the label of being poor, viewing his upbringing as his baseline reality rather than a deficit.
“You just play. You just be you. You remind me Ice Cube. Ice Cube be yourself in every movie.”

▶ 13:06 Digs reflects on his acting style, noting that he often plays characters similar to his own personality, much like Ice Cube.
“Focus. And then that was it.”

▶ 18:59 Digs recounts LL Cool J's brief but impactful advice on balancing rap, music, and acting.
“Motion [__] Motion. That means like [__] only get wet for the motion. For the motion. The motion of making money of a man.”

Digs explains the slang term 'motion' to the host, clarifying it refers to money and financial stability.