Over the course of his career, Terry Crews competed in the NFL, solved countless fictional crimes with the cast of “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and shared laughs with rising stars on the set of “America’s Got Talent.” All of these experiences shared a common theme in his life — they taught him the importance of staying true to himself.
“Don’t ever compare yourself to anyone,” said Crews to a full house of Cal State Fullerton faculty, staff and students. “There’s only one me, and there’s only one you. The world needs what you have to offer.”
Crews spoke to the Titan community as part of the university’s signature Beyond the Conversation series, which invites notable speakers to campus to share their stories and empower students. The Feb. 12 event was presented by Associated Students Inc. and the Division of Student Affairs and Strategic Enrollment Management.
Growing up in Michigan, Crews played football and was eventually signed by the Los Angeles Rams, but throughout his childhood and young adult life, he always considered himself a “dreamer” with a love for film and art.
After retiring from professional football, he followed his passion for creativity to Hollywood, where he laid the foundation for a successful career in film and television.
Today, he is best known for his roles as Terry Jeffords in “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” Julius Rock in “Everybody Hates Chris” and the host of “America’s Got Talent.” He also appeared in the popular film “White Chicks,” noting how the film changed his entire career.
“I didn’t know acting would be my destiny, but by going for it and trying, my career became what it is now,” said Crews. “And I’m just getting started.”
Crews emphasized the importance of surrounding oneself with people who prioritize growth, care and kindness. He found such a community on the set of the award-winning sitcom “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” where he worked alongside talented actors like past Beyond the Conversation star Stephanie Beatriz and Andre Braugher.
“You could try a joke, and if it didn’t work, that was OK. Everybody would adjust and try something different. We loved and supported each other,” shared Crews. “It’s important to learn not to be embarrassed if things don’t work out the way you hoped.”
He encouraged current students to make the most of their college experience and to be courageous when it comes to their dreams: “You have more opportunities than ever, but you have to take hold of what you want. You have to give everything you have.”
A Passion for Storytelling in Film
Fourth-year communications student Rachel Robles said she was honored to be part of an event that centered on storytelling and perseverance.
As an ASI student programmer, Robles helps coordinate events across campus, including the Beyond the Conversation series. This year, she was selected to interview Crews on stage.
“I found it very inspiring to hear how he has pivoted throughout his career, from artist to football player to successful actor. I value that as a growing artist myself,” said Robles, who aspires to a career as an independent filmmaker. “This event allowed students to step out of their routines, grow and engage with perspectives beyond our campus community.”