It's always fun to take a look back at some of the nitty gritty details associated with the newest Twilight series castmembers, and in Amadou Ly (a supporting castmember for The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn)'s case, he takes the cake for most unique (and probably inspiring) backstory.
Check out the attached CNN video report, which he tweeted a few days ago, saying:
After 4 years, I am back to writing poems again. Finally found the motivation . . . This day (January 8th, 2006) reminds the first day I participated in a robotic competition.
Of course, the story is much more developed than just participation in a robotic competition, as you will see from watching the report. It seems Amadou Ly is an immigrant to the United States from Senegal, and he has received a great deal of praise over the years for his perseverance and good character. The "robotic competition" he spoke of was the backdrop of CNN's report, but Amadou Ly's struggle to remain a student of the U.S. was the highlight.
The story was later covered by The New York Times' Nina Bernstein (among others). One of the things touched on in the piece was how Ly's interest in robotics lent itself to acting.
Mr. Ly (pronounced Lee) originally wanted to become a computer engineer. But he changed plans after he took an acting class in an effort to improve his public speaking style, and he visited producers at Universal Studios in Hollywood. He switched his college major to performing arts.
Over the years, apparently, he has had the opportunity to meet with the president of his home country, Senegal (video available here). He was also chosen as the recipient of the Immigration Youth Achievement Award, and you can watch that ceremony and hear his accomplishments discussed here. In fact, if you want to be altogether impressed, just watch the eight videos uploaded to this YouTube page.
A perusal of his IMDb page indicates that Amadou Ly is just now getting his feet wet in the acting business, but with Breaking Dawn as a first step, the water is sure to be just right. Besides, he seems to know how to rub elbows with influential people (see photo 1 and photo 2 as proof).
You learn something new every day. In this case, it seems we have something a hero on our hands!
Be sure to follow Amadou Ly on Twitter, so as to keep up with his share of filming updates as well as learn more about him and his career! At this time, Amadou Ly's exact role in Breaking Dawn has remained unannounced. Ly also appears to have an official website, where a catalogue of his interviews, articles, and features have been uploaded and organized. You can check that out at AmadouLy.net.
Thanks: Wendi
Comments
No offense, but I don't remember Nahuel being so dark skinned. I mean russet sure, but almond, no! I don't think I would like that very much.
We don't know if he is playing Nahuel. His character has never been announced/confirmed by Summit. So who knows who he is playing.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!