Meet the Cast of Power Book III: Raising Kanan

Set in the vibrant neighborhood of South Jamaica, Queens, in the early 1990s, "Power Book III: Raising Kanan" serves as a compelling prequel to the acclaimed series "Power." The story delves into the formative years of Kanan Stark, a character portrayed by the talented Mekai Curtis. This gripping drama explores the complex dynamics of Kanan's life as he navigates the challenges of adolescence and the harsh realities of a world rife with crime and ambition. Viewers are taken on a journey through Kanan's experiences as he deals with familial ties, loyalty, and the struggle to carve out his own identity in a turbulent environment.

Central to Kanan's story is his mother, Raquel 'Raq' Thomas, played by the dynamic Patina Miller. Raq is a formidable force in her own right, embodying strength and determination as she seeks to establish her family's position in the drug trade. Her character adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the sacrifices she makes and the lengths she will go to protect her loved ones. As the show unfolds, audiences can expect to see the intricate relationship between Kanan and Raq evolve, as well as how their actions shape the course of their futures in the dangerous landscape of their community.

"Power Book III: Raising Kanan" not only tells the backstory of Kanan Stark but also serves as a reflection of the era's socio-economic challenges, making it resonate with viewers on multiple levels. With its richly developed characters and engaging plotlines, the series promises a captivating exploration of power, family, and the oftentimes painful journey toward self-discovery. Fans of the original "Power" series will find themselves immersed in the vivid and compelling world that laid the groundwork for the stories to come.

Main Cast of Power Book III: Raising Kanan

Mekai Curtis

Kanan Stark

Patina Miller

Raquel 'Raq' Thomas

Patina Miller delves into the complex psyche of Raquel 'Raq' Thomas in "Power Book III: Raising Kanan," delivering a performance that is both commanding and nuanced. As the fierce matriarch of the Thomas family, Raq is a formidable force within the drug trade of Queens, New York, during the early '90s. Miller brings a raw intensity to the role, portraying Raq's unyielding determination to protect her family and maintain her dominance in a male-dominated world. Her performance is layered with the emotional depth of a woman who juggles the roles of a mother, a sister, and a criminal empire leader. Miller's Raq is a study in contrasts: her icy demeanor in the face of adversity belies the warmth and love she holds for her sons, particularly her youngest, Kanan. Through subtle glances and powerful monologues, Miller conveys the internal struggle of a woman who is both a nurturer and a survivor, making Raq a complex, captivating character that stands out in the gritty world of "Raising Kanan."

Omar Epps

Malcolm Howard

Omar Epps delivers a captivating performance as Malcolm Howard in "Power Book III: Raising Kanan," the prequel to the hit series "Power." As Malcolm, Epps embodies the complex nature of a character who is both a dedicated detective and a conflicted man grappling with the moral ambiguities of his profession. His portrayal is nuanced, showing a deep commitment to his role as a law enforcer while also navigating the treacherous underbelly of Queens, New York, in the 1990s. Epps brings a gravitas to the screen that is both commanding and empathetic, allowing viewers to see the internal struggle of a man who is not just another cop on the beat, but a key player in the power dynamics that shape the world of the show. His interactions with the young Kanan Stark are particularly compelling, as he attempts to guide the youth away from a life of crime, reflecting a layered relationship that is pivotal to the narrative. Epps' performance is a testament to his ability to convey the complexity of human emotion, making Malcolm Howard a memorable and standout character in the "Power" universe.

Hailey Kilgore

LaVerne 'Jukebox' Ganner

Antonio Ortiz

Shawn 'Famous' Figueroa

Antonio Ortiz delivers a compelling and multifaceted performance as Shawn 'Famous' Figueroa in the gritty prequel series "Power Book III: Raising Kanan." As the nephew of the drug queen-pin Raquel Thomas, Ortiz's character is a complex blend of charisma and vulnerability, embodying the duality of a young man caught between the allure of the street life and his own moral compass. Ortiz portrays Shawn with a quiet intensity that simmers just beneath the surface, expertly capturing the character's internal struggle as he navigates the treacherous dynamics of family loyalty and personal ambition. His performance is particularly poignant as it delves into Shawn's relationship with his mother, Jukebox, revealing the depth of his longing for maternal affection and guidance amidst the chaos of his environment. Antonio Ortiz brings a grounded authenticity to Shawn 'Famous' Figueroa, making the character one of the most relatable and emotionally resonant figures in the "Power" universe.