Aaron Pierre

Pierre’s journey in the entertainment industry has been marked by remarkable accomplishments. He is no stranger to the spotlight, having lent his voice to the iconic character of Mufasa in Disney’s The Lion King, and taking on the role of a Marine veteran in the Emmy-winning Netflix film Rebel Ridge. Most recently, he has captivated viewers with his portrayal of an artist-husband harboring a secret in the popular series The Morning Show. Despite the whirlwind of success, Pierre remains humble and deeply appreciative of his opportunities.

In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE, Pierre reflected on his rise to fame, stating, “I’m working on things that I’m passionate about, and I’m just so very grateful.” He attributes much of his grounded nature to his close-knit relationships, emphasizing that his happiness stems from the people he cherishes most. Pierre, who is the proud father of a young son and has publicly embraced his relationship with singer-actress Teyana Taylor, notes, “My most intimate relationships are what make me most happy.”

As he continues to secure roles in high-profile projects, including the upcoming DC series Lanterns and the film Star Wars: Starfighter, Pierre maintains a refreshing perspective on success. “I just want to look back and be like, ‘I tried, and I did my best—and know I couldn’t have done any more,’” he shares, exhibiting a maturity that belies his years.

In a lighthearted rapid-fire segment, Pierre offers insights into his personality and preferences, covering everything from romance to guilty pleasures. When asked if he believes in love at first sight, he responds thoughtfully, “Both. It can be love at first sight, and then you enjoy taking your time to go on the journey.” His romantic side shines through when he chooses flowers paired with heartfelt words over love letters, emphasizing the importance of connection.

Pierre’s culinary inclinations lean towards the sweet side, although he is currently on a mission to become more health-conscious. “I used to have a severe sweet tooth, but now I’ll just have dark chocolate,” he admits, revealing a fondness for Hu Kitchen’s offerings, which satisfy his cravings while still feeling indulgent. When it comes to workouts, he doesn’t shy away from either early morning or evening exercise sessions, showcasing his commitment to maintaining an active lifestyle.

Though he has a penchant for romantic comedies, Pierre’s taste in films reflects his multifaceted personality. “That’s really hard. Oh gosh, why is this stressing me out? I genuinely can’t choose,” he laughs, suggesting that both genres hold a special place in his heart.

His culinary skills may not be advanced, as he candidly admits, “I don’t have any recipes that impress,” but his love for cooking is evident. “I love food. Big foodie, so I love to cook, but I like to eat more than I love to cook,” he confesses, highlighting the joy he derives from culinary experiences.

Reflecting on his life’s journey, Pierre identifies committing to his dream of becoming an actor as one of the scariest moments he has faced. “Probably commit to wanting to be an actor, but actually saying it out loud,” he recalls, emphasizing the significance of vocalizing his aspirations. This moment of vulnerability has paved the way for his current success, as he embraces the challenges and triumphs that come with pursuing his passion.

Staying grounded amidst the chaos of fame is essential for Pierre, and he credits his loved ones and community for keeping him anchored. “I’m a grounded person anyway, I would like to believe. But my loved ones and my community have certainly contributed massively to keeping me grounded and reminding me why I do this,” he explains. For Pierre, his work is not solely for personal gain; it serves as a means to uplift those around him and celebrate the connections that enrich his life.

As he continues to navigate the complexities of fame, romance, and personal growth, Aaron Pierre remains a figure worth watching in the entertainment industry. With his talent, charisma, and genuine approach to life, he is poised to leave an indelible mark on Hollywood and beyond. As he looks to the future, Pierre embodies the spirit of an artist dedicated to his craft while cherishing the relationships and experiences that truly matter.