But everybody loves Tyler James Williams

Tyler James Williams stars as Chris, a responsible, resilient 13-year-old struggling to keep his siblings in line at home while facing a new neighborhood and new school, in UPN's hit comedy Everybody Hates Chris. Recently, this talented young actor told us a little about his life, both on and off the set.

(Q) You play a kid growing up in the 1980s in Brooklyn. How did you prepare for the part?

[a] I watched my parents as they showed me corny dance steps, told me about their hip (corny) catchphrases, and showed me pictures of their tight (corny) clothes styles. All I really had to do was think, "corny."

(Q) What is life like on the set of Everybody Hates Chris? Do you have a lot of fun with the cast members?

[a] It's like hanging out with extended family members. We pull pranks on each other and fool around during our lunch breaks.

(Q) How does your life compare to Chris, the character you play?

[a] Chris and I are both older brothers. Chris goes to a predominantly white school and I used to. (I am now home schooled.) Chris and I are both from New York and are being raised in two-parent, working class, loving and strict, but fun, households. My TV dad and my real dad are bald, big, black, and wear uniforms to work. My TV mom and my real mom are strong-willed, funny and sometimes loud.

(Q) Tell us about your family. How do your parents help you manage your busy work schedule in L.A.?

[a] I have two brothers, Tyrol Jackson, 8, and Tylen Jacob, 4, who are also actors. We also have a Silky Terrier, Benny "Ruff-Neck" Williams. My mom looks after everything regarding our busy acting schedules in L.A. My dad comes to L.A. from New York every two weeks and when he does, he and my mom share the load.

(Q) What are your hobbies? Do you like sports?

[a] I play basketball and like swimming and reading. I also enjoy watching basketball and football.

(Q) Who is your favorite actor?

[a] Larry Fishburne

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COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning