Olly Sholotan

Olly Sholotan: Crafting Stories Through Stage and Sound

In the modern reimagining of Bel-Air, Olly Sholotan brings a fresh perspective to the beloved character of Carlton Banks. Reimagining such an iconic role comes with its challenges, especially when the original portrayal by Alfonso Ribeiro set such a high bar. “My first instinct was like, I don’t want to do this,” Olly admits, recalling his initial hesitation during the audition. “But it was really cool because there was a line in big red letters that said, ‘This is not the original. This is not the comedy. Do something completely different.'” This creative freedom allowed him to reach new depths into Carlton’s struggles, exploring the complexities of growing up in Bel-Air and confronting his identity.

Olly’s cultural background has significantly shaped his artistic journey. Growing up between Nigeria and the U.S., he draws on a rich tapestry of influences. His music, an Afrobeat-American pop hybrid, reflects this blend of cultures. “I feel very interconnected to the rest of the world,” he explains, highlighting how both his Nigerian roots and American experiences inform his artistry.

As he navigates his multifaceted career as an actor, musician, and producer, Olly embraces the challenges of balancing these roles. “I can’t pick a favorite; they all feed different parts of my artistry,” he says. Yet, he acknowledges the struggle of managing his time effectively, often juggling long filming hours with late-night studio sessions. “I’m still trying to find a middle ground,” he confesses with a smile.

Olly’s process for tackling the heavier themes of Bel-Air involves music—his first love. He creates playlists for each character and season, which helps him get into the right mindset. “Music is the closest we as humans have come to magic,” he says, emphasizing its transformative power. After a day filled with intense scenes, he turns to working out as a way to unwind. “I need to just put my headphones in, have a good workout playlist, lift some weights, and run on the treadmill for 30 minutes,” he shares, illustrating how physical activity helps him reset.

With a rich background in theater, Olly envisions a future where his passions for acting and music seamlessly intertwine. “I’ve always wanted to do a Nicholas Brothers biopic or musical,” he reveals, his eyes lighting up as he animatedly describes the iconic tap-dancing duo. His enthusiasm is palpable, painting a vivid picture of the vibrant choreography and dynamic performances he dreams of bringing to life on stage. “Their story is not just about dance; it’s about resilience and the power of artistry,” he

continues, illustrating how their legacy inspires him to create work that resonates deeply with audiences.

In discussing Bel-Air’s relevance to today’s youth, Olly expresses hope that viewers see the importance of embracing imperfection through Carlton’s journey. “He’s striving for a goal that he’ll never attain,” he reflects. “It’s okay to be imperfect.”

With each role, Olly Sholotan is carving out his unique space in the entertainment industry, driven by his passion for storytelling, transmediatic practices, and a desire to connect with audiences worldwide.