Share

For actor and multi-hyphenate creative Mark J.P. Hood, Season 2 of BET+’sChurchy feels less
like a career move and more like destiny. Hood, whose work spans theater, television, and film,
brings Rodney Joseph, the loyal best friend and self-proclaimed PR man of Corey Carr Jr.’s ministry, to life with a mix of humor and heart. “This is one thing that truly God ordained for me,” Hood said. “The way I’m shaped, the way I speak, the way my life has led to this moment, it would be a slap in the face to God not to walk into this role fully.”

Check out this Exclusive Interview on SHEENTALKTV

That balance of faith and artistry has made Churchy a standout. Season 2 not only builds on the show’s momentum but also gives Rodney room to grow.
“In Season 1, Rodney was just Corey’s sidekick,” Hood explained. “This season, you really see him come into his own. He has opinions, mischief, and momentum.”

Behind the laughter is a strong sense of collaboration. Hood credits show creator Kevin
“KevOnStage” Fredericks with creating a space where freedom and creativity thrive.

“Kevin makes everything so free, you don’t feel weighed down. Some of the funniest moments weren’t even scripted. They came from us, just playing around on set,” Hood recalled.
Though rooted in the Black church experience as a PK (pastor’s kid), Hood says Churchy is for anyone looking for a lighthearted escape. “I want people to watch this show and just have mindless joy,” he said. “Life is heavy right now. People need something they can turn on, laugh at, and go to bed a little lighter.”

For Hood, joy and faith have always gone hand in hand. A proud Chicago theater kid, he grew
up immersed in musicals, eventually becoming both a performer and director before
transitioning to television. That foundation, he says, prepared him for this moment where
purpose and passion align.

His advice to dreamers reflects the same conviction. “If the dream is big enough, the facts don’t count,” Hood said, recalling words from his eighth-grade graduation speaker.
“Never stop dreaming. Even when you achieve one, you have to dream up new ones. That’s the only way forward.”

Season 2 of Churchy is now streaming on BET+, offering laughs, heart, and a reflection of
everyday church communities often overlooked on screen.

To keep up with Mark J.P. Hood’s journey, follow him on Instagram [@markjphood]

https://www.instagram.com/markjphood