Mahershala Ali’s career inspired by Denzel Washington and Forest Whitaker

Mahershala Ali name checks Denzel Washington and Forest Whitaker as two of his favourite actors.

Over the last few months the Hollywood newcomer has made his mark on cinema, which was recognised on Sunday (26Feb17) when he won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his role in Academy Award-winning film Moonlight.

Asked by America's GQ to give a rundown on his personal Oscar choices, California native Mahershala happily listed some of his screen idols.

“Especially as an African-American, you need to see yourself reflected in some way. And I've looked at Denzel And I've looked at Forest Whitaker,” he shared. “He's an extraordinary actor, but he's also a character actor. And I feel similar to him. I draw inspiration from him, because in some ways, he's kind of present against all odds. You can't necessarily say what he is.

“I've been watching him since Fast Times at Ridgemont High, when he was a kid. I remember when he came on-screen in Fast Times, and just his presence alone made me kind of take a step back.”

Denzel has two Oscars to his name, but missed out on a third to Casey Affleck at Sunday’s ceremony, while Forest has one.

As for his favourite actress, Mahershala went for four-time nominee Michelle Williams. The blonde star was also shortlisted for the 2017 awards, but lost out to Denzel’s Fences co-star Viola Davis.

“I love Michelle Williams,” he smiled. “I think she's extraordinary. I was such a fan of Blue Valentine, and I heard stories about how Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams worked on that. They lived together for a period of time as rehearsal. From nine in the morning to five at night, living in a space together. The work is really awe-inspiring.”