Kola Bokinni

Suit by Paul Smith
Shoes by Clarks Shoes
Vest by Stylists own

Kola Bokinni, an actor from London, England, became known for his role as Lennard in a 2016 episode of “Black Mirror” and for his recurring role of Leyton on the British hit series “Top Boy.” Since then, he has continued to gain recognition for Apple TV + “Ted Lasso.” Ted Lasso was released in the summer of 2020 while many people were still in lockdown, and it became a popular feel-good series. In the series, Kola plays Isaac McAdoo, the AFC Richmond center-back and captain. Ted Lasso began filming its 3rd season in March.

**Left:**
Jacket by PRONOUNCE
Trousers by Paul Smith
Shoes by Clarks Shoes
**Right:**
Green set by Bottega Veneta
Shoes by Clarks Shoes

Tell us about what it was like to be part of a project that not only became very popular so quickly but gained its following for the sense of hope it inspired at such an uncertain and isolating time.
It was amazing! I come from a football background, so when I heard of a project involving my passion (football) and my career (acting), I knew I really wanted to be involved. The success wasn’t predicted and was never anticipated, so personally I take it a day at a time.

Your character, Isaac, stepped further into the spotlight in season 2 and took on the position of Captain. Without spoiling anything, can audiences look forward to more development of his character and story in season 3?
Of course, we grow every day and so do the characters. Isaac is like an onion. Whether it’s sadness or happiness, pain, or anger he embraces everything. We will have to see how he reacts.

**Left:**
Suit by Paul Smith
Shoes by Clarks Shoes
Vest by Stylists own
**Right:**
Jacket by PRONOUNCE
Trousers by Paul Smith
Shoes by Clarks Shoes

The show has always been envisioned as a three-season story. What was it like to go into filming this season knowing that?
Since it isn’t confirmed that Season 3 will be the end, I didn’t go into season 3 thinking it was the end. I have learned so much about myself just being on set.

The series is serious and at times quiet. What was it like to go from a role like that of Leyton to an optimistic series like Ted Lasso?
First off, I’ve been massive fan of Top Boy before I was even on it. The character is probably the worst side of me and that’s being truthful. That aside, it was amazing. The character is different, but I always concentrate on a character’s morals and Isaac felt like the right option going forward.

**Left:**
Jacket & Trousers by A Spectrum
Top by CRAIG GREEN
Shoes by Model’s own
**Right:**
Green set by Bottega Veneta
Shoes by Clarks Shoes

Outside of acting, how do you spend most of your time?
My family and my friends, most of whom are my cast mates. They are my everything. I mostly spend time on getaways with them, playing football, or just having fun because you are not in this life for long and you shouldn’t dwell on trivial things.

What (or who) has been inspiring you recently?
One of my best mates is Will Poulter and he has been my go-to for advice whenever I’ve needed it. However busy he is, he always has the time to tell me something that will ease my worries.

**Left:**
Jacket & Trousers by A Spectrum
Top by CRAIG GREEN
Shoes by Model’s own
**Right:**
Vest: Stylists own

Do you have any dream roles or other styles or genres you want to pursue?
I love rom coms and dramas. My favorite films are 90s drama/ Rom coms. I just want to make stuff that moves people.

Social Media.
Instagram: @kolabokinni
Twitter: @kolabokinni

**Left:**
Green set by Bottega Veneta
Shoes by Clarks Shoes
**Right:**
Vest by Stylists own

CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
Creative Director + Photographer + Producer: Mike Ruiz + @mikeruiz.one
Talent: Kola Bokinni
Fashion Stylist: Leah Abbott at A-Frame Agency
Groomer: Julien Rol
Barber: Caolan Carney-Slee
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Associate Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Flora Medina, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine