By Staff
Shannon Lanier is a man of many talents—a respected news anchor, passionate actor, devoted husband, and loving father. Known for delivering hard-hitting stories with authenticity and poise, Lanier is now turning heads on the big screen with his breakout role in Duplicity, a hit film on Amazon Prime produced by none other than Tyler Perry. In this exclusive interview, Shannon opens up about his transition into acting, balancing family life, the power of faith, and what it truly means to chase your dreams without fear.
You’ve had a long and successful career as a news anchor. What inspired you to transition into acting?
I’ve always had a passion for acting, even while anchoring the news. When you have a number one hit movie on Amazon Prime Video, it feels like the perfect time to go for it. I never want to be someone who looks back saying “I shoulda, coulda, woulda.” So I’m shooting for the stars while I still have the chance.
Tyler Perry personally called you for your role in Duplicity. What was that moment like for you?
He called and said he wanted me in the film playing a character I inspired. After I picked myself up off the floor, I immediately said, “YES!” He told me to read the script first, but I already knew I was going to love it. I told him, “Please don’t give my part away!” LOL
What was the biggest challenge in shifting from journalism to acting, and how did you prepare for the role?
I worked with my private acting coach, Tracy Moore, for two months to prepare. Honestly, the biggest challenge wasn’t the acting—it was resisting all the delicious snacks on set so I could still fit into my custom-fitted wardrobe! Haha
Duplicity is a major project on Amazon—what can you tell us about your character and how you connected with the role?
Even though the character shares my first name, I wanted to make him different. He’s more rigid, serious, and straightforward. Still, I naturally connected with him because, like me, he’s a news anchor.
What was it like working on a Tyler Perry production? Any memorable moments on set?
It was a dream come true. Tyler is incredibly smart, talented, and professional. Watching him work felt like attending a live masterclass. I’m still amazed at how he manages to juggle so many creative ideas, direct the crew and talent, remember lines, and simultaneously work on other projects. It’s genius-level stuff.
Your journey proves that dreams do come true. What advice do you have for people who want to pivot in their careers but are hesitant to take that leap?
You have to go for it. Don’t let fear or uncertainty keep you from living the life you’ve always imagined. You’ll never know unless you try—and trying is how growth happens. Don’t let “what if” stop you from your “what now.”
How did your background as a news anchor help you in your new career as an actor?
As a reporter, I had to memorize a lot of lines, which definitely helps in acting. And as an anchor, we switch between emotions depending on the story—whether it’s tragic, inspiring, or uplifting. In many ways, it’s like acting. Those skills transferred over and gave me a solid foundation.
Were there any doubts or fears when stepping into this new chapter of your life? How did you overcome them?
Absolutely. There were doubts and nerves. But I try not to live in fear because I know God has my back. I remind myself of the skills and talents He gave me, and I lean into prayer. I write down my goals and past accomplishments, and I surround myself with positivity—through quotes, affirmations, and speaking life into my situation. I believe in manifesting the impossible.
What does success mean to you now that you’re expanding into new creative territories?
Success, for me, is happiness and balance. It’s spending quality time with my family, maintaining a healthy work-life rhythm, and being able to pay the bills. I don’t need to be the richest or most famous person in the world. The fact that I have a loving family who enjoys spending time together already makes me feel successful.
You’re a devoted husband and father. How do you balance your family life with your career?
Time is something you can’t borrow or get back, which makes it incredibly valuable. I’m still working on that balance. I try to structure my day with designated hours for work, fitness, family, and fun. It’s not perfect—sometimes those hours blend—but I’m learning to be present in the moment. When I’m with my wife and kids, I try not to think about work. That’s their time.
What lessons do you hope your children learn from watching you pursue your dreams?
I want my kids to dream bigger than I ever did. I want them to be confident, fearless, and intentional. I hope they understand that with faith, planning, and hard work, they can do anything God created them to do. I don’t want them to leap without looking, but I do want them to leap.
You’ve built a strong social media presence. How do you use your platform to inspire and uplift others?
In the news business, we’re often surrounded by heavy, heartbreaking stories. So I use my social media to bring joy—to myself and others. I focus on fun, relatable, uplifting content. People have told me they come to my page when they’re having a bad day, and that really touches me. That’s what it’s all about—spreading light.
With your growing influence, what kind of roles or projects are you hoping to take on in the future?
I’d love to dive into more comedy and animated roles—especially ones my kids would enjoy. And honestly, if I could be in a movie or show with someone they look up to, that would definitely make me the “cool dad.” So that’s the dream.
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