Meet Derrick Speight | Film/TV Exec, Director, Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Derrick Speight and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Derrick, we’d love to hear more about your end-goal, professionally.
Given my extensive experience the content space, I often am asked about the ultimate goal. Some years ago, I was responsible for producing and directing a slate for three channels for YouTube’s 100 Million Dollar Content Initiative. At the time, web content was the Wild West, largely unchartered territory, and apart from kitten videos, no one knew what would work to attract consistent viewership. As such, my team and I were given largely carte blanche to come up with concepts, with the understanding that some of it would work, some of it wouldn’t, and that would be ok. It was liberating to be allowed, even encouraged to just dream and do! And oh, did we dream…over the next year, we produced all sorts of inspired shows, some went on to become hits, while others faded into oblivion, never to be mentioned again. This approach is something I’ve strived to maintain throughout my career; assemble really creative people, listen to the best ideas in the room, take some big swings—without fear of failure, and make something extraordinary happen. My goal is for this kind of magic to be lifeblood of Sp8 Digital, consistently producing thrilling content for global audiences, alongside the Bad Robots, Amblins and Skydances. Presently, there are very few black-owned, non-celebrity entertainment media companies backed by venture capitalist groups. Our goal for the coming year is to change that. We intend to establish such a partnership and continue to produce and direct cinematic and streaming gems in the television industry.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

I built my career as a director and producer, working on some of the most iconic franchises in television, which eventually led to a programming and development executive role

Impressed by my body of work, BET Digital extended an offer for me to take on the role of Head of Originals, entrusting me with the oversight of all their series, specials, and pilots. I went on to produce 16 successful series that year.

During my time at BET, I had the privilege to direct a project that I hold dear—the web series “Spoof Deez” with influencer Juhahn Jones. This series, which humorously spoofed upcoming movies, was an embodiment of my creative brand showcasing the diversity of black narratives. BET’s backing enabled us to blend elements of black culture into the mainstream in ways that were comedic, insightful, and nuanced. The full support of such a respected brand was truly inspiring.

After my stint at BET, I joined another well-known entity, Complex Networks, a division of the digital powerhouse Buzzfeed. My role there was akin to a studio deal, where I oversaw digital, linear, and theatrical projects. In addition to managing the content slate, I spent my days looking for cool projects. As one of the more successful digital producers in town and one of the few executives with the power to greenlight projects, I had a significant influence on the content produced.

Stepping into an executive role was never a deliberate goal, but it emerged naturally from the breadth and depth of my work over the years. However, I soon recognized a recurring pattern—these brands often restricted black content to a narrow spectrum, often resorting to stereotypical representations. This realization has sparked the next chapter of my journey where I am devoted to creating and seeking out opportunities that authentically portray the diverse spectrum of black culture and stories.

When I consider my raison d’être, it centers on articulating daring, unfiltered narratives that delve into the intricate layers of black personalities. As a community, black people are too often subtly coaxed into being something we’re not. My aim is to bring to life utterly unique characters who exhibit their authenticity without reservation. I am drawn to crafting narratives that shun conformity and pacification, to create a fresh cultural precedent. A standard where genuine depictions and the humanizing of black people are the norm. I am driven by a desire to establish a legacy that showcases us as we truly are, rather than perpetuating narrow, inadequate stereotypes that don’t reflect or contribute positively to the advancement of humanity.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
A week would be enough to hit my curated list of diverse culinary and cultural highlights of LA. Food wise, grab a plate of Doro Wat and sumptuously seasoned cabbage, lentils and greens at Messob Ethiopian on Fairfax, hit up Soowon Galbi for the marinated bulgogi in Koreatown, and Jack’s Banana pancakes at Jacks N Joes over by USC is a must for Sunday brunch. Alternatively, the biscuits and gravy at Pann’s Diner on La Tijera is absolutely necessary for brunch. At some point, grab a Chocolate Raised and giant Texas Glazed doughnut at the iconic Randy’s on Manchester in Inglewood. Meet me for a pickup game of basketball at Foxhills Park, catch Dudamel conducting the LA Phil in a performance of Revel’s masterpiece, “Daphnis et Chloé” downtown at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, or take a meditative stroll in the serenity of Lake Shrine. Lastly, end the week at Venice Beach for a one of kind sunset unlike anywhere in the world.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Throughout my career, my uncle, Alonzo Rico Speight, has been an unwavering source of support and mentorship. His invaluable wisdom and insights have been instrumental in helping me navigate the highs and lows of a career that has spanned over two decades in this industry. His brilliance is rivaled only by his wealth of experience, evident in his own successful career he has carved out in documentary films. His body of work, which includes powerful films such as “Who’s Gonna Take The Weight?”—recognized at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival—is a testament to his talent. His is currently, readying his highly anticipated film, “Rediscovering Fanon.” His presence and guidance have been a constant throughout my journey–He was there when I directed my first commercial, when I made the tough choice to walk away from a lucrative franchise due to a toxic company culture, just as he was there when I brokered the deal to purchase the biggest show of my career. One of his most impactful teachings that has resonated with me is the importance of seeking out qualities I admire in others, especially in those I don’t particularly like. He also taught me to embrace vulnerability both personally and professionally. Realizing that there was no need to be perpetually defensive, as my inherent resilience and inner strength were more than sufficient to manage any situation that might arise. He’s smarter than I’ll ever be, and I remain indebted to him for his generosity in sharing a lifetime of wisdom.

Website: www.Sp8digital.com

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/sp8digital

Twitter: @Iamdsp8

Image Credits
Headshots by Parveen Dosanjh 2022