Lance Gross Shines in Sugar Baby

Lance Gross steps into a bold and compelling role in Sugar Baby, a film that intricately explores modern relationships, financial struggles, and emotional dilemmas. The movie follows Jade, played by Christina Cooper, as she navigates a complex web of love, security, and loyalty. When her boyfriend is incarcerated, Jade enters a relationship with an older, wealthy man, leading to a whirlwind of emotions and challenges. Sugar Baby dives deep into themes of love, power dynamics, and societal judgment, offering a fresh and thought-provoking narrative.

Gross portrays Anthony, a successful businessman who provides Jade with both financial stability and emotional support. His character is rich with complexity, showcasing both vulnerability and strength as he navigates an unconventional relationship. Gross’s nuanced performance brings authenticity to the story, challenging traditional notions of romance and morality.

Reflecting on the script, Gross reveals that he was captivated from the first read. He was drawn to its originality and depth, explaining, “It’s a story that doesn’t shy away from complexity. It’s rare to find a script that presents such an unfiltered portrayal of human relationships.” For him, the appeal wasn’t just in the storyline but in the opportunity to challenge traditional storytelling norms. “Most films paint love in broad strokes, but this one showcases the messiness, vulnerability, and rawness of real emotions. I knew immediately that I had to be a part of it.”

Premiering on BET+, Sugar Baby aligns with the platform’s vision of delivering bold and engaging content that sparks discussion. With a gripping storyline and standout performances, the film is set to leave a lasting impact, encouraging audiences to reflect on love, sacrifice, and survival. Executive produced by Tressa Azarel Smallwood, Sugar Baby is a cinematic experience that resonates deeply.

Gross admits that portraying Anthony was challenging, particularly in emotionally intense scenes. One of the film’s most gripping moments occurs when Anthony confronts Jade’s newly released boyfriend, a scene filled with raw emotion and unexpected twists. Gross recalls, “That scene required total focus. The stakes were high, and we wanted the audience to feel the tension.”

Beyond the drama, the film also delves into the societal perceptions of age-gap relationships and sugar dating. Gross acknowledges the controversy surrounding the topic but appreciates how the film presents it with depth. “There are so many opinions about sugar dating, but this film highlights the real emotions and struggles behind it. It’s not just about money—it’s about relationships, choices, and consequences.”

A crucial element of Sugar Baby is the on-screen chemistry between Gross and his co-star, Christina Cooper. Gross praises Cooper’s dedication, stating, “Christina brought so much passion and depth to Jade. This was her first lead role in a feature film, and she gave it her all. Watching her grow into the character was inspiring.”

For Gross, Sugar Baby is more than just a film—it’s a conversation starter. “These characters represent real people and real struggles. That’s what makes this film powerful.” His performance continues to solidify his reputation as a dynamic and influential force in the industry, unafraid to take on socially relevant roles.

Filming took place in Louisville, Kentucky, though the story is set in Atlanta. Gross embraced the challenge of capturing Atlanta’s essence in a different location, finding inspiration in the experience. “I’ve spent a lot of time in Atlanta, so I knew the energy we needed to recreate. Filming in Kentucky was a great experience.”

Looking ahead, Gross remains committed to roles that challenge him. He has expressed interest in action roles and directing, seeing Sugar Baby as an opportunity to explore storytelling from a new perspective. “I love acting, but I also want to direct. Producing this film gave me a taste of what’s possible. I want to tell stories that matter.”

Fans can look forward to seeing Gross in upcoming projects, including another season of Tyler Perry’s House of Payne and the biopic I Will Survive, centered on music icon Gloria Gaynor. He also dreams of landing a superhero role in the future, saying, “I’d love to join the Marvel or DC Universe. Action has always been a passion of mine.”

As for aspiring actors, Gross offers words of wisdom: “Work hard and don’t be afraid of the grind. This business is tough, but persistence pays off. Keep pushing, keep learning, and never give up.”

With his dedication to his craft and passion for meaningful storytelling, Lance Gross remains a powerful presence in the entertainment industry. Sugar Baby is now streaming on BET+, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in a drama that is as emotionally charged as it is socially relevant.