Wendell Pierce and Erika Woods bring more than just acting chops to Power Book III: Raising Kanan as they bring a real-life connection that shapes their on-screen chemistry.
As both partners and co-stars, they constantly bounce ideas off each other and collaborate with the show’s writers, blending their personal and professional dynamics to enhance their performances.
This season, their characters—Snaps (Pierce) and Pop (Woods)—step into the spotlight, with Kanan and Raquel now working under them, shifting the show’s power dynamics in a major way. We caught up with the duo to discuss what Power fans can expect from their characters and how their off-screen relationship influences their work on the series.
For Woods, collaboration is second nature. She describes their process as a mix of independent artistic journeys and constant support, always open to discussing the work and offering feedback when needed. Pierce, on the other hand, emphasizes the fundamentals of acting, noting that their trust in each other creates a space where they can experiment without judgment. Their personal connection enhances their comfort on set, but ultimately, it’s their shared dedication to the craft that defines their performances.
With Snaps and Pop becoming major players this season, their presence will bring a new level of intensity and complexity to Raising Kanan. As Kanan and Raquel navigate their shifting roles under Snaps’ leadership, the tension and stakes will only grow higher. Pierce and Woods bring their natural chemistry to these power dynamics, adding layers of authenticity to the evolving storyline.
Beyond their on-screen presence, both actors immerse themselves in the 1990s setting of the show. Pierce draws on his own experiences in New York during that era to ground his portrayal, while Woods credits the meticulous wardrobe and set design for helping her step into character. From studying archival footage to exploring the South Side firsthand, she embraces every detail that brings the time period to life.
Together, their commitment to authenticity and collaboration adds another layer of depth to Raising Kanan, making their on-screen dynamic even more compelling as their characters take center stage this season.