Jason Mitchell Shares the Word You Should Never, Ever Tell Yourself

Most people don't know that...

I can do a backflip on the spot. I learned how from watching Ninja Turtles movies as a kid. Whenever the Turtles got in trouble with their teacher, Master Splinter, he'd make them practice backflips as punishment—and I was so focused on becoming one of the Turtles that I taught myself how to do one too.

My least favorite word is...

Can't. The worst thing in the world is telling yourself you can't do something. Nobody likes that dude.

If I weren't an actor, I would've ended up...

An electrician. After Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, where I grew up, I went back to the city to pick up the trade and help out. Literally lighting up a room for people can change their life.

My best middle-of-the-night meal is...

A turkey sandwich with mustard and shredded cheese on white bread. I realized it was hands down my favorite snack when I had enough money to get anything I wanted, and I still wanted a turkey sandwich.

I can't help but...

Smile. I've got a friendly smile, a greeting smile, and a you-know-exactly-what-I'm-thinking smile. That one is mostly for the ladies.