But as much as he wants to contain himself, the actor cant help but be giddy.
Im trying to reserve myself, he tells EW.
But… f it, Im having a drink tonight!
Credit: Katherine Bomboy/Bleecker Street
Hodge has reason to celebrate.
It took a while to acknowledge and realize that I actually am successful.
I was afraid to admit it because I dont want to get complacent or comfortable.
Katherine Bomboy/Bleecker Street
At the same time, I cant disregard the value of the beautiful things I have.
But facilitating his own dreams has been a long process.
People were like, Youre a lead on a show, youre insane, he recalls.
But the past year saw his biggest breaks yet, landing bothCity on a HillandBrian Banks.
Even though Im an actor, that doesnt matter.
Ive been in those positions and been made to feel like nothing before.
His accuser soon contacted him, and he secretly recorded her admitting to making up the assault.
(He briefly played for the Atlanta Falcons.)
The experience, Hodge says, gave him a renewed sense of gratefulness.
And that gratefulness extended to another, more unexpected person:Morgan Freeman.
The legendary actor has an uncredited role inBrian Banks, but he still managed to bring Hodge to tears.
I was like, What?
He hasnt even spoken to me.
But he said, Hes got it.
[Laughs] It was so simple and subtle.
But damn, that was a day.
