Béchir Sylvain stars as Sanford Williams (Simon Williams’ father) in the upcoming Wonder Man series. We had the chance to speak with him and discuss how the role came to life, and what it means to highlight Haitian culture in the Marvel universe.

When asked what how the role came about and how much it means to represent Haitian culture, Sylvain opened up about this means for him personally.

“To see a whole family, and to see our language being heard and you know, a nice family and also being in such a big big big franchise such as the MCU gives hope. And… one thing I keep saying, I don’t expect the rest of the world to understand how huge that is for us. But it is extremely huge for us. I’m learning that more and more.”

Sylvain further went on to explain what the implications are for this show and Haitian perception on a larger scale.

“The more that we allow ourselves to, you know, portray other cultures and other people, the more I think we’re able to empathize and realize how much of the same that we all are. And stay away from all  the stereotypes and just really start to seeing each other as humans and also starting to see the value of each other… No matter what the world perceived us as or tried to perceive us as… We’re still families, we’re still brother, sisters, husband, wives… every time you get a chance to do that… you’re helping the narrative for a bigger and a better world.”

You can watch the entire conversation below.

Wonder Man is currently streaming on Disney+.