Rhyan Hill is having another major moment—and it’s one you won’t want to miss. If you’ve watched him perform with artists like Kendrick Lamar or Childish Gambino, or spotted him teaching at top L.A. dance studios, you already know that he brings serious talent and energy.

Now, the 21-year-old stars as Tito Jackson in the highly anticipated biopic Michael, which debuted on the big screen on April 24. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and choreographed by brothers Rich and Tone Talauega, the film traces Michael Jackson’s rise from his Jackson 5 beginnings to global superstardom.

Dance Spirit caught up with Hill to get the inside scoop on his audition journey, what it was like stepping into a Jackson brother’s shoes, and how his dance training helped him shine on set.

Rhyan Hill. Photo by Dean Foreman, courtesy Hill.

What first drew you to dance?

I started dancing when I was 5. I was in church and saw a krump praise dance team called Movements of Praise perform. I told my mom I wanted to do that. The group was all adults, but she spoke to them anyway, and I ended up performing with them at different churches. I had a blast doing that.

When I was 7, I joined the Amazing Grace Conservatory, where I trained in acting, dancing, singing, and musical theater. That’s when I really started to learn how to dance with an ensemble and what performance really is about. One of the first shows I did was Footloose, and I fell in love with performing for an audience. Dancing and singing as part of an ensemble gave me a feeling I had never experienced before.

How did you get the Michael gig?

This was definitely the most unique audition experience I’ve ever had. I submitted a self-tape audition and then got the callback almost a year later. I went into a soundstage with [director] Antoine Fuqua, [producer] Graham King, Rich and Tone Talauega, and many others. Rich and Tone handed me a guitar, and the next thing I knew, I was dancing in front of everyone with it. Antoine and Graham then told me on the spot that I had booked the role, and I started rehearsals immediately.

From left: Rhyan Hill, Tre’ Horton, Jaafar Jackson, Joseph David Jones, and Jamal Henderson as The Jackson 5 in Michael. Photo by Kevin Mazur, courtesy Lionsgate.

How did your dance background help you bring Tito Jackson’s character to life? Were there any challenges?

I was able to pick up the choreography really well, even though the style from the ’80s is somewhat different from what we do now. The biggest challenge, though, was learning to play the guitar at the same time. I’d never played the guitar before, so getting comfortable with that while dancing took me some time.

Michael Jackson influenced generations of dancers. How do you feel about seeing his life and legacy portrayed on the big screen?

It means a lot—it’s truly an honor for me to even be part of this film. Michael Jackson has influenced so many people across the entertainment industry. I always say he was the blueprint for artists today, and that’s true for me as well.

The film really shows his artistry and the inner workings of what he created. It follows him from his formative years with the Jackson 5 through his rise to [stardom] into the beginning of the Bad tour. I think it will inspire a new generation across dance, music, fashion, and beyond. I’m excited for audiences to see all that is being portrayed onscreen. 

Photo by Dean Foreman, courtesy Hill.

How do you stay confident and focused when preparing for auditions or high-pressure performances?

It’s easy to feel intimidated, especially when you’re surrounded by talented dancers whose work you’ve seen online or on social media. What helps me is self-talk—looking in the mirror and reminding myself, “You’re here for a reason. You can do this.”

I remember doing that for the Super Bowl audition. You can’t let imposter syndrome take over. You’ve worked just as hard as everyone else. And even if you don’t book something, you have to trust that your path is your own and the right opportunities will come. I’ve been training since I was 5, so I deserve to be in these rooms.

You juggle performing, teaching, and acting—what tips do you have for young dancers trying to balance multiple passions?

Stay organized; have a schedule and a calendar. But also: Don’t be afraid to explore different avenues. In the entertainment industry, you never know where your next opportunity will come from, so it’s valuable to develop multiple skills—acting, directing, producing. At the same time, remember to breathe and trust that you can handle it. Confidence is key.

What’s a dream project or performance you hope to achieve next?

Oh, gosh—there’s so many. Okay, I’ll give you two. First, I’d love to be in a movie musical, TV musical, or dance film like Step Up or You Got Served. Second, I’d love to choreograph for a major award show, like the BET Awards, the Grammys, or the Kids’ Choice Awards. My choreography is big and dynamic, and I think it would be really cool to see that onstage.