FilmiFeed

Jermelle Simon

Simon plays Bernard in The Upshaws. His earlier television work includes Animal Kingdom, and Netflix identifies Bernard as his first major role.

Biography

Jermelle Simon plays Bernard, the eldest Upshaw child, in the Netflix sitcom The Upshaws. Raised in Florence, South Carolina, Simon landed his first major role in a cast that includes Kim Fields and Wanda Sykes. His interviews describe preparing for Bernard's family scenes and the character's developing responsibilities.

Simon plays Bernard in The Upshaws. His earlier television work includes Animal Kingdom, and Netflix identifies Bernard as his first major role.

Known for

Bernard in The Upshaws

Simon plays Bernard in The Upshaws. His earlier television work includes Animal Kingdom, and Netflix identifies Bernard as his first major role.[1][2]

Career highlights

  1. Career 1

    Earlier television work

    Before The Upshaws, Simon appeared in Animal Kingdom. Netflix lists that credit when introducing him to the sitcom's audience.[1]

  2. Career 2

    Joining The Upshaws

    Simon said the opportunity to work with Wanda Sykes and Kim Fields helped draw him to the series. Bernard became his first major television role.[2][1]

  3. Career 3

    Bernard's coming-out scene

    He recalled filming Bernard's coming-out conversation with Fields, who plays his mother Regina. Her reassurance helped him approach a scene he considered especially significant.[2]

  4. Career 4

    Playing a father

    Season two revealed that Bernard had a daughter, Sydney, played by Ayaamii Sledge. Simon discussed drawing on his own experience as a parent when working with the younger performer.[2]

  5. Career 5

    Bernard and Hector

    The same season developed Bernard's relationship with Hector, played by Dewayne Perkins. Simon's interview discusses that storyline as another part of the character's life outside his parents' home.[2]