Omar “Showtime” Rashada: Giving The Delaware Community A Voice

Omar Rashada is a native of Wilmington, Delaware. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Wilmington University in Behavioral Science and his master’s degree in Counseling from Springfield College.

Omar studied acting at the Robert Taylor’s School of Acting and Modeling with his acting debut in James Baldwin’s play, “The Amen Corner” (1999) where he played the character of “Luke.” He has acted in numerous other play productions and has written, directed, starred in, and produced six plays. In addition to play productions, Omar is best known in the community for being a talk show host. He began hosting, directing, and producing talk shows (“Community Issues” and “Artists”) that were aired on Comcast Leased Access Channels 28 and 190.

How did you get the nickname “Showtime”?

The nickname “Showtime” comes from the concept of the lights, camera, and action on television and the stage. I created the nickname for myself to represent that.

Tell us about your Show/TV Show and how you got started?

I founded Showtime TV Productions in July of 2019. Then in October of 2019, we were awarded a 501 C-3 Non-Profit status, and the first show aired on Leased Access Channel 190 aired for about a year. Then around September of 2020, we decided that Showtime TV Productions would be best suited to be produced on social media, specifically on Zoom & Facebook Live. Currently, we air on our and on under Showtime TV Productions Inc. Being on social media allows us to have a broader audience, as well as the capability to interview guests from all over the world. Our mission is to educate, enlighten, and entertain viewers with quality programs. The vision is to be a premier television production.

Prior to Showtime TV, I hosted, produced, wrote, and directed my own show on Comcast Channel 28 from April 1997 to March 2019.

The shows that are currently on Showtime Productions Inc are:

• “Community Issues” – where guests discuss issues that have a profound effect on our community.
• “Arts  & Culture” – where performing and visual artists, writers, directors, and producers discuss their experiences as artists.

What inspires you to do the work you do, interviewing people in the community?

What inspires me is the opportunity to network, share resources, give exposure to those doing great work in their communities, and educate our viewers.

What makes your show different from other Delaware shows?

What makes my shows different are the interesting questions that I present to my guests. I also host shows on different hot topics such as “A Discussion with Men of Color,” honoring women during “Women’s History Month,” and honoring African Americans during “Black History Month.”

How has doing the show changed you throughout the years?

The show has helped me to admire the accomplishments of men and women more in regards to the growth they have experienced in business or their artistic talent. I also admire my elders, seniors, and the work they have done in the community, and to recognize the achievements that our youth have accomplished.

What keeps you motivated to keep doing what you do?

The willingness to learn, grow, strive for success, be positive, and build healthy relationships is what motivates me.

What has been one of your favorite shows so far and why?

It’s hard to choose a favorite show. However, I really enjoy interviewing the youth, especially when they perform on my show and I get to see their proud parents clap their hands with enjoyment.

Who have been your top 5 favorite guests?

My top 5 favorite guests… hmm. I have interviewed so many people. But, I can say that I really enjoyed these 5 interviews.

1. Apostle Ivory Hopkins – brings such a high level of spirituality, wisdom, and experience, and his messages are very inspirational.
2. Mr. Larry Morris – is a great mentor, community activist, and historian.
3. Imam Muhammad Salaam – is a man’s man, community leader, advocate, and has a wealth of knowledge.
4. Marie Lopez – is very intelligent, an advocate for victims of domestic violence, and a great performing artist.
5. Lastly, I’m going to say all of the youth. They are all so precious.

Who has been your most famous guest?

My most famous guest thus far has been Ramona Africa, the adult sole survivor of the Move Bombing in Philadelphia, and the late Will Smith Sr., father of the actor Will Smith.

Who is someone in Delaware that you would love to interview?

One person I would like to interview is my pastor, Bishop Todd S. Townsend. He grew up on the streets of Philadelphia and not only has become a Bishop … but also earned Doctoral Degrees, produced an album, and is an accomplished author.

Where do you see yourself five years from now?

In five years, I would like to be a full-time playwright, author, actor, and talk show host.

Are there any current or upcoming projects that you are working on?

I just finished writing my latest play, “Six Black Men.” It’s a story about six Black men who have been selected to participate in a cultural awareness project. During the project, the men share the personal issues that they are currently experiencing and help each other cope with their issues and learn how to overcome them. I’m looking for this play to be produced here in the area this Summer. The goal is to find a play producer/s that will assist in the play going on tour throughout the United States, different parts of the world, and definitely on Broadway!!!!!

Thank you so much again for sharing all of this with us. Before we go, can you share with our readers how they can connect with you, learn more or show support?