Maurice Johnson made history with Beyond the Gates, which became the first hour-long, Black-led daytime soap opera in 25 years when it premiered earlier this year. Johnson quickly became a fan favorite as Dr. Ted Richardson, and judging by how often fans still talk about him, he’s clearly missed.
Recently, Johnson sat down with Brandi Harvey for an honest and wide-ranging conversation, and he didn’t hold back. The actor and trailblazer spoke warmly about his time on the show while opening up about his faith, his journey, and why he chooses not to take on gay roles.
From stepping into a groundbreaking role that’s helping shift culture to growing up as a pastor’s kid, Johnson shared the moments in his life that made him stop and say, “God is real.”
As a proud pastor’s kid, Johnson says his faith is deeply rooted in who he is. He believes God has ordered his steps, leading him to opportunities he never could’ve planned, including Beyond the Gates and Hawaii Five-0.
Though he’s played a devoted husband, father, and even a grandfather onscreen, Johnson revealed that in real life he’s currently single and doesn’t have children—yet. Still, he predicts that chapter is ahead of him.
Life after Beyond the Gates
Reflecting on his recent success, Johnson explained just how much the role has changed things for him. “It’s been a blessing,” he shared. “This has catapulted me—given eyes on me, a new fan base. Directors and producers are calling me directly now. I’m getting offers for other TV shows and films. So 2025 has been an amazing year. I’m actually starting another project on the 31st, one I’m producing myself. It’s faith-based and will be shot in Charlotte.”
When the conversation turned to manhood, Johnson was just as candid. “Manhood is okay,” he said. “We’ve gotten into a society where everything feels like it’s being pushed down our throats. I’m a heterosexual male. Those are the only roles I play. You know, not going to play any other roles. I’m not going to do it justice. I’m not gay. Go get a gay guy to play this role.”
Johnson added that the response he gets from women has been overwhelming, and affirming. “Women come up to me all the time saying they love how I play this role. The grandmas, the aunties—they say, ‘We finally have a manly man on TV.’ Don’t water that down. People need to see positive role models. I wanted kids, young men to look at me like I looked at Bill Cosby.”
The Role of Ted
Speaking specifically about Ted Richardson, Johnson said it was important to show a manly side. “How did he treat his wife? How did he treat his kids? He raised every single one of them differently,” Johnson explained. “Even the daughter he didn’t know he had at the time—he was empathetic. You can be manly and still be empathetic. So, you could be manly, empathetic, be present with your wife. That’s what every woman wants.”
With several new projects on the horizon, Johnson says everything he’s doing right now is purpose-driven. His path forward is clear. Watch the full interview below to hear Maurice Johnson tell his story in his own words.
Photo Credit: Quantrell Colbert/CBS Broadcasting Inc.
Key Takeaways
- Maurice Johnson made history as Dr. Ted Richardson in the first hour-long, Black-led daytime soap opera, Beyond the Gates.
- In a recent interview, Johnson discussed his faith, acting choices, and his experiences growing up as a pastor’s kid.
- He feels that his role has opened doors in the industry, leading to new opportunities and projects, including one he’s producing himself.
- Johnson emphasizes the importance of portraying manhood in his roles.
- He plans to continue working on purpose-driven projects while maintaining his identity as a heterosexual male in his roles.
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