Interview by Sharon Monae
Kass Segars has written and produced many popular films. Her notable works include Scheme Queens, Unthinkably Good Things, Where’s the Love, Girlfriends Getaway 1 & 2, Welcome to the Family, and two NAACP Image Award nominations. and the biopic “When Love Kills: The Falicia Blakely Story.” Under her production company, Nina Holiday Entertainment, Cass has produced films such as For Richer or Poorer, Merry Wishmas, Angry Ever After, Hip Hop Holiday, and BET’s highest-rated Christmas movie of all time. We co-produced “T’was the Chaos Before Christmas,” which became “T’was the Chaos Before Christmas.”
Segars has also directed films such as Hallmark’s “Open,” “The Mediator,” and “Sugar Plum Twist,” and his latest film, “The Match,” was released by AllBlk in 2024. In addition to her work in film, Cass is the author of six fiction novels published by Kensington Press. In September 2024, Cath Segars will release the romantic comedy novel “A Girl Named Lily,” and the drama “Sycamore Song” will be released in November. Her storytelling skills extend to both screen and page, lending her talents to multiple creative mediums.
Although the inspiration behind the creation of both novels and screenplays is similar, the process is very different. For more visual films, the focus is on building the characters and then developing the world. For novels, start with the story and think about the people surrounding the main character and how they affect the story. I don’t worry too much about project balance. I just follow what inspires me in the moment. The real challenge as a mother is finding the balance between living with the characters in your head and being present with your family.
HH: What inspired you to write? sycamore song?Do you have a personal or cultural connection to the story that drew you to this project?
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Living in Atlanta, I have met many people who are victims of sex trafficking, but one woman’s story in particular stuck with me. She came to America expecting to work to support her family, but found herself entangled in a human trafficking ring. Although I never got to know her full backstory, this encounter inspired me to create the character Chimwala. I was also fascinated by the concept of dowry and wanted to write about a young girl who sacrifices her dreams for the sake of her family. “Sycamore Song” combines these two ideas into one story.
HH: characters sycamore song They seem to have deep emotional layers. How did you create these and what message do you hope readers take away from your journey?
I have immersed myself in stories about the people and culture of Malawi and Tanzania, researching the land and culture for accuracy. The emotional layer of my writing stems from basic human needs and desires. Chimwala’s yearning for love and respect is something everyone can relate to, regardless of their background. The bond between her and my sister stems from my own family relationships. Reliability is very important. If your characters are authentic and relatable, you can tell a powerful story in any setting.
HH: Without giving too much away, can you tell us about the key scenes in the book that shaped the direction of the story? How did they come to life during the writing process?
One of the most important scenes in Song of the Sycamores is when Chimwala and his son confront his fiancée. This is the turning point where she decides to stop living in fear, and this act of courage will pave the way for her to eventually reach America.
HH: With everything going on, what remains? What can our readers expect? How can they further support you?
Every day is a new artistic adventure for me, and I feel so lucky to have a mind that is constantly creating stories. I’m planning to release a romantic comedy novel next year, but the title is still a secret. “Scheme Queens 2” is in post-production and is also scheduled for release next year. Meanwhile, we are currently filming a thriller called “Raven’s Eye” which is scheduled to air on AllBlk in 2026. Please support me by supporting authentic black stories. The demand for more stories like this allows creators like me to continue producing meaningful content.
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