Gabrielle Union knows first hand how easy it is to develop a “mean-girl” attitude in an industry that doesn’t cater to African American women.
The actress has starred in everything from dramedies like “Bring It On” to action films like “Bad Boys II.” But in Sunday’s (June 23) episode of “Oprah’s Next Chapter,” the actress admits it isn’t easy for a woman of color to land roles.
The actress explains the mean-girl culture and her thoughts on why it is such a common thing. “I think nowadays… you’re supported in tearing other people down,” Union says. “There’s a forum for it and there’s a huge spotlight on you to do that.”
After becoming an admitted “mean girl” herself, Union explains how attending a party with her trainer and sounding board A.J. Johnson, changed her views.
“I was holding court — because I can turn a phrase and be a little slick myself — and I was trashing somebody. Just ripping them to shreds, head to toe,” Union recalls. “A.J. pulls me aside and said, ‘Okay, now, how did your life change? Did you get the guy? Did you get the job? Is your house any bigger? Did money just magically get put in your pocket? What positive [event] happened in your life after you just tore that woman down?’”
Oprah sits down for an in-depth conversation with some of Hollywood’s most powerful African-American actresses, including Alfre Woodard, Viola Davis, Phylicia Rashad and Gabrielle Union.
During their interview at the Bacara Resort & Spa in Santa Barbara, the iconic actresses open up about the challenges, criticism and competition they face as African-American women in the entertainment industry.
Watch this episode of “Oprah’s Next Chapter” on Sunday, June 23, at 9/8c, plus the world television premiere of the documentary “Dark Girls” at 10/9c.
(Photo: PRPhotos)
