Diversity and representation are the hot-button topics in Hollywood right now. In an industry that reflects the world in which we live, black people and women—so, basically black women—are often underrepresented in Hollywood. But people like Tyler Perry are changing that. Sure, he’s a polarizing figure based on his content, but you can’t deny his ability and execution when it comes to hiring black.
Most of Perry’s productions feature a predominantly black cast and crew. This is intentional. Perry’s out to change the lives of his people. I sat down with a few of Perry’s leading ladies from his shows on OWN: Cassi Davis (The Paynes), Tika Sumpter (The Haves and the Have Nots), Jackeé Harry (The Paynes), April Parker Jones (If Loving You Is Wrong) and Angela Robinson (The Haves and the Have Nots) to talk candidly about Hollywood and what that experience is like for black women.
Angela Robinson said it best: “To make it in Hollywood as a black woman, you must always stay true to who you are and always speak your truth. I’m thankful to Tyler Perry for writing words that I can bring to life to continue to speak.”
Check out the video above for all of your favorites from OWN.