Gabrielle Union appeared on Oprah’s “Next Chapter” along with Viola Davis, Phylicia Rashad and Alfre Woodard. The subject was black actresses in Hollywood centering on the advances, struggles and inspirations endure by this illustrious group. Gabby piggybacked off her speech from earlier this year when she was awarded the “Fierce & Fabulous” award. She spoke about how she used to be a “mean girl” who rejoiced in others misery.
I used to shrink in the presence of other dope beautiful women. I used to revel in gossip and rumors, and I lived for the negativity inflicted upon my sister actresses or anyone who I felt whose shine diminished my own.
On Oprah’s Next Chapter she elaborated on those thoughts, revealing that actress-turned-life coach A.J. Johnson gave her a reality check during a party:
I think nowadays there is this celebration of, as kids say, ratchetness. You’re supported in tearing other people down. There is a forum for it and there is a huge spotlight on you to do that. People were like, how did you move from being a mean, vindictive, hateful person who couldn’t be happy for other people to embracing and truly being supportive. Really, it came down to we were in a room, we were at a party and I was holding court because I can turn a phrase and be slick myself, and I was trashing somebody. Ripping them to shreds head to toe. Then AJ pulled me aside and she said, ‘Now, how did your life change? Did you get the guy? Did you get the job? Is your house any bigger? Did money magically get put in your pocket? What positive happened in your life after you just tore that woman down?’
Powerful conversation to be apart of. I applaud Gabrielle for having the courage to reveal her truth.
