TV & Movies
TheAbbott Elementaryteacher got real about attending integrated schools and knowing her worth.
If herMarch appearance onThe Viewis any indication, she could also host a talk show if she wanted to.
What was the gift, and what did she say to you?
Well, the gift was the character itself.
Thegrandgift was the show itself.
When I first read it, I [said], Let me take a crack at the principal.
She said, Absolutely not.
We need a queen for this [Barbara] role, and you are that queen.
My God, this wonderful young woman!
This is just amazing.
Which of Barbaras characteristics are directly inspired by you?
Are her fashion critiques of Janine pulled from your background, growing up with a fashion designer mom?
My mother was always very particular about how she sent us into the world.
She said to me,The clothes you wear are how people see you.
It’s what and who they think you are, so what you wear in the world matters.
Have you ever had any fashion failures of your own?
Oh my God, absolutely.
And the hair what in the world made me put that wig on?
I do not know.
It was too short, nothing about it was right.
Every time I look at it, I’m just likefailure, absolute failure.
Oh my God, it was horrible.
At least you havent had any fails since then!
Well, that’s because my daughter has grown up enough to do my styling.
She’s doing it.
What’s your favorite funny moment from the show?
Everything that comes out ofJanelle James mouth makes me laugh.
The scripts that have been written by Quinta and her team have just been wonderful.
What was your elementary school like growing up?
What kind of student were you?
But I passed the test, so I deserved to be there, and that was a difficult challenge.
What book do you wish was taught in schools today?
And I think they should read more than just the Bible.
If you’re going to read spiritual books, read what other spiritual beliefs are.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from social media?
I just find it so sad that so many people spend so much time being rude and unkind.
It’s just not necessary.
Do you ever respond to online hate?
Very rarely, because I’m always reminded of that line inThe Wizard Of Oz.Poof!
You have no power here.Yes, don’t mess up my vibe.
You’ve said the message ofDreamgirlsis the triumph of the dark-skinned Black girl.
If you were to look at your whole life and career, what statement do you hope it makes?
I was a lifelong student, I was a willing soldier of life, and I did well.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
This article was originally published onMarch 22, 2022
