As a writer, I find Kerry Washington‘s journey to be nothing short of inspiring. Her career trajectory is a testament to her resilience and dedication, but more importantly, it’s a reflection of her unwavering commitment to telling diverse stories and amplifying underrepresented voices.
Although Kerry Washington finds the fact that she’s receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame “surreal,” her father, Earl Washington, thinks she should’ve gotten a star a lot sooner.
Whenever he found out someone else had one, he’d ask, ‘Why don’t you have one too?'” Washington shares with EbMaster, chuckling as she reminisces about their talks. “I’d reply, ‘Dad, I don’t decide that.’ So it seems like he’s brought this moment into being. I’m thrilled to experience it with him.
Reflecting on my father’s wisdom, I can’t help but agree. My career, spanning close to a quarter of a century, has been nothing short of remarkable with memorable performances in films such as “Save the Last Dance,” “The Last King of Scotland,” “She Hate Me,” and “Ray.” Yet, it was not until I embodied the role of D.C. fixer Olivia Pope on ABC’s “Scandal” that I truly became a household name. Moreover, the historic significance of being the first Black woman to headline a network TV drama in almost four decades added an extra layer of prestige and meaning to this remarkable role.
Back in 2012, “Scandal” graced our screens and took the world by storm, transforming into a cultural sensation overnight. However, it’s been more than just a decade since then, and Kerry Washington hasn’t rested on her laurels. Instead, she’s leveraged her success to pave new avenues for artistic expression through her Simpson Street production company. This powerhouse behind hit shows like “Little Fires Everywhere,” “UnPrisoned,” and the recently renewed “Reasonable Doubt” (now heading into its third season), as well as the Academy Award-worthy documentary “Daughters,” has undeniably earned her stripes in Hollywood. Given all she’s accomplished, it feels like Kerry Washington’s Walk of Fame honor, scheduled for Dec. 2, is arriving just when it should – right on time, showcasing her remarkable journey and contributions to the entertainment industry.
Washington notes that it’s appropriate for him to be chosen as part of the class of 2024, since many of the achievements credited to Simpson Street originated during his ‘Scandal’ years – which marked the beginning of his career as a producer.
She reminisces affectionately about the TV series “Scandal,” which spanned seven seasons and brought her two Primetime Emmy nominations. When folks approach her, they frequently discuss how Olivia Pope impacted their lives significantly, and I understand – because she impacted my life just as profoundly, too, as she shared this sentiment.
Playing the role on TV opened up more opportunities for Washington to produce and act in projects: During the show’s duration, she filmed “Django Unchained” and starred in and executive produced HBO’s “Confirmation,” depicting Anita Hill. Her personal life also thrived. “I got married [to Nnamdi Asomugha], had children, and bought a house. So much changed for me during those years,” Washington says. “I owe a lot to Olivia Pope not just for her influence on popular culture, but also for the changes she brought into my life.
As a cinema enthusiast, watching Olivia play her role taught Denzel Washington an invaluable lesson about stepping into the limelight. In his words, “She instilled in our society the idea that everyone deserves to be the protagonist in their life’s narrative, regardless of their appearance, whom they love, where they come from, their religion, or their birthplace.” On a more personal note, it took him holding the top spot on the call sheet to truly believe I could be the leading character in my own life. This idea – that everyone deserves to be the hero of their story – has become the guiding principle for Washington’s Simpson Street productions as well.
Interestingly enough, what gives me the greatest pleasure these days is playing a secondary role in Raamla Mohamed’s professional journey – from ‘Scandal’ researcher to ‘Reasonable Doubt’ creator. As a producer and director, I have the privilege of helping construct a stage where numerous artists and artisans can pursue their dreams. This platform enables others to flourish, expand, make history, and create an impact.
Growing up in Washington, TV was an integral part of our family’s narrative. In fact, my very birth coincided with a significant moment in TV history – the finale of the 1977 miniseries “Roots,” which still holds the record as one of the highest-rated episodes ever aired on television. Jokingly, I often say that historic, trailblazing television has been woven into my own origin story.
Originally, she from The Bronx didn’t envision a small-screen career; instead, her aspiration was to perform on Broadway. “I never thought myself as an actor known by everyone or gracing magazine covers,” she admits. “It’s all a blessing, and it seems somewhat miraculous because I understand the slim chances of having a thriving career doing what you passionately enjoy in this industry.
Washington’s long-cherished desire to star in Broadway plays materialized with the 2018 production of “American Son.” This tense drama delved deeply into racial politics and gained momentum as discussions surrounding police brutality intensified. For her, it was the “role of a lifetime,” but what followed truly underscored her influence on the industry: She orchestrated the play’s transition to Netflix for adaptation into a TV movie, which later earned a Primetime Emmy nomination.
She notes that moving the project to streaming significantly increased its influence and importance. She’s deeply thankful for how TV has helped her expand her aspirations beyond measure.
Following “American Son,” Washington has predominantly created content for streaming platforms such as Hulu and Netflix. Next, she will executive produce and star in Netflix’s “The Six Triple Eight” as the real-life hero Charity Adams. This series focuses on the only Women’s Army Corps unit of color deployed overseas during World War II. Adams led the 855 members of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, who played a significant role in the war effort by clearing a three-year backlog of mail (approximately 17 million items), delivering messages of encouragement to soldiers on the front lines and their loved ones at home.
This role showcases Washington’s determination as Adams confronts misogynoir from the white military leadership while she and her team accomplish an extraordinary task within just 90 days, a feat originally expected to take six months. Notably, Maj. Adams was subsequently promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel.
In assuming that role, she tapped into a universal truth familiar to many from marginalized groups: the challenge of being underestimated and disrespected while simultaneously striving for excellence and proving one’s worth. Washington expressed great pride in embodying this character, helping others learn about her, and serving as an inspiration through her remarkable grace.
Through the character of Adams, Washington gained profound insights into leadership. “At first, she felt burdened with the duty to guide and nurture as their leader,” Washington explains. “However, as the story progresses, it becomes evident that true success only comes when she embraces the support and unity of her community, her sisterhood.
According to Washington, the main idea is that everyone should feel like the protagonist of their own life’s story. However, nobody needs to face their personal challenges without support. There is incredible power in unity, and in sisterhood specifically. By uniting our strengths, we can tackle difficulties collectively.
Starting December 20th, the movie will be available for streaming, featuring Washington alongside a group of rising Black actors such as Ebony Obsidian, Milauna Jackson, Kylie Jefferson, Shanice Shantay, Sarah Jeffery and Pepi Sonuga. One particularly impactful scene showcases Major Adams’ troops applauding spontaneously after she defends them against a prejudiced general. Washington recalls the experience with emotion, stating, “We could only partially grasp what they had endured. However, that’s exactly what you witness in that moment – us supporting the real women of the 6888 and each other as we strive to honor them.
I can’t help but think they were cheering her on too, my dear fellow fan. After all, she was the one who paved the way for them in Tinseltown, and when that trailer dropped, a friend of mine who once shared acting classes with her, sent her a heartfelt text.
My friend recalled leaving school and witnessing another large World War II film showcasing many young talents. Unfortunately, such opportunities were not extended to women at the time,” the friend wrote. “I am deeply touched by seeing so many young women today, united in our community, in your business, and with each other.
Washington finds himself fortunate as well. “When I view the movie, it’s the stunning, powerful supporting roles that catch my eye – not only from our exceptional cast, but also from every actor in the background. During that period, we truly transformed into a team.
Next up, Washington will be part of an illustrious cast for “Wake Up Dead Man,” the newest addition to the “Knives Out” series by Rian Johnson and Daniel Craig. Following this, she’ll star alongside Omar Sy in the action film “Shadow Force.” Subsequently, Simpson Street has approximately 10 projects — encompassing a wide range of TV shows, movies, documentaries, and podcasts at different stages of production — underway, as well as its Impact and Ventures divisions.
Washington expresses his enthusiasm about what he’s accomplished so far and is eager for what’s coming next. He’s ready to discover what new opportunities or events will present themselves.
Through our conversation about her career, it’s become clear to Washington what receiving a Walk of Fame honor symbolizes.
It’s quite poetic and circular, she notes, that our production company bears the name of the Bronx street where my mother spent her childhood years. This journey has led us from one end of the country to another, establishing ourselves on a new ‘street of dreams’. Simpson Street was the site where the seeds of my grandparents’ aspirations were sown. Now, I have the honor to be a star that validates their dreams and shows they soared.
Read More
- Exploring Mod Support for Smite 2: A Community-Driven Opportunity
- Understanding Player Choices in Hades: The Case of Merciful End
- How to repair weapons & gear in Stalker 2
- Exploring Brawl Stars: Should We Remove Useless Features?
- Unlocking the Mystery of Brawl Stars’ China Skins: Community Reactions
- The Future of Final Fantasy: Why Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth Is Skipping DLC
- Strinova Tier List. The Best Characters To Pick
- REVIEW: “The Piano Lesson” (2024)
- Gaming News: Top 10 Games Players Refuse to Replay – Insights and Experiences
- Brawl Stars: The Curious Case of Mastery Titles and Cringe-Worthy Names
2024-11-27 21:49