Megan Thee Stallion Inspired by ‘Super Outspoken’ Late Mother to Open Up About Grief and Mental Health Issues in New Documentary

As a movie lover who has spent countless hours immersed in the lives of artists through documentaries, I must say that “Megan Thee Stallion: In Her Words” is a truly moving and powerful film. This documentary offers a rare glimpse into the life of an iconic figure, revealing her struggles, resilience, and growth with unparalleled honesty.

As a movie enthusiast, I found myself deeply moved by Megan Thee Stallion’s powerful journey in “Megan Thee Stallion: In Her Words,” a documentary on Prime Video. Drawing from the resilience instilled by her late mother, she courageously shared her story.

Under the guidance of director Nneka Onuorah, this film offers a poignant portrayal of Megan Pete, the rapper, as she navigates her journey through grief following the loss of her mother and manager Holly Thomas to cancer in 2019, as well as her personal battles with mental health struggles, including suicidal thoughts. The documentary also delves into the legal proceedings surrounding Tory Lanez’s conviction after he was sentenced to 10 years in prison for his involvement in a roadside assault in 2020.

Megan shared with me that she found a great deal of courage from her mother during the premiere at TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood on Wednesday,” she said. “She explained that her mom was incredibly vocal and strong, and once Megan discovered her mother’s spirit within herself, she felt empowered to stand up and be true to herself. In essence, she conveyed that by embracing her mother’s essence, she is able to express herself authentically today.

Two years ago when they started filming, Megan initially showed some reluctance, as Onuorah noted. “At times, she would miss the filming sessions,” he said. “On one occasion, we even had to reach out to her late at night around three o’clock. She invited us to the studio then. I arrived and reassured her, saying, ‘I’m not here to harm you. I’m here to support you as a woman. I understand it’s challenging in this industry, but I truly want to see you succeed, and I really want your story told through your eyes.’ And she accepted my offer.

For extended periods, they found themselves secluded together. Onuorah frequently assumed both the roles of director and cinematographer. “To elicit genuine emotions from Megan,” she explained, “I had to reveal my own feelings too.” She shared her innermost thoughts with her. Usually, I work with a team who captures the artist, but here, I told her, ‘I’ll be your constant companion. I’ll document your journeys, and if you’re at home or in your car, I’ll be there.’ Essentially, I offered her my personal involvement.

She went on to explain, ‘I became aware that I might have been overstepping boundaries.’ I made sure to regularly check in with her. I tried to read her signals, which helped me stay close by. However, when it was necessary, I encouraged her, saying, ‘Let’s do this, I’m here for you.’ Sometimes this meant taking her hand and reassuring her, ‘I’ve got your back.’

Produced jointly by Amazon MGM Studios, TIME Studios, Roc Nation, and Nneka Productions, the show titled ‘Megan Thee Stallion: In Her Own Words’

On Wednesday, IMAX collaborated with Amazon Prime Video to debut the movie simultaneously at the TCL Chinese Theatre and ten additional IMAX theatres scattered throughout the United States.

“Megan Thee Stallion: In Her Words” is now available on Prime Video.