Rising up to fame as one of the most sought after, African- American actresses of all time, Viola Davis talks Hollywood partiality in a one-on-one interview with Variety.
The Oscar winning actress, who star in the upcoming film ‘Widows’ thinks that change regarding the formulated prejudices that people of color don’t sell internationally in lead films, can never be attained unless executive suites across Los Angeles become more inclusive. “We’re not even invited to the table. I go to a lot of women’s events here in Hollywood and they’re filled with female CEOs, producers and executives, but I’m one of maybe five or six people of color in the room,” said Viola.
In terms of equal work pay among Hollywood entertainers, which has been quiet a topic in general for long. The Fence star actress also thinks that, not only are women in general not paid equally as men, but also Hispanic, Asian and black women do not get a fair share in payment as white women in film are been paid for equal services.
“There are no percentages to show the difference, “says Viola. “It’s vast. Hispanic women, Asian women, black women, we don’t get paid. We just don’t… We have the talent. It’s the opportunity that we’re lacking.”
With an Academy Award, Tony, BAFTA, Emmy and SAG Award to her belt, Viola always felt the need to always share her growing up experience, which isn’t of good memory, to younger ones to serve as motivation to them. She disclosed, “If I didn’t talk about my journey, I would be denying that 6-year-old girl who is hungry, who wet the bed, but also was tough. She also dreamed big. She also was a lot fun. A huge part of who I am is still trying to please her.”
Viola’s upcoming film ‘Widows’ will have its premiere debut at the Toronto International Film Festival and later hit theaters on November 16.
