Prince, Purpose, and Playing Diana Ross with Kat Graham

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Prince, Purpose, and Playing Diana Ross with Kat Graham"

Episode Information:

• Title: Prince, Purpose, and Playing Diana Ross with Kat Graham
• Host/Author: Wondery’s Keke Palmer
• Release Date: August 12, 2025

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1. Introduction

The episode features a vibrant conversation between host Keke Palmer (A) and her guest, Kat Graham (B), an actress, musician, and activist. Keke introduces Kat by highlighting her multifaceted talents and her triple Virgo energy, setting the tone for an engaging discussion filled with personal insights, career anecdotes, and light-hearted moments.

Notable Quote:

• Keke Palmer [00:05]: "What do you get when you mix talent, tenacity and triple Virgo energy? Actress, musician, activist, and low key spiritual goddess, Kat Graham."

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2. Virgo Energy and Personal Traits

Keke and Kat delve into the influence of their Virgo traits on their lives and careers. Kat explains how being a triple Virgo shapes her meticulous nature and perfectionist tendencies, while Keke shares relatable experiences of common Virgo behaviors.

Notable Quotes:

• Kat Graham [02:02]: "You just looked at everything five ways sideways before they could even give you now."
• Keke Palmer [03:46]: "And you're a perfectionist."

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3. Early Career and 'The Parent Trap'

Kat reminisces about her early acting days, particularly her role in "The Parent Trap." She expresses both gratitude and frustration over the limited screen time her character received, reflecting on the challenges of being a young Black actress in predominantly white productions.

Notable Quote:

• Kat Graham [10:05]: "I would have killed it with a bigger role, you know?"

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4. 'Vampire Diaries' and Representation

The conversation shifts to Kat's significant role as Bonnie in "Vampire Diaries." She discusses the importance of representation and her efforts to advocate for more nuanced portrayals of Black characters. Kat highlights the generational shift in audience expectations and her activism within the industry.

Notable Quotes:

• Kat Graham [14:01]: "I found myself a lot on that show. Like, I found my coach, Ivana Chubbuck."
• Keke Palmer [15:59]: "Have you talked to any of your Vampire Diaries colleagues now or even the writers when they see these things?"

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5. Activism and Humanitarian Work

Kat shares her deep-rooted commitment to activism, influenced by her family's history of displacement and refugee experiences. She narrates her journey of volunteering and working with organizations like UNHCR, emphasizing the importance of giving back and staying aligned with her purpose.

Notable Quotes:

• Kat Graham [18:08]: "On my father's side, my grandfather fled the coup in Liberia."
• Keke Palmer [20:41]: "What is important is that sometimes knowing that you can just be of service to one person."

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6. Personal Life and Marriage

Kat opens up about her personal life, including her recent marriage to Brighton, after a decade-long platonic friendship. She humorously describes the spontaneous nature of their relationship and the blending of their lives, highlighting the importance of authenticity in relationships.

Notable Quotes:

• Kat Graham [29:07]: "We dated, and then we got married after two months. Like crazy people."
• Keke Palmer [30:06]: "I was like, I need to show up 100% for every single thing."

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7. Spirituality and Self-Care

The duo discusses the role of spirituality and self-care in maintaining balance amidst their busy lives. Kat emphasizes the significance of meditation and personal rituals, while Keke shares her morning routines designed to nurture her well-being.

Notable Quotes:

• Kat Graham [22:44]: "I speak Hebrew, and I think I'm somebody who just believes in forgiveness."
• Keke Palmer [25:00]: "I used to start my day with my job and felt really pissed and annoyed."

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8. Musical Projects and Visual Albums

Keke and Kat explore Keke Palmer’s foray into music and visual storytelling. Keke elaborates on her journey of creating visual albums, discussing the challenges of maintaining artistic integrity while navigating the music industry. Kat praises Keke's dedication to crafting a narrative-driven musical experience.

Notable Quotes:

• Keke Palmer [42:34]: "For me, it's not just about the album. It's about the statement that I'm making at this moment."
• Kat Graham [43:52]: "He would tell me, 'Let me teach you how to fish.' So we would sit in the studio and create."

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9. Fun Segment: Zodiac Game

To add a playful element, Keke and Kat engage in a zodiac-themed game, discussing which astrological signs excel or falter in various social scenarios. This segment showcases their chemistry and shared interest in astrology, providing entertaining insights into their personalities.

Notable Moments:

• Keke Palmer [52:40]: "Which sign throws the best birthday party and which one doesn't even show up to their own."
• Kat Graham [57:20]: "Sagittarius. They are so fun."

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10. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with heartfelt reflections on personal growth, the influence of mentors like Prince, and the ongoing journey of aligning one’s purpose with action. Keke commends Kat’s grounded approach and unwavering dedication to her passions, leaving listeners with inspiration and admiration for both artists.

Notable Quote:

• Keke Palmer [58:35]: "Kat is so grounded in purpose, and it shines in everything she does, from her work to her activism."

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Key Insights and Takeaways

• Representation Matters: Kat emphasizes the need for more nuanced and substantial roles for Black actors in the industry.
• Purpose-Driven Activism: Both Keke and Kat illustrate how personal history and values drive their humanitarian efforts.
• Authenticity in Relationships: The importance of being true to oneself and finding partners who appreciate one's full self is highlighted through Kat's marriage story.
• Balancing Career and Self-Care: Maintaining mental and spiritual well-being is crucial amidst demanding careers.
• Artistic Integrity: Keke's commitment to visual albums underscores the importance of storytelling and personal expression in music.

---

Conclusion

"Prince, Purpose, and Playing Diana Ross with Kat Graham" offers an in-depth look into Kat Graham’s multifaceted life, her dedication to activism, and her artistic endeavors. Through candid conversations and shared anecdotes, Keke Palmer and Kat provide listeners with valuable insights into navigating the complexities of fame, personal growth, and maintaining authenticity. This episode serves as a testament to the power of purpose-driven living and the significance of staying true to one’s self amidst the spotlight.

Transcript

[A]

What do you get when you mix talent, tenacity and triple Virgo energy? Actress, musician, activist, and low key spiritual goddess, Kat Graham. We're talking Virgo work ethic. Stepping into the role of Diana Ross and how she went from friendship to forever with her husband after years of being platonic. Plus, you know, we gotta spill some tea. A little Vampire Diaries tea.

[B]

Some.

[A]

So let's get into it. No matter what we doing in the car. Just chilling, pop on Amazon music, sit back and listen. Life, love, sex, science, hovering it all, especially the bad. Cause money always evolved. No matter what it is, we gonna make it make sense. Nothing else to do but kick it with the homies and kings. So grab you a drink and a snack you enjoy and get into the vibe that only ones you know it's your girl. This is Kiki, baby. This is Kiki Palma. Yeah. This episode is presented in partnership with Airbnb, where summer adventures feel like a home away from home. Speaking of unforgettable moments. Well, you'll see. Let's start the show. Welcome to the show.

[B]

Thank you. It's weird. We're adults now in these bodies.

[A]

Girl, it's so insane. I'm so happy that we still look good.

[B]

I know we look the same age, period. We're still 14.

[A]

I mean, how are you? How's everything going?

[B]

Good. I'm blessed. I. I'm really feeling really good. Sorry if my earrings are real loud, y'. All. Y' all can tell me to take them off. It's just for the face, all right?

[A]

No, the look is looking. They cannot come off.

[B]

Look who's talking, girl. Who put you out the house?

[A]

You know, the amazing thing is that you're Virgo, but you're actually like, a really special Virgo.

[B]

Oh, no.

[A]

Because your whole big three is Virgo.

[B]

I know. I'm a triple Virgo.

[A]

Isn't that amazing? By the way, Virgo's in the house. I need y' all to make some noise real quick. Woo. So, yeah, we have a Virgo city over here, but triple Virgo? How do you feel like that shows up in your life? Do you really feel more Virgo than the most Virgos?

[B]

Oh, my gosh. My team is like, go on, tell em.

[A]

That mean you checking everybody?

[B]

Yeah, well, you know, you just looked at everything five ways sideways before. Before they could even give you now. I already thought about it. Let me just. I already thought about it. This is how it's gonna be. And you're a perfectionist.

[A]

It's so true. I just seen this Meme that's been going viral with Beyonce and they'd be like a Virgo Virgoing. And it's literally her like being like, I said that yesterday.

[B]

Right.

[A]

So when are you guys gonna fix, right? Because I'm gonna. I've seen that. I feel like I keep repeating myself.

[B]

I know, I know.

[A]

I've seen that one.

[B]

I watch all the. And I follow all the little Virgo girl.

[A]

Me too.

[B]

I'm like, oh, my God, it's me, it's me. I'm like, you know, it's just so real.

[A]

Oh, my God, it's so real.

[B]

Virgo's Virgo.

[A]

I literally live for that now. When you were on OK Player, you said you always had that bossy Virgo energy since you were.

[B]

Oh, no. Is that true? Keke? You gotta tell me.

[A]

I'm going through all the references, girl. For this interview. I was getting prepared.

[B]

But as long as you know me, I don't feel like that I'm pretty easy.

[A]

But you started acting at age six. I mean, to be, you know, leading the charge and getting everybody on your side, I mean, you definitely had some direction. What do you. What do you remember from back then?

[B]

So funny when you say that, because as we were kind of getting closer to the date of me seeing you, I was like, man, for her to have produced the way she's been producing and then to also drop the visual album and to be singing like she sangs and to be so self motivated, self curated, I think. I think it was like a Grace Jones quote. One creates oneself. I think that's a Grace Jones quote.

[A]

It's a beautiful quote.

[B]

And I feel like you've created everything for your life.

[A]

I really, really receive that. And I feel like the Virgos will definitely get it. Like, this is so that what you just said is like, that's all we.

[B]

So you.

[A]

It's so, so me. And I feel like you get it because I feel that you are the same way. Like, I feel like, you know, we've worked with major companies and did big collaborations for sure, but we've always been our own engine, you know, of. Of just independence. Like whether it's our music projects or what we, you know, I know you're directing and like, there's it. It. It is a different thing to like, know that it's worth it to invest in yourself.

[B]

Exactly. And you do that really, really well. Also. Teyana Taylor, our girl Tiana does that.

[A]

Tiana's great with that really, really well. And it almost seems like others too, right?

[B]

Almost seems like a necessity, though. I think it is, right? I mean, you look at what Viola's done with her production company and all that.

[A]

I'm so glad you're opening this up. What do they say? Please wake up that tea.

[B]

Right?

[A]

Because we always are talking about. I was talking to somebody else about number one on the call sheet, and I. Number one on the call sheet. I didn't watch the whole thing, but I remember the big feedback was just how they were saying there weren't enough opportunities for a lot of the black women after they did that big role. That one. Number one on the call sheet.

[B]

It's true.

[A]

And although it, you know, it's terrible and it shouldn't be that way, it does come down to, which is why I think in this generation, so many of us are. Are learning that we learn from them, that we have to produce.

[B]

You have to.

[A]

We have to find that investor. We have to find that team or that situation or that project that we can. You know, I mean, even if it's on a smaller budget, like, just keep.

[B]

Making your money, we got to keep creating it.

[A]

Yes, you have to keep creating it.

[B]

Let anyone hold your narrative.

[A]

No one else is gonna do it for you. And if they do, it might be crazy and.

[B]

All right, Ain't nobody gonna do Keke Palmer better than Keke Palmer, you know what I'm saying? You know what I'm saying? But then it helps everyone, myself included, who's known you forever, you know, to understand who you are as an artist overall. And it's very hard when somebody's as talented as you to be able to put that in a box. And people are gonna try to do that. And you're like, let me just. Let me just sing this song. Let me just make this visual album. Let me just do the hit movies. Y' all will understand when I'm done. Let me just do the hit movies. Get out my way. Thank you kindly. You know what I mean?

[A]

But that is the thing, because a lot of. In reality, for any artist, no one really can see the vision for you the way you can. So a lot of times, people don't even be trying to box you, but that's all that they know. You know what I mean? So that's what they're gonna do. This makes me think about somebody who.

[B]

You know, I'm interviewing you.

[A]

I live. I just.

[B]

You know, these are things that I think about. These are, like.

[A]

When I'm.

[B]

I think of you, I'm like, these are the things that I want to you know, give you your flowers.

[A]

I really received that. I feel like you worked with somebody who's done this at the highest level. Who is your mentor? Prince. I mean, what was that experience like working with someone like him? Because he broke down every single barrier there could be, from gender to music genre. I mean, he definitely was somebody who changed the game and made way for. For this kind of mentality. And you got to work so close. When I'm like, that's crazy. How did y' all meet and start working together?

[B]

It's so funny. I always feel when I'm put on the Spotify, I feel like he just shows up. But honestly, he like that energy. Yeah. He'd be like, go and tell her. Go and tell her the truth. He was very. He was one of my best friends for. I would say from when did we meet?2013 until his. Until his passing, till his transition. He would want me to say he would send me some, you know, different records of, like, different other artists. And he's like, you don't have to over sexualize yourself. You can put God into your work. This is how I would write it because I'm stubborn in the studio. I've had, you know, I've produced and engineered, and I like writing my own music. And, you know, and Prince would be like, here, I wrote this for you. I'm like, well, I like to write. And he was like, well, I can teach you how to fish or I can fish for you. It's one of the others that said, teach me how to fish. So we would sit in the studio and we would create. He would tell me, well, you know, if I were you, I would change this to this. And, you know, I would send him some records and, you know, he would have his opinions, of course, and I'd do it anyways. But he taught me more so that you can hold your essence in front of the camera.

[A]

That's right.

[B]

You don't have to dilute your messaging for people. You can still be somebody who's spiritual, who loves God, who stands in their power and creates for yourself, and you don't have to dilute that for a machine or anything like that. And so when he told me that I changed the way I navigated the industry and how I showed up, so.

[A]

Wow.

[B]

Yeah, he was very silly also. I don't think he wanted me to say all that. He's a very silly.

[A]

Well, he wanted to keep that mystery, right? That we all lived a part of the storyline that we live for. But that is incredible. Everything that you just said right now. I think that's so important for any performer to know and to hear, because the camera can sometimes suck the life of you. The life out of you, Even metaphorically. Just being watched and perceived, it can stop you from or be a hindrance to your becoming. You know, if you put your essence.

[B]

Cuts through, like, a thousand percent. Anyone watching this, if y' all want to comment, go ahead and give Keke.

[A]

Like, all the props.

[B]

Validate what I'm saying, because it's so real. Like, you're. I'm such a Virgo. I'm, like, going here. Let me direct your audience.

[A]

This what y' all need to do, but also do it. I do want to go to really quick. A cyber. I do want to go back to Prince if we get a chance. But I wanted to just mention you've been in so many millennial classics. Have I, girl? The parent trap. Lizzie McGuire. Lizzie McGuire. Like, not you bringing them up.

[B]

I'm a phone. I'm gonna do the same thing to do. You don't do that to me, Keke.

[A]

I'm gonna get you Hilary Duff. Like, Lizabeth.

[B]

Hillary Duff.

[A]

What do you remember about. I mean, that's like the prom. I'm not giving no shade, no tea, but those are prime Disney. Nickelodeon, Arielle. Shout out to Jackson.

[B]

Dude, I was very proud when I got them rolls. I was very proud of. You know, I wish I could just fluff myself up and be like, oh, I felt so good when I was doing it. I mean, I love Miley Cyrus. She is so sweet.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But I do remember feeling that feeling that. I know you felt that, oh, I'm the only black person here, and, oh, wow. I'm. You know, I'm. I'm only a guest star. And, yeah, you want to be grateful, but you also feel like, you know, you're looking at your white counterparts, and you're like, wow, I'd really do something with that role if I got a chance to do that. If I could only get the opportunity to even audition for that, you know? And I think I remember that feeling coming in from the parent trap. I did have one line. It got cut. And I remember feeling the disappointment. I think I was like 8 or 9 years old of watching that movie with. With my mom, and I was like, man, I woulda. I would have killed it with a bigger role, you know? And that's something that I have to be careful of as I get older. And it still happens sometimes, but when I think back on that, I think I really, I'm grateful for it, but I. You know, I think there was a lot of.

[A]

It was just a different experience for you, considering the perspective or the vision.

[B]

I wanted to do more. I was like, this is it. I'm like, I'm grateful. Yay. I'm on tv. I finally got a job. Yeah, I can take a break from backup dancing, but, you know, you're kind of always back to square one with those little jobs, you know?

[A]

But then you get a big role on Vampire Diaries. We think about pop culture moving forward again. You've always been in the forefront.

[B]

Right.

[A]

You played, obviously, Bonnie.

[B]

Bonnie.

[A]

And I mean, tell me about that experience, because you've. It was when the show was on, people had their comments, but then obviously, over time, where we start talking about black. Yeah. Black character.

[B]

Gen Z came in and said, no, no, no.

[A]

Yeah, yeah.

[B]

This is what it is, baby.

[A]

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[B]

I think anything that you're doing for eight years has, like, positives and negatives. I mean, I've found myself a lot on that show. Like, I found my coach, Ivana Chubbuck. I learned how to turn, you know, pain to fuel and all of those things. And I didn't really notice I was the only black person on it until a little bit later.

[A]

I do feel like, though, being to your point, like, being a minority, you know, you. It does kind of drift into the background that you're the only black somewhere because it does sometimes end up being very common. So you can't really think about it because if you walk into every room being like, I'm the only black.

[B]

I've been the only black person. What'd you talk about? It's been 20 years. I've been the only black person.

[A]

Right. So it becomes a thing where you don't really think about.

[B]

No, I think.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

Yeah. I think the biggest thing came over time.

[A]

Yeah, yeah.

[B]

Where audiences started to feel cheated and they started to feel underrepresented, and not just by me, by the LGBTQ community, Asian community.

[A]

You know, anybody that's not. That's been pushed aside or their. If their storylines have been put in the story, it's been literally off the basis that they're gay, they're black, they're Spanish, they're Asian. Like, where the whole personality is that you're not really getting into the nuance of what that means to the storyline.

[B]

No, I know. And then it became. And that was obviously really hard for me because I've. I like to, you know, consider myself a human rights activist. Right. Like, this was. I was doing Vampire Diaries while I was also doing all the Prides and working with GLAAD and, you know, doing all my UN work. So obviously those kind of comments, that kind of perception and what they were observing didn't sit well with me. And I really had to look at it and be a representation for Them. And how do I do that? Like, how do we talk to the writers? How do we talk to the execs? And how do we make it better? And I think they. They did try, and then certain things, they came up short. And I think it was.

[A]

It was also a different time. It was a different time, too.

[B]

But what's weird is that there was a time, I mean, remember, like, Moesha and even, like, Family Matters and girlfriends on UPN 13, which ended up being the CW, but I. I had sister, sister, sister. You know, I never miss an episode of that. So to. It was weird. There was a jump that we almost went backwards.

[A]

And there's, like, a difference between being on a black show or predominantly black show and being a black person on a predominantly white show. Exactly. Because the subject, the culture sometimes obviously isn't a part of it. I mean, I feel like there's been times where that gets a little bit better, where we start to see more of. I wish I could think of a show right now to say where that's happening to prove that point, but I would like to believe that now, when that is the case, we do see those characters live more nuanced lives. As before, it was just kind of like, this is just the black character in the show.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Which. Yeah. You know, again, times have changed, so I'm really glad that the conversation around it is changing. Have you talked to any of your Vampire Diaries colleagues now or even the writers when they see these things? Maybe you haven't. I mean, you know, people think we always keep in touch. We don't always.

[B]

That's true. That's true. No, I see. I do talk to my. My cast members a good. A good chunk.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

You know, I see them at appearances, and they're sweet and super supportive, and I love me some Nina and Candace and the writers. I, you know, I've shared my perspectives privately, you know, because, you know, I'm a spiritual person at the end of the day, and, you know, I think it was Maya Angelou. They could do better. They, you know, if they knew better, they would do better. And I think that's the attitude I like to have with all that stuff. You know, it's up to me to do my job, do my part.

[A]

Yeah, I love that. I definitely think that you have. When you were speaking about just a few moments ago about your activism, I was really, like, delighted to hear about you going to Jordan and Ethiopia and your children. That's incredible. How did you start doing that? I. I know your parents were also activists or they were refugees.

[B]

My grand. My grandparents. Your grandparents.

[A]

Wow.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

So I guess it runs in your blood.

[B]

Yeah, you know, just.

[A]

Just.

[B]

I come from refugees, so. On my father's side, I saw a Liberian. My grandfather fled the. The coup in Liberia. They lined him on the beach to be shot, and he fled and went to Switzerland. I was born in Switzerland because of that. But my father was doing, like. He was a jazz exec, kind of like hanging out with, you know, Quincy and that whole gang.

[A]

Cause Quincy Jones, he's your godfather, right?

[B]

I asked Q and my dad about it, and they kind of both did the kind of old man thing. Ah, sugar. I don't remember what we was doing back in the 80s. I don't. You know, I'm like, all right. But anyways. But I met Q completely not from my dad. Cause my dad and I are estranged. I don't even talk to my dad. And my mom has passed. But on my mom's side, it was all like. My grandmother fled the Holocaust, so there is this kind of violence on both sides. And I grew up experiencing that. I grew up hearing stories about war and displacement and. And when I had to, when I was really struggling as a Virgo child actress.

[A]

Okay. It can get really, like, stressful.

[B]

It was so dark. It was so dark.

[A]

We can be so tense.

[B]

So tense. My mom was like, why don't you go volunteer at the children's hospital or something? Get out your own way. And I was like, oh, shout out to mom. Shout out to my mom. And I did. And I was like, wow, I feel like myself. And I was like, well, how do I do that and continue to do that? And I remember there was, like, a photo of, like, Angelina Jolie and, like, People Mag or something, and I ripped it out. And I was like, wow. Like, this seems like something I'd want to do one day. And she was an ambassador for the UN And I'm like, that sounds real special. And she gets to go to all these places thing. I was 14 years old, and I, like, saved this picture, and I was like, I'm going to go to Ethiopia, and I'm going to go to Africa, and I'm going to, like, help the people that were, like, my grandparents and the people that, you know, make them feel seen and heard and tell their stories if I'm a storyteller. Well, let me get on to it then. And so I've been going to Africa and doing that work. And, you know, we lost a bit of funding this year, but, you know, we going to keep what. Keep doing what we do. And.

[A]

And there's definitely a lot of people that need your. Need your help. Need all of our help. Yeah. Especially in these times. I know we always say especially in these times because I feel like the times have never end. They just get like worse and spurts and then we. We ease up for a few months and then it gets worse again.

[B]

It's true. We have to stay. We have to stay on it. So. Yeah.

[A]

But I love what you said because I think there's. We're in this place now where we're obviously all in. In. In so many different variations of what is need. Right. The economy, you know, political, whatever your. Your factions are. But what is important that I love about this story is that sometimes knowing that you can just be of service to one person, that's it. That will help you get out your own. And by the way, I know it's hard to give when you have nothing, but even if it's, oh, you're good, I know it's hard to give when you. I feel like the upper arm races, they never stay up.

[B]

They never stay up.

[A]

It's like, why are you designed like this? You'll never stay where you're supposed to be.

[B]

There it is. It looks good, though. Thank you.

[A]

That's why we be wearing them.

[B]

You know what I'm saying?

[A]

But, you know, I just. I feel like if we can remember to do something, you know, send us a smile, cooking a little soup and bringing it down to the old folks home, sometimes that can help us.

[B]

And it's these little. With our current perspective, it's these little moments, like even. Just like the valet or the, you know, the person that's just, you know, cleaning or refilling your coffee, whatever it is. Just you got to connect with people. The security guards that check me and. How you doing?

[A]

That's right.

[B]

How are you? That is your, you know, connection to Source. And I think in a lot of.

[A]

Ways I agree with that. Did you grow up in the church? You have such a. You very spiritual person. How did you continue to. Or how did you cultivate that as a kid? And how do you cultivate that as an adult?

[B]

I think living in Georgia has helped me a lot because we filmed the show. We filmed the show. I grew up here, as you know, but I. We started filming in 2009 with Vampire Diaries, right. And I still.

[A]

And y' all did film in Atlanta.

[B]

But we finished in 2017 and they were like, all right, guys, everybody packing up, going back to la. And. And I had this moment where I was like, well, what kind of person do I want to be? You know, I was like, I really like these folks here, and I want to be. I want to act like a Georgian. I am a little churchy, even though I grew up Jewish. I love Jesus. I'm really. I'm about Jesus. I'm going tell you right now, I love me some Jesus. Get on tape.

[A]

Do you feel like you incorporate both, like, your Judaism background and your Christian background?

[B]

Probably. I mean, I speak Hebrew, and I. And I, you know.

[A]

Oh, my gosh, that's incredible.

[B]

It's random. Kind of useless, but I, like, you know, I don't know. I think. I think I know when there's turbulence on the plane, I'm praying to Jesus, girl. No, I just, you know, I think I'm somebody who just believes in forgiveness. I really do. You know, I'm spiritual, but I also don't need to be religious. I'm not somebody who's like, you know, Bible belts in or Torah slapping or whatever. You know, I'm not like that. I have an incredible Muslim fan base, too, and incredible beautiful people that look at my work with. With refugees that kind of goes across every border, especially in the Middle east, and they see the work that I'm trying to do there and the awareness I'm trying to build there for unhcr. And. And then I also have just, like a great. I mean, if I run. This last film I did is actually a. It's a Christian thriller.

[A]

Yes, girl. And. And those are the ones that scare me the most.

[B]

What do you mean?

[A]

Because I'm like, now, wait a minute, what's gonna happen? Cause if this is dealing with God, they gotta win in the end, because I'm gonna just. I'm gonna rebuke it.

[B]

I'm gonna give away the story.

[A]

I'm gonna rebuke it. Otherwise, so. But I live. So this is. So wait a minute. How did this project come about?

[B]

It's so random. They called me, like, a week before to film, and I was in my Georgia body and vibe.

[A]

Come on, booty not ready. I hear booty.

[B]

Oh, the booty was booting, and I was not ready, girl. I was like. They were like, we want you on a plane. I was like, a plane for what? What we. What? What? They're like, if you respond to this and you really like it, it's an adaptation.

[A]

Yeah, yeah.

[B]

Adaptation of the book.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And I was like, all right, let me see. You know, And I was like, well, lifetime Even approaching me for crit. They must be.

[A]

I love Lifetime.

[B]

They must be trying to do something different because I'm a little outside of their box. I'm like, are you sure it was for me? I don't know. That seems like a weird choice for them.

[A]

No, not at all.

[B]

And they. It was me. And they. They loved it. And they. And I'm executive producing it and they let me do a song for it. So we'll see.

[A]

Oh, yeah, we'll see. Well, I will definitely be tuning in. I love Lifetime. I love you. So it's like, boom.

[B]

Thank you.

[A]

And then, you know, I love little spirituality and a little scary. But the spirituality must win. It must win.

[B]

It must win. It must win.

[A]

Now again, I was, when I was reading up, I'm like, you get up in the morning at 4am and you.

[B]

Meditate sometimes, but I live for that sometimes.

[A]

When did you get into like, meditation and stuff like that? Cause I like meditation. I like yoga, I like Pilates. Any practice that allows me to zone out.

[B]

You're pretty Zen, girl. I mean, you have so much energy and you're so funny and you're so like, dynamic. But you have this kind of like, you're super grounded girl.

[A]

I be trying to keep them feet on. What is it? Boots on the ground with Beyonce, literally.

[B]

And you got a little one. So that's probably really hard to kind of keep a. Keep a schedule of self care.

[A]

That's why when I heard that, I love that. Because even if it's as early as 4am, you have to have a moment to take time to yourself, whether you're meditating or just you look at yourself in the mirror or whatever it is. Because I used to find that when I started my day with my job, I felt really pissed and annoyed. Like, why does my life begin and end when I'm going to work? So that meant I need to try to get to sleep a little bit earlier and wake up a little bit earlier so that I can have at least an hour or something, a ritual to myself. So when I heard that, I was thinking to myself, she must feel similarly.

[B]

I do. But do you are. When you're producing things like this, like, do you build that into your schedule?

[A]

Yes, I build it into my schedule. Yeah. So usually, like for the. For our show, like, you know, I mean, in a perfect world, it doesn't happen every time, but in a perfect world, I'd love for everything to start around 7 or 8. So at least I can wake up at 6. I can do waking up at 6. Cause if I go to bed at 10, I'm gonna get a good amount of hours of sleep. But obviously, sometimes you have to fluctuate. I just feel like as I've gotten older, I've realized the importance of that time to myself and as a mom, so important. Like, I want to spend time with my son. I want to do my job, but I also want to spend time with me. Like, I don't know about you. I mean, but I like me.

[B]

Absolutely. Oh, I love me some me.

[A]

I never get no time with her ass right.

[B]

I know. I get it. I get it, babe. I get it.

[A]

It's like, we don't never get no time. I mean, you're so.

[B]

It seems like, you know, here I go interviewing you. Let me. Hold on. I know. I love these questions, but I, you know, this is also, you know, for the audience. It doesn't get to ask these questions to Kiki. Let me ask it for y'.

[A]

All.

[B]

Let me ask you. So when you. Because you seem like everything is 100%.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I have not seen you do nothing at 50, 20% my whole life, my looking back. So even your mommying is 100%. So how are you building? How are you showing up 100% for every single thing? And nothing gets compromised?

[A]

I mean, I think the things get compromised. I think a lot of times the things that get compromised. This is sad. It's gonna sound so typical. I feel like I'm like, get ready to start the movie or the rom com. But the things that get a little bit compromised are myself, my personal time, and my love life. You know, it ends up being like, no time for that. No time for that. I've gotten better with the me time. But, I mean, I will be honest that it's all math. And becoming a mom has made it better for me. Easier for me to make the time. Like, I think before, I used to have a hard time saying no about things. You know, I would be just so in the flow of the run of.

[B]

It, we have better boundaries.

[A]

Better boundaries. Because if I can't say no for me, I can say no for Leo. And then over the course of saying no for Leo. That's my son's name. Over the course of saying no for Leo.

[B]

Everybody know Leo. Everybody got no Leo. It got easier.

[A]

It got easier to say no for me, so I'm getting better at it. But things. So I just need a baby girl. The babies help.

[B]

Okay?

[A]

They help. I mean, if you want a baby, right?

[B]

I definitely want a baby.

[A]

You can also get a little baby dog.

[B]

I got one. He's here. He's in the room.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. You see? I know them fur babies are real.

[B]

They're so real.

[A]

It's like this baby came out of me.

[B]

I know.

[A]

Now, let's. Now, speaking of my love life. You're married.

[B]

I'm married.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. That's so amazing. Congratulations.

[B]

Thank you. We're finally doing the wedding.

[A]

We haven't done the wedding, so. You already are planning. That was one of my questions.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, planning. In. In a couple months. Finally doing it. I'm excited. I'm like, wow, did you always want.

[A]

To get married or were you kind of like, if it happens, it happens? Like, yeah, I didn't really care.

[B]

I'm not like a romantic person.

[A]

I was about to say, too. I was about to say you feel very eccentric, like, hey, who cares? Love is love. Wherever I'm going, I'm a go.

[B]

Thank you. I'm exactly that. I don't care.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

No, it just happened. Brighton and I were friends for 10 years. In my mind, I was exaggerating. No, in five years. Five years. Platonic, though, like the most. Didn't hold hands, didn't hug, nothing. We had a wellness company that ended up closing, and then we had to kind of wrap everything up. And he was single, I was single. Within two months. We. I mean, we dated, and then we got married after two months. Like crazy people.

[A]

Oh, my God. But it was great.

[B]

He's great. Teaches breath work and meditation.

[A]

When you know, you know, it's so real. That's real.

[B]

It's so real. And I was engaged before him, like, twice.

[A]

A couple people try to put a ring on.

[B]

I'm like, I'm a runaway fiance for sure.

[A]

I'm a reputation. Oh, wait a minute. This makes me think of another thing to ask you because you are so gorgeous. I think a lot of times I've heard Halle Berry speak about it as well. Was that difficult in this industry where people don't want you to be as deep as you are, they kind of are looking at you from the surface.

[B]

Well, I know what I look like at 2 in the morning, girl. It ain't look like I don't look like this. I don't look like this.

[A]

No, see, like, for me. No, for me.

[B]

No. Maybe for you. No, I look crazy, girl. I look. No, I don't.

[A]

I feel like with women, a lot of times it can be difficult where. Especially when we have big personalities or do so many different things, people Are like, hey, what's going on? Just. Just. Just. Just sit and be cute. And it's like, no, no, no. I have an opinion or a thought or something to say.

[B]

Absolutely.

[A]

So, yeah, I felt a little bit of that. You know what I mean? Where it's like, I'm not. I can't just be whatever you're thinking I should be playing.

[B]

But not just Pretty faces.

[A]

Yeah. I have so much more that I want to say. But anyway, going back to that you guys had a private wedding. You're getting ready to plan the current wedding. Is it going to be an away wedding? Are you going to be in town in Georgia?

[B]

It's going to be in California. Just some, you know, intimate. Like 200 people.

[A]

That's huge.

[B]

No, it's great. It's my godmother's place. And she had lost her son and her husband, and I lost my mom and my brother, so we kind of.

[A]

And your brother?

[B]

I lost my brother in 2020.

[A]

Sorry about that.

[B]

I'm sorry. I mean, you know, so he. We kind of bonded over this weird losses that we had that she became my, you know, she's been my soul mom for, like, six years. And God bless her. Yeah. And so she's, like, walking me down the aisle and, you know, but I know that my, you know, everyone.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Will be there.

[A]

I mean, how has that been, you know, with your mom passing? I know she was very close to you. Like you said, you were raised as a single by a single mother. What. Maybe even bringing it up to a joyful note. What are the things that you see the most in you that remind you of her?

[B]

Now, my mom didn't really have a filter. And I think from what I remember about your mom, who's always very close.

[A]

She's watching in the other room. She's definitely here.

[B]

She's here. Mom. Your mom really stayed close to you as well. You know, the auditions and, you know, on set. Yeah. And, you know, just. Just quiet strength.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I'm much more sillier than my mom. My mom was very.

[A]

I'm actually quiet. Really? My mom is not really silly. She's like, brute.

[B]

Right. Let's get it.

[A]

Don't play.

[B]

Right. Right. She was always very close. What is one thing about me that I think my ma. I don't know, I guess she was just pretty. Trying to be kind to everybody. Yeah. You know.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And just to keep going. And she also would kind of treat my wins like they weren't big deals, which. I know it sounds really crazy coming out of my mouth.

[A]

But she kind of kept it grounding.

[B]

She accept. She. She expected it. She's like, of course you have a hit movie. Of course they wanna work with you. Of course you're hanging out with Keke. I'm surprised you don't hang out with. You know what I mean? Like, I think she would just kind of expect that greatness. Like, when you get your awards, I'm sure your mom's gonna be like, of course you did it.

[A]

I have the same kind of mom.

[B]

Yeah, of course you did it. You're Keke Palmer.

[A]

Like, Keke, the cream always rises to the top.

[B]

Right?

[A]

You're the cream.

[B]

You do the work.

[A]

You're the cream.

[B]

No, exactly. I love that. No, that's so. That is a blessing.

[A]

But I think that's why we are probably so, like, who cares? I'm doing whatever the hell I want.

[B]

I'm doing what I want because I'm gonna win anyways.

[A]

You know what I mean?

[B]

You can't tell me I'm not gonna win.

[A]

There is literally there it is priceless to have mothers that believe in you.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

It really is. All I can thank is God for that. Because how would I do to deserve it? You know what I mean? It's just something that I was blessed with, right?

[B]

We had really have really great moms. And you know What? When we're 80 and we look the.

[A]

Same, because we need that looking the same, you know, we have to black don't cry.

[B]

So when we 80 and we looking the same, you know, you really. Especially for me, having had these losses and having to. And losses from people that I took real advice from, people that I'd have conversations with, people that I've lived with, the Princes and the Quincy's and my brother and my mom and my friends. Just people that I've lost. You, you, you allow them to guide you on this journey. Because there is something that I believe exists where the universe, God gives you permission to really make an impact on the world. But you have to be in alignment. You gotta be in alignment.

[A]

And it's like a practice. You know what I mean? It doesn't mean when you're out of alignment, oh my gosh, it's the end of the world because you can get back into flow.

[B]

Oh, I get out of alignment plenty.

[A]

You know what I'm saying? It's like going to the chiropractor for sure. Hook me back up, guys, right? And then once you get back in that flow, it really is. It's like when they say like, going upstream is tough, but like, when you're going downstream, it's just like, it's. There's this ease, right?

[B]

So you allow yourself to kind of be almost influenced by them from, like, you know, another space and time. And, you know, I still hear Q giving me, you know, all his advice and, you know, Prince trying to boss me around about something or other. And wear that. And don't wear ripped jeans and all the things that. How. Yeah.

[A]

Now, obviously, I know we're talking about you're married now, but before, I'm curious because your husband's not in the industry. Did you date in the industry or were you resistant to that? Like, what were your non negotiables in terms of dating in the public eye? I always ask things like that.

[B]

Girl, I do everything wrong.

[A]

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[B]

To be clear, I have not done one thing right in my personal life ever. Like these days. How uncomfortable of you. Don't sleep with somebody on the first date. Girl, I've been done that. Like, what are you talking about? Like, I'm already out of the. The cat.

[A]

But I hate the gender rules. So do it.

[B]

There's a lot of gender rules, and I don't think I've done any of them. They're like, you know, don't. Don't eat, you know, messy food on the first day. Nachos, you know, I don't have. I've done everything backwards. I wish I knew how to do it right or what the I don't.

[A]

Want to do it right thing is.

[B]

In fact, I actually getting married was not necessarily. We didn't necessarily plan it. He was. Brian was complaining that I was just kind of a terrible girlfriend. And I said, well, let's fix this, then.

[A]

And I said, well, I'mma fix your ass.

[B]

Let's fix this, then. I got a nice Virgo plan for you. We gonna be friends, or we gonna be married? Because I'm a terrible girlfriend, and I'm clearly. I don't have a good run with being engaged. I'm a terrible fiance. So let's just be friends or be married. Cause I'm not gonna do. And I thought he was gonna be like, all right, let's just be friends.

[A]

Oh, my gosh.

[B]

I got married.

[A]

Live.

[B]

That's what. It's not romantic.

[A]

No, but it's doing it your way.

[B]

I did it my way.

[A]

And that's how you have to do it.

[B]

Find your match. Being exactly who you are. Don't have to hide nothing about yourself. All your silly things, all your quirky things, Even when you got a little bit of a temper, even if they piss you off. You don't gotta hide nothing. You get to show your full self. And you know what? The right person will stay.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. My mom always would say that growing up, and she would definitely. I would be like, mom, you're mean to dad. Girl, forget about it. He's fine with it. If Larry likes it, you love it. I'm like, sharon, you're not being even nice to Larry. And Larry's over there. Like, sharon's my baby.

[B]

You know what? You know, Larry love it.

[A]

Larry loves Sharon, and Sharon loves Larry. I love it. But it's exactly what you're describing, where it's like, to other people that are looking at it.

[B]

No, but they're perfect for each other.

[A]

They're perfect for each other.

[B]

They're perfect for each other.

[A]

What is your love language? Um, mine is physical touch. Is it? I can't keep my hands to myself.

[B]

Um, mine. I don't want to say food. That's the honest thing I'm thinking about. Don't say food, Kat. Do not say food is your love language.

[A]

But it's a lot of us love languages. I love cooking, girl, so I was gonna ask that too, because. Tell me, do you be watching all the cooking stuff online, or do you be actually cooking? Cause sometimes I just watch videos.

[B]

I be cooking, girl. I be getting down.

[A]

What is your don't play with me meal?

[B]

Oh, well, I have a menu, girl.

[A]

Girl, you are so burger.

[B]

I'm sober.

[A]

I have a whole menu. Oh, my gosh. Set me up. I'm coming to your house for dinner.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

You know, I told you to take off. I want to eat a cat meal.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Meals with cat.

[B]

Okay. Let me do it. One time, I got into a huge fight with Bryant because I spent two hours on a hamachi crudo. Let me tell you something so bomb, though. I don't have no regrets. I guess I would. Oh, what would I. What would I make you? I would make you, I guess, Brussels sprouts. I'd make you. Bryant calls me my slutty gnocchi because I make it for everybody, but I'm going to make it for you. And it's a sweet potato gnocchi in a sage butter sauce. It is so bomb. I would make you pistachio crusted lamb over. Over a delicious, like, couscous. I just. I can go. I can go in, girl.

[A]

Are you kidding me?

[B]

No. Honestly, I'm a better cook than I am an actor.

[A]

No, that's just one other thing. Now that we know you're good at, you take. This is like your long list.

[B]

But I'm. The only thing I'm cocky about is my cooking. I feel like you probably gonna correct me, like, no, girl, you're not that humble. No, but I feel like I am a very. A pretty humble person. As an artist.

[A]

You are.

[B]

I will, you know, wait my turn, but as a cook, can't nobody tell me nothing. I'm the best. I am the best.

[A]

I am the best. I would say you're a pretty humble chef, too. One more thing, though. You're on tour. You just came off tour.

[B]

I don't know what I'm doing. I'm always on doing.

[A]

They were telling me you were doing a global tour. You did Barcelona. I have Barcelona, UK going up. You've been to a couple of places.

[B]

Yeah, I know. My next. I know my next show is in Chicago, my city.

[A]

Hey, do you have a favorite place to perform?

[B]

I did this one show for. I think it was Pandora, and I did crowd surfing on the Azores.

[A]

I was just talking to somebody about the crowd surfing. Was it good? Or were people, like, squeezing your booty and stuff? Ah, because that's what scares me with that, really. Like, if somebody gonna put their hands on my cooch.

[B]

No, they're not gonna do that. It's your fans. We got you. I know. Everybody ready to hold?

[A]

I don't want to grab my booty.

[B]

No. Humble. So humble.

[A]

No. So it was amazing.

[B]

Amazing. I love it. I love performing. I really love it.

[A]

I mean, you're incredible. And I remember, I don't remember what visual of yours that I, that I saw. What year was. It had to be like between 2012, 2016, a project that you had came out. And that's when I really got into. Because I think I always knew you did music, but I also really knew you more with acting. When I seen that project, I was like, oh, she's really dope. For real. You know what I mean? Like, just seeing those, we can see those different sides of people, it really, I mean, again, back in the day to day when we think mgm, Vaudeville or even just Broadway, everybody was doing.

[B]

A bunch of things, right?

[A]

When I feel like in our generation, for whatever reason, it was like, only you, if you're an actor, only you age, if you're a singer, only you sing. And I feel like, you know, myself, you, when I think about Donald Glover, when I think about Queen Latifah, like.

[B]

I mean, right, Everybody's doing it all.

[A]

You know, it's like, just do everything, do everything.

[B]

If you can.

[A]

If you can, why not? You know, and it's fun. It's fun to have different mediums to express your conversation with yourself, speaking to society.

[B]

Can we talk a little bit about the visual album?

[A]

Oh my gosh, let's get into it.

[B]

I just, I'm just curious, like, why did you decide to do a visual album versus just dropping a record?

[A]

Well, I started doing the visual albums with my.

[B]

When, when did it start? When did you decide?

[A]

20, 16, 17?

[B]

I hope I'm not to start working.

[A]

On a visual album to start doing visual albums. So this is my third visual project, right. So I did the first one, I think in 2016, hope the day it was the Lauren EP that was like a very smaller kind of visual. It was like five songs or so. Then I did my first big one, Big Boss, in 2020, but I think by the time I did Big Boss, I had realized and decided this is the way I do music. Because, you know, again, for us, like, you know, you sign to a record label, you know, they have a particular way that they want to do things. There's no artist development. Everybody's trying to fit you in a box, right? I've just always been a multi hyphenate person and my artistry always came in a very. In a narrative package. There's conversation that I'm trying to say, and I'm a visual artist, right? So I think after I did, you know, I did Lauren EP that was like, okay, got my feet wet with it and Then by the time I did Big Boss, I was like, this is the only way I really want to do albums, right? Because for me, it's not just about the album. It's about. This is the statement that I'm making at this moment in this era, in this conversation with Self that I'm saying and opening my audience up to.

[B]

And why did. Confessions is a single, right?

[A]

Yep. Confessions single 125 was a single. And then off script.

[B]

So that was kind of like hit Confessions.

[A]

So Confessions was. Sorry, I know this is not. I know this is.

[B]

I don't care, y'.

[A]

All.

[B]

I get to interview you. I'm curious.

[A]

So Confessions was like the inciting incident, right? It was like a. It was. It kind of put in many ways, like the. This was the crumble or the glitch in the product, you know? Cause Keke Palmer, as a person, like, you know, people know me to be very professional. Like, when all that stuff went out.

[B]

Right, I was amazed at, like, some of the lyrics that you were, like, opening up about. Like.

[A]

Yeah, I was amazed, too. I think that the whole situation. I was. I was amazed, too, because I never knew I could get this deep with my audience, but that was because I never got that deep with myself yet. And so over that experience, that's what happened. And so when I'm telling. When I was telling the story or deciding how to tell the story, leading my audience up to the visual album, it's like, okay, the inciting incident. And we kind of had 125 out a little bit, which is kind of like the love and the romance, then the inciting incident, and then where we are now, which is off script. And then off script kind of starts at, how the hell did I get here? And then you go through the journey of how I kind of have now evolved from even that space. So it was kind of, again, me, like, obviously, the relationship is a big part of it, because it was a big part. You know, my relationship with my son was a big chapter of this time in my life. But it's also about, you know, integration and fragmentation as a person and the interesting role that love can play, even if it doesn't last forever. But the interesting love role that love can play and bringing back. Bringing you back to places that you didn't even know you still needed to heal within yourself. Because as an entertainer, there's also that thing of just like, can I become who I want to be? You know? Or am I just supposed to live as this product? Or who is it that I Do want to be and what influences are mine or the ones around me? I think I. I went through a lot of that. And performing wasn't just. Or I should say it was enjoyable, but a lot of times it was survival until it became intention. And so that is also about ownership and owning of one's narrative. So there was a lot of. And again, when I was getting ready to do this album, it took a second because I'm like, my manager, you know, Billie.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Billy was like, when are we gonna do? Because after Big Boss, he's like, when are we gonna do? I was like, I don't know what the hell I'm gonna say. I didn't. You know, you need a second to ruminate.

[B]

Were you doing it before the films or, like, when did.

[A]

So I actually did it during the film.

[B]

When did you have time?

[A]

Are there two of you? You. So we should maybe cut the camera. You're actually looking at two of you now. You're actually looking at one now. This is that AI they've been talking about.

[B]

No.

[A]

Yeah, I was doing it during work. I was doing it during bo. This Boost Riley movie that I was doing called I love Boosters. And so, yeah, on the weekend and like, after some shoot days, I will be working on this project with Taylor.

[B]

So wild. So wild, girl.

[A]

You know how it is. Gotta get as. I don't know.

[B]

Like that. I mean, I don't. I don't know. That's just.

[A]

I'm so glad you're so impeccable.

[B]

Virgoing. Oh, I. Yeah, it's dope, my girl. I mean, you didn't really warn nobody, though. I was like, oh, my God, A visual album. There's just so much that you're doing this year.

[A]

Oh, my gosh.

[B]

And if you're not, and if we aren't focusing on the film or the record or whatever, you're running everything viral on everything. You can't even go out to dinner and not go viral.

[A]

Oh, my God.

[B]

What's your problem?

[A]

You, Lily, make me blush.

[B]

No, it's true. We all feel that way.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. Well, we all feel that way back. And I'm sure, you know, like, doing this, being in this industry for so long.

[B]

So long.

[A]

You're just happy for the tides. Any of the tides. You know what I mean? Whether they're up, they're down, they're in between. Just glad to be doing work that I'm excited about. Okay. 2026. I am very excited for this Michael Jackson biopic where you play Diana Ross girl.

[B]

I know. It's very fun, exciting. It was very.

[A]

So tell me about the set vibes. Tell me about recreating these incredible moments. I mean, obviously Jafar. Jafar is playing Michael.

[B]

Perfection as Michael. I'm not allowed to really talk about it.

[A]

Come on.

[B]

Hush, Hush.

[A]

Come on.

[B]

We love a Hush, hush. We love Hush, Hush. Gosh.

[A]

Nia Long's amazing.

[B]

Nia Long is the bomb dot com.

[A]

She is.

[B]

I mean, even though it wasn't all my hair, sometimes, you know, I had a little bit of my own hair in the front, you know, and then the rest was big. But it was my texture, which was nice. And it was the first film I ever did where I was, like, rocking my texture. I don't want to give too much away. What do I say?

[A]

Well, how was it? How did you do it?

[B]

Antoine Fuqua was the director. He's brilliant. So he's like, you know, he's amazing. It felt surreal.

[A]

Yeah, right.

[B]

It also felt surreal because they had Quincy Jones character in some of the scenes, and that's played by my boy, Kendrick Sampson. And it was when I was filming it. It was when Q was still alive, so I got to kind of share some stuff that we were doing and all that with him.

[A]

And did you get a chance to meet Diana, or have you met her before in the past?

[B]

I think I had met.

[A]

I know. You probably know Evan and Tracy.

[B]

Everybody knows Evan.

[A]

Yeah, everybody knows Evan. Hey, Evan.

[B]

It happened so quick, I didn't think I was gonna get it. And I kind of just. I was like, ain't nobody gonna hire me to play Diana Ross.

[A]

Why wouldn't. I don't know. Of course they would.

[B]

Of course they would. Of course your cat, Graham. Of course they would. I don't know. I just didn't think much of it. I. You know, I did my job, and, you know, I just kind of. For the audition, and I remember just. I think I was, like, smoking a little cigarillo and had a little. Had a little apple juice box and wasn't even taking nothing seriously. I was like, I'm just gonna. Because my agents were like, you need to do the tape. You need to do this audition.

[A]

I feel like anytime that we've overdone the tape, we didn't get the role.

[B]

Absolutely. I was like. I was like, fine, I'll just do the meeting so y' all will get off my back. And I did it, not caring. Hair was wild, and. And then the next day, I had a meeting with Antoine Fuqua, and then he offered me The. The role in real time on the Zoom. And then I remember Evan. Evan Haney, my manager, called me, and he's. He's so cool. He's Evans. Cool as a cucumber. He was like, hey, so they want you for the role of Diana Ross.

[A]

Hold on, Evan. Hold on.

[B]

And I, like, ran through the house.

[A]

I was like, bryant. Bryant, Pops.

[B]

Because at the time, Brian's dad was living with us.

[A]

Pops.

[B]

You know, I turned into a little kid. And I was like, evan, say it again.

[A]

Say it again.

[B]

And he's like, you got the role. And then I remember Bryant and I ran out into our pool and jumped into the pool fully clothed.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

So that I can. I can share with you the. The stupid, silly stories about it.

[A]

That is so exciting. The feeling of getting a role that you actually wanted is like, it can never be underplayed.

[B]

And, you know what's funny is that there's something about. And I can't wait for your biopic when that comes. I know, I know. I know there's seedlings of it. I know there's gotta be someone and some script and some people that are smart enough to see you in something. But, you know, with biopics, especially for iconic black women, who helped shape the narrative, helped shaped history. Right.

[A]

I mean, to be a pop icon and to be a black pop icon, like Diana Ross, I mean, she gave the blueprint.

[B]

Right. And you think about the Supremes and how they had to show up in, you know, graceful and elegant at a time where there was so much colorism. They. Yeah. Even the music that they made. And, you know, at the time, with, like, everything from, like, the Detroit riots and all of this, you know, civil unrest and all the things that they were doing and creating while that was happening in this country.

[A]

Yep.

[B]

And then to be able to play a woman like that, like, I don't take it lightly. There is. You know, I think it was Nina Simone that said, an artist's duty is to tell. And I'm paraphrasing, but to tell the story of the times. And, I mean, these women did that.

[A]

I can.

[B]

Spades, right?

[A]

Yes. So I love that. I love that you love quotes. I love quotes as well.

[B]

I only know two.

[A]

You named them? You literally named quotes?

[B]

I've used them in this interview. That's it. I don't know no more.

[A]

I literally love quotes. So I'm like, every last one you're saying, I'm like, I need to look up some more Nina Simone quotes. Cause she was eating.

[B]

That's it.

[A]

That's all.

[B]

I only know one.

[A]

Okay. Are you ready to play a game?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Okay. I play games with all of my guests. I'm so sad that you're already leaving, but I'm excited to play this game.

[B]

You're booked and busy girl. Got me out of this chair. Gotta get somebody else in here.

[A]

Okay, so here's how it works. I'm gonna say a line, a scenario, and you're gonna tell me which zodiac. Cause you know we're into the zodiac, right?

[B]

We are.

[A]

You're gonna tell me which sign is the best for it and which sign is the worst for it.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Are you ready?

[B]

Okay, I'm ready.

[A]

Which sign throws the best birthday party and which one doesn't even show up to their own.

[B]

A sign that would throw the best birthday party. I think Capricorns can get down. I think someone that wouldn't show up. Aries.

[A]

If you got on the Aries nerve enough, they definitely would leave.

[B]

I think so.

[A]

For sure.

[B]

I think so.

[A]

Because they don't have too much patience for the bull.

[B]

I've dated a couple Geminis. I think they would, you know, they might just.

[A]

Either they would be the life of the party or they would be like.

[B]

Exactly. What do you think about that?

[A]

I would say the sign that throws the best birthday party is a Virgo. Okay. Okay.

[B]

I wasn't gonna say myself. Cause I'm trying to be humble. I'm trying to be humble because, you.

[A]

Know, Virgos love to be modest.

[B]

Right.

[A]

So I seen what you was doing with that. But the worst one or the one that wouldn't show up to their own, I mean, depending on they mood, a cancer might not arrive. Oh, they might be like, I'm too over y'. All. Yeah, I'm too over y'.

[B]

All.

[A]

And I want to cuss nobody out.

[B]

Right. I'm in my feelings.

[A]

I'm in my feelings. So, okay. Best sign for relationship material.

[B]

Oh, it depends on the sign, though. Is it me as a Virgo?

[A]

No, it's whatever. Which sign. Whatever sign.

[B]

Not that Virgo would be the best sign to me.

[A]

Yeah, right. The best sign to you. Well, you know what?

[B]

Well, best sign, I think.

[A]

And then worst one, for situationships that last too long.

[B]

That's tough. Because somebody might be a perfect sign. Like, I know that for me, a perfect sign is like, Bryant as a Sagittarius is perfect for me.

[A]

Sagittarius is so fun.

[B]

They're perfect for everybody. They're so fun. I don't know.

[A]

Yeah, some people do. I have Been seeing a lot of like bad press for the Sagittariuses. I don't know what happened.

[B]

I think Leo's could be good, but also terrible.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. You sound like you have some Libra in your chart with all this indecisiveness.

[B]

Libras are the best. Let's just say that Libras are the best. They're fair, they're level headed.

[A]

They are the best.

[B]

Yeah, that makes sense. That makes sense.

[A]

Who's the worst though? Scorpios.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

You know, I love Scorpios real bad. But y', all. Y' all will take a situationship and let it laugh the whole lifetime and then go get married.

[B]

Pisces will do that too. Pisces will let you.

[A]

Pisces are the most loverous lovers that could find. And if they don't love you, it's. It's bad. It's sad.

[B]

Damn.

[A]

It is. It is. Because once they done, they're done. They're done.

[B]

Yeah, they're good. But they have terrible communication on the phones and stuff, I think.

[A]

Okay. Best sign to cry to after a breakup and the worst one to call when you're emotional.

[B]

Virgo is the worst to call.

[A]

Do not call us.

[B]

Do not call us.

[A]

When I call with Sharon when I've been heard over Brooke. I mean, it's not even that deep, right?

[B]

You should have seen this coming.

[A]

You've got it. I mean, at the end of the day, what I mean, like, let's get up, right? Because you can't stay in a house like this, right?

[B]

This is a person, right?

[A]

You know? I know, I know.

[B]

You said I told you to leave that person a long time ago and you didn't listen. And now look at you.

[A]

A Virgo. Well, I told you so to death. It's too much.

[B]

They're waiting for it.

[A]

They're waiting to be live.

[B]

So I'm glad you agree with that.

[A]

We're in agreements.

[B]

So what was it? What was the ultimate now the best.

[A]

One to call and cry to after a breakup. A Leo will. Yes. Man, you into your girl.

[B]

Yeah, but that's not always the best.

[A]

But it feels good after a breakup. They'll be like, yes, yes, yes to everything. You know? And you know it's not true.

[B]

Gemini women are amazing to speak to.

[A]

They are. They are.

[B]

They're super. I love a Gemini girl.

[A]

Yeah, Very fun too. Keep it upbeat. Keep it upbeat. Yeah. Okay. Best and worst sign to keep a secret and not put it in a group chat. Virgo is telling Somebody. Virgo is telling somebody now. We will be conscientious of who we jail. Yeah, but somebody's fine.

[B]

It is absolutely.

[A]

I mean, the moment in our mind. The moment you tell me right before.

[B]

You even finish the sentence on the.

[A]

Other line, I have to tell you really quickly.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Could you believe that? So and so tell me. Yeah, I'm going to get on finish with him.

[B]

Virgo's telling something. Boom. Virgo is telling somebody.

[A]

Hey, girl. Sorry. That was my uber doordash.

[B]

Right. And I live in Georgia, so, you know, we tell everybody. You know, guy shows up, plumber shows.

[A]

Up at the house.

[B]

We know each other's business the first five minutes. Oh, you know, I love that the.

[A]

First five minutes is taking me out.

[B]

I don't keep nothing to myself.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. Okay. The best one who's really going to have their lips sealed. You know, Sagittarius are really Sagittarius. Lip sealed.

[B]

Ryan is Fort Knox. He don't share nothing. Sagittarius. And I'm Sagittarius.

[A]

I'm a Sag moon, so I can be Fort Knox. But I just love to share tea with Sharon. She's the funnest.

[B]

Mm.

[A]

Okay, this is the last, last one. Hmm. Best and worst sign to bring as your plus one to a Vibey Industry event. Ooh, it depends on what you're looking for. And what are we looking for in a Vibey Industry party? Somebody that knows how to work the room on their own.

[B]

My thing is, I have very independent friends.

[A]

That's what I'm saying. And they come in all different signs.

[B]

Right. But some of my friends just, you know, I show up with them, but they leave me.

[A]

Damn, they real independent.

[B]

No, they real independent. I'm like the kind of person, I'll stick to the one person I know and I'll not talk to nobody else.

[A]

Oh, that's so sweet.

[B]

No, it's not.

[A]

It's.

[B]

I'm a terrible networker.

[A]

You gotta get out there and talk. No, otherwise it's so boring there.

[B]

I'm super codependent at a party. Girl, don't bring me nowhere with you.

[A]

At a party. I have one mission. To walk in a circle two times and then leave.

[B]

Really? Really.

[A]

And eat whatever snacks that they may have that I'm into.

[B]

Yeah, I'm usually, like, with one person the entire night or, like, hanging out by the kitchen, so I'm the first one to get the order done.

[A]

Yeah, the food helps, the food helps, the food helps.

[B]

But yeah, I don't know Maybe I'm the worst to go to a party with.

[A]

I didn't want to tell you, but is it me?

[B]

Is it me? All right. I don't know. I don't know.

[A]

Kat, you're absolutely amazing. You are a triple Virgo couldn't be any better. It was exactly the same.

[B]

Thank you for validating me, because it's one of my biggest insecurities.

[A]

I mean, actors, we. Every time that director says cut. So what you think?

[B]

Right?

[A]

Was it good? If they don't tell me yes, then I don't know, right? I'm like.

[B]

I noticed you were very quiet after that take. Is there something you want to talk about?

[A]

You know what I mean? I need feedback.

[B]

I need feedback.

[A]

So the feedback is, we got to direct ourselves. Literally.

[B]

It was amazing. Let's move on.

[A]

Thank you for coming on. Baby, this.

[B]

You're amazing.

[A]

That was good, y'.

[B]

All.

[A]

Kat is so grounded in purpose, and it shines in everything she does, from her work to her activism, to the way she connects with her fans. The way she shows up is just full of intention and heart, and I love that Katt is open about all of it. The joy and love, but also the hard stuff, like loss, heartbreak, and anger. That's not easy, but it's a reminder that we all have that power. We can take life's challenges, victories, and everything in between and use it to shape us, strengthen us, and move us closer to our purpose. I'll be cheering y' all on every step of the way. And y' all cheer me on, too, because, baby, this is Kiki Paul. Baby, this is. This is Kiki. Baby, this is Kiki Palma. Yeah.