Legacy Talk with Lena Waithe: Building a Legacy with Don Cheadle

Episode Release Date: August 5, 2025

In this illuminating episode of Legacy Talk with Lena Waithe, host Quinta Brunson engages in a profound conversation with the esteemed actor Don Cheadle. The discussion delves deep into Don's illustrious career, his creative processes, memorable roles, and the personal experiences that have shaped his journey in the entertainment industry. This comprehensive summary captures the essence of their dialogue, highlighting key moments, insightful reflections, and inspiring anecdotes.

1. Early Career and Beginnings in Sitcoms

Don Cheadle reflects on his initial foray into the acting world, primarily through multi-cam sitcoms. He shares anecdotes about his early days, the challenges of being typecast, and his aspirations to be recognized as "the funny girl."

• Don Cheadle (00:44): "I thought that's what my career was gonna be. I came out here to be the funny girl."

Quinta Brunson discusses her research into Don's early work, expressing admiration for his dedication and the authenticity he brings to his roles.

• Quinta Brunson (01:31): "It's such an honor, really, to be talking to you and to go on this journey of some pieces of your amazing career that you're still building."

2. Transition to Dramatic Roles and "Baby Boy"

Don elaborates on his pivotal role in the film "Baby Boy", highlighting his collaboration with John Singleton and the profound impact the character had on his personal life.

• Don Cheadle (04:01): "You do the scene and he was like, my God, you're really good."
• Quinta Brunson (09:38): "This character's name is Yvette, right? And I think what's so stunning about you in the movie..."

He recounts the emotional connection to his character Yvette, drawing parallels between the film's narrative and his real-life experiences, including the tragic loss of his son's father.

• Don Cheadle (07:XX): "This dysfunctional relationship was actually like... I had to let a little of my pain bleed through hers."

3. Notable Roles and Performances

"Hustle and Flow"

Don discusses the creation and significance of his role in "Hustle and Flow", emphasizing the chemistry with co-actor Terrence Howard and the film's cultural impact.

• Don Cheadle (16:32): "It's the first time we get to see you and Terrence Howard, like, together."
• Quinta Brunson (16:53): "How did it feel to have that chemistry?"

He shares firsthand experiences from the Sundance screening and the overwhelming response the film received.

• Don Cheadle (22:11): "At Sundance, there were people standing in the aisles. Make me white."

"Talk to Me"

Exploring his role in "Talk to Me", Don highlights the importance of working with director Casey Lemons and the depth of the character he portrayed.

• Don Cheadle (30:34): "I was more me asking her questions... something special from a female director."

"The Curious Case of Benjamin"

Don reflects on working with director David Fincher and the meticulous attention to detail required for his performance.

• Don Cheadle (32:07): "The crew, actually, every time I would come, it was... he was going to shoot it until he got it right."

"Hidden Figures"

Portraying a historical figure in "Hidden Figures", Don emphasizes the responsibility and emotional weight of bringing a real person's story to the screen.

• Don Cheadle (54:00): "I have to meet her. I have to meet her."
• Quinta Brunson (55:52): "How did that affect your performance emotionally?"

4. Voiceover Work in "Minions: Rise of Gru"

Don ventures into voice acting with his role as Bell Bottom in "Minions: Rise of Gru". He describes the creative process and the fun of bringing an animated character to life.

• Quinta Brunson (60:25): "How did you go about creating that voice and character?"
• Don Cheadle (60:53): "I threw in the get up on the downstroke and they loved it."

5. "Empire" TV Series

Discussing his role as Cookie in the landmark TV series "Empire", Don shares insights into the character's development, his collaboration with Terrence Howard, and the show's cultural significance.

• Don Cheadle (51:43): "It made me pop culture. People started learning my name."
• Quinta Brunson (67:35): "How did 'Empire' change your life?"

6. "Abbott Elementary" and Collaboration with Quinta Brunson

Don delves into his role in "Abbott Elementary", highlighting his dynamic with Quinta Brunson and the intricacies of portraying Jeanine's mother on a critically acclaimed TV show.

• Quinta Brunson (75:06): "What was the conversation like that you had with Quinta about having to play her mother?"
• Don Cheadle (75:39): "She teaches us how to show grace in our roles."

7. Awards, Recognition, and Personal Reflections

When discussing his Oscar nomination, Don expresses the surreal experience of fame and the importance of his support system, particularly his interactions with Brad Pitt and personal losses.

• Don Cheadle (41:40): "I have to inspire somebody. I'll never forget when my aunts took me to see the Wiz on Broadway..."
• Quinta Brunson (43:35): "But I think that's beautiful."

He underscores the significance of empathy in acting and his commitment to portraying complex, multifaceted characters.

• Don Cheadle (64:41): "Once you understand the why, then the pressure is off. It's like, oh, she's a real person."

8. Personal Legacy and Impact

Throughout the conversation, Don emphasizes his desire to create meaningful art that resonates with audiences, inspire others, and maintain a balance between fame and personal authenticity.

• Don Cheadle (62:22): "I think that's what makes you a great actress. A great actor."
• Quinta Brunson (80:18): "This work has really cost you something. I can feel that."

9. Memorable Quotes and Highlights

• Don Cheadle (74:25): "That's legacy. That's legacy. You entered just the way a Shug Avery would have."
• Quinta Brunson (79:10): "And that’s what you do. You remind us that we can get through anything."

Conclusion

This episode of Legacy Talk with Lena Waithe offers a deep dive into Don Cheadle's artistic journey, revealing the personal sacrifices, emotional depths, and unwavering commitment that define his legacy. Through candid conversations and heartfelt reflections, Don shares not just his triumphs but also the challenges that have shaped him as an actor and as an individual dedicated to inspiring generations to come.

Note: All timestamps correspond to the provided transcript and serve to highlight key moments in the conversation.