INTERVIEW: Rosie Perez On Making Her Name In Hollywood, 2Pac Friendship, Love For Boxing + More

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Breakfast Club – Interview with Rosie Perez

Introduction

In this engaging episode of The Breakfast Club, hosted by DJ Envy and Charlamagne Tha God, Rosie Perez joins the show to discuss her illustrious career in Hollywood, her friendship with the late Tupac Shakur, and her new role as a commentator for the upcoming Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson boxing match.

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Celebrating 60 Years Young

Rosie Perez opens up about her 60th birthday, expressing both surprise and gratitude for reaching this milestone.

• Rosie Perez [04:08]: “Yes, I am 60 years old. And everyone keeps telling me I'm 60 years old, but it's all good.”

She reminisces about her intimate birthday celebration, initially expecting 40 guests but pleasantly surprised when 82 friends attended, highlighting her preference for close-knit gatherings over large parties.

• Rosie Perez [04:14]: “At first it was supposed to be like, 40 people, and I thought that was a lot. But 82 people showed up.”

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From Marine Biology to Hollywood: A Journey of Passion

Rosie delves into her transition from studying biochemistry in college to pursuing a career in dance and choreography, eventually leading her to acting.

• Rosie Perez [11:09]: “I was in college to be a marine biologist. I was studying biochem.”

She shares the pivotal moment when she met talent scouts and was encouraged to teach hip-hop dance to artists, despite facing skepticism and resistance from her father.

• Rosie Perez [12:18]: “He was very upset with me on Soul Train, and that's the reason why I stopped dancing.”

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Breaking Barriers in Hollywood

Rosie discusses the challenges she faced as a Latina in the entertainment industry, including battling typecasting and overcoming discrimination.

• Rosie Perez [07:04]: “I was the only person of color in the casting room, and it was all just a sea of white ladies.”

She highlights her perseverance in securing diverse roles and the importance of staying true to her identity, even when faced with backlash from within the Latino community.

• Rosie Perez [08:38]: “I just kept focus and just kept pushing through and just showing up.”

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Iconic Roles and Collaborations

Rosie reflects on her breakthrough role in Do the Right Thing and her collaboration with director Spike Lee, which solidified her passion for acting.

• Rosie Perez [13:09]: “I met him in a nightclub and we got an argument, and he said, this is fate.”

She recounts the emotional impact of seeing the final product of her work, which reaffirmed her commitment to the craft.

• Rosie Perez [14:11]: “I was sitting in the theater. Tears were going down my eyes.”

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Friendship with Tupac Shakur

One of the highlights of the interview is Rosie’s heartfelt account of her friendship with the iconic rapper Tupac Shakur, shedding light on their bond and mutual respect.

• Rosie Perez [30:22]: “Yes, we were very close.”

She narrates how their friendship began on tour and the genuine camaraderie they shared, including memorable experiences like attending events together.

• Rosie Perez [31:47]: “We rolled out in there like we a couple, and it's gonna kill him.”

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Transition to Boxing Commentary

Rosie reveals her exciting new venture as a commentator for the high-profile Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson fight, detailing how she was approached and prepared for the role.

• Rosie Perez [35:22]: “I got a call. I couldn't believe it.”

She describes the rigorous training process, including test runs with seasoned commentators, and her enthusiasm for bringing her unique voice to the boxing world.

• Rosie Perez [35:23]: “We did a test run and it was me, Mauro Ranallo, and Roy Jones Jr.”

Rosie emphasizes her respect for Mike Tyson and her commitment to providing insightful and entertaining commentary, balancing her passion for boxing with her professional integrity.

• Rosie Perez [40:16]: “It's going to be a real fight. And I think it was a very, very smart thing for those two companies to put on.”

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Overcoming Industry Challenges

Rosie candidly discusses the misogyny and challenges she faced as a woman in the entertainment industry, sharing personal anecdotes about standing her ground and maintaining her professionalism.

• Rosie Perez [18:24]: “Everyone wants me to say his name, but I'm like, his life is shit now, so it's okay.”

She underscores the importance of resilience and self-belief, encouraging other minority women to fight for their place in the industry.

• Rosie Perez [22:26]: “I develop a reputation, and it was to my benefit, you know, they're like, oh, my gosh, she's such a bitch.”

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Reflections and Advice

Throughout the interview, Rosie offers valuable insights into her career longevity, attributing her success to discipline, professionalism, and the ability to adapt.

• Rosie Perez [06:27]: “And I go, I've been doing something different. That's your limitations that you're not able to see that I have been doing something different.”

She advises aspiring actors and dancers to embrace auditions, remain punctual, and stay prepared, emphasizing that persistence leads to opportunities.

• Rosie Perez [06:27]: “Be on time, be professional, be courteous, and be prepared.”

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Conclusion

Rosie Perez’s interview on The Breakfast Club is a testament to her enduring spirit and multifaceted talent. From battling industry biases to forging meaningful friendships and embarking on new ventures, Rosie embodies the essence of resilience and reinvention. Her upcoming role as a boxing commentator showcases her versatility and commitment to exploring diverse avenues in her career.

Notable Quotes

• Rosie Perez [04:08]: “Yes, I am 60 years old. And everyone keeps telling me I'm 60 years old, but it's all good.”

• Rosie Perez [07:04]: “I was the only person of color in the casting room, and it was all just a sea of white ladies.”

• Rosie Perez [14:11]: “I was sitting in the theater. Tears were going down my eyes.”

• Rosie Perez [30:22]: “Yes, we were very close.”

• Rosie Perez [35:22]: “I got a call. I couldn't believe it.”

• Rosie Perez [06:27]: “Be on time, be professional, be courteous, and be prepared.”

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Key Insights

• Resilience in Adversity: Rosie’s journey underscores the importance of perseverance in overcoming industry challenges and personal setbacks.

• Diversity and Representation: Her experiences highlight the ongoing struggle for minority representation in Hollywood and the significance of staying true to one’s identity.

• Versatility and Reinvention: Rosie’s ability to transition from dance to acting and now to sports commentary exemplifies the power of adaptability in sustaining a long-term career.

• Mentorship and Support: Contributions from industry veterans like Spike Lee and Raul Julia were pivotal in Rosie’s career, emphasizing the value of mentorship and community support.

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Conclusion

Rosie Perez's candid and inspiring discussion on The Breakfast Club offers listeners a deep dive into her personal and professional life. Her stories of triumph, friendship, and continuous reinvention serve as powerful motivation for anyone striving to make their mark in the entertainment industry or beyond.

Transcript

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[Justina Valentine]

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[DJ Envy]

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[Justina Valentine]

Wake that ass up.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Early in the morning.

[Aldis Hodge]

The Breakfast Club.

[DJ Envy]

Morning, everybody. It's DJ Envy. Just hilarious. Charlamagne, the guy we are the Breakfast Club. We got a special guest in the.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Building, the icon living, Rosie Perez.

[DJ Envy]

Welcome.

[Justina Valentine]

Thank you so much.

[DJ Envy]

How you feeling?

[Justina Valentine]

I'm feeling great.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

You gotta show me a birth certificate or some ID or something. I refuse to believe you. 60 years old.

[Rosie Perez]

There's no way.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I refuse to believe that you just turned 60 in September. I refuse to believe that.

[Justina Valentine]

Yes, I am 60 years old. And everyone keeps telling me I'm 60 years old, but it's all good. Wow.

[Rosie Perez]

What did you do to celebrate your 60th birthday?

[Justina Valentine]

My husband gave me, like, a really amazing party. I'm. I'm a homebody. I don't like to really do a lot of stuff. And I have a small group of friends and. And at first it was supposed to be like, 40 people, and I thought that was a lot.

[Rosie Perez]

And you thought 40 people was a lot?

[Justina Valentine]

Yeah.

[Rosie Perez]

You like I don't be one. Okay.

[Justina Valentine]

I come from. I don't know if you know this about me, but I come from the hip hop world first. And I got so tired of partying and so tired of crying. I'm just over it. But 82 people showed up.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Dang.

[Justina Valentine]

Yeah. To my party. And I was walking around like, who the hell are you? Who fighted you? And it was so funny. When my daughter was like, you need to calm down. I was like, no, I don't. I'm 60 years old, damn it. Right. Get out of my party.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

By the way, they only bring you up your age because you don't look it.

[Rosie Perez]

No, not at all.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

They'd be like, oh, congratulations, you turned 60. That's it. That's the only reason.

[Justina Valentine]

Well, thank you. You know what I think it is also, what a part of it is. I was straight edge until I was 24 years old. Didn't drink, didn't smoke, only had coffee, water. That was it. And I just think that it benefited me in the long run.

[Rosie Perez]

Absolutely, absolutely. Did you have an iconic career? You stay booked and busy for years. You've been. But how is that?

[Justina Valentine]

I just keep. I just. You know what it is? It's like, I love boxing and I believe in that champion spirit. And anytime I got knocked down, I just. I just brush it off. I'm like, okay, let's go. You know what I mean? Like, my life was hard as a child, you know, not getting a role, that's not hard.

[Rosie Perez]

Yeah.

[Justina Valentine]

That's just part of life and it's fine. And I also think it's because if any other actors are listening, don't be afraid of audition. Don't think you're above it.

[Rosie Perez]

Yeah.

[Justina Valentine]

Because that's bullshit. Oh, excuse me. I'm sorry. Okay, okay. And because I was a choreographer first and all the dancers that didn't want to audition for me didn't get the job. Like, I had to see what you had.

[Rosie Perez]

Yeah.

[Justina Valentine]

You know what I mean? It may be different. I know you're a great dancer, but it may not fit the video that.

[Rosie Perez]

That's right.

[Justina Valentine]

That I'm working for right now. And so it's like that. And also, be on time, be professional, be courteous, and be prepared. And so I think that that has offered me longevity as well, you know, because people will say, okay, she works really, really hard. Go ahead and hire her.

[Rosie Perez]

Yeah.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

What was your big acting break? I know everybody always talks about you want to live in color, but what was the acting break? Like, what was the role that caused everything to take off for you?

[Justina Valentine]

Well, it was My first role, it was do the right thing.

[DJ Envy]

Do the right thing.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Okay.

[Justina Valentine]

But what really, really set it off, in my opinion, was white man can't.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Okay, absolutely.

[Justina Valentine]

Yeah. And I fought hard for that one. I fought hard. I was the only person of color in the casting room, and it was all just a sea of white ladies. And I was like, oh, dear God. And killed it. Yeah. But it's just like that. It's like, all right, it's another championship round. Let's go. Let's go. And, man, did I have to talk myself down from the edge. It was really tough. But, yeah, I think that was the one that really did it.

[DJ Envy]

How difficult was it back then? Because we all love your accent, but back then, when you go into these rooms, they might be like, well, who is this accent? She sounds too New York. Was that ever a problem?

[Justina Valentine]

All the time. All the time it was a problem. And then I would bring up other actors. I was like, you don't have a problem with this accent. She's French. Why? You don't have a problem with her. But this person is British. Why don't you have a problem with her? Is that you racism showing? I'm like, yeah, I said it, you know? And that's who I just was. That's who I am, you know? And I would challenge them on it and everything. And sometimes it didn't work out, but a lot of times it did. And when I first went into the industry, the backlash that I really got was from the Latino community. They were telling me, shut up, sit down. Stop rocking the boat. And I was like, rocking the boat? I was like, what are you talking about? All the struggles that you had and have done for me. Let me relish in it. You know what I mean? Like, what are you talking about? Why aren't you celebrating the fruits of your struggle? Why in Rocket? I don't want to be in that boat.

[Rosie Perez]

Yeah.

[Justina Valentine]

I'm on my own boat, you know? And it was so. That was really hurtful. That was something I had to push through. And it was just. It was just difficult. Like, people don't understand how difficult it was for me. But I just. Like I said, I just kept focus and just kept pushing through and just showing up.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

And it's crazy. Cause you don't realize until you get older. Like, you were kind of like the only one back then. But, you know, we didn't realize that. We just saw you on TV and like, oh, that's Rosie Perez. But, yeah, you were like, the only one back then.

[Justina Valentine]

I was the only one. I was the only one. And it was hard also to fight against repeating performances like, I want you to do what you did and do the right thing. No, I don't want to do that. And then it was, okay, I want you to do what you did in White Man Catch up. No, I don't wanna do that. And then it's like, I get Fearless. That was another. Oh, my God, talk about. They made me audition four times for that role in Fearless, and it was a dramatic role. They didn't want me. They wanted an Irish American woman, which was screwed up because it was based on a real story and the real character was Asian American. Right? And so they were saying, we think that the interracial aspect between you and Jeff Bridges is a concern. So we actually were supposed to have a love scene in that movie, and they cut it. They thought that the audience wouldn't be prepared for it, ready for it. But it was. It just was really, really hard. Like, people don't understand. It was really, really hard. And I just. I just kept, you know, you want me to audition four times? I'm going to audition four times. I'm not going to let you see me sweat. I probably would go home and cry about it. And then the phone would ring. They want you back. I'm there, I'm there. Let me get on the plane. I' I'm there. Because I really wanted it, you know, I really, really, really wanted it. And then when Fearless came around, they were like, oh, my God, you could do something different. I said, I've been doing something different. I've been doing something different. That's your limitations that you're not able to see that I have been doing something different. And throughout my career, every single role that I've had, they always go, this is such a different role for you. And I go, you said that last time and the other time before and the other time before. And, you know, it's just. It just is what it is. And I tell other people, whether they're, you know, Latino or not, if they're a minority in this country, I was like, fight for what you want. I mean, don't wait for your seat at the table. You know what I mean? Prepare your own table.

[DJ Envy]

I want to know where you got to start from, right? Because you just weren't an actress. You were a dancer, a choreographer. What was the start to say, this is what I wanted to do. What did you see that said, you know what? I want to be in that business? Because you could have did Anything you could have said, I want to be an astronaut, I want to be a doctor, I want to be an attorney. But you wanted to go into that. What got you into that? And who pushed you towards that, especially back then?

[Justina Valentine]

Well, actually, I was in college to be a marine biologist. I was studying biochem. And then I meet the casting. The talent scout for Soul Train didn't take it seriously. I just thought it was fun until my father made me quit. God rest his soul. And. And. And then when I met Louis Silas Jr God rest his soul, he was a ANR guy at MCA Records. And he said he came to Soul Train. He goes, why aren't you dancing like that on the. On the camera? I said, don Cornelius doesn't like it. He goes, what's that? That's hip hop, right? I said, yeah, that's hip hop. He says, I want you to teach that to artist. I have. He's going to leave this boy band. I said, who is it? He goes, I'm not going to tell you. Just show up. And I said, well, I'm not a choreographer. He goes, I'll pay you 1600 a day. I said, I'll see you Monday.

[Rosie Perez]

That's right.

[Justina Valentine]

And so when I got there, I didn't know I was supposed to show him a routine. I made up the whole thing on the spot, right. And it was pretty bad what I made up and everything. And that was Bobby Brown. That was my first still. I went back to school and it wasn't until Spike Lee came into my life.

[DJ Envy]

But what video was it for Bobby Brown so we could go back and.

[Justina Valentine]

Look, I did two videos. Was Don't Be Cruel in My Prerogative. I'm the one that hired Heart and Soul for him.

[DJ Envy]

Wow. And those are two big videos for him, too.

[Carlos Miller]

His biggest.

[Justina Valentine]

And then when he. Every little step I take, he didn't hire me. And I was heartbroken. And. But he hired Heart and Soul. And I was happy for them. And. And I had to. I told them. I called him up. I was like, y'all killed it, man. I hate to say it. And. And it became his most iconic video. Those guys.

[DJ Envy]

How did Spike Lee. You said you met Spike Lee. How did you meet Spike Lee? How were you.

[Justina Valentine]

I met him in a nightclub and we got an argument, and he said, this is fate. And I thought he was trying to hit on me. And I was like, you wish. And he just couldn't stop cracking up. And he was like, no, no, no. I'm a director, film director. And I was like, what? And it was my girlfriend, my college buddy, Marion Wade. I went to throw out the. His business card, and she went in the garbage and took it out. She goes, are you stupid? Just give him a call. And then he asked me to audition for do the Right Thing, and I did it. And then after we filmed it, I went back to school. I'm thinking, whatever. And it wasn't until I went to the premiere and I saw the magic all come together, and that was it. I remember sitting. I don't think I ever said this to anybody. I was sitting in the. In the theater. Tears were going down my eyes. And one of my half sisters thought it was because of the nudity, and it wasn't. It was just like, my life has to change. This is what I want to do. And that was it. That was the turning point. Wow.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Most classic scene. One of the most classic scenes in black cinema history, though. Yeah. There was nothing to cry over. Had a lot of us doing that ice cube move. I'm not gonna lie to you. A lot of us was doing the ice cube move because of that.

[DJ Envy]

And what did your parents say when they seen that? And you were going college, you were going to be a marine biologist, and now you were doing something that at the time, I would say most parents, especially in our community, did not understand in the black and brown community, like that.

[Justina Valentine]

My father was very upset. He was very upset. He was very upset with me on Soul Train, and that's the reason why I stopped dancing. He was like, no, I don't know who you are coming down that line. And I was like, oh, my God. And I quit. And everybody was like, why are you quitting? I said, my father told me to quit. And being in California, they didn't understand that. They didn't understand the culture. And I was like, my father told me to quit. I have to quit.

[Rosie Perez]

How old were you?

[Justina Valentine]

I think I was 19, 20. And. And then when I did do the right thing, I called up my dad and I said, I just want to tell you it's an artistic film. He goes, okay. And I said, okay. And I thought he understood. And. And he had a viewing party in Puerto Rico and invited the whole entire town.

[DJ Envy]

Jesus.

[Justina Valentine]

And they said that he went into cardiac arrest. He didn't die.

[DJ Envy]

Oh, he really went to Cardiac.

[Justina Valentine]

He was like, grab this.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Oh, my God.

[Justina Valentine]

They were telling me. I was like, oh, my gosh. And. And I called him up and I was crying. I was like, I'm so sorry. He goes, next time. Next time, you tell Me. And he says, but you're a grown woman now, and I can't tell you what to do. And I'll support you, but please, please don't humiliate me again.

[Rosie Perez]

What was most enjoyable for you, dancing or acting? Like, which one is more easier and more enjoyable?

[Justina Valentine]

I don't know. That's a good question, because you'd be.

[Rosie Perez]

Killing it on a dance tip. But then you kill it in the films.

[Justina Valentine]

So, like, the dancing, the dancing, like, I don't know. That's. That's. That's. That's a true love for me. Yeah, I've always been dancing. But the acting, you know. You know when you get that one lover and you can't get it out of your mind, you can't get him out of your mind. And, like, he just puts it on you, and you're like, damn, yes, ma'am.

[Rosie Perez]

I just had a baby, so I know all about that. Yes. All about that. Yeah.

[Justina Valentine]

That's what acting is.

[Rosie Perez]

Okay, I got you.

[Justina Valentine]

Yeah.

[DJ Envy]

I was going to ask, you know, you choreographed so many different videos from Janet Jackson, Bobby Brown, LL Cool J, Diana Ross. What was your favorite and why?

[Justina Valentine]

My favorite client was Heavy D and D Boys, because I loved Heavy. I loved him, and I had a lot of fun. My best client was LL Cool J because Todd was the most professional person I had ever worked with. He. That's why he's still in the game now, right? Like, he just. I mean, at such a young age, he just had his stuff locked down. And he was like, this is how we are going to go. But I would say my favorite was Diana Ross. She didn't show up to any of the rehearsals. I was pissed. I was like, I'm going to quit. Like, don't quit. Don't quit. And then I was like, when she shows up, I'm going to tell her something. And her daughters, Tracy and Chutney came to see me. And like, oh, my God, Mom's dying to see you. And I was like, yeah, okay, I'm dying to see her, too. And so they open up the trail. Her daughter Trish goes, hi. Go. Hi. Right? And I was like, oh, my God, the boss.

[Rosie Perez]

The boss.

[Justina Valentine]

And she said, come on in. I said, really? And I just turned to Mush. And then she gets up there, no rehearsal. She says, let me see that hippity hop. I fell out laughing. And I showed her a few steps. Got it like that.

[DJ Envy]

Really?

[Rosie Perez]

Wow.

[Justina Valentine]

Got it like that. And she was just game. She was like, wow. And I just. I just love professionals you know, I just really love people who come with the A game. I just love that, you know, how.

[DJ Envy]

Difficult was it being a woman? You know, in the industry coming up back then, you know, we hear about so many different stories of men trying to take advances in so many different things. Was that as difficult for you as well?

[Justina Valentine]

Yes.

[DJ Envy]

What was the hardest point? What was one thing that you remember? You were like, I just remember this moment to this day. And I wish that on no other.

[Justina Valentine]

Woman, it was a person. And everyone wants me to say his name, but I'm like, his life is shit now, so it's okay. He got his comeuppance but went to an audition. And people are like, well, why did you go to so and so's hotel room? That's what they used to do. Like, even for Fearless, I met the casting director and the director, Peter Weird, in a hotel room. And you auditioned for them. And so this one individual wanted me to meet with him. And my first thing was like, why is it so late at night? I don't feel comfortable. Oh, no, no, no. Don't worry about it. Don't worry about it. When I went there, he starts rubbing my shoulders. And I said, why are you rubbing my shoulders? He said, you're so uptight. You need to relax. And I said, okay, but you don't have to rub my shoulders, please. And he goes, you know what? Your career is not going to go far. And I said, why is that? He goes, you don't even want me to give you a massage? I said, I thought this was an audition. I don't need a massage. And he goes, we're done.

[DJ Envy]

Wow.

[Justina Valentine]

You know, like somebody else, a different young woman who is not as strong would have probably caved. You know, people, like, try to blame that type of woman. That's not the woman's fault. It's that asshole's fault, you know, but it has happened to me, you know, especially in the music industry. Music industry was really tough. The misogyny was enormous, and I had to fight against it all the time. All the time. And God forbid, if you actually like somebody in the music industry and you wanted to go out with them, then you would label the whore like these. Meanwhile, all the men are screwing everything that walks. And so it was really hard. It was. It was very, very difficult, you know, But I. I developed a reputation, and it was to my benefit, you know, they're like, oh, my gosh, she's such a bitch. And I was like, yes, I am. So don't try it. You Know, but it was. It was hard. It was very difficult.

[Rosie Perez]

Yeah.

[DJ Envy]

You feel like you opened the door for a lot of people, like, let's say, like a Jennifer Lopez and dancers and actresses, especially Latino, that came in after you. Do you feel like you were the one that opened that door for them?

[Justina Valentine]

I don't know if I opened the door for people. I will say this. I stood my ground and paid a heavy price for it at times, and I'm glad I did it. If it benefited somebody, I'm very happy about that. You know, there was others before me that, you know, opened doors. Like, you know, you think of someone like Chita Rivera or Rita Moreno. Raul Julia. Raul Julia got. Rest his soul. He was the only Latino actor that supported me when I first came out. And I remember I went up to him and he was at an award show, and he says, I like you. You're good. And I said, oh, my gosh. I said, thank you so much. He goes, don't let anyone tell you different. And you know what? Don't lose the accent. Screw them all. And I said, wow. Like, I just couldn't believe it. And his wife goes, he really likes what you do. And I went back over to him, And I went, Mr. Julia? He goes, raul. And I go, raul, you really think I'm good? And he said, yeah. And he says, and you got to think you're good because nobody else will think you're good if you. You don't think you're good. Right? He says, well, remember that?

[DJ Envy]

And I said, I was always surprised that you. That they. I don't say they didn't force you, but they never tried to change you as far as your accent is concerned. Right.

[Justina Valentine]

Some roles. Some roles. And you know what? Some. You know what's so funny about that? Like, some roles I won't have an accent in because they ask. And I go, all right, if it. If it's not relevant to the character, I'll say, no, you know, we need our space on the screen, too, you know? But the times that I wouldn't do in my accent, people online would actually complain, oh, she trying to be right now. And, like, I can't win. You know what I mean? And it's just like, it is what it is. You know, it is what it is.

[Rosie Perez]

But was there ever a role that. That you went out for that you didn't get, that you really wanted? Yeah, Okay.

[Justina Valentine]

A lot.

[Rosie Perez]

Yeah, a lot of them.

[Justina Valentine]

What was the Matrix? I had the worst audition of my life. They laughed me out of the room.

[Rosie Perez]

Who are you supposed to be in the matrix?

[Justina Valentine]

I don't even want to tell you because it was such a humiliation. It was.

[DJ Envy]

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[Nissan Voiceover]

Available Features Compatible device service and consumer activation of Nissan Connect Services package required. Use only when safe and legal. Subject to third party service availability. For more information, see nissanusa.com connect legal Apple CarPlay is a trademark of Apple Inc. Intelligent all wheel drive cannot prevent collisions or provide enhanced traction in all conditions. Always monitor traffic and weather conditions.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

Hey fam, if you like me, you're thinking about how to level up in your career. Maybe you're fresh out of college, just started in your field, or even looking to switch things up and find your true calling. Whatever stage you're in, remember that this is your time to grow, to learn and to build something that lasts. State Farm understands that early career development is key to long term success. They've been a steady presence in our communities. And they know that having the right support early on can make all the difference. State Forum is there to help you make smart moves and to help you get the coverage you need. We all know the journey to success is a marathon, not a sprint. It's about staying focused, staying grounded, and making sure you're protected every step of the way. Let's build our careers with confidence, knowing that State Farm is there to support us, just like they've always been. Because, like a good neighbor, State Forum is there. Find out [e-mail] now streaming on Prime Video.

[Aldis Hodge]

You can call me Detective Alex Cross. Based on character characters created by James Patterson. Detective Cross, you've been doing this a long time. And you're the best. And created by Ben Watkins. Multiple victims I connected. To this comes a thrilling new series. He's a serial killer. I don't care for fun. This cattle thinks he's the smartest guy in the room. It's a lot of sickos out there. He actually believes he's an artist. You're going to be part of a masterpiece. This is the product of an unbelievable obsession. Aldous heart judge is DC's finest. Alex Cross. If we don't find him soon, we may never have another chance again.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

30 years.

[Aldis Hodge]

Knowing Cross, I learned to trust his gut. I get inside his head.

[Justina Valentine]

The clock's ticking.

[Aldis Hodge]

It was hitting my house.

[Dr. Joy Harden Bradford]

He messed with my kids.

[Aldis Hodge]

He's gotta be getting close. You think you can stop him? I know I can. Because I know him better than he knows himself. Cross a new original series only on Prime Video. Watch now.

[Amazon Voiceover]

This is Dr. Joy Hardin Bradford from Therapy for Black Girls. There are millions of books on Amazon, so there's a reading feeling for everyone. So if you're after that excited haha feeling, like when you discover you have a lot in common with Vikings or something, Amazon has books for you. Or maybe you enjoy the sort of nervous haha. That comes when the hero barely escapes the zombies. Or maybe you like the smuggler. That comes when the villain gets what he deserves. You know, Amazon has it all. Amazon books. That reading feeling awaits.

[Justina Valentine]

It was terrible.

[Rosie Perez]

I swear to God, it was Trinity.

[Justina Valentine]

I don't even want that.

[Rosie Perez]

All right, all right.

[Justina Valentine]

But it's funny because the casting director I was like, I know, I didn't get. She goes, no.

[DJ Envy]

Damn.

[Justina Valentine]

She's walking me out of the room and the two brothers, they're looking at me. That was great. I said, no, stop lying. Stop lying. And then they start laughing. And then I Was like, anyway, bye. And she's still laughing. And when I close the door, I hear, damn. It was. It was terrible. It was terrible. That's when I went over to my best friend Pa Julie's house. Yeah. At 11:30 in the morning with a joint and a glass of wine.

[DJ Envy]

Right.

[Rosie Perez]

Like, feel better.

[DJ Envy]

Feel better.

[Justina Valentine]

Yeah. That was one. Another one was, I forgot the name of the movie, but Drew Barrymore got it. Oh, I wanted it so badly. But, yeah, I didn't audition for that one. They were going to meet with me, but then they said, oh, we've already made a decision. And I said, oh, man. And. But I couldn't hate on her because she was so good in it too, you know? So. Yeah. So there was a couple. Yeah.

[Rosie Perez]

Talk to us about before the new Apple TV series. What is that about?

[Justina Valentine]

Oh, that is really. It's a psychological thriller. It's really kind of creepy. The kid in it is really fantastic. Billy Crystal is amazing in it. The whole cast is Judith Light, Hope Davis, all the way down. Robert Townsend.

[Rosie Perez]

Oh, wow.

[Justina Valentine]

Yeah, he's great in it. But it's about a man who recently experienced the death of his wife and he's in denial of it and he's not grieving properly. And then he meets this boy. This boy just shows up at his house and he doesn't understand why this boy is gravitating to him. And I play the boy's foster mother, and he's a very troubled young kid. And so what the real theme is about, the show is about is that if you don't get past your past, it will come back and haunt you. And so in this move, in this TV series, it really is haunting the things that he won't deal with. And it's also about past lives. Like, sometimes if you don't deal with your trauma, you'll come back to this earth maybe as another person or another being, but that trauma will come and double itself until you deal with it. So that's what really, what the series is about.

[Rosie Perez]

Was this role a challenge at all?

[Justina Valentine]

This role was a big challenge.

[Rosie Perez]

Very different from any other role.

[Justina Valentine]

Yeah, it is. And it was. I didn't want it at first. And Billy was like, oh, no, I got you. Don't worry about it. And he was very supportive. But I gained 20 over 20 pounds during shooting. You know, every time it just got too difficult, I would go over to craft service and go, you know. And Warner was like, Ms. Perez. You know, they had to take my costumes out a couple of times, a couple of times they had to, like, throw away costumes. Like, I thought I was wearing that. You don't fit in that anymore. Like, oh, my God. You know, so it was. It was hard. And my husband went through it, you know, come home and just. Just wouldn't want to talk.

[Rosie Perez]

Yeah.

[Justina Valentine]

And just want to go to bed and put the covers over my head, you know, and stuff like that. So it was hard.

[DJ Envy]

I gotta ask you a hip hop question. You. You and Tupac were close?

[Justina Valentine]

Yes, we were very close.

[DJ Envy]

How did you. How did you become so close, and how did y'all meet?

[Justina Valentine]

We met on tour, he and I. I was on Heavy D. I was with Heavy D and D Boys in Digital Underground. Digital. Yeah.

[DJ Envy]

Digital Underground, Yep.

[Justina Valentine]

They. They were opening, and I also doubled as a roadie, meaning I would have to carry their bags. And we're getting off the tarmac, and here comes this guy, and he's carrying their bags. And he said, what's up? I said, hey, how you doing? What's up? And, like, I had my guard up because, you know, the misogyny and everything. He goes, I'm Pac. I said, what's your name? He goes, pac, like Tupac. And I went, tupac? He goes, shakur. I said, like the Black Panthers. He goes, yo, me and you gonna be friends. That I knew that. I was like, oh. And I said, will you carry this bag? He said, sure. And he carried the bag, and we. And that was it. That was the beginning of a friendship. And then I see him go up on stage, you know, and he's there dancing, doing the Humpty Dump, you know, and. And I was like, this guy's a star. And I remember telling Heavy that God rested. I said, he's a star. He's a star. Why don't they let him out front? And lo and behold. Yeah, wow.

[DJ Envy]

Now, is it. Is it true that you played wingman with. With him and Madonna? Was that true? So you hooked him up?

[Justina Valentine]

I hooked him up.

[DJ Envy]

Tell us that story.

[Justina Valentine]

You know, he went. I was. I was dating a rapper, and I promised that rapper I would never say his name to this man.

[Rosie Perez]

He knew I was about to ask.

[Justina Valentine]

And. And we were supposed to go to Soul Train Music Awards, and at the last minute, literally half hour before we get in the car, I'm like, yo, where are you late? I can't go. Why can't you go? Because my girlfriend will see me on the. On the TV screen with you. What girlfriend? And I lost it. And then park hopping to call, and he goes, what's wrong. And I told him. I was, like, hysterical on the phone. He's like, yo, F that N word. Yo, I'm going with you. I said, what? He said, that's right. He said, fix your makeup. We going, we're gonna roll up in there like we a couple, and it's gonna kill him. I said, what are you talking about? He's like, yo, I'm telling you, get it together. I'm on my way. We get into the. The limousine, and at that time, nobody knew I smoked weed. There was only a few people that. You know, because it was such a stigma back then.

[Rosie Perez]

Yeah.

[Justina Valentine]

And everything. And we get in there and he goes. And I'm. I'm about to cry. He went. And we roll out in a. When the limousine open, door opened. It was like. It was like a Cheech and Chan movie. And he grabbed my hand, and I looked at him and. And he goes, I got you. Calm down. And he said, we going to be fronting right now. I said, okay. There was so many women in the music industry that wanted to beat my ass.

[DJ Envy]

I'm sure.

[Rosie Perez]

Oh, my God.

[Justina Valentine]

They were coming up to him like, oh, that's you now. That's. That's you. And I'm like, you. You fucking her, too? Oh, my God. You know? And I was like. And I was. I was getting mad at him. I was like, yo, man, who else? What are the girls gonna come up here? And. And then he is cracking up. And then this one girl, she was a rapper, too. She came up and she tried to get in my face. And I looked at Pac and I said, you better tell her to step off. You better tell her that I'm not the one. You better tell her that I will beat her fucking ass. I was like. And he was like, yes, my girl. And I'm like, it's not funny, you know? And I really thought I was gonna get it. So I was like, I don't want to be around you right now. And so then I go to the bathroom, and Madge Madonna was there, and she was like, are you with him? I was like, no, no. This was all. This is all fake. This is all phony. She goes, oh, could you hook me up? I went, yes. I just wanted to get away from him. And I went over there and I told him. He was like, yo, what's up? And I was like, she's over there. And he left me.

[DJ Envy]

He left you in your bathroom?

[Justina Valentine]

Yeah, he left me. And he went with her. And even, like, after the show was over, I Was like, where is he? He was gone. He was gone. I saw him at the after party.

[DJ Envy]

Wow.

[Justina Valentine]

Yeah. Yeah. So they had a good time.

[Rosie Perez]

Yeah, I was just good friends after that.

[Justina Valentine]

Yeah, we.

[Rosie Perez]

That's what's up.

[Justina Valentine]

Yeah, we. We've always been good friends. Yeah, we've always were good friends and stuff. And, you know, you know, we had our differences every now and then and. But we always stayed pals and he was a good guy.

[DJ Envy]

Before we get to the first lady of boxing, I gotta ask, there's always been rumors that you and J. Lo had beef. Is there any truth to that? No.

[Justina Valentine]

You know, all I want to say about that is I'm a grown ass woman and I wish her well. I really do. There's no room for that. We're old, we're grown, you know.

[DJ Envy]

Okay, now let's talk about the first lady of boxing. You are going to be hosting and being a commentator for the Jake Paul Tyson fight.

[Justina Valentine]

Yes.

[DJ Envy]

How did that come about?

[Justina Valentine]

Oh, my gosh. I got a call. I couldn't believe it. First I thought it was Keke and Mike Keke Tyson and Mike Tyson who did it. And I said, kiki, did you do this? She went, no, I don't even know about it. So it was Netflix mvp. And the executive producers of the event, they're the ones that came up with the idea. And I was in shock. And at first I was just supposed to be a co host with Kate Abdul Scott now. And I was excited just for that because totally respect this woman. She is so respected in the sports world. You know, she also does soccer, what they call football over there and everything. And she does really well, very, very fine job with boxing as well. And then they came back and they said, you know what, we changed our mind. We want you to do color commentary. And I went, no, no, no, no, no. You should leave that to the professionals. And they said, we just want the voice that you have on Twitter, the voice that you have when you are hanging out with boxing people. That's what we want from you. And so we did a test run and it was me, Mauro Ranallo, and Roy Jones Jr. And we watched the fight with the sound off as if we were gonna do it. And I was so nervous at first, and then as it was going on and on, I'm getting so into it and I'm cracking jokes and I'm like, yo, did you see that shot? Oh, my God. With the left hook just down. And so when it was over, I thought, they're not going to Hire me for this. And my manager, Tark was like, we'll hear from them probably on Monday. And he went, bing. He went, oh, shit. They just hired you for it. I was like, oh, my gosh. And so the pressure's on. The pressure's on.

[Rosie Perez]

But definitely congratulations. That's amazing. I can't wait to hear you. Your voice just commenting on a fight that's going to be so good for me. She said, good for me because I love her voice.

[Justina Valentine]

I just hope I just stay with the fun. You know what they were telling me? The executive producers are from HBO Boxing. HBO Boxing After Doc. So I actually know those guys. And what I really love about the boxing world, they tell you straight. They don't sugarcoat. They don't pamper you. He's like, we're doing more rehearsals. He goes, okay, Rose, don't do it like that. No, no, don't. You know, and so it's like, thank you. I appreciate it. I appreciate it. You know, so I'm very excited about it. I'm ecstatic about it, actually. And I got to be in the fighters meeting for the first time in my life. That's. That was a dream. And fighters meeting is that before the fights, you interview the boxers and you get to ask them questions right before the fight.

[Rosie Perez]

The day of the fight.

[Justina Valentine]

No, no, no. This is a week before we had it. And, you know, so being on the. On there with Mario Barrios and Katie Taylor, Amanda Serrano, Jake Paul, Mike Tyson. Well, actually, I missed the one with Jake Paul because I had to do the Fallon show. But Andre Ward, I said, make sure you ask him this question for me. And so when I saw the playback, he did. He goes, rosie Perez said, she has. She wants me to ask you this. And he was like, oh, cool. That's what's up. You know, and, you know, and I know a lot of people give Jake Paul a lot of crap. I just. I used to, too. I used to give him a lot of crap like, what is he doing? This is a dangerous sport. You don't play boxing.

[Rosie Perez]

Yeah.

[Justina Valentine]

You know, and I don't want him to get hurt and people were, you know, downing him and stuff. But what he did for boxing, what he did for Amanda Serrano, my girl, and Katie Taylor and got them paid.

[Rosie Perez]

Yeah.

[Justina Valentine]

Things that promoters and networks said could never happen for women. He goes, really? Let me show you how to do it. And he did it. He did it. And after the Amanda Serrano and Katie Taylor fight, we were leaving the stadium, and I was really upset. Because I thought Amanda won that fight. And I saw Jake coming down the hallway and he had tears in his eyes because this fighter lost. And I went, you really true blue boxing.

[Rosie Perez]

Yeah.

[Justina Valentine]

Fan. And I, and I. And he went like this and I shook his hand and I said, I respect you, sir. And he says, that means a lot to me. I said, you mean a lot to boxing. I respect you. You really did it. You really put your money where your mouth was. And good shit. And so it was good. It was good.

[DJ Envy]

So who's your favorite in the fight? Who do you want to win? Can you say? Or now that you're a commentator, you.

[Justina Valentine]

Can'T say no more? I can't say. I can't say.

[DJ Envy]

Because of course you come from the age of Mike Tyson, right? So I would just have to say you leaning. You're not going to say it, but you've seen the Tyson, you've seen them knock people out in the street. So it's almost like you want to see Mike just one good time. I want to see how you go, commentator.

[Justina Valentine]

Get him tight.

[Rosie Perez]

Get him.

[Justina Valentine]

Yeah, yeah. Well, you know, all right, let me.

[Rosie Perez]

Try, let me try to get something out of it. All right, you got to tell us who you want to win or the rapper that you dated.

[Justina Valentine]

What?

[Rosie Perez]

Yeah.

[DJ Envy]

Why is she doing it? You can might as well add a third one. Go to her and the jailer. All three.

[Rosie Perez]

Just pick one.

[Justina Valentine]

No, I'm not saying.

[Rosie Perez]

All right, cool. I try to try to step you up.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

All right.

[Justina Valentine]

You know, I could give my opinions on the fight as opposed to who I want to win. So with Jake Paul and Mike Tyson, I think it's gonna be. It could go either way. Honestly. Honestly, because. Because Jake has his youth, so there's that stima, a stamina that he has an advantage of. He's been more active. That's a big asset in boxing. You have to stay active. But the latest videos from Mike Tyson on social media, you're like, what? That is not the Mike Tyson who even went up against, what was it, four or five years ago against Roy Jones Jr. In an exhibition fight, right? So this is a two eight fight, two minute, eight round fight. And if he's looking that good, I think Jake Paul should take it very seriously. And in the fighters meeting, he said he is taking it seriously. He's not. He, he believes he can win. He has that champion belief. But Tyson interviewing him, it was eerie. It was eerie because he was not messing around. He was all business. Cause I know Mike, Mike is goofy and he's funny and he's emotional. And this, he had, boom, I'm in fight mode zone. I'm not playing. And I said, wow. Everybody on the fighters meeting, we were all like. And even the guy, the executive producer, anybody else has another question for Mike? And we were like, I think we're good, you know, so that's why I'm saying, wow, okay, this is gonna be a really good one.

[DJ Envy]

You know, what are the rules? Just so you know, before you get up out of here, are the rules changed? Because we heard that the gloves are going to be bigger, and at one time we heard that they're going to be wearing a face mask, but that's not true. So are there any rules outside of the normal boxing thing that people should be looking forward to besides the two minute, eight rounds?

[Justina Valentine]

No, I think. And the bigger gloves and that's it. But I think it's going to be a real fight. And I think it was really smart of MVP promotions and Netflix to have legitimate boxing matches on that card. It's not just, no disrespect, not just a bunch of YouTubers or boxers or UFC fighters past their prime. You have Mario Barrios fighting. He is a real champion and a real contender, and he does not play. That man is. People respect him. He's a warrior. And then you have Amanda Serrano, Katie Taylor, too, something boxing fans have been waiting for forever for these to happen, because it was supposed to happen and then the things fell through. So I think that it's going to do well. I thought it was a very, very smart thing for those two companies to put on, because boxing fans are going to watch it because of those two. And Mike Tyson, of course. You know what I mean? And the world is going to watch it because of Mike Tyson, you know. Yes. Jake Paul's going to bring a younger crowd, and he always does. That's why he fills the stadium and everything like that. But worldwide, people of a certain age, they're tuning in for Mike Tyson.

[DJ Envy]

Absolutely. Well, we appreciate you for joining us today.

[Rosie Perez]

Yes.

[Justina Valentine]

Oh, thank you.

[DJ Envy]

Rosie Perez, ladies and gentlemen. She's going to be commentating the fight this Friday, right? This Friday. This Friday on Netflix. Now, you don't have to pay Netflix. As long as you have a Netflix membership, you can watch it, right?

[Justina Valentine]

Yes. And also the prelims are going to be on YouTube, on MVPs. YouTube, for free and on Netflix. YouTube channel. I didn't even know they had a YouTube channel. It's called Ta Dum, you know, because of the sound. Ta dum, ta dum. So it's called Netflix Tadum. And you can watch the prelims there. And please watch the prelims, especially if you're a boxing fan, because Sho shoe Bruce Shushu Carrington is going to be the opening bout.

[DJ Envy]

Okay.

[Justina Valentine]

And he is. That's Brooklyn's own Brownsville Zone. Never ran, never will. And so that's going to be an exciting fight. I'm going to call that one just because I'm such a shoe shoe fan. But I'm not going to call the rest of the color, commentate on the rest of the prelims. Amir Tyson, Mike Tyson's son, is going to be doing that.

[Rosie Perez]

Okay.

[Justina Valentine]

And then I'll come back for the main card.

[DJ Envy]

All right. Well, we appreciate you for joining us this morning, ladies and gentlemen. It's Rosie Perez. It's the Breakfast Club. Good morning.

[Justina Valentine]

Wake that ass up early in the morning.

[Aldis Hodge]

The Breakfast Club.

[DJ Envy]

Life is an act of constant reinvention. That's true for you and for cars. Nissan reimagined the all new Kicks around you. The Bose Personal plus sound system with speakers and the headrest keeps you in the groove. While The Nissan Safety Shield360 technologies keep you safe. If Nissan reinvented the Kicks, you can reinvent yourself. Drive the all new reimagined Nissan Kicks today.

[Nissan Voiceover]

Available Features compatible device service and consumer activation of Nissan Connect Services package required. Use only when safe and legal. Subject to third party service availability. For more information, see nissanusa.com connect legal Apple CarPlay is a trademark of Apple Inc. Intelligent all wheel drive cannot prevent collisions or provide enhanced traction in all conditions. Always monitor traffic and weather conditions.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Peace to the planet. I go by the name of Charlamagne Tha God and I want to introduce you to Uberteen Accounts. A connected account for your teen with trackable trips and highly rated drivers. Now I am the father of a 16 year old daughter so I need things like Uber Teen. Okay. Your teen can feel a sense of independence and you can feel a sense of relief. You can follow their entire ride on a live tracking map. Perfect for those times when you want to be there but can't. When your teen requests a trip, they are matched with highly rated and experienced drivers and you receive real time notifications. Every trip comes with enhanced safety features. PIN verification to ensure your teen enters the right vehicle. Live Trip tracking parents plus you the parent can contact the driver directly from the app. Add your teen to your account today. Available in select locations. See app for details.

[Carlos Miller]

Taking control of your career is empowering Just don't tell my boss I said that. Just kidding. I am the boss. This is Carlos Miller from the 85 South show and Building a career isn't just about a job. It's about creating a path that impacts our community and future generations. Whether you're starting out or even making big moves, State Farm is here to support you with resources to help protect what you're working hard to achieve. They've got your back every step of the way. Because like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. Find out [e-mail] Salute to Service is.

[Aldis Hodge]

The year round effort by the NFL and its charitable partners to honor, empower and connect with our nation, service members, veterans and their families. At this time each year, the NFL reinforces our support and gratitude to those who have served and to those who continue to serve. Visit NFL.comSalute to learn about the NFL's impact with its salute to service partners.

[Amazon Voiceover]

This is Dr. Joy Harnon Bradford from Therapy for Black Girls. Reading books gives you feelings. I mean, that's what they do. And with millions of books on Amazon, there's a reading feeling for everyone. Like there's an awestruck whoa. Feeling you get when you read about a dragon flying across the sky. But that's different from the surprised whoa you get when you read that the best friend did it. And that's totally different than the hubba hubba whoa when the stable boy becomes a stable man and Amazon's got all the woes. Amazon Books that reading feeling awaits.