INTERVIEW: Taraji P. Henson Talks 'STRAW,' Protecting Black Women, Tyler Perry, Oprah, Sobriety Journey +More

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Breakfast Club with Taraji P. Henson

Episode Title: INTERVIEW: Taraji P. Henson Talks 'STRAW,' Protecting Black Women, Tyler Perry, Oprah, Sobriety Journey +More
Release Date: June 6, 2025
Hosts: DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, Charlamagne Tha God
Guest: Taraji P. Henson

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Introduction

The episode features a candid and introspective conversation with acclaimed actress Taraji P. Henson. Hosted by DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, and Charlamagne Tha God, the discussion delves deep into Taraji's personal journey, her latest project 'STRAW,' advocacy for mental health, her professional relationships, and her experiences as a Black woman in Hollywood.

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1. Personal Healing and Mental Health Journey

Taraji opens up about her path to healing and finding inner peace, emphasizing the importance of self-care and setting boundaries.

• Breaking Free from Toxicity:

  • [04:28] Taraji shares, “I just can't do the BS like, just be real with me, that's all. I'm a grown ass girl, a woman. I can take it.”

• The Power of Saying No:

  • [06:26] She highlights the significance of asserting boundaries: “No is my favorite word. I love saying that word. No. And that's it. I don't owe you an explanation.”

• Turning Point in Bali:

  • [06:46] Reflecting on her solo trip to Bali, Taraji explains, “That was a well-needed trip. I was literally losing myself. I had to unplug and just go away and be with myself.”

2. Advocacy and 'STRAW'

Taraji discusses her role in the film 'STRAW,' highlighting its focus on the struggles and resilience of Black women.

• Embodiment of Trauma and Healing:

  • [08:19] When asked about channeling personal experiences into her character, Taraji responds, “I am drawn to characters who are voiceless and need a voice... These characters are real. These people exist and they need to see themselves.”

• Impact on the Community:

  • [14:25] She emphasizes the film’s message: “We should move with grace at all times... It could save a human's life.”

3. Relationship with Tyler Perry and Oprah

Addressing her collaborations, Taraji lauds Tyler Perry's mentorship and defends him against criticisms.

• Tyler Perry’s Support:

  • [16:13] Taraji praises Perry, “Whenever I'm treated the best in this industry is always by him. He doubled my quote in STRAW.”

• Defending Against Public Criticism:

  • [29:22] Responding to rumors of conflict, she states, “And to draw a wedge between us... I'm never gonna not work with Tyler. That's insane to me.”

• Appreciation for Oprah:

  • [30:16] Taraji shares her admiration for Oprah, noting, “She just texted me the other day commending me on a job well done in STRAW.”

4. Motherhood and Its Influence

Taraji reflects on how becoming a mother has reshaped her priorities and approach to life and work.

• Shift in Identity:

  • [39:03] She explains, “When you become a mother, it's not about you anymore. It's about your child.”

• Protective Instincts:

  • [39:54] Discussing her character's breaking point in 'STRAW,' Taraji relates it to maternal instincts: “When they're bullied, you're ready to go to war because it's like, no, how dare you?”

5. Overcoming Ageism and Embracing Aging

Taraji addresses societal expectations and stereotypes surrounding aging, especially for Black women in Hollywood.

• Challenging Stereotypes:

  • [24:14] She passionately declares, “We feel ashamed of aging when men can have beer bellies. You balding? Sorry... No, I'm not doing it.”

• Embracing Self-Worth:

  • [25:24] Taraji reflects on her journey: “After so many years of being told by the industry, 'Oh, no one knows you overseas,' I just came back and they act like I'm American now.”

6. Sobriety and Mental Clarity

Taraji shares her approach to sobriety and maintaining mental clarity amidst a hectic lifestyle.

• Periods of Sobriety:

  • [36:21] She discusses taking breaks from alcohol: “For five months, I had stopped drinking because I felt like I needed clarity.”

• Healthy Habits:

  • [37:24] Taraji emphasizes the benefits of sobriety on her mental health: “I can work out... I'm present. I'm not numbing out.”

7. Pay Inequity in Hollywood

She candidly talks about the financial challenges and pay disparities faced by actors in the industry.

• Financial Realities:

  • [40:14] Taraji highlights, “The squeaky wheel gets fixed. Closed mouths don't get fed... I demanded that respect.”

• Impact on Career Choices:

  • [40:34] She explains how advocating for fair pay has influenced her roles and collaborations.

8. Sisterhood and Community Support

Taraji underscores the importance of solidarity among Black women and the strength found in unity.

• Empowering Each Other:

  • [31:36] She advises, “We are more powerful in numbers. We need to support each other... Why would I be another obstacle for another sister to get over?”

• Advocacy for Black Women:

  • [32:07] Taraji shares her message to future generations: “As Black women, we take too many bullets from society. We need to lift each other up.”

Conclusion

The conversation concludes with heartfelt acknowledgments and sentiments, emphasizing Taraji’s dedication to mental health advocacy and her unwavering commitment to uplifting the Black community. She expresses immense gratitude for her career and the platform it provides to effect positive change.

• [42:32] DJ Envy remarks, “Not just your career. You the person that you are. Because your career has given you the platform to be out here being the mental health advocate that you are.”

• [42:43] Taraji wraps up, “Thank you so much, guys. This was beautiful. Taraji P. Henson, ladies and gentlemen, it's The Breakfast Club. Good morning.”

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Taraji P. Henson: “No is my favorite word. I love saying that word. No. And that's it. I don't owe you an explanation.”
  [06:26]

• Taraji P. Henson: “We should move with grace at all times... It could save a human's life.”
  [14:25]

• Taraji P. Henson: “Whenever I'm treated the best in this industry is always by [Tyler Perry]. He doubled my quote in STRAW.”
  [16:13]

• Taraji P. Henson: “We are more powerful in numbers. We need to support each other... Why would I be another obstacle for another sister to get over?”
  [31:36]

• Taraji P. Henson: “The squeaky wheel gets fixed. Closed mouths don't get fed.”
  [40:14]

---

Key Takeaways:

• Mental Health Advocacy: Taraji emphasizes the importance of mental health, setting boundaries, and seeking peace amidst chaos.

• Representation Matters: Through her role in 'STRAW,' she highlights the need for authentic portrayals of Black women's struggles and resilience.

• Solidarity Among Black Women: She advocates for unity and support within the community to overcome societal challenges.

• Navigating Hollywood: Taraji discusses the realities of the entertainment industry, including pay inequity and the significance of mentorship from figures like Tyler Perry.

• Personal Growth: Her journey showcases the balance between personal well-being, professional commitments, and motherhood.

This episode offers a profound look into Taraji P. Henson’s life, her dedication to advocacy, and her insights on navigating personal and professional landscapes as a prominent Black woman in Hollywood. It serves as an inspiration for listeners seeking strength, authenticity, and meaningful change.

Transcript

[Angie Martinez]

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[DJ Envy]

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[Taraji P. Henson]

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[DJ Envy]

Wake that ass up early in the morning. The Breakfast Club.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Morning, everybody. It's DJ Envy. Just hilarious. Charlamagne the guy. We are the breakfast club. Lauren LaRosa is here as well. And we got a special guest in the building.

[DJ Envy]

Yes, indeed, the icon, the legend, Taraji P. Henson.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Welcome back.

Thank you. I can't tell that I'm a legend because I'm not on this wall. Can you get the wall?

[DJ Envy]

We got something special for you. It just wasn't done yet. I'm telling you.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Special. I need to be on the wall.

[DJ Envy]

It's gonna be bigger than the wall and it's gonna be something that's in the studio because, you know, we love you, Angie. Love you. Watch, you'll see. Watch. Just watch. It's gonna be worth it.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Since, you know, I've been, I've been told them put you up there.

[Taraji P. Henson]

You know what I'm saying? Then what he said to me, soon as I walk ahead, the legend. You sound like a Hollywood exec right now.

[DJ Envy]

Hello, legend. But I know we not we looking for somebody else. Nobody says that to you no more, though.

[Taraji P. Henson]

What?

[DJ Envy]

That they looking for somebody else.

[Taraji P. Henson]

It's just the whole Hollywood of it all. We love her. We love her. Well, where is my check, bitch?

[DJ Envy]

One thing I noticed about you and OGs like Mary J. Blige, y' all over it, y' all.

[Taraji P. Henson]

I can be. I just, you know, the thing is, the older you get, I just can't do the bs like, just be real with me, that's all. I'm a grown ass girl, a woman. I can take it. Just be real. Don't be blowing smoke.

How are you feeling? We didn't even ask how you feeling?

[DJ Envy]

How are you feeling?

[Taraji P. Henson]

How are you feeling? We didn't ask.

Feeling great. I am feeling amazing, to be quite honest, because I'm not dealing with nobody's unhealed son or daughter.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yes.

[Taraji P. Henson]

I can't.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

That's right.

[Taraji P. Henson]

I can't you're not on your healing journey. I can't help you, baby. Cuz I can't take on your trauma while I'm trying to get over mine.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah.

[Taraji P. Henson]

And you not trying to heal yours. I can't help you. I'm not qualified.

[Lauren LaRosa]

So now you loving on yourself.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Oh, my God. The peace that I found, like, you know, even somebody asking me to come out, the first question I ask is, is it gonna disturb my peace?

[DJ Envy]

That's right. That's right.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Because you know, when you're young, you just, you can have FOMO a little bit. It's like, I gotta go. And then you find yourself going, why didn't I. Why did I just stay home? You know, no more of those moments because I'd rather be home with my fat Frenchies.

[DJ Envy]

You know what I always wanted to ask you? Has being an advocate for mental health ever made you feel more exposed than being just a public figure in Hollywood?

[Taraji P. Henson]

More exposed?

[DJ Envy]

Yeah, because you tell. You tell more of yourself being a mental health advocate because you probably, if you was just Taraji in Hollywood who wasn't that, you wouldn't have to probably give up so much.

[Taraji P. Henson]

That's true. But I kind of always been that. So I wear my heart on my sleeve. So I just. I don't know if I feel any different. I'm still looking at this wall, but go ahead.

[DJ Envy]

I got something better. We got something better.

[Taraji P. Henson]

I wanna ask, when did you get to the point where you don't have to come out for the bs, Right? It's weird. We just had this conversation the other day where it was like, I got to a place a couple of years ago where I just say no before. It was like I felt like I had to do it. I had to show up, I had to go. And sometimes things F up your piece. But now it's to the point where if I feel like the energy's gonna be off or I just don't. Nah, fuck it.

I am. I'm not going. No is my favorite word. I love saying that word. No. And that's it. I don't owe you an explanation. Like when I was with our forever first lady Michelle Obama doing her show, she was like, no is a complete sentence. And it absolutely is.

When'd you get there? When did it click?

[Angie Martinez]

Which Bali trip was it?

[Taraji P. Henson]

The first one. The first one when I went alone. The first one. Cause that, that refocused me, recentered me. I was, I didn't. I felt outside of myself before I went to Bali. That was a well needed Trip. Because I was literally losing myself. I didn't even know who I was. The joy. I'm the one that brings the life to the party, you know? And I become. I was like, tight all the time and not happy and complaining a lot. That's just not me. Even my team noticed. They were like, is everything okay? You don't. You seem a little, you know. And that's just not in my DNA. So I had to unplug and just go away and be with myself. And in the middle of a rice field, what made you want to share.

[DJ Envy]

That with the world? Because I started seeing in, like, people.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Need to hear that. I think sometimes when they see public figures, they think we have it all together because we've, you know, we've found some money or whatever, you know, People think that money heals and money will bring you more problems than you had when you were broke. I often find myself saying, damn, I missed when I was broke and dreaming. Because everything seemed possible, you know? But then when you. You make it and you. You get behind the wizard of Oz curtain and it's like, oh, this ain't what it seems.

[Lauren LaRosa]

You're here for Strawberry. Yes, girl. Very moving film.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Thank you. You saw it?

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yes. Listen, what did you. What did you channel? Because you. You are healing. You in your healing journey. But to put yourself in a role like that, you had to go back. You had to go back. That was a trying day. So the movie was like, it took place one day to deal with all that in a day and to have to embody that much trauma. Cause I don't wanna give away the ending.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Cause, you know the ending is gonna fuck you up.

[Lauren LaRosa]

What did you pull from? Did you have to go put yourself back where you were, where you were.

[DJ Envy]

Going through everything, shooting some bullshit Hollywood executives?

[Taraji P. Henson]

No, no, no. I am a single mother. You know, I moved to Hollywood with my son, who was a toddler at the time, of $700 in my pocket and just a pocket full of dreams in Jesus. And so I've been. You know, humans, we all have. Can have a moment where we can snap, you know, I think what made me different from Janiyah is that I've always had a support system. So I have a sister circle where they'll talk me off the ledge. You know what I mean? But have I ever got to the point where I wanted to snap? Yes. That's why I went to Bali. You know what I mean? But she didn't have the resources, she didn't have the support. So all she had was the voices in her head.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah.

[Taraji P. Henson]

And she literally reached her point where she just couldn't take it anymore and things just got out of control and she, God bless her heart, she was just trying to do the best she could with what she had, you know, And I in particular, I am drawn to characters who are voiceless and need a voice. Because I am such a big personality. I like to breathe light into those characters because I feel like those characters are real. You know, Tyler Perry didn't just pull this out of the sky. These women exist. These people exist and they need to see themselves and they need to know that they're not alone and that people do see them.

[Angie Martinez]

Does it make you mad when people tell Tyler Perry to stop showing those women on camera?

[Taraji P. Henson]

I think that's their own traumas triggered. Because in the community, black community, we don't deal with it. You know what I mean? So if you're forced to look at it often, you will be triggered. So the first thing you're going to want to say is, I don't want to see it. But there are people out there that need to see it. He's forcing real conversations in the community. That's why I'll never stop working with him.

[DJ Envy]

So for a person that does the work on themselves the way you do when you got to go on an intense emotional journey for a four day shoot, what is your approach to that? Like, how do you prepare for like those inevitable triggers?

[Taraji P. Henson]

I have trained well, I think out of necessity, I've trained my instrument. My body is my instrument. Just like, you know, a musician has a guitar, they know how to hit the notes. I have an on and off switch. And I think that's because I was a mother very young and when I would work and come home, I didn't have time to process and deal with the character that I portrayed. Cause now it's homework. He gotta eat. I got a science fair project, you know what I mean? So I had to turn it off. So I'm just trying. I literally. You ask anybody that I've worked with, I. I could be in the middle of a scene bawling my eyes out and they'll yell cut. And I'll be like, where the fried chicken? You know what I mean? Or I have these games that I play on my iPad because I have to separate myself from the character. I cannot stay again. That is that character's trauma. I can't take that on.

[Angie Martinez]

Right.

[Taraji P. Henson]

I just can't. Because I have my own shit to deal with. So literally, when they yell, cut, I'm back to Taraji, just like that.

Is it easier to shoot a four day movie? Cause y' all did this movie in four days, right? Or is it more difficult? Cause you gotta do everything in those four days.

It's taxing, but I like it. Especially when the subject matter is so heavy because I don't have to stay in it long. Like I, you know, that fourth day, I was like, oh, my God, I gotta do this again. You know what I mean? Because it's not comfortable. Showing a character's trauma and pain is like showing you some of my trauma and pain. And it's healing. But having to open up those wounds, it's not comfortable. It's not comfortable to be in that, but it is healing.

[Angie Martinez]

There's a visual reference in the movie. I think what I call it is a visual reference to Annie Lee's Blue Monday.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Yes, that's exactly it.

[Angie Martinez]

Okay, so I'm not crazy.

[Taraji P. Henson]

No.

[Angie Martinez]

Okay, so even visually showing things like that in a film and it being like, that's like that image is so iconic and you're speaking without speaking. When that scene happens, when you're looking at a script, is that something that's already there when you and Tyler Perry are discussing?

[Taraji P. Henson]

Tyler Perry came up with that all on his own.

[Angie Martinez]

Okay.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Yeah.

[Angie Martinez]

And you nailed it.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Oh, I know the painting too. And I've had Blue Mondays, you know, where I just felt like, shit, I don't want to do it today. I think we all understand that. That's why that painting hits, especially for black women.

[DJ Envy]

How did your advocacy for mental wellness inform your portrayal of Janiyah's psychological understanding?

[Taraji P. Henson]

Her. Her breaking point and understanding what it is to just be going through the motions, barely hanging on by a thread. Like, I get that. I understand what that looks like. That's why at the end when they go back, you kind of. You like. Oh, you can see exactly when she snaps.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yep. It's crazy. I ain't trying to. It is crazy. When it happened, somebody in the movie said, it's more expensive to be poor.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Oh, my God.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Can you elaborate on that?

[Taraji P. Henson]

Okay, so prime example. Tyler said when he was homeless, he called his mother and was like, can you send me $20? She said, you need to bring your black ass home because it's gonna cost me $15 just to send you $20.

[DJ Envy]

Damn.

[Taraji P. Henson]

And I don't think people really understand that.

I wanted to know, without giving too much away, what's the message and straw that you hope sticks with people after the credits roll? So there was women unity. There was so much about it. What's that one message that you want people to get?

And understand that we should move with grace at all times, because you never know what somebody's going through. Never judge a book by its cover, because you never know what battles a person is. Are fighting. You just don't. And really see people really don't just throw, how you doing? And, you know, really wait for a response and. And really ask the question to want to know, you know, connect with people, say, hi, how are you? You know, and really mean it. Because that could save a human's life. Just that human interaction for. Especially for people who feel unseen.

[DJ Envy]

I wonder when Tyler even was casting you for that role, did he even know what you had went through? Because if I write a role about somebody getting to their breaking point, knowing somebody already had got one, it feels kind of.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Tyler and I are friends of hers, and so we talk all the time about personal things. And so he knows a lot about me. But he said when he started writing, he just had to. He was going through his own thing and he had to get it out and on the page. And then he said as he was writing, he saw me and he'll bring me a lot of projects and I'll be like, you know what, Tyler? I don't think this is for me. I think this is somebody else's blessing, you know, and then he'll just keep writing. And when he got straw, he said. He hit me. He said, I got one for you. And he sent it to me, and I read it. I said, this is it. This is the one. So that's kind of how we operate.

How do you not fight somebody over Tyler?

How do I not.

How do you not fight? Because they attack Tyler.

[DJ Envy]

Tyler got security.

[Taraji P. Henson]

No, I mean, not like that.

Not like that, but online. Because he does so much for people and he's so good to Especially our community. And I think a lot of times people don't see that. And even people that he don't know, that he doesn't know. Excuse me. He helps so much. He talks to, he guides, he mentors. And you guys are so close. How do you not just say, you know what?

Sometimes I gotta black out? Because his action speaks louder than the haters. Because this man owns a studio. What you got? Every raise that I've gotten and how I've. Whenever I'm treated the best in this industry is always by him. Every raise that I've gotten has come from a black man, Tyler Perry. He doubled My quote in Straw. Four Days of Work, which is so.

[Angie Martinez]

Important for when you go on to that next.

[Taraji P. Henson]

He understands that that man has helped. He does so much that we don't even know because he's not even talking about it.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah. You filmed two movies at the same time. Fight Night and Strahd. Right. Did you find the two characters bleeding into each other?

[Taraji P. Henson]

Not at all. Totally different. He was the first director to challenge me in that way because I was in the throes of Empire when he called with acrimony. And I was like, tyler, I don't know. I was being a thespian. I don't know if I can get into this character. He was like, girl, with your instrument, you can do it. He was like, you gonna come down here, we gonna shoot it in five. I was like, five days? He said, you can do it. If anybody can do it, Taraji, you can. He challenged me. He knows I love a good challenge. That's. I lean into roles that scare the shit out of me because I have to grow in some way or change or be transcended or something. And that's what I want from my audience. And if I'm not doing it as the artist, then how is the audience going to transform? So I lean into challenges. And he knows that about me because he's a Virgo as well. And so he. Now I'm a pro at it because of Tyler. So when he called this time, I didn't even think about it. I was like, great. Four days in and out. Okay, let's go.

[DJ Envy]

You think the industry is finally catching up to your range? Are you still underestimated in certain rooms, just as an actress?

[Taraji P. Henson]

No, I think they get it. I think I'm at a really particular point in my. A special place in my career where I've done so much that I can't just do anything anymore. Cause y' all will be like, why she do that? You know what I mean? And so, you know, it's just looking for that. Right. Material, and it doesn't come like that. So that my fans are frustrated. Cause I'll post a pretty picture and they like, that's cute when your next movie coming out. It's like, I have to be very particular about what I'm choosing now. And some of this stuff doesn't exist, and I have to create it. And so that takes a little longer.

[Angie Martinez]

What age were you when you did empire?

[Taraji P. Henson]

That was 10 years. I was 45. It was 2015.

[Angie Martinez]

The reason why I asked you that is because I saw Your interview where you talked about you were overseas and how people received you overseas and you, you realized then how big like us overseas were, like that whole thing. And I'm wondering right now in your career, you just said you can't do anything. And you get into these different levels so early in your career, even though you've been our Taraji forever. What are new experiences that you're having just in your celebrity life at where you are right now in your career that we might have thought that you've already experienced, experienced before?

[Taraji P. Henson]

I don't know. I guess for me it's always because I, people always go, do you not know who you are? Like, I went to the, I still like to go to the grocery store and buy my own damn produce.

[Angie Martinez]

Yeah, like by Empire, you were iconic to us already.

[Taraji P. Henson]

I, I, okay, thank you. But, you know, after so many years of being told by the industry, oh, no one knows you overseas. And then I get overseas and they're like, please, please, picture, picture. That still throws me. Like, I just came back from Cannes and it's the age range for me. It's like the grandma all the way down sometimes to the great grandchildren. And I'm leaving kind, and I forget, you know, I'm overseas. I'm like, don't nobody know me. All of a sudden I get American.

[DJ Envy]

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[Justina Valentine]

If you're not watching BMF on stars, you're seriously missing out from executive producer Curtis 50 Cent Jackson. The highly anticipated new season is here, and Meech and Terry are leveling up. They're expanding their empire, launching a music label and making major moves in hip hop culture, even hitting the 1995 Source Awards. Oh, and did I mention? Lamar is back. You already know that means trouble. The rest of the Flannery family is also feeling the pressure. Charles and Lucille are facing the consequences of Meech and Terry's actions. And Nicole is caught in the middle, dealing with her own growing pains. This season brings more drama, more heat, and more star power. Get ready for guest stars like Kofi Cerebo, Skai Jackson, Tyler Lepley, Clifton Powell, Rockman Dunbar, Saweetie, Miles Truitt and more. The cast is stacked and the storylines next level. BMF is where drama, hustle and hip hop collide and this season the stakes are higher than ever. Believe me, this is the season everyone's going to be talking about. Watch the season premiere of BMF now only on Starz and the Starz app.

[Taraji P. Henson]

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Hey, what up y' all?

It's DJ Envy. The first few months of 2025 have been quite a year. Work deadlines, group chats you can't escape, and your weird cousin's latest overshare. It's a lot, but here's some good news. You don't have to bring that stress into your car. The all new Nissan Murano is your piece on wheels thanks to its available features. Imagine sliding into the relaxing massaging seats that feel feel like they were made to melt your tensions. Take in the skyline views that let sunlight pour in and watch as your day brightens. I have a special playlist that always gets me right. And with the Bose Premium sound system, you too can vibe like you're at your own private concert. Plus, with your 64 color personalized lighting option, you can set the mood any way you want. Be it romantic, chill or in a straight up do not disturb mode. Let the Nissan Murano be your oasis in a chaotic world because sometimes the greatest rush isn't rushing at all. Drive the all new Nissan Murano today.

[Justina Valentine]

Panoramic moonroof, ambient lighting, bows and massaging leather appointed seats are optional features.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Crowded by this group of people. And then over in the corner I see these young boys and it's like a soccer team or something and they're standing there with their camera And I just.

[DJ Envy]

Hey, Ms. Hansen.

[Taraji P. Henson]

I don't even think they spoke fluent English, but they knew exactly who I was. Because one of them me said to that's Tadashi. And I was like, babies, come on. And they all gathered around. I'm telling I'm like, maybe 10, but that always throws me when the babies know who I am. You know, I'm just like, dang, I'm still relevant.

[DJ Envy]

Round of applause for Taraji. Being 54 years old, why would you ever want a young girl when black women age like that?

[Taraji P. Henson]

And I hope you don't mind me asking your age.

[Angie Martinez]

I hope you didn't mind me asking that. No, the reason I asked that is.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Because people my age. Because I hate that women. We feel ashamed of aging when mimic men can have beer bellies. You balding? Sorry.

[DJ Envy]

I gave up a long time.

[Angie Martinez]

Put your head down. We can kind of see where the hairline used to. I got a haircut yesterday.

[Taraji P. Henson]

But you understand what I mean? And then they can have a young thing on their arm. Or we let that pass and we have to be ashamed of our age. No, I'm not doing it.

At one point, you were flirting with leaving Hollywood. You said you were tired with the bullshit. The low ball.

Before I went to Bali.

[Angie Martinez]

The second time or the first time?

[Taraji P. Henson]

The first time.

[Angie Martinez]

Yeah.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Remember, I had gotten to a bitter place. But see, that's what happens when you give so much power over to humans. See, I know God chose me. I'm called chosen and covered. So when you know that, everything's not going to be easy. You know, I had to get back to that. That's what got me to Hollywood, was $700 in my pocket, in my toddler, because I knew I had a calling. And I just stirred away from that. But I'm back.

You feel appreciated more.

I do. I do. I don't. Look, you know, it's. It's like. It's interesting because you go, I didn't get it nominated for this award. Again, that's. Did you see the powerful talk that Denzel did about how he got bitter? I mean, that was me. That was me. And it particularly happened after Hidden Figures. I was like, what do I have to do? Like, you know, y' all didn't see the range there. Yeah, I'm still playing cookie. And then I gave you a rocket scientist. Like, what? And that hurt a little bit. But again, it hurt because of the power I placed in man's hand. But if you step back from that and take that power back, look how many black Girls are coding now. Not even black girls. Young kids.

[Angie Martinez]

Kids, period.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Like, so that's what I always wanted, and that's what I asked. God, I said, I want longevity, and I want the work that's going to affect lives in a positive way. I want the work that people are gonna study long after I'm gone. Like I did the greats that came before me, you know? And when you ask that, that's. That's specific. It may not be the awards, you know, I figure if I keep working, that shit will come. But what's rewarding to me are when fans come up to me and go, babe, whatever that last, it touched me. It made me change the way I, you know, think about things. Like, that's rewarding to me.

[DJ Envy]

You know, it's funny because we were talking about yesterday. We was on the phone yesterday, and she was just saying how much of a fan of you she is. I mean, Jess as well, right? But. But I'm just like, there's nothing wrong with expressing that. Share that with her. Because you just existing provides that inspiration. And then she shamed me because I was just like. I was like, you damn right. We saw Taraji. I saw Taraji in the theaters for Baby Boy, and she was like, you saw Baby Boy in Thetus?

[Taraji P. Henson]

She made you feel old and depressed.

[Angie Martinez]

I never thought about Baby Boy in a movie theater. I always thought about it on bet, right.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Which is great.

How old are you? Are you two years older than my son?

[Angie Martinez]

But I don't know just how you feel. But I feel like wanting to be in entertainment, being television. Like, it's. You think of you because you're able to be. It always seemed like you've been able to be yourself. So when we, like. I know for myself, when I heard you talk about that before that first Bali trip, not feeling like enough. I'm like, wait, what? Like, she's been the. This is how you can be the girl from where you from, whatever you want to call it. But, like, you're in Hollywood and you're grateful and you're beautiful and your career impacts. So I. I'm glad you're out of that. Because I was like, what? This is the Taraji P. Henson.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Like, it was actual burnout because of the work. You know, people go, you work a lot. I, too, because the math ain't math and the zeros ain't adding up, you know? And so because you see somebody working a lot, a lot of times when it's us, it's because that one job is not gonna Cover you for the year. I wish I could just do two films and be like, I mean, I'm kinda to that point now, you know what I mean? But there are actors out there that just one job a year because that's how they get paid. And I don't think people really understand the breakdown of the Math. You know, 50 Cent, if somebody goes, they made $10 million, right? You gotta remember Uncle Sam is coming to take half of that off the top. And then you have to pay your 30 or 40%, whatever you're paying your team off your gross. So you're not taking home $10 million. I know it sounds amazing, but you're not taking it home. Somebody gets paid 1 million for a film, they not seeing that 1 million in their bank account. Do the math, you know, so that's why. So I think a lot of it was burnout and frustration because once I lifted my head and was like, why do I have to work so much? You know, I just got burned out. I became bitter.

[DJ Envy]

You know, a lot of people thought you were kicking Tyler and Oprah's back end during the Color Purple.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Oh my God. Why would they think that?

[DJ Envy]

I guess cause they were the producers of the film and they thought that when you were complaining about the pay.

[Taraji P. Henson]

You know, they had bosses. Right?

[DJ Envy]

That's what I was.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Thank you. And when have you ever seen me drag another woman, particularly a black woman, ever? I'm ten toes down for us. Never. And then the fact that blogs and I think it was just a campaign so that this black movie wouldn't do well. Right? Because to stay. I even saw some bits about it was my fault that the film didn't do well.

[Angie Martinez]

Oh yeah, I saw that as well. What?

[Taraji P. Henson]

How did, how did, how, how they.

[Angie Martinez]

Tried to say that you. Because of the conversation you raised about the money and things that weren't right. It pivoted the focus to. People aren't going to go see the film they care more about. What is Taraji saying? Is it true or not?

[Taraji P. Henson]

That's. You know that's total bs, right?

[Angie Martinez]

No, I know it is, but I'm just telling you what the conversation. What you're referring to or telling Jess what the conversation.

[Taraji P. Henson]

And me and Oprah, I have such a love and a fondness for her. She just texted me the other day commending me on a job well done in straw. So that was all fiction, like. And to draw a wedge between us. But see, I'm not gonna let you do that because I went to her defense right away. Y' all not gonna do that to this woman. All of this, what she does. I mean, like, stop it.

Stop.

[DJ Envy]

Even with Tyler, you know, Tyler's the person that pays you the most.

[Taraji P. Henson]

What? I'm never gonna not work with Tyler. That just. That's insane to me. I enjoy working with him. I really, really do. We have fun on that set. I love that he challenges me. I understand. I'm never gonna turn my back on us. You know, people that go to the Tyler Perry films, there's a huge population of us. So for me to say I'm not gonna do a Tyler back, that's me turning my back on us. I would never.

[Angie Martinez]

Speaking of black women in relationships, your character, Astral Janaya, during her, like, worst moment, Black women in the movie still, like, get around her and huddle around her, even almost, like, forcibly, but, like, not really, because they identify with her.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Absolutely.

[Angie Martinez]

What is. You know, not even the importance, but, like, when people watch those moments throughout the movie, what do you want them to take from that?

[Taraji P. Henson]

That we. We need each other, and we're more powerful when we support each other. I'm a hu. You know how I am with the sister girls, you know, And I told this to the Spelman lady, graduating class of 2025. The last thing I said to them was, like, ladies, like, we. We are more powerful in numbers. We need to support each other. Do not air your grievances with another sister in public. You got a problem with her, pull it to the side. That's between you and her. To fix that is not what. For the public to weigh in with their shallow opinions. I said, as black women, we take too many bullets from society. Why. Why would I be another obstacle for another sister to get over? I'm just not going to do it.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah. My bad, Lauren. I love you, y' all.

[Angie Martinez]

You know, my bad.

[Lauren LaRosa]

You know.

[Angie Martinez]

A moment earlier today, I needed to depend on her. How we've had you guessing.

[Taraji P. Henson]

I'm glad. That's beautiful. And that's growth and more of that. But it breaks my heart when I see sisters go at it in public. It. It does something to me because we have enough to overcome. Why should it be another sister? Like, we got the same struggle.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah.

[DJ Envy]

So the. The. The dynamic between you and Sher Sheppard and Teyana Taylor in the movie, that's the enhanced. Like, the. The exploration of sisterhood and solidarity. Is that.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Absolutely. Tyler wrote that. And he doesn't do anything by mistake. Like, he's a Virgo. He's very calculated.

[Angie Martinez]

Because I was wondering if that dynamic. Was that something you brought in?

[Taraji P. Henson]

It was already there. It's already there. He wrote it like that. See, because you know Detective Raymond, who Tyala Tiana plays so effortlessly, that girl. Let me just say this about Tiana. She coming for everything, y' all. Oh, yeah, she's coming for everybody and everybody's necks and everything. What I love about her, I mean, she just leaves nothing on the table. She checks every box. She's just incredible. Have you seen the snippet for her new video Coming?

[Angie Martinez]

Yes.

[Taraji P. Henson]

The movie. I haven't seen the mini movie that she directed.

[Angie Martinez]

Yes.

[DJ Envy]

In front of the camera, behind the camera, like, it's busy.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Every gift that God gave her.

She is using an amazing person too.

I mean, sweetheart, I love her. Anyway, when she starts hearing my character Janiyah's story, she totally identifies because she's a single mother. So that touches her, right? She's like, whoa, whoa, whoa, wait a minute and see for us. Do you. Have you ever seen that series called. Is it the Sinner? It's called the Sinner and it's about people who do these crimes. And there's this gentleman who's a detective and he goes to the why. There's always a why. And when you understand the why, then you're able to show compassion and give some grace. Because people just don't do stuff just because they're pushed to a point. I'm not excusing. Yes.

[DJ Envy]

Oh, yeah, yeah.

[Taraji P. Henson]

I'm not excusing the deed that has been done, but if we can just understand why the why. And that's why I'm always playing the why of my characters. Because I want the audience to feel for the person. If I didn't play the why of Cookie, she could have been just another sassy, smart mouth black woman. No one would have cared. But because I got to her, why, everybody in the world could identify with her.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yep, that's right. There was so many layers to Cookie too, you know?

[Angie Martinez]

Do you think that the layers that we see in Janiyah and Strahl and her having to learn to be like, actually admit that she's not okay and not just covering things up and you talking about your personal life not being a life at a party anymore and being okay with that, do you think that that's something that after watching this movie, people can take on easily or like, what do you think people's journey to get to that point will be after watching this movie?

[Taraji P. Henson]

Everybody's journey's different. Some people find it hard to. Very difficult to to deal with trauma because it's. It's not easy going through therapy. You got to deal with the ugly first before you get. There is no way to get over a storm or under a storm. You got to go through it before you can see the sun. But the sun always shines, but you have to go through it. And that. That therapy journey is not for the weak. And some people, unfortunately, spend a lifetime just dodging it. And it's unfortunate because your life can be so much better if you could just heal. Because you find yourself, you know, almost like a gerbil in the wheel if you're not. Because the same shit that you think you running from, you're gonna. Wherever you are, wherever you go, there you are all your problems.

[DJ Envy]

That's right. You can't run from yourself.

[Taraji P. Henson]

You cannot.

[Angie Martinez]

You're not drinking or decision to not drink anymore. How did that.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Okay, so I do have my wine, and I do. I love my seven daughters, but I do take breaks. For five months, I had stopped drinking because I felt like I needed clarity. I needed to get rid of some negative energy that was in my life that I couldn't see because. And not to say that I have a drinking problem or anything like that, I just think, like, you fast sometimes because you need to reset your system. I did this sobriety for, like, five months, and then, you know, when I have to promote my wine. And I do really like my seven daughters, but it's a. It's low in calories, and it doesn't get you, like, plastered.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Okay.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Like, you know what I mean? I can sip it by the pool and still function, you know? But I do have moments where I fast from that as well, because I just think it's great for my mental health because I'm present.

[Angie Martinez]

I was gonna ask, what presence did it bring before you in preparing for this role?

[Taraji P. Henson]

Oh, my goodness. I was able to get up in the morning. And another thing I find when I don't drink is that I can work out. You know what I mean? Like, that's one vice that I pick up and I go hard with. I mean, I'm sure you've seen some of my videos that I'm pouring into myself because I'm present. You know, I'm not numbing out.

[DJ Envy]

What's one quiet decision, Taraji you made that had the biggest impact on your career but never made headlines?

[Taraji P. Henson]

The biggest. Say that again.

[DJ Envy]

What's one quiet decision you made that had the biggest impact on your career but never made headlines?

[Taraji P. Henson]

Quiet decision. I mean, it seems like, everything I do makes headlines because I thought me going to Bali was gonna be quiet. And it's still. We're still talking about it. I think I talk about everything. I don't think. You know. Cause I feel like if you have a story to tell, tell it. I tried to keep my breakup quiet real fast. Oh, that's a good one. I might have to call you back on that one.

[Angie Martinez]

I might have to call you back.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Well, this is not even. This is not even a question, but in watching Straw, I got John Q vibes. Oh, my gosh.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Well, the difference with John Q. Is that he was very conscious in what he was doing. He was trying to save his son. And he was like, I ain't got no money. The insurance is not paying, so I'm.

[Angie Martinez]

Gonna stick y' all up.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah. You know, but it was like the.

[Taraji P. Henson]

The what you would do, what links you would go through. You're a new mom.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah.

[Taraji P. Henson]

For your kid.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah.

[Taraji P. Henson]

It hits you in a new way, doesn't it, when you become a mother? And it's real. Like, it's not about you anymore once you become a parent.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah.

[Taraji P. Henson]

You have this whole existence and being and human that you are responsible for. And if you are a responsible person, that's very serious job for you. Like, you know, before, you were probably like, I'm a, you know, you know, a public figure now. It's like, I'm a mom first.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah.

[Taraji P. Henson]

You know, so it's different. Life is different when you have that kind of responsibility.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Right.

[Taraji P. Henson]

And you'll do anything for your child. And the hurt that they feel, you feel it ten times more because you feel like it's my job to protect this child. And so when they're bullied, you ready to go to war? Because it's like, no, how dare you? You know?

[Lauren LaRosa]

And Janiyah snapped, but she kept going. Didn't even realize.

[Taraji P. Henson]

She didn't know. She had no idea she was operating outside of herself.

Right.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah.

[DJ Envy]

You know, a lot. We know a lot of things you do are super intentional, cuz like you said, you're a Virgo. So what's the most strategic thing you've ever done that people m as emotional?

[Taraji P. Henson]

Probably talking about the pay inequity because I have a crying about money cry. I tell you what, if you want to eat, you better speak the up.

Okay.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Right.

[Taraji P. Henson]

The squeaky wheel gets fixed. Right. Closed mouths don't get fed. Right. And I'm gonna tell you who's not complaining about that money anymore. I know.

[Angie Martinez]

That's.

[DJ Envy]

That Tough. Cause after that, Hollywood started coming correct.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Man, listen, they have to.

[Lauren LaRosa]

Yeah, yeah.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Do you wanna hear my mouth again? I demanded that respect.

[Lauren LaRosa]

This is my last question. Are you happy?

[Taraji P. Henson]

I'm so happy. I can't explain. People go, you're glowing. Yes. Because I am not dealing with nobody's unhealed child. I am at peace. The peace that I have been feeling, fighting for. I have it. And it has nothing to do with anybody. No other human. It's all in me.

[Lauren LaRosa]

I love you.

[Taraji P. Henson]

I love you.

[DJ Envy]

Do you even tell the unhealed people anything anymore?

[Taraji P. Henson]

No. No. Because sometimes they ain't ready to hear it.

[DJ Envy]

I will say I hope you heal. I do say that.

[Taraji P. Henson]

I. You know, I just. Cuz sometimes they take that they're offended by what you mean. I mean, it's like, all right, baby, now she hope I heal right? You know? So this is for you to discover, sweetie.

[Angie Martinez]

Well, thank you.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Thank you so much. Is out this Friday. Netflix, definitely check it out.

[DJ Envy]

And wait till you see what we do for you in this building. You'll see.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Is it a bust?

[Angie Martinez]

What does that mean?

[DJ Envy]

Yes, it is a bust.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Like a sculpture.

[DJ Envy]

Yes, it is.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Is it?

[DJ Envy]

Yes.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Don't put no badass wig on it.

[DJ Envy]

Like.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Oh, my God.

[DJ Envy]

But since you. Yes, it will be a bust.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Oh, okay. Where? In the center of this table in the hall.

[DJ Envy]

Because people will see it whenever they walk by. So you have to go buy Angie studio and come in, please.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Can it look like me don't like.

[DJ Envy]

Yes, you'll see.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Oh, you know, I've seen Dwayne Wade's When Dwayne Wade statue. That.

[DJ Envy]

Don't. No, no, no.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Please don't do that. Yeah, because that. Okay, never mind.

[Angie Martinez]

And I meant thank you for your career. Not into the interview. Yeah, I thank you for that.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Thank you.

[DJ Envy]

Thank you for you.

[Angie Martinez]

Yeah.

[DJ Envy]

Not just your career. You the person that you are. Because your career has given you the platform to be out here being the mental health advocate that you are. And I think that that work is going out long. Outlive probably anything.

[Taraji P. Henson]

I hope so. Yeah. That to me, feels like probably why God set me up to be a public figure. To get to that.

[DJ Envy]

Absolutely.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Yeah. So grateful. Thank you so much, guys. This was beautiful.

Taraji P. Henson, ladies and gentlemen, it's the Breakfast Club. Good morning.

[DJ Envy]

Wake that ass up early in the morning. The Breakfast Club.

[Justina Valentine]

If you're not watching BMF on Stars, you're seriously missing out from executive producer Curtis 50 Cent Jackson. The new season is here, and Meech and Terry are leveling up. They're expanding their empire, launching a music label and even hitting the 1995 Star Source Awards. Oh, and did I mention Lamar is back. BMF is where drama, hustle and Hip hop collide. The drama top tier, the stakes higher than ever. This is the season everyone's going to be talking about. Watch the season premiere of BMF now only on Starz and the Starz app.

[DJ Envy]

American Public University is the number one provider of education to our military and veterans in the country. They offer something truly unique, special rates and grants for the entire family, making education affordable not just for those who serve, but also for their loved ones. If you have a military or veteran family member and are looking for affordable, high quality education, APU is the place for you. Visit APU Apus Edumilitary to learn more. That's APU Apus Edu Military Meetings, Deadlines, Emails.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Don't you wish you could escape the chaos? That's where the all new Nissan Murano comes in with available features like the relaxing, massaging seats to ease stress and the beautiful skyline views that bring in natural light. It's like cruising in your personal Oasis. And if you need to set better vibe, 64 colors of personalized lighting and a Bose Premium sound system have you covered. Hands down, the all new Nissan Murano is your stress free getaway. Sometimes the greatest rush isn't rushing at all. Drive the all new Nissan Murano today.

[Justina Valentine]

Panoramic moonroof, ambient lighting, bows and massaging leather.

[Taraji P. Henson]

Appointed seats are optional features.

[Jenny Garth]

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[Angie Martinez]

This is an I heart podcast.