The Stephen A. Smith Show - December 3, 2024
Episode: Interview Only: Actress Jenifer Lewis rejoices in surviving death. But screams about the presidential election.
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Guest: Jennifer Lewis, acclaimed actress known for her role as Ruby Johnson on Blackish
Release Date: December 3, 2024
Introduction
In this compelling episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith sits down with the legendary Jennifer Lewis, affectionately dubbed the "black mother of Hollywood." With over 300 film and television credits, Lewis offers an unfiltered and heartfelt discussion about her personal triumphs, mental health journey, harrowing survival story, and fervent political opinions.
Surviving Death: Jennifer Lewis's Harrowing Experience [07:19 - 10:48]
Jennifer Lewis opens up about a life-altering incident that occurred two years prior during a safari in the Serengeti, Tanzania. She recounts:
Jennifer Lewis [08:01]: "I fell 10ft off the balcony of my hotel into pitch black. Wild animals were surrounding me..."
Lewis describes waking up on the ground, severely injured, requiring a 12-hour surgery and six days in the ICU. Her resilience is evident as she shares her two-year recovery journey:
Jennifer Lewis [07:38]: "I walk around in a state of bliss now... I am walking, talking, laughing, singing, and I can even do my high kick now."
Her survival story underscores her strength and determination to overcome immense physical and emotional challenges.
Mental Health and Self-Care [10:46 - 15:35]
Lewis delves into her mental health journey, revealing her diagnosis with bipolar disorder at age 33. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and seeking help:
Jennifer Lewis [11:24]: "Self care, self care. The only weapon we have is know thyself... Go and get help. There are 8 billion people on the planet. Somebody will say yes to you."
She advocates for therapy, medication, journaling, exercise, and a healthy diet as essential tools for maintaining mental well-being.
Mentorship and Advocacy for Young Black Women [15:36 - 21:07]
As a mentor, Lewis shares her experiences guiding young black women in Hollywood and beyond. She highlights her role in providing wisdom and support to prominent figures like Queen Latifah and J.Lo:
Jennifer Lewis [15:36]: "I sit them down and I tell them what I know... Love yourself so that love will not be a stranger when it comes."
Lewis stresses the importance of self-love, resilience, and active participation in societal issues to empower the next generation.
Political Outrage and the Presidential Election [21:07 - 24:59]
Jennifer Lewis expresses intense frustration with the recent presidential election outcomes, particularly regarding the support for Donald Trump over Kamala Harris. Her candid and fervent opinions include:
Jennifer Lewis [21:30]: "This thing is divisive, cruel and evil. Insane, narcissistic, and he's a sociopath."
She critiques the motivations behind certain demographics voting for Trump, linking it to deeper societal issues and urging active civic engagement:
Jennifer Lewis [24:59]: "What are you gonna do about it?"
Her passionate discourse calls for unity, education, and proactive measures to protect social rights and dismantle perceived authoritarian threats.
Recognition and Awards [25:31 - 27:31]
Lewis shares the honor of receiving the 2025 Martin Luther King, Jr. Beloved Community Award, reflecting on its significance and her connection to the King family:
Jennifer Lewis [25:31]: "It is the greatest honor of my life to become a part of the King family."
She humbly acknowledges the recognition, emphasizing her commitment to service and community upliftment.
Upcoming Projects: Spellbound [29:15 - 31:35]
Highlighting her versatility, Lewis discusses her role as Minister Nazara in the Netflix animated film Spellbound. She elaborates on the character's journey and her passion for voice acting in animation:
Jennifer Lewis [29:35]: "I'm really proud of this... animations mean a lot to me, and I'm able to go in the studio and do a different kind of... challenge for me, but I love doing it."
Lewis reflects on her extensive work in voice acting, mentioning roles in Big Hero 6, Princess and the Frog, and the Cars franchise, showcasing her dynamic range and dedication to her craft.
Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks [27:31 - 34:36]
In the concluding segments, Lewis emphasizes the importance of maintaining joy and kindness despite political turmoil:
Jennifer Lewis [28:27]: "Stay aligned in your joy. Don't let this take you down so low that you don't recover... Love your neighbor. Try to stop judging people. Be kind to one another. We'll get through this."
Her optimistic outlook serves as an inspiring message for listeners to prioritize personal well-being and community harmony.
Conclusion
This episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show offers a profound and multifaceted conversation with Jennifer Lewis. From her miraculous survival and mental health advocacy to her outspoken political views and dedication to mentorship, Lewis provides listeners with valuable insights and heartfelt advice. Her unwavering spirit and commitment to making a positive impact resonate deeply, making this interview a standout moment in the series.
Notable Quotes:
- Jennifer Lewis [07:38]: "I walk around in a state of bliss now..."
- Jennifer Lewis [11:24]: "Self care, self care. The only weapon we have is know thyself..."
- Jennifer Lewis [15:36]: "Love yourself so that love will not be a stranger when it comes."
- Jennifer Lewis [21:30]: "This thing is divisive, cruel and evil. Insane, narcissistic, and he's a sociopath."
- Jennifer Lewis [28:27]: "Stay aligned in your joy. Don't let this take you down so low that you don't recover."
Additional Resources:
- Netflix Special: Spellbound – Jennifer Lewis voices Minister Nazara
- Award: 2025 Martin Luther King, Jr. Beloved Community Award
For those who haven't tuned in, this episode is a must-listen, offering an inspiring blend of personal triumph, candid political discourse, and heartfelt advocacy from one of Hollywood's most beloved figures.