Taraji P. Henson is a force of nature, radiating joy, authenticity, and an infectious spirit that endears her to all. As one interviewer aptly puts it, she's "everybody's sister, everybody's cousin, everybody's best friend, everybody's auntie." This rare ability to connect so deeply stems from her belief in reciprocity: "If what you put out, you get back. If you want somebody to clap for you, you better be clapping for others." And clap she does, for fellow mothers, for rising stars like Tiana Taylor, and for every woman striving to achieve her dreams.
A Mother's Unwavering Strength
Taraji's journey as a single mother to her now 31-year-old son, Marcel, is a testament to her incredible resilience. She openly acknowledges the immense challenges, stating, "Being a mother and especially being a single mother is not for the faint of heart." Yet, she speaks of Marcel with immense pride, sharing a heartwarming Mother's Day celebration where he cooked a delicious meal for her – honey-glazed salmon, curry rice, and a spinach salad with mango – and presented her with flowers and a handwritten card. This touching anecdote highlights the beautiful bond they share, a bond forged through years of dedication and love.
Taraji credits her faith and a strong support system – her family and "incredible sister circle" – for helping her navigate the pressures of single motherhood and pursue her dreams. She emphasizes the power of manifestation, a lesson instilled by her father: "Power is in the tongue. If you want to achieve something, say you already the best." This unwavering belief in herself, coupled with the high stakes of raising a child, fueled her determination to succeed in Hollywood.
Reclaiming Her Throne: The TPH by Taraji Empire
A recent monumental achievement for Taraji is becoming the sole owner of her haircare brand, TPH by Taraji. This move was a "big flex" and a moment where she truly felt like a "superhero." The brand, a labor of love cultivated for a decade before its launch, holds a special place in her heart. "I was more passionate about that than acting," she reveals, "because that's something that I created from scratch." This bold step into entrepreneurship underscores her business acumen and her commitment to providing quality products for her community.
Met Gala Magic and "Straw"
Taraji’s recent appearance at the Met Gala captivated audiences, particularly her audacious "pantsless" ensemble. The decision, she explains, was a deliberate one to showcase her hard work in the gym and to blend feminine and masculine aesthetics, drawing inspiration from icons like Josephine Baker and Cab Calloway. Her confidence and willingness to push boundaries are truly inspiring.
Speaking of pushing boundaries, Taraji's latest film, Straw, is set to be a powerful and emotional journey. The trailer, which moved even former First Lady Michelle Obama to tears, showcases Taraji's incredible dramatic range. In the film, she portrays Janiah, a single mother facing immense struggles. Taraji’s own experiences as a single mother undoubtedly informed her portrayal, bringing an authenticity and raw emotion to the character that promises to resonate deeply with audiences.
Taraji's work in Straw is a testament to her incredible talent and dedication. Her ability to tap into profound emotions, even amidst the playful banter on set, is truly remarkable. While she acknowledges the challenges of dramatic acting, she also emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and allowing oneself to "live a little bit in between scenes."
The Art of the On-Screen Love Scene (It's Not What You Think!)
When the topic of on-screen love scenes arises, Taraji offers a refreshingly candid perspective. Despite appearing effortlessly passionate in her roles, she reveals that these scenes are "very technical" and far less glamorous than they appear. "You don't have time to get hot, sweetie," she quips, highlighting the meticulous choreography and lighting involved. Her advice? "If you have any hang-ups about yourself, you better deal with them the day before 'cause if not, it'll show up on film." It's a humorous yet insightful peek behind the curtain of Hollywood's illusions.
Taraji P. Henson continues to inspire, entertain, and empower. Her journey is a masterclass in self-belief, hard work, and the unwavering power of love – for oneself, for one's family, and for one's craft. Straw will be streaming on Netflix on June 6th, and audiences are sure to be moved by her powerful performance.