Viola Davis

Viola Davis, award-winning actress and producer known for Fences and The Woman King, and Julius Tennon, actor-producer and her producing partner, share personal stories and career moments. They talk about training at Juilliard, working with Meryl Streep, making The Woman King, stage versus screen craft, parenting and skydiving for a daughter, and the joys and challenges of marriage and creative partnership.

Viola Davis shares writing tips like 'show don't tell' and considering ghost writers. Norm Macdonald discusses storytelling techniques and blurring truth and absurdity. David Sedaris reveals the humor of repetition and the power of responding with stories. The podcast explores the influence of childhood memories, admiration for David Sedaris, and the effectiveness of ending a story without reflection or lessons.

Original Air Date: April 19th, 2021Oprah talks with Viola Davis, the most nominated Black actress in Oscar history, about her film Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. In yet another superb performance, Davis inhabits “the mother of the blues” in an adaptation of the August Wilson play. Davis reveals what Ma's struggle says about today's America and what it taught her about harnessing her own powers as a Black woman. She also shares her thoughts on working with the late Chadwick Boseman on his final film.  Want more podcasts from OWN? Visit https://bit.ly/OWNPodsYou can also watch Oprah’s Super Soul, The Oprah Winfrey Show and more of your favorite OWN shows on your TV! Visit https://bit.ly/find_OWN  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Viola Davis, an EGOT-winning actor and producer, shares her journey from a challenging childhood to Hollywood success. She highlights how 'The Woman King' reshaped her creative identity and stressed the importance of meaningful entertainment. Davis reflects on her impactful roles, including her experiences with Meryl Streep and navigating the complexities of being a Black actor in a predominantly white industry. She emphasizes legacy, self-love, and her mission to make the invisible visible, showing how she constantly seeks purpose beyond her profession.

Viola Davis, an Academy Award-winning actress and author of 'Finding Me,' joins for a profound conversation. She reflects on her turbulent childhood and the power of overcoming trauma in the entertainment industry. Viola emphasizes the significance of authenticity and the struggle against societal pressures. She discusses the role of therapy in healing and the courage it takes to own one’s story. With moments of joy and musical flair, this dialogue is a heartfelt exploration of vulnerability and personal growth.