I recall our initial rehearsals for The Color Purple vividly. We were all crammed into the same space, lacking our own dressing rooms. As more details emerge about the behind-the-scenes happenings, it’s evident it goes beyond mere low pay. Picture enduring rehearsals without food and lacking the basic privacy of a dressing room. It’s absurd! What’s next? Are they expected to compose their own songs? Though, admittedly, that could be impressive and lucrative. Considering the reported $100 million budget, sans elaborate CGI or extensive shoot locations, the financial breakdown raises eyebrows. Danielle Brooks shed light on some of the challenging conditions faced on set, and Taraji P. Henson isn’t staying silent either. It’s astounding how discussions around The Color Purple seem to focus more on mistreatment and working conditions than the actual movie itself. How are they managing to generate negative publicity like this? One can only hope they still find work after this ordeal. Let’s delve into what’s been said and once again, why Oprah Winfrey is under scrutiny.
Danielle mentioned that she sustained an injury during filming, which required her to undergo physical therapy. It occurred during the scene where a group of men attacks and subsequently arrests Sophia after a confrontation stemming from her refusal to work as a maid for a white woman, mirroring the 2023 version of the movie. Danielle recounted to indiewire, “I ended up having to film that scene over two days, spending multiple hours each day. The repetitive swinging back and forth to fend off the mob strained my back. Despite the excellent guidance of our stage combat leader and crew, the strain was significant. I had to undergo physical therapy and chiropractic treatment for two weeks to recover while still fulfilling my filming obligations.”
Besides struggling to regain her health, Danielle also disclosed that the actors were initially denied their own dressing rooms upon arrival for production, and that was just the tip of the iceberg. Shockingly, they were also deprived of food during rehearsals. Danielle revealed that it was only after Taraji advocated for them that they were provided with these fundamental necessities, which they shouldn’t have had to fight for in the first place. She said, “This is my first studio film so sometimes you do come in just saying, ‘Okay, well, I’m just going to take whatever they give me. I’m just happy to be here,’ you know? But you spoke up for us, and you showed me how to do that.”
Talk of Taraji has been buzzing ever since the tour kicked off, particularly when she opened up about being consistently underpaid throughout her career. “I’m just exhausted from putting in so much effort, being excellent at what I do, and yet receiving only a fraction of what I deserve,” she expressed. “I’m weary of hearing the same old story. You just reach a point of fatigue. People say, ‘You work so much.’ Well, I have to. The numbers don’t add up in Taraji’s favor.”
Several videos circulated, hinting at tension between Taraji and Oprah. In one instance, Taraji appeared on the verge of tears, suggesting potential feelings of being slighted by Oprah. Fans observed Oprah stepping away from Taraji to stand alongside Danielle Brooks, her smile noticeably widening afterward, while Fantasia Jino appeared concerned, casting a glance toward Taraji. Another video circulated showing Oprah seeming warm and affectionate toward everyone else promoting the film, even placing her hands on their shoulders as they spoke, but with Taraji, there was a noticeable absence of physical contact.
It was assumed that Taraji felt undervalued financially while working on The Color Purple, judging by her emotional reaction to the topic during interviews. In a subsequent discussion with SAG following her involvement in Foundation, Taraji disclosed the extent of the issue, revealing that the situation was dire enough for her to dismiss her entire team after finding herself without any subsequent roles or endorsements post-Empire, which aired from 2015 to 2020. “Letting go of everyone after Cookie was a necessity. Where were the opportunities? Where were the brand deals? Cookie was a fashion icon. Where were the endorsements? What plans were in place for my career after this? That’s why I’ve been relatively absent. There was no plan in motion.”
In recent revelations, Taraji has candidly shared her struggles during The Color Purple, admitting in an interview with The New York Times that she nearly walked away from the project due to frustrations surrounding salary negotiations and working conditions. “Where was the recognition for my efforts? My income hasn’t seen an uptick since Proud Mary, and I almost reached a breaking point during The Color Purple.”
“Yes, indeed. Who said what? Yes, indeed. Yes, indeed. Because if I don’t advocate for myself, how can I pave the way for others like Fantasia, Danielle, Hiy, and Felicia? Why accept less? Why endure this?”
In addition to the salary concern, she faced the added challenge of having to audition for the role of Sh Avery despite being director Blitz Baza Wo’s top choice, boasting a successful stint on Empire, and even earning an Oscar nomination, among other achievements. She expressed frustration at being handed rental cars to drive herself to the set, emphasizing the safety risk and insurance liability, particularly in Atlanta. She questioned the feasibility of driving alone to work in a rental car.
When she requested a driver or security for transportation, she was met with resistance, being told that providing such services for her would set a precedent for others. In response, she advocated for equitable treatment, insisting that if it’s done for one, it should be done for all.
Meanwhile, amidst the turmoil surrounding the set conditions, cast members have been quick to absolve Oprah of any blame. Taraji, for instance, publicly praised Oprah’s unwavering support and mentorship, emphasizing the importance of women of color supporting each other and holding decision-making roles across industries. She credited Oprah for being a steadfast source of guidance and encouragement for the cast of The Color Purple, highlighting her responsiveness and willingness to lend a helping hand whenever needed.
So, when Danielle mentioned the lack of dressing rooms and food during rehearsals, Ladi chimed in, mentioning that Oprah had addressed those issues for them. “I heard about it,” Ladi said. “Oh, and you corrected it for us,” Danielle affirmed. “Corre correct,” Ladi nodded. “Didn’t I call you?” Danielle recalled. “Yes,” confirmed Ladi. “And I was like, ‘Oh, we got to fix this,'” Danielle explained, to which Ladi replied, “And she said, ‘Say less.'”
However, skepticism still lingers among many regarding the honesty of The Color Purple cast’s accounts of Oprah’s treatment. While they admit that Oprah made some improvements, did they have to fight tooth and nail for every change? How could Oprah, as a producer, have allowed such conditions in the first place? Would she have tolerated them if the cast hadn’t spoken up? Moreover, the issues they raise seem peculiar, as amenities like drivers and dressing rooms are typically part of standard agreements before production begins. It’s puzzling how they had to advocate for these basics while already on set.
It’s perplexing that despite Oprah stating the production budget was 90 to 100 million, with cast members voicing complaints, it raises questions about where all that money went. Oprah did mention she endeavored to ensure the cast’s comfort, asserting, “Kaji will tell you herself that I’ve been the greatest champion of this film.” She emphasized her role in addressing issues as they arose, although budgetary decisions rested with Warner Brothers. Some speculate Oprah seemed uneasy as cast members aired grievances. Concerns linger about potential repercussions for outspoken actors like Taraji and Danielle, reminiscent of Mo’Nique’s industry fallout after speaking out about her experiences on an Oprah-produced project.
There’s a sense of caution in Taraji and Danielle’s remarks, hinting at underlying concerns, while Oprah holds a prominent position in the industry. It’s uncertain whether this will positively or negatively influence Black Entertainment moving forward. What’s your take on this complex situation? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
