Viola Davis Empowers: Embracing Our Unique Selves Beyond Society’s Expectations.
At Cannes Film Festival, Viola Davis Opens Up About Beauty Norms and Navigating Hollywood as a Black Woman.”
Draped in a magnificent white gown and an extravagant feather coat, Viola Davis exuded elegance and poise as she made her presence known on the red carpet of the 76th annual Cannes Film Festival. With her natural textured curls forming a halo and a beaming smile, she effortlessly commanded the spotlight at the premiere of “Monster,” captivating all who laid eyes on her. Yet, it wasn’t just Davis’ striking exterior that captured the attention of onlookers; she also candidly shared her thoughts on beauty norms and the urgent call for their ongoing transformation.
Viola Davis, speaking exclusively to People on the red carpet, remarked, “The landscape of beauty standards has undoubtedly changed. What has truly shifted is the understanding that beauty encompasses mental well-being and goes beyond conforming to male desire.”
The renowned actress, also an ambassador for L’Oreal Paris, shared how this particular aspect attracted her to the partnership. She revealed that L’Oreal’s empowering motto, “I’m worth it,” struck a chord with her personally, as she had once been affected by the damaging impact of societal beauty ideals.
“I was deeply affected by people constantly telling me that I didn’t possess beauty,” she revealed. “You might wonder why that bothered me. It’s because society has attached worth and value to beauty. I refuse to accept the notion that I’m not worthy simply based on an idealized perception of classical beauty,” Davis passionately declared.
Reflecting on the past, Davis acknowledged that women used to conceal their pain “behind impeccably applied lipstick and pristine floors.” However, she takes pride in championing women who unapologetically embrace their true selves “beyond the façade of makeup and hairstyling.” That’s why Davis and her husband, Julius Tennon, her co-star in the film “Air,” actively encourage their 12-year-old daughter, Genesis, to openly express her emotions. Their aim is to provide unwavering support and equip her with the ability to advocate for herself.
During an interview with People, Davis shared a heartfelt conversation she had with her daughter, stating, “I had a conversation with my daughter this morning, emphasizing the importance of having a deep love affair with herself. I want her to understand that she is truly the love of her own life.” Later, she added, “Ultimately, you cannot let yourself down. You must be your own advocate. You must always be there for yourself.”
Continuing her powerful message, Davis expressed, “‘It’s crucial to show up for yourself when someone hurts you. It involves setting boundaries and standing firm when those boundaries are crossed. You have to be there for yourself.'” Reflecting on her personal journey, she admitted, “No one ever taught me that. I used to believe that loving myself was equated with being conceited. But that’s not true.”
While Davis cherishes her roles as a mother on and off-screen, she also advocates for greater opportunities for women over 50, particularly Black women in that age range, in Hollywood. Recognizing the need for more diverse and nuanced roles, the 57-year-old actress disclosed that her portrayal of Deloris, Michael Jordan’s mother, in the film “Air” was inspired by the brilliance of the character.
For Davis, working as a Black actress over 50 often feels like traversing a vast desert with a dearth of engaging and multidimensional roles. Acknowledging the immense talent and wisdom that mature women bring to the industry, Davis urges Hollywood to embrace their stories, experiences, and contributions. This is one of the reasons she holds deep appreciation for the “L’Oreal Paris’ Lights on Women Award” presented at the festival.
“Women are no longer begging for a seat at the table; they are carving their own path,” Davis proclaimed. She went on to highlight several influential Black women in the industry who exemplify empowerment by recognizing that they have the power to be the change they wish to see.
