Javicia Leslie is an American actress. After landing her first major role in the Lifetime film Swim at Your Own Risk, she appeared as a series regular on the BET drama The Family Business and the CBS comedy-drama God Friended Me. She also starred as the lead in the film Always a Bridesmaid.
Javicia Leslie, the talented actress who made history as the first Black woman to portray Batwoman, continues to inspire both on and off the screen. In a recent interview, Leslie opened up about her multifaceted career, commitment to diversity and representation, and passion for empowering women and underprivileged youth.
She continues to rise with her recent roll in the highly anticipated ABC drama "High Potential (HP)," which premiered on October 15th, 2024. In this series, written by acclaimed writer Drew Goddard, Leslie brings her signature charisma to the role of Detective Daphne, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
BEAUTI
Leslie's approach to beauty mirrors her versatile acting career. "I am a mix of both a trendsetter and a classic," she reveals, describing how she blends timeless looks with bold, trendy moments. This fusion of styles reflects her ability to bring depth and originality to her roles, whether fighting crime as Batwoman or portraying complex characters in other productions.
Her adventurous spirit extends to her beauty aspirations, with Leslie wanting to explore the bold glamour of the 1970s. "I saw a lot of bold moments in 70s glam that I would love to dabble in," she shares, hinting at future red-carpet looks that might showcase this vintage-inspired boldness.
Leslie's down-to-earth nature shines through in her approach to skincare and beauty on a budget. Acknowledging her fortunate genetics, she emphasizes maintaining healthy skin as the foundation for any glamorous look. This practical approach aligns with her preference for cocktails over mocktails, playfully noting, "I prefer to eat my calories, not drink them."
COCKTAILS
The actress's aspirations extend beyond the silver screen. When asked who she would love to have cocktails and conversation with, Leslie envisions sharing an old-fashioned with Tracee Ellis Ross in Paris, a choice that speaks to her admiration for influential women in the industry and her global perspective.
Leslie's commitment to empowering roles is evident in her career choices. "I choose roles based on what resonates most with my artistic voice," she explains. Her portrayal of strong, flawed women who protect their communities and stand up for their beliefs has made her a role model for many, particularly young women and girls of color.
Leslie's dedication to social causes shines off-screen through her work with The Chandler Foundation. Founded to create opportunities for underprivileged children in her hometown, the foundation provides sports equipment, school supplies, and even free haircuts and braiding. "I wanted to create an even playing field for children who may not have come from a super privileged and wealthy background," Leslie shares, highlighting her commitment to community empowerment.
Balancing her demanding career with personal passions like gardening and family time, Leslie embodies the modern, multifaceted woman. She credits her ability to maintain this balance to her genuine love for her work, viewing her career not just as a job but as a true passion.
As a vocal advocate for diversity in the entertainment industry, Leslie emphasizes the importance of amplifying women's voices, particularly behind the scenes. Her strong advocacy for diversity and her observations on the positive changes following the #MeToo movement underscore her optimism for a more inclusive and diverse Hollywood, providing a source of encouragement for young women aspiring to break into the industry.
For young women aspiring to break into the entertainment industry, Leslie offers practical advice rooted in her own experiences. She encourages starting at home and utilizing affordable resources to build a portfolio before moving to entertainment hubs like Los Angeles. Equally important, she stresses the need for a supportive team to navigate the industry safely and effectively.
Looking to the future, Leslie expresses a passion for directing, seeing it as another avenue to amplify women's voices in storytelling. Her excitement about the potential impact of more female leaders in the storytelling world is palpable, and her vision for a more diverse and inclusive industry is inspiring.
Javicia Leslie's journey from a groundbreaking role as Batwoman to her current status as a Hollywood trailblazer and philanthropist is a testament to her talent, dedication, and vision for a more inclusive entertainment industry. Through her on-screen performances, work with The Chandler Foundation, and advocacy for diversity and representation, Leslie continues to inspire and empower women and underrepresented communities. As she forges ahead in her career, exploring new roles in front of and behind the camera, Javicia Leslie stands as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change in Hollywood and beyond.
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