COVER - Garcelle Beauvais Fights For What She Loves
Haitian born beauty, Garcelle Beauvais, has been making waves in the industry all her life. After moving to the United States with her mother, she found her way to New York City to be a fashion model, working with some of the largest brands out there. Wanting to prove she is versatile, she went into acting and has been seen in a plethora of roles since. Her next big adventure is being the first African American cast member of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills! Kinda crazy to think it took this long! When Garcelle isn’t being so glamorous, she can be seen getting her hands dirty with organizations like Step Up Women’s Network and Angels for Humanity, which help support women and children in Haiti, respectively, two causes she feels strongly about fighting for. Children are particularly important to Garcelle, as family is very important to her, so much so, that she even wrote a Children's book series, ‘I AM’, which she wrote for her children. Please read further to learn more about this incredible and inspiring woman in Jejune’s exclusive interview below.
Where are you based?
Los Angeles, CA
What inspired you to become an actress?
I am an artist at heart. I love anything that has to do with the arts: acting, dancing, writing, it’s all in my blood.
What was it like going from modeling to acting?
It was tough. People didn’t think models could walk and talk, but I persevered, took classes, didn’t give up, worked really hard and proved myself.
Regarding the Coming 2 America sequel, how does it feel reunited with your fellow cast members?
It was like time stood still, and since black don’t crack, we all looked the same, haha.
What can fans expect from this sequel?
Fans can expect a fun nostalgic ride.
Are you excited about joining The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills this spring?
I am so excited. I’ve never done reality before. I’ve been a fan of the show and I have friends on the show.
How does it feel to be the first African American cast member?
It feels like it’s about time, and I’m glad it’s me.
As a veteran actress who has taken on roles from a variety of shows and movies ranging from “The Jamie Foxx Show” to “Tell Me a Story” to "Spider-Man Homecoming," what do you look for when choosing your roles?
I look for roles that challenge me and let the audience see me in different ways. The director and cast are also important as well.
How has this process changed compared to your earlier acting roles?
It’s still the same, but I like to change it up into different roles. In the earlier days of my acting, a lot of roles wouldn’t go to us (African Americans), but now things have changed drastically. We are leads of shows more often than not.
Do you have a preferred genre of theatre or favorite role?
I love both TV and movies. Some of my favorites would have to be Fancy on The Jamie Foxx Show, NYPD Blue, and working with Denzel Washington in Flight was up there on my bucket list.
In addition to acting, you also write. Can you tell us about your Children's book series, ‘I AM’? What was the inspiration behind it?
The inspiration for my children's books was my own children, Jax and Jaid. I felt there weren’t books that spoke to their diversity.
It's great that you are heavily involved in giving back and philanthropy. Can you tell us about the Step Up Women’s Network, and your work with them?
I love what Step Up represents! Anytime a woman can help another woman, it makes us that much stronger, and Step Up helps young girls get out of bad situations, stand up for themselves and get back on their feet.
What inspired you to get involved with them?
A friend of mine, Liz Dennery, introduced me to the organization and I love it.
We know you were born in Haiti and later moved to America while you were still a child, but now you are going back to your roots, by working with Angels for Humanity. Can you tell us a little bit about this organization?
The organization is very dear to my heart. The fact that I can go back to my country and help children means the world to me. I had the opportunity to come to America and I feel like it’s my responsibility to go back and help my fellow Haitians.
You recently did a trip with Angels for Humanity. Can you tell us a little bit about this and what you did?
We have an annual luncheon in Miami to raise funds so that we can go to Haiti in December and bring toys and feed children. The last time I was there, we fed and gifted 3,500 children.
How did it feel to be honored with the “Distinguished Humanitarian Award” at their 6th Annual Catwalk for Charity this past September?
It’s always great to be recognized for the work you do. I don’t do it for the recognition, but it’s really nice.
What's your motto in life?
I won’t go out without a fight. By that I mean, fight for the things that I love and support.
To learn more about Garcelle Beauvais please follow her via the below platforms:
Instagram: Garcelle
Twitter: Garcelleb
FaceBook: Garcelle Beauvais
Team Credits:
Photographer: Michael Rowe
Stylist: Quentin Fears
Hair: Robear Landeros
Make-up: Kachay Dorsey at Cloutier Remix
