Based in Atlanta, GA, Tiffany Elle Burgess seamlessly juggles her roles as an actress, producer, health consultant, and children's book author. Tiffany recently starred in the award-winning movie “The Color Purple,” a film she describes as a vibrant black family reunion that brings fresh perspectives to the beloved story. Dedicated to representation in the entertainment industry, Tiffany believes in the importance of children seeing themselves reflected on screen. Outside of her work in film, she ventures into publishing children's literature, with her latest release, "Decisions, Decisions," designed to uplift young minds, especially those from diverse backgrounds. To learn more about Tiffany Elle Burgess, continue reading.

Where are you based?
Atlanta, GA.

What motivated you to pursue a career in the entertainment industry in addition to your work as a health consultant?
I’ve always been a writer. I have been writing children’s stories and books since I was a child. I released my first children’s book in 2016 and wrote my first screenplay that same year. I had experience working behind the camera with my film company, Tyler Street Films, when I went to an acting class with my partner at Premiere Actor’s Network. I started taking advanced acting classes, did a showcase, and was signed to People Store Talent Agency.

How do you manage to balance your life as an actress, producer, and health consultant?
It can be tough at times, but I love it. I get to use both sides of my brain. Don’t get me wrong, it takes excellent time management. I must prioritize and maintain a tight schedule. My nights and weekends are often packed but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

You recently starred in the award-winning movie “The Color Purple.” What was it like working on the film?
It was amazing! The energy on set was like a black family reunion. The cast was the perfect mixture of established and new, up and coming talent. I thoroughly enjoyed every second of it.

How does this film differ from the novel and previous film?
TCP 2023 isn’t a remake. It is essentially the big screen version of the Tony-Award winning Broadway musical. It is closely aligned to the book. Compared to the 1985 version, the 2023 version really explores Celie’s imagination, depicts more of Shug and Celie’s relationship, and dives deeper into Celie’s forgiveness and Mister’s redemption.

How do you connect with the themes of resilience and empowerment portrayed in "The Color Purple"?
I think we have all experienced difficult times and had to rely on our faith to make it through. As a black woman who has worked in corporate settings, I have dealt with microaggressions and often felt like my voice was silenced. Like Celie, I have fought, at times, to tap into my inner-strength and find my voice.

Why do you think it was important to remake “The Color Purple”? What would you like today’s audiences to get from the new story?
As I previously shared, it is not a remake. I think it was time for the musical version to hit the big screen. My nieces and nephews who range in ages 16—31 went to see the film and they liked it. The film exposes a new audience to a classic story that addresses so many important themes, from trauma to triumph, and I am so glad that TCP 2023 gained new fans.

What are your thoughts on representation in the entertainment industry?
Representation certainly matters. Children of color should be able to see people who look like them on television and the big screen. I think we are getting there but still have a long way to go. My film partners and I at Tyler Street Films are working hard to get our stories told as they are important. We deserve a seat at the table.

How do you see the entertainment industry evolving in the future with advancements in artificial intelligence?
AI is so controversial right now. I don’t think it is going anywhere. With that being said, I think there will always be advancements in the industry that can elevate the filmmaking experience. However, I don’t think AI should take the place of real actors and writers. I understand it can be beneficial, but it must be used responsibly.

Alongside your work in the entertainment industry, you publish children's books. What inspired you to start writing children's books?
I have been writing since I was a little girl. The overall goal with my children’s books is to inspire children, especially children of color.

Last year, you released your third book, “Decisions, Decisions.” Can you tell us more about this book?
Decisions, Decisions is about a little black boy who is tasked with writing a report on what he wants to be when he grows up. He is talented and gets excited about multiple careers and must decide which one interest him the most. Stanley and I wrote the book to inspire children to dream big and realize that they can be whatever they want with hard work and dedication.

Can you share a bit about your creative process when writing children's books?
It takes time. My books have illustrations so that is a part of the process as well. First, I write the outline and then I start developing the characters, their story arcs, and the overarching story that I want to tell. It is an iterative process in conjunction with the illustrator and editor. The manuscript undergoes many rounds of reviews before it is published. It takes time — for me it takes an average of 9-10 months from start to finish.

What themes or messages do you aim to convey through your children's books?
My books always have a message! The first one, Skin Like Mine, explores colorism through the eyes of a 10-year-old girl and focuses on self-love. The second book, The Adventures of Junior and Baby Brother: Spencer’s Special Gift touches on what it’s like to become a big brother, and the third one, Decisions, Decisions, inspires children to chase their dreams.

We heard that you are on the board of Fertile Ground. Can you tell us more about this organization and your work with them?
Founded by Dr. Cassandra Matthews, Fertile Ground was created to encourage and empower young women from their local communities. The purpose of the program is to provide its members with life opportunities and exposure through innovative educational workshops, authentic cultural arts activities, vital community service opportunities, and college tours. I previously served on the Board. This May 2024, I have the honor of serving as the keynote speaker at the organization’s annual banquet.

Why is it important for you to mentor young girls?
When I was a young girl, I struggled with my self-esteem. Through my testimony and story, I want young girls to believe, if Ms. Tiffany can do it, so can I. It is my goal to inspire young girls to work hard and chase their dreams. I want them to know that anything is possible as long as they believe in themselves. I am a witness.

Are there any upcoming projects you would like to share?
My partners and I are working on pitching a television series….stay tuned. Also, I recently wrote an episode for an upcoming tv show (shout out to Dennis Reed). Lastly, I am constantly auditioning. I hope I land my next big role soon.

It has been a crazy past few years, how have you been staying positive?
I get overwhelmed just like everyone else, but my faith in God and my loved ones keep me positive. I have been blessed with a large, wonderful family, close friends and linesisters. My tribe in unmatched and they keep me grounded. They are constantly pouring into me and lifting me up. I so grateful for them all.

What is your motto in life?
I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me.

To learn more about Tiffany Elle Burgess, please follow the links below:
Website: www.tiffanyelleburgess.com
Instagram: @tiffanyelleburgess, @tylerstreetfilms, @skinlikemine_childrensbook

Photos courtesy of Jaxon Photogroup and Dwayne Boyd Photography.

Tiffany Elle Burgess - From Page to Stage