First Black Million-Dollar Actor Lincoln ‘Stepin Fetchit’ Perry Created Doors of Opportunity for the Black Community, but Don’t Speak His Name On Set.
In the film industry, being labeled a ‘Stepin Fetchit’ is the equivalent to being called an Uncle Tom. How did Lincoln Perry’s movie star character become such a poisonous dagger you ask? Well, that’s a twisted narrative filled with domestic abuse, a murderous son, and his inability to evolve with the social awareness surrounding the Civil Rights Movement…where to begin.
Perry’s career started off breaking through cemented racial barriers in the film industry, he is widely celebrated for being the first Black actor to make a million dollars. Perry was the first Black talent to be credited in a motion picture in the 1920s.
However, he built his empire in one of the most controversial ways possible, capitalizing on negative stereotypes that led to his ultimate demise. The character he played earned him the title of “the laziest man on earth,” setting the tone for the rest of the world to believe this to be true for all Black people. A possible red flag to reflect on, but Perry continued.
Getting into his personal life, he went through two marriages. Both women at one point ended up with a broken nose. This led to lawsuits and legal obligation to contribute to child support. It didn’t help that one of his sons grew up only despising the legacy his old man rendered his wealth from.
Living as the son of the theatrical Uncle Tom, in a time of radical moves to eradicate racial injustice, may have driven Jr. (he definitely wouldn’t like that I called him Jr.) to go on a freeway shooting spree, killing over 20 people before turning the gun on himself. Are you starting to see why we don’t bring this guy up too often?
It’s been a love/hate, (mostly hate) relationship with good ol’ Stepin Fetchit, on one hand, he did the impossible, on the other hand he slowed down progress for social evolution during an extreme battle for equality. In Perry’s case, you win some, and then you lose it all. To end on a positive note, Perry has been recognized with a Hollywood Star and the NAACP provided him with an image award, assuming we are focused on the ‘breaking barriers’ side of his narration.
Premiering on WeTV, this series offers an intimate look into Mowry’s life post-divorce, exploring her journey through singlehood, motherhood, and the expansion of her multifaceted career.
Following her divorce from Cory Hardrict, finalized in April 2023, ‘Tia Mowry: My Next Act’ dives deep into the life of a woman redefining herself. The show, announced in April 2024, focuses on Mowry’s fearless journey of self-discovery. It’s not just about navigating the waters of being newly single but also about embracing new business ventures, dating, and finding personal happiness.
The reality series promises raw authenticity. In the trailer for her upcoming reality show, the ‘Sister, Sister‘ star shares that it’s “not easy” to go through a divorce. “I got tired of people thinking that everything was perfect when it wasn’t,” she says. “You want to know what really happened. I’ll tell you, it ain’t in a headline.”
‘Tia Mowry: My Next Act’ is scheduled to premiere on October 4, 2024, on WeTV and ALLBLK. Watch the trailer below.
In a recent interview with A24, Brandy Norwood has expressed her desire for Halle Bailey, one-half of the R&B duo Chloe x Halle, to portray her in a potential biopic.
Brandy, known for her iconic roles in shows like ‘Moesha’ and her groundbreaking portrayal of Cinderella in the 1997 television movie, has always been a trailblazer in the industry. Bailey, who herself broke barriers by starring as Ariel in Disney’s live-action ‘The Little Mermaid,’ seems like a poetic passing of the torch.
From her early days in music to her transition into acting, Brandy’s life story is rich with material for a compelling biopic. Bailey, with her rising star power and proven vocal and acting chops, seems poised to capture the essence of Brandy’s spirit and struggle.
The announcement has sparked a wave of support on platforms like X, where fans have praised the potential casting. “Legendary Brandy chooses Halle Bailey to star in her biopic! A perfect pick, as Halle’s talent and charisma would bring Brandy’s inspiring story to life in an unforgettable way,” commented one X user.
The decision to cast Bailey as Brandy would be more than just a casting choice; it would be a celebration of legacy and representation. Both Brandy and Halle have been vocal about the importance of representation in media. This potential collaboration between Brandy and Bailey could mark another chapter in Hollywood’s evolving landscape, where stories of Black women are not just told but celebrated, challenging and changing the narratives available to young audiences worldwide.
The highly anticipated first look at the upcoming sports drama film ‘Unstoppable’ has finally been unveiled. Jharrel Jerome and Jennifer Lopez are starring in the lead roles. William Goldenberg is making his directorial debut with this feature, which will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival this September and hit theaters in December.
‘Unstoppable’ tells the inspiring true story of Anthony Robles, a wrestler born with one leg who defies all odds to become a NCAA Division 1 champion. Jerome, known for his role in ‘When They See Us,’ takes on the role of Anthony Robles, while Lopez plays the part of his mother, Judy Robles.
The first-look photos showcase Jerome’s transformation into Robles. The Emmy-winning actor underwent rigorous training to embody the physicality and determination of a real-life wrestler.
‘Unstoppable’ explores the challenges Robles faced growing up, including being born with one leg and facing rejection from his dream school, Iowa. However, with the support of his mother and his own determination, Robles rises to become a champion wrestler, ultimately winning a national championship against the school that rejected him.
The film features an all-star ensemble cast, including Bobby Cannavale, Michael Peña, and Don Cheadle.
According to the official press release, Ben Affleck is producing the film alongside Anthony Robles, the real-life inspiration behind the drama. Robles also acted as a stunt double for Jerome in some of the wrestling scenes.