TV Star Javicia Leslie Tells Her Business

Q: You just wrapped up co-starring on Carl Weber’s TV series, “The Family Business.”  What was the experience like?

A: The experience was amazing!!! The character of Paris is the ideal role I’ve wanted since I started acting. I love that she’s a trained assassin, yet still feminine and sexy! This isn’t a common role in Black film and television. We don’t get to see Black women in action often!

Q: You have a very unique first name.  Who named you and is there any special significance behind it?

You look so awesome.  What is your beauty regimen?  Skin, makeup, hair tips.

A: My mom had me in Germany. At the time, she decided not to find out the gender, so she went by what people told her based on how she was carrying. I was a huge baby and I sat low in her stomach. So she thought I was going to be a boy during her entire pregnancy and did not have any girl names. While in labor, a friend asked her if she had any girl names just in case.  She didn’t have any, so “Javicia” was one of the suggested names. She didn’t ask the meaning, so I always say that I’m the meaning.

Q: You look so awesome. What is your beauty regimen?

A: Thank you. I don’t wear make up when I’m not working. So I usually keep it simple with a great moisturizer. Right now I’m using Charlotte Tilbury magic cream during the day, and their night cream at night. Their line is vegan and cruelty free, which is SUPER important to me. My face wash is by Murad. I think the best beauty tip is, you are what you eat. I drink a gallon of water a day, and am on a strictly fruits and veggies diet. I have fun creating tasty vegan dishes that I love posting on my instagram. I was previously pescatarian, but after seeing the lack of care they give with our animal-based foods, I decided to switch to a vegan diet.

Q: How would you describe your personal style in terms of wardrobe?

A: I’m a tomboy. I love sweatsuits, sneakers (I say tennis shoes since I’m from Maryland, lol), baggy jeans and oversized coats. Whenever I do the red carpet or press, I like to go for what I call a “moment”.  I tell my stylist that I’d wear a peacock on my head if it’s for fashion. Only if it’s ok with the peacock, of course.

Q:  You are hilarious!  Now, you are a cast member of “God Friended Me.” What has been that experience been like and can you discuss the message behind the series?

SHE PLAYS JOE MORTON’S DAUGHTER ON
“GOD FRIENDED ME.” CREDIT: CBS

A: “God Friended Me” has been amazing. The show moved me to New York, which is a city I’ve never imagined living in. My cast mates are so talented and a joy to work with. I always say that since Joe Morton plays my dad, that makes me Olivia Pope’s sister. So I definitely have some big shoes to fill. The message behind the show is simple. It’s not about religion, it’s about human connectivity. We all have everything we need in ourselves to help each other!

Q:  As a woman of color are you finding that works is plentiful in film/TV.  You have been fortunate to have landed two back to back series, but what about your peers?

A: As much as it has changed since when I was a child, I never really saw faces that looked like mine, I still think we have a LONG way to go! We are definitely doing better in TV. However, film is still a world that needs more women of color and more stories about women of color.

Q: What do you do for fun?

A: For fun, I cook! I love cooking. I literally can spend the entire day in the kitchen. I always tell people that when I grow up, lol,  I want a large garden where I can grow all of my fruits and veggies and just cook all day for my family. I also love spending time with my dog Judah. He’s a handful and has energy for days.

Q:  What are some of your goals and ambitions for the future?

A: I plan to get into directing. I know having more women of color behind the camera is the best way to make a way for more Black actresses! I want to help lead the way in telling our stories!