Teraji P. Henson

May 2019 

Teraji P. Henson article 

Daswick, Tyler. “Teraji P Henson,” Relevant Magazine, Relevant Media Group, May-June 2019. 

Acting lessons from a magazine on faith and culture? Maybe not that much of a stretch when you think about it critically, but I must admit I was surprised by the practical and spiritual advice offered in this succinct article and interview of the actor Teraji P. Henson. Packed into a single page, this article spoke about how Henson’s faith has radically shaped the way she acts, even in roles that “good Christians” shouldn’t be acting in, such as Cookie Lyons from the show Empire, or a role as an assassin in Proud Mary. What she has to say about these roles is that far from her faith hindering her ability to play these characters, it is an anchor for her to hold onto, and is in many ways the key to her success. “You can’t judge.” she says when talking about these roles, “You actually have to think like Jesus and love them, and if you love them the audience will have empathy. They’ll have a transformation and a cathartic moment because you love the character unconditionally.” 

I really appreciate Henson’s point of view, she has managed to find a way of being a respected actress and outspoken Christian in the same breath. I found this article inspiring for anyone who wants to pursue excellence in faith and in an artistic pursuit.