by Dr. Boyce Watkins, YourBlackWorld.com
Richard Lawson of Gawker.com recently discussed Oprah Winfrey’s interest in returning to Broadway.
“I have a stack of plays in my bag right now that I am reading,” Winfrey told the Chicago Tribune. “And just this past weekend, I was in New York meeting with producers. We were just talking about what would be the best route to take. But yes, this is really going to happen. … Life is too short.”
Winfrey mentions the play “Fences” to be of interest and also said that she has a preference for ensemble productions.
Personally, I saw nothing wrong with Oprah’s statements. She’s been in quite a few films before, has the ability to draw an audience, and possesses a work ethic like no other. But Lawson didn’t see things the same way.
“Oprah, in a Broadway play! Just think of it. Oh god, just think of it. My prayers go out to all the ticket sellers out there. May it be a short run,” said Lawson.
In this video, I explain why Mr. Lawson is wrong to bet against Oprah Winfrey. You can’t presume failure for a woman who has spent her entire life overcoming the odds. I also discuss how Oprah helps all of us to define what it means to be truly great.
Dr. Boyce Watkins is a Professor at Syracuse University and founder of the Your Black World Coalition. To have Dr. Boyce commentary delivered to your email, please click here.
