Many fans were convinced that Taraji appeared on the brink of tears while standing beside Oprah in a viral video. Thus the speculation about This clip surfaced online shortly after her emotional discussion about the pay gap in Hollywood. However, Oprah Winfrey and Taraji P. Henson Deny Feud rumors.
Oprah, Taraji, and the entire cast of The Color Purple are presently embarking on a press tour leading up to the movie’s premiere later this month, scheduled for December 25th. During last week’s press tour, a specific moment left numerous internet users speculating about it.
“I’m just tired of working so hard, being gracious at what I do, [and] getting paid a fraction of the cost,” Taraji explained in an interview, before breaking down in tears. “I’m tired of hearing my sisters say the same thing over and over. You get tired.”
Many fans thought the tension between Taraji and Oprah was because of Taraji’s recent honest comments about pay inequality in Hollywood.
The Trending TikTok Video that Reveals Oprah Winfrey and Taraji P. Henson Deny Feud Rumors
A trending TikTok video captured Taraji and Oprah posing for photos atop the Empire State Building. Viewers pointed out a moment where Oprah glanced briefly at Taraji before diverting her gaze. Some suggested Taraji seemed emotional, facing skyward and seemingly suppressing tears while fluttering her eyelashes. Further into the video, Oprah shifts position to stand alongside actor Danielle Brooks on the outskirts of the group. As she does, her smile noticeably broadens. Meanwhile, cast member Fantasia Barrino seems concerned, glancing towards Taraji. Just a few days before this, Taraji had openly discussed her ongoing struggle for equitable pay in Hollywood despite her extensive success as a Black woman in the industry.
Oprah Winfrey and Taraji P. Henson Deny Feud
However, Oprah Winfrey and Taraji P. Henson are supporting each other amidst the unverified speculation of a feud. Both stars, linked through the upcoming Color Purple musical film, took to Instagram to express mutual admiration for each other’s talents and abilities.
“Taraji’s been an inspiration to me for so long. She has this incredible ability to evoke laughter, tears, cheers, and everything in between,” wrote Winfrey. “But discovering her singing talent? Mind-blowing. Taraji, the actress, is a powerhouse. Taraji, the singer? Stunning.”
Oprah Winfrey Praise for Taraji. P. Henson
Oprah Winfrey and Taraji P. Henson Deny Feud. Winfrey, serving as the producer of the upcoming film and known for her role as Sofia in Steven Spielberg’s 1985 adaptation, commended Henson’s portrayal of Shug Avery, originally played by Margaret Avery.
“Taraji brings a depth to Shug Avery that resonates—a portrayal of someone who not only sings the blues but has lived through them. It’s a performance only Taraji could deliver,” she praised.
Recalling a conversation where Henson shared her late father’s prediction, Winfrey added, “Her father once said, ‘You’ll be one of the greatest actresses alive, but wait until the world hears you sing.’ Taraji, the stage is yours, and I can envision the standing ovations already.
I wholeheartedly welcome Taraji to the Purple Sisterhood, and I’m eager for everyone to experience her interpretation of Shug.”
Taraji P. Henson’s Praise of Oprah Winfrey
Meanwhile, Henson emphasized Winfrey’s influential leadership in the industry. “Ms. OPRAH has been an unwavering source of guidance and support for the entire cast of The Color Purple!!” she expressed. “Her encouragement and steadfast support have been a guiding light for us all.”
Additionally, Henson highlighted Winfrey’s availability and support. “She urged me to reach out for anything I required, and I did!” she recalled.
“It only took ONE CALL… ONE CONVERSATION… and ONE DECISION-MAKING BLACK WOMAN to make me feel truly heard.”
Henson previously shared with EW her aspirations to foster a more inclusive environment for Black women in Hollywood. “I hope that the effort, the fight, and the challenges pave an easier path for them, because I was that little girl who looked up to these incredible women, thinking, ‘I want to be like them someday,'” she expressed. “I don’t want the next generation to face the same struggles my sisters and I did. If I’m not striving to improve things for those who follow, what’s my purpose?”
The Color Purple premiered in theaters on Christmas Day.