‘The Woman King’ Cast on Studio Backlash, Black Women in Hollywood and more

Cast members from the acclaimed new movie The Woman King sat down for an exclusive Town Hall with SiriusXM hosts Sway Calloway, Heather B, Tracy G and Mike Muse. During the special interview, co-stars Viola Davis, Thuso Mbedu, Lashana Lynch and Sheila Atim, plus director Gina Prince-Bythewood, discussed the making of what Viola told us is her “magnum opus.” Additionally, they reflected on the “fight” they endured in light of studio backlash surrounding its production — from the cast’s hair to labels — and how Black actors need to “make choices” to score roles.

Listen to the entire Town Hall on the SXM App for a limited time by searching “Sway in the Morning,” and watch clips from it below now.

Related: Denzel Washington & Viola Davis on Why ‘Fences’ Needed a Black Director

The Woman King follows a group of all-female warriors in the 1800s who protect the African kingdom of Dahomey — with skills and fierceness unlike anything the world has ever seen. Faced with a new threat, Gen. Nanisca trains the next generation of recruits to fight against a foreign enemy that’s determined to destroy their way of life. The movie is being hailed as an Oscar contender and is currently 100% on Rotten Tomatoes.

Viola Davis on Studio Backlash to ‘Woman King’

Viola Davis Sees an Issue with Black Women in Hollywood

Viola Davis: ‘Woman King is my Gift After a 33-year Career’

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