Tasha Smith

Actress Tasha Smith recently interviewed with “Essence Magazine.” Tasha can be currently seen in the movie “The Longshots.” The following is an excerpt from that interview.

ESSENCE.COM: In your latest film "The Longshots," starring Ice Cube and Keke Palmer, your role is not as aggressive as past characters. How did the role challenge you as an actress?

SMITH: Well, I was able to do something different. I often play stronger and extremely vocal characters. I love opinionated women and Claire wasn't necessarily that woman. Some of the other female characters I've played in the past would be upset that Claire chose not to speak up on certain things. Instead, as a single mom, she tries to support and inspire her daughter (Keke Palmer) to the best of her ability to follow her dreams with the help of Ice Cube, who plays Keke's uncle.

ESSENCE.COM: So your character was nonconfrontational. Do you ever worry about being typecast?

SMITH: I don't feel like I get typecast because I know my voice is distinct and I can communicate in a specific way. For example, when you think of Will Smith, he's always saving the world because something about him is heroic. I love the fact that I can be a voice that Black women identify with. I'm drawn to characters that empower women.

ESSENCE.COM: And we love you for bringing those so-called "too strong" Black women to the big screen. Speaking of strong women, what are your thoughts about Michelle Obama?

SMITH: Are you kidding me? She's awesome, dynamic! When we look at what is happening in this country and how powerful Michelle is, c'mon! We have to start inspiring the First Lady within all of us and just representing ourselves as women and respect and influence others as positively as we can.

ESSENCE.COM: Absolutely, and I think you've done that by sharing your testimony about your past as a former stripper. How else are you encouraging young sisters?

SMITH: I am working on finding ways to have an open conversation and be a better influence through the media to affect change. As young actors, we don't mentorship within our industry. A lot of the young women are not being mentored and they see us (actors) and think we are so perfect, like we don't have any issues because we're in movies.

ESSENCE.COM: Sounds like a master plan. How would you suggest your peers in the industry accomplish this?

SMITH: We can utilize our lives by having dialogue with those sisters who are growing up and need to know we aren't much different from them, and help them figure out how they can excel, no matter what industry they are in. I believe we all can help one another do better so we can all be our absolute best. And the only way to accomplish that is by allowing change within ourselves.

To read more of Tasha Smith’s interview with “Essence," visit http://www.essence.com/. Photo courtesy of Mr. D. Blanks.