Big Sean Brings Grandmother’s Photo to ‘Six Triple Eight’ Premiere, With Real-Life Connection to Tyler Perry’s Film

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Big Sean Brings Grandmother’s Photo to ‘Six Triple Eight’ Premiere, With Real-Life Connection to Tyler Perry’s Film

As a gamer who’s deeply interested in history and has a soft spot for stories of resilience and bravery, I can’t help but feel a profound sense of admiration for the women portrayed in Tyler Perry’s The Six Triple Eight. Growing up, my grandmother was my pillar of strength and inspiration, and to see Big Sean‘s grandmother, who served in the 6888th battalion, has only added fuel to my respect for these incredible women.

At a recent Los Angeles premiere for Tyler Perry’s Netflix war film, The Six Triple Eight, rapper Big Sean shared an intimate tie to the movie’s narrative. Kerry Washington stars as Charity Adams, a historical figure who led the 6888 Central Postal Directory Battalion during World War II and was the highest-ranking African-American woman in the army at that time. Remarkably, Big Sean’s grandmother was among the 855 women who served in the only Women’s Army Corps unit of color during the war.

Big Sean expressed his gratitude to Tyler Perry, stating that the significance of the 6888 battalion in American and Black history is often underappreciated,” Big Sean shared with The Hollywood Reporter while walking the red carpet alongside his mother, each carrying framed photos of his grandmother. “The 6888 battalion played a vital role during wartime, delivering more than 17 million pieces of mail where other means of communication were scarce. These strong Black women served during segregation and fought for their country while dealing with their own struggles.

Big Sean expressed his pride not only towards his grandmother but also towards all the women who have influenced him significantly. He’s proud to have been raised by robust Black women whose strength is deeply ingrained within him, and he remains eternally thankful for this experience. This evening is particularly emotional for him.

There was a palpable excitement among the relatively inexperienced actors from the film, such as Ebony Obsidian from Sistas, who plays Lena Derriecott King. She had the opportunity to meet Lena Derriecott King, a member of the battalion, on her 100th birthday on January 27, 2023. Sadly, King passed away just before her 101st birthday on January 18 this year.

Obsidian stated to THR, ‘She was an exceptional woman.’ She was graceful, wise beyond her years, and remarkably articulate for her age. She wasn’t typical of what we might expect at her stage in life, which says a lot about her experiences, her resilience, and the wisdom she still had to offer. This film is dedicated to her – it embodies her spirit.

King’s tale provided Perry with the initial inspiration when he started penning the movie script, which he later directed after being presented with the story of the 6888 through a promotional video from Nicole Avant, who is one of the film’s producers. Avant is married to Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos. (Paraphrased)

Perry revealed that it took two weeks to compose the script. This was due to an immediate trip to Vegas to collaborate with Lena King, who is 99 years old. Despite not knowing what to anticipate, Perry found her lucid and clear. She shared a story about herself and Abram, which struck Perry as the perfect starting point, and they began developing from there. Once he had all the necessary details, the narrative flowed effortlessly from him,” Perry said to THR.

Apart from Washington, King also had an opportunity to converse with her over Zoom. This moment was particularly significant for the actress because she used to portray the war hero as part of her Black History Month social media series “Black Her Story,” even before she realized a movie was being developed about her. It was actually her photograph that attracted Perry’s attention, leading him to send her the same promotional video (sizzle reel) that Avant had sent him.

Washington expressed enthusiasm about the movie role, saying, ‘Wow, I’m familiar with these women! This is a project I want to be a part of.’ Playing Charity Adams is an incredible opportunity, one I feel deeply grateful for. Tyler considering me for this role and trusting me with her legacy is truly an honor. Being involved as an executive producer and offering additional support only adds to the excitement.

For a number of years, Perry has played an important role in Washington’s career, and it was Perry who stood by Washington’s side as she received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame this past week.

Washington expressed that Tyler Perry has been a remarkable blessing to his career. When the opportunity for “For Colored Girls” presented itself, he was on the verge of quitting acting altogether, feeling like there was nothing more for him. However, Perry persuasively encouraged him to continue, saying “Uh, uh, uh, uh, uh, uh.” Perry is truly exceptional, and has been a fantastic collaborator and outstanding director throughout their work together.

The star went on to say, ‘I couldn’t have delivered the acting I did in this movie without him, and I’m incredibly proud of it.’ He was insistent, as we were, that viewers wouldn’t associate my performance with any of the other memorable characters I’ve portrayed. He encouraged me to try things I hadn’t attempted before, like modifying my voice, stance, and overall approach. I am deeply thankful for his influence. Beyond being a colleague, he is also a dear friend, and I value our friendship above all.

The Six Triple Eight premieres on Netflix on Dec. 20.

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2024-12-04 09:54