Oprah Winfrey, has disputed allegations made by actress Taraji P. Henson about a reported feud and problematic conditions on the set of this year’s musical, The Color Purple. Speaking to Entertainment Tonight, Winfrey emphasised her commitment to the film and its crew, stating she went beyond her duty to ensure everyone involved in the production had what they needed.
“People are saying that I was not supporting Taraji. Taraji will tell you herself that I’ve been the greatest champion of this film… So whenever I heard that there was something that someone needed … I’m not in charge of the budget because that’s Warner Bros…”, said Winfrey.
Winfrey, who was not only a star of the 1985 version of The Color Purple but also the producer of the 2023 remake, made it clear that she dealt with concerns raised during production, including issues about rental cars and food for the cast and crew.
These claims by Winfrey contrast with the allegations made by Taraji P. Henson and Danielle Brooks, both stars of The Color Purple, who have spoken out about subpar on-set conditions. Henson revealed in an interview with The New York Times that the cast was provided with rental cars to transport themselves to and from the set, a move she called an “insurance liability”. Further, she detailed how she lobbied for better working conditions for everyone on set.
Henson added, “So I was like, ‘Can I get a driver or security to take me?’ I’m not asking for the moon… well, do it for everybody! It’s stuff like that, stuff I shouldn’t have to fight for.”
Echoing Henson’s sentiments, Danielle Brooks also expressed her concerns about the working conditions during the filming of The Color Purple, emphasizing the lack of individual dressing rooms and appropriate food during rehearsals. However, she expressed gratitude to both Winfrey and Henson for taking action.
Despite these concerns, The Color Purple has garnered significant attention since its release in theatres on December 25, 2023, by Warner Bros. Pictures.
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