Cicely Tyson is a long-standing African-American actress, with a career which has lasted seven decades in the American screen. Aside longevity, she is known for her portrayal as a strong black woman in movie roles which in turn has earned her love and respect in the hearts of many, an inspiration to many women both young and old.
Tyson spoke “I am a firm believer in Divine guidance” in an interview with OWN Oprah’s Master Class OWN Oprah’s Master Class.
Several years ago she made similar statements about how she landed her acting career without knowing all what there is but believed that it was part of a divine plan to an inspiring life purpose. And she proves it with her actions because she puts her whole heart at what she does beyond the fame or glitz.
Before she takes on a role she puts it to a test, an instinctual test.
“Either my skin tingles or my stomach turns,” says Tyson “If my skin tingles, I know it’s something that I must do. If my stomach turns, I know it is something that I cannot do. With this “skin-tingling” she accept roles to which she truly feels a connection as a dynamic Award winning actress that she is.
Her many feature credits also include Diary of a Mad Black Woman,The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter, Fried Green Tomatoes, Because of Winn-Dixie, Hoodlum,, Madea’s Family Reunion, Why Did I Get Married Too?, The Help and Alex Cross and lots more.
Tyson won the Emmy for best lead actress in a drama as well as a special Actress of the year for CBS 1974 telepic The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman. she has also received an honorary Oscar at the Governor’s Awards, the latest in a lifetime’s worth of accolades that includes the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the NAACP’s Spingarn Award, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and countless NAACP Image Awards and honorary doctorates.
“I have learned from every single character that I’ve played,” she continues. “Something emotionally, spiritually and psychologically true.”
She therefore ensures to take roles that are transformational for herself, and the world. It is no wonder she stands out as a queen mother to lots of women as she carries herself with grace, confidence and worth.
“I’ve never done a job just for money,” she says. “I could not do anything that would not enhance humanity — especially women.”
She turns 96 this year.
Ladies!! what a Queen.
•Pamela Mbata
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