Zoe Saldana: ‘A Man Is A Want, Not A NEED’ + How She Feels About the Nina Simone Controversy

Actress Zoe Saldana (real name Zoe Yadira Saldaña Nazario) has snagged yet another cover, showing off her natural beauty for Latina Magazine. Late last year, the 34-year-old beauty was involved in a bit controversy, when some suggested that her complexion alone, was reason enough for her to not be casted as Nina Simone.

Outside of an open letter from the late singer’s daughter, critics were pretty vocal about how this role just may be a reach for the actress. In an interview with Latina, she finally speaks out about playing Nina Simone, explaining:

“The reality is that nobody knows the story as to why this collaboration came to be—nobody knows the full story—and at the end of the day all I’m going to say is that every person that is a part of this project came together for no other reason than the unconditional love for Nina Simone’s music…”

And those pesky rumors about her relationship status w/ Bradley Cooper (the two reportedly broke up in 2012)? She’s perfectly content with her relationship status, simply saying:

“I don’t want to need things. I need water, you know what I’m saying? I need to exercise, I need to eat. To be with a man, should be a want. I don’t need anybody.”

That a girl!