Queen Latifah Gets Completely Nude for ‘Bessie’, Shares Her POV On Gay Rights [Covers Uptown]

Shot by Ari Michelson, Queen Latifah (real name Dana Owens) is literally glowing on the cover UPTOWN. She’s snagged the mag’s Travel issue and chats (with journalist Nikki McGloster) about her upcoming lead role in HBO’s Bessie (a biopic about blues singer Bessie Smith); how she’s handled life after her cancelled talk show and gay rights. Check out a few excerpts.

Having a scene, where she’s completely nude:

It was a little odd but it was also a quiet, relaxing thing. Sometimes she was so alone, and it was a moment for Bessie to acknowledge her vulnerability, which I can completely relate to. When you get to strip it all down and have a moment to yourself, sometimes the world comes crashing down in that little moment, or maybe it’s a moment of peace.

Being comfortable and confident playing HBO’s anticipated Bessie: 

I don’t find [this nude scene] any more uncomfortable than kissing a girl in Set It Off and sticking to the script. You have to take your mind off of yourself and honor that character. Respect Cleo, respect Bessie.

Bessie being bi-sexual:

I’m not really sure how people will feel about [Bessie’s bisexuality]. It’s not like it’s a secret with her story. She was just free.

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