Halle Berry Reflects on Oscar Win, Offers Advice to Cynthia Erivo
Halle Berry recently discussed the impact of her historic Oscar win and offered advice to fellow actress Cynthia Erivo. Berry shared these insights during a profile interview ahead of her new thriller, “Crime 101.”
Erivo has received two Oscar nominations, while Berry holds the distinction of being the first and only Black woman to win the Best Actress Oscar for her role in “Monster’s Ball.”
Historic Win, Enduring Barriers
Berry stated that her Oscar win did not significantly alter the trajectory of her career.
She noted that despite the win, she continued to encounter racial barriers in the industry. Directors often expressed concerns about casting Black women and the potential impact on international sales.
Advice for Fellow Nominee Cynthia Erivo
Berry advised Erivo, who had her own Oscar nominations, that while she deserved the recognition, an Oscar might not fundamentally change her life. It should not serve as the sole validation for her work.
Disappointment Over Lack of Follow-Up Wins
Berry has consistently expressed disappointment regarding the lack of follow-up wins for Black women in the Best Actress category since her own victory.
She has described herself as “eternally miffed” and “continually saddened” by this trend, asserting that many Black actresses have delivered deserving performances.
Michelle Yeoh is the only other woman of color to have won the Best Actress Oscar.
Berry has previously highlighted performances by Black women she considered Oscar-worthy. These include Cynthia Erivo in “Harriet,” Ruth Negga in “Loving,” Andra Day in “The United States vs. Billie Holiday,” and Viola Davis in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.”
A Personal Heartbreak
She questioned whether her win held significance beyond her personal achievement, as it did not appear to open doors for other Black women in the way she had hoped.
Berry described this as “one of my biggest heartbreaks,” stating that despite her award, she had to continue forging her own path in the industry.