Exclusive: Oprah, Taraji P. Henson and More Grace The Color Purple Premiere Carpet In LA [Videos]

Stars of the highly-anticipated “The Color Purple” musical film dazzled at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on December 6 for its world premiere in Los Angeles. The purple carpet event witnessed the presence of key cast members, including Fantasia Barrino as Celie, Halle Bailey as young Nettie, Danielle Brooks as Sofia, alongside original 1985 film stars Oprah Winfrey and Margaret Avery, and director Steven Spielberg.

In an exclusive interview with Baller Alert, Oprah shared her deep connection to the character of Sofia, emphasizing her as the anchor of the story. Oprah praised Sofia’s resilience and self-awareness in the 1920s, a time when societal expectations for women were significantly limited. According to Oprah, Sofia embodies the empowerment at the core of the film, stating, “It’s always Sophia. For me, she is the anchor. She’s a woman who already knew who she was in the 1920s.”

Oprah marveled at Sofia’s ability to stand firm despite the lack of role models or representation. “She represents the essence of what the empowerment of this film is all about,” added Oprah. The media mogul acknowledged the challenges women faced during that era, underscoring Sofia’s determination to defy societal norms.

The star-studded premiere also featured appearances by Taraji P. Henson (Shug Avery), Phylicia Pearl Mpasi (young Celie), Ciara (adult Nettie), H.E.R, Corey Hawkins (Harpo), Colman Domingo, Deon Cole, and producer Scott Sanders.

Taraji P. Henson, who plays Shug Avery, expressed her admiration for the character’s tenderness and sweetness. In the exclusive interview, Taraji said, “What I love most about Shug is her tenderness and her sweetness.”

The 2023 remake of “The Color Purple,” directed by Blitz Bazawule, serves as an adaptation of Alice Walker’s novel and the Broadway musical. Warner Bros. Pictures has described the anticipated film as a “bold new take on the beloved classic” about “the extraordinary sisterhood of three women who share one unbreakable bond.” The original motion picture premiered in 1985, starring Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover, Margaret Avery, and more.

Corey Hawkins, portraying Harpo, shared his personal connection to his character’s development, citing his upbringing by strong black women. Hawkins sees Harpo as an empath and observer who breaks the cycle of trauma. He highlighted Harpo’s representation of “black boy joy” and expressed excitement about his character having a song in the film.

The musical film “The Color Purple” is set for a Christmas Day release this year. Oprah Winfrey anticipates the film’s impact, especially on women, stating, “I think that this is a movie that people will celebrate with their families. But I think women, in particular, will be healed from this movie and its portrayal of sisterhood,” as expressed to ESSENCE.

The purple carpet event showcased the glamour and excitement surrounding the Los Angeles world premiere of The Color Purple, featuring an ensemble cast and Hollywood luminaries celebrating the film’s long-awaited return to the big screen.