Gabrielle Union isn’t pulling back to make anyone feel comfortable, not for the internet or Hollywood’s views on aging. She says what’s on her mind, even if it does cause her publicity team to down a bottle of Maalox.
“I don’t know if it’s a problem or a gift, but I tend to speak unedited and honestly, she exclaimed to EBONY. “I’m just giving you authentic, very transparent answers; maybe it gives my publicist a heart attack, but my soul feels great.”
In January, Union made comments about menopause, admitting that an initial feeling of worthlessness transformed into an empowering experience. It was a quote that quickly divided people online. But standing by her statements, even when they rile others, feels natural for the actress.
On this day, as we sit down to discuss her role in her latest movie, GOAT, she’s commenting on playing Jett Filmore, a seasoned leopard athlete who’s dealing with what people are thinking of you when you hit that certain age.
“I think there’s an idea that as you get older, you become less valuable and that you should take less, or you should be treated any old kind of way and should just be eternally grateful just that they’re still letting you in the building,” she declared.
“I can relate to trying to hold on to your greatness when your body is breaking down. I can relate to wanting to build something grand and having the powers that be thwart you at every step.”
She’s seen it firsthand when dealing with human athletes. “I’ve had a bird’s eye view, with aging athletes and team dynamics, what is helpful and what is not. I could pull from things that I’ve seen that I’ve personally experienced.”
Team dynamics is something Jett has to wrap her head around as a young, smaller animal joins her roar ball team. “Learning how to be a better teammate, that is very relatable to me,” she shared, pointing out that trusting next gen to reach their potential allows you shine as well.
“I’ve seen basketball at its finest around the world at every talent level, and that’s what this world is. Roar Ball is a universal game that everyone, including smalls, should have a chance to excel at.”
Union’s husband, Dwyane Wade, also plays a cameo in the film. “Because I was away filming another project, I didn’t hear his acting voice until I watched the movie,” she shared. “I think it’s always great when we can include each other in what we’re doing. And this seems like a perfect fit, obviously.”
As for their Valentine’s Day plans, they often have double meaning.
“It usually falls around All-Star weekend, and it’s usually something basketball-related. The best one was when he won the All-Star MVP in Dallas, and I only am thinking of this because he keeps that damn trophy nearby in our bedroom,” she quipped.
“I look at it all the time. That’s Valentine’s Day in the Wade household, not the romantic thing that you’re probably thinking of, but that’s our life.”
In true Union fashion, we don’t think she’d have it any other way.
GOAT is in theaters on February 13.