Mo'Nique Explains The 'Empire' Situation And Her Thoughts On Taraji P. Henson As Cookie

[@AureliaBessard]

She didn't sound angry or bitter at all. She is simply defending her character because people are accusing her of lying and saying she wasn't offered a part or parts that in fact she was. Whether or not she fit the role is another thing altogether. Hands down Taraji P Henson is playing the heck out of that role and I couldn't envision any other actors other than the ones cast in the series Empire. People just like to attack people for whatever reason. I support both Mo'Nique and Taraji.

[@LENDEH283773]

I know right. Taraji and Mo'Nique are close friends and it's sad how people love to make up all these crazy stories just to get some kind of attention.

[@sugarplum9208]

Abayomi Bomani Right its horrible. We haven't had any mainstream black shows since The Parkers and Moesha. The last big ones werE Thats So Raven and The Proud Family but those were kids shows. Now that we have Empire, people want to try to tear it down and pin them against each other. Its horrible.

[@manwomanboogie]

You are 1000% Right!! I totally agree with You. She isnt bitter, but i feel like She is hurt, and i believe that her character of resilience will redeem her.

[@cathom001]

Me too.

[@ChampAnderson]

True.

[@jonrichdoe84]

If you ever notice Monique story NEVER changed.

[@BC-ww6gc]

It never does

[@lizmorrison9393]

It's because the truth don't change.

[@kdeezo326]

Consistently USUALLY represents the truth.

[@sophiegoode8290]

Because the truth never changes changes NEVER...JUDGE JUDY

[@beverlywaits7663]

Exactly, Because The Truth is Gospel 🙏🏾🙏🏾❤️

[@ty-na2173]

Who else here after seeing Taraji crying about pay? Monique is a beautiful brave black woman! Thank you.

[@sabrina.natalie]

Monique is so articulate and intelligent. I admire her ability to be so composed, rational, calm, and level-headed when speaking about a situation that angers and saddens her. She is absolutely incredible, and I appreciate her transparency and vulnerability.

[@anitawallace265]

Ditto

[@jortalportal2834]

This is not Monique. This is God. Nobody has the strength to do what she's done. This is a miracle, and she is operating under the power of the Holy Spirit. She is exposing the most evil people in the film industry. But she's winning. Oprah, Spielberg, Tyler Perry and Lee Daniels are toast. They will never escape this. I have wondered why this has gone on over 100 years.

[@AmarZion]

She isn’t always calm though

[@dionowens123]

I get Mo'Nique 100%! She not "complaining" she telling the truth.

[@slater1ist]

she been real since day one. she's telling the truth. JUST THE SAME as if Halle Berry gets the role over Taraji. Taraji would have been saying he same thing cus she is real too.

[@marthajane6617]

Cris LeRoi He is a backdoor deposit, what do you expect. I think Lee Daniels has a problem with people not kissing up to him. Lee is a slave owned by the masters and in reality, he makes films that please the godless holocaust screamers, yet have no conscience when it comes to others history. With the lifestyle Lee is living, his life is a living hell, and karma is lethal.

[@marthajane6617]

The previous comment, should have been GET THE HELL OUT OF PALESTINE.

[@SicxLoc76ECC]

+MD Yeah ppl tend to confuse tellin' the truth opposed to complainin'

[@Chicago48]

Telling the truth over and over all over the place for 5 years and she's still where she is. While others have moved on to prosperity.

[@melliemel32]

I think Mo'Nique really tries to not be a hater. I like how she's trying to look at all sides of it. God bless you Mo.

[@anngreen9772]

Mel L 8

[@melviasheppard8466]

She's a BEAUTIFUL WOMAN !!!!!! I'm proud of everything that I have seen her act in.

[@annmorrissette8313]

Mel L

[@faafafineartist]

being difficult = cannot be controlled

[@kevvdallas9705]

Simply....Monique isn't selling her soul for money.

[@reignsupreme7686]

FACTS

[@alexandriap6132]

Right on

[@mosesthomas4331]

@@kevvdallas9705 that's what they called difficult. Cause she's more intrested in the integrety, and the truth.

[@UrbanAfricano93]

Preach

[@unfiltered8407]

The way 90% of this comment section OWE Monique an apology. Taraji is now coming out saying the exact same thing Monique said in this video. Taraji out here crying about how they underpaid and financially cheated her on Empire. Monique, God got you sis. Hollywood getting exposed now!👏👏👏

[@bobococo89]

I agree! NEVER once did I doubt Mo’Nique. I always side eyed Oprah and Tyler Perry since

[@jellygurl27]

Yes indeed. She has been saying this for years. Now we see the Hollywood strike and many Black women speaking. She deserves credit.

[@wisethabrain1100]

FOH these woman think they box office draws n THEY NOT both are good actress but stop it…if NO ONE is paying u your # perhaps u should rethink your value

[@unfiltered8407]

@@wisethabrain1100 they are arguing in favor of their value AND the work they put in which the pay should fairly equate to. It’s crazy because you have someone like Zendaya who’s acting is a lackluster, but she’s a hot/youthful girl with a lot of pull and obsessed fans still riding with her from Disney days. She got paid $350,000 for saying 1LINE in the movie Dune (…literally 1LINE), while Viola was just in the recent Hunger Games movie and delivered dialogue in a good 1/3rd of film yet was only paid $250,000k. The leading younger stars of the Hunger Games movie are no-names/new faces that nobody knows. The only people with pull in this movie were Viola and Peter Dinklage (the dwarf from Game Of Thrones)-rest of the cast is unknown. So yes, these women are still have pull in the box office and are still UNPAID when they carry a bulk of the film.

[@unfiltered8407]

@@wisethabrain1100 and Viola was also another black female to talk about the eff’d up pay disparity for black women in Hollywood.

[@RaiRaiBrown]

I've met Monique she gave me the most wonderful hugs and picture. Now, I don't know how she is to work with professionally, but I definitely hope to see her in many more films or television roles.

[@jaelynwilson7268]

I feel like Taraji needed that role because HONESTLY Empire is like a spin off of that good ole Hustle & Flow

[@sweetie1753]

Jaelyn Wilson I said the same thing

[@SSA244]

Exactly

[@nickiwilliams7121]

Yesss agree she has not lost her touch not one bit. I love her because she goes so hard for her family an her Empire.

[@allthatremains4123]

Been saying that so long hell when the trailer came out that's what I thought empire was gonna be

[@olliasilvaollia9389]

oh

[@josephpearson7164]

Mo'Nique represents herself very well.

[@terrywalker2437]

"I don't want to diminish the value of my words by using profanity."

[@yandiemathebula]

Terry!!!

[@daysturn1971]

Monique looks so pretty without make-up.

[@daysturn1971]

***** She does. When she's being glamorous, she she use a lighter palette so it wont hide her features.

[@cominroitover80]

Russy Jody sista has a very pretty nose

[@daysturn1971]

She does

[@reneewright6956]

And a great shiny forehead.

[@daysturn1971]

Renee Wright Don't we all?

[@Rosaninyei]

Love you Monique. That was such a mature answer. Don't let people but anything between you and Taraji

[@Ayesha_Michelle]

The fact this interview is still so relevant to what we’re seeing artist speak about is bananas❤Always believed and supported Monique, she is a truth teller❤

[@janellegrace5815]

"I'm so okay with us"- Mo'Nique love that line, beautifully said

[@pearl768]

I will always rock with Mo'Nique because I love someone who keeps it real and stands her ground. He didn't make her and he can't take her!!!!

[@preciousbabydoll9793]

I truly have so much love and respect for Mo'nique . She's truly not a hater. Yes I agree no one could play a better Cookie than Taraji P; Henson. I do believe Mo'nique was offered those two roles , but being rejected because she was difficult is not believable. I simply love the way the brother in grey speaks, so positive and intelligent. Mo'nique is excellent in all her endeavors and her mind set should be nothing but truly admired. Proud of this inspiring woman.

[@allflagsmatter5569]

Mo'Nique has played better serious roles than a lot of black actresses who aren't comediennes or comedic actresses. She just refuses to do 21st century blackface.

[@vickylittles6714]

NOW THAT'S 💯

[@kenyattafolkes5891]

Love u Mo

[@iamhida493]

I really like how Monique is supportive of her sister, though. she said that the role was meant for her and no one can play Cookie like Taraji. Some roles just aren't meant for certain actors/actresses. Cookie was meant for Taraji...and Precious's mom was meant for Monique. Much respect to both of them. Both of these women are beautiful/talented actresses and one isn't better than the other. Much respect!

[@jsanders2004]

Monique has my full support! i love the fact that she didnt sellout like most others do! When she said "I was so happy to be with 'us" ...she was saying...she was happy to showcase black talent because mainstream america will never give us the recognition we deserve. This is why I always loved Monique...unlike others who just simply gossip

[@nope.4254]

I think Lee Daniels wanted to use Mo'Nique within his platform of work and Mo'Nique was content within her life and what she does. Not everyone is out to chase millions. You find that people who come from tough backgrounds more so just want to be happy first and foremost. The rest is all fun and games. Icing on the cake. A bonus. lol You can't have a plan for someone and be pissed because they aren't willing to play the game you have to play to set yourself up in a better situation. There's more to life than rubbing shoulders with people who just NEED you for their own goals.

[@coolbreeze3769]

Nobody is better suited for that role than Taraji. She has great range as an actress. But in Monique's defense, nobody was better suited for that role in Precious than her. Everything ain't for every-damn-body!

[@preciousbabydoll9793]

+Cool Breeze You are so on point !!!

[@nyeshasewell8577]

💯💯💯💯

[@jerseyboy2724]

I agree

[@jeromeholloman8089]

agreed!!!

[@ninavictoria6805]

Cool Breeze U clearly have selective hearing. Monique never indicated in anyway that she would be better for the role as Cookie.

[@wileshamiller9708]

MoNique, I am proud of you for standing up. The entertainment world need you. Keep your head up!

[@derekllp23]

Here is a Black woman who is trying to stand up for herself, and all you crabs can do is talk bad about her. Notice, she's not yelling, she's not screaming, she's not sounding mad. She sounds like a woman who is trying to make a point, and she does so very well. Maybe you guys are just such fans of Empire, that you don't want to accept what she's saying .

[@Kiki-hb7lx]

I totally agree with you Derek L.

[@joanofarc33]

Derek L. She doesn’t have to sound mad to be mad.

[@MatterOfFact1930]

Sheeple .....shield yourself ....theyre everywhere

[@MatterOfFact1930]

@@joanofarc33 but thats the point.....she knows how to contain and maintain her composure.....black woman is already sterotyped as always angry so whos gonna really listen to a woman letting her emotions out all over the place when they cant even listen to hear and understand when shes composed.

[@edwinagray4373]

Karma kicked in... Jussie's fake set-up put the nail in the Empire coffin and his career.. And, yeah, he's lying. Oprah digging up MJ, Gail's interview w/ R. Kelly, who needs enemies. Mo tried to tell us.

[@tammieclayton8283]

Im here after hearing Tarji cry and my siata here been saying FOR YEARS AND WAS BLACKBALLED!!!!❤

[@charlesmusau8160]

Mo'nique is the realest love that woman she always keeps it 100 true fan....most talented black woman in Hollywood

[@latashamarie6656]

You have a to be 100% woke to understand what she is saying. To many people take money over respect.

[@lovemeorhateme7533]

👏👏👏 couldn't have said it better

[@gusiinteldistillationbroadcast]

I agree! If one has spiritual discernment, U will see clearly beyond the curtain of Hollywood cult.next level is not just that! Our people have been robbed their God given moral character by just a mussel of mainstream opportunity. Another question if Hollywood is not interested with one’s talents, what’s it for. Saying it’s about the network 🤔🤔🤔why don’t they explain this to our people first when auditioning them to make conscious choice whether deep their tongue in ghost pepper or not. I’m so proud of Monique and husband only you who knows the heat and fight you’re against

[@ElroyTheGemini]

I disagree.

[@albread]

Tasha Bynum l agree but with respect you have to do good business and have class.

[@heidimeyers9478]

Steve is reaping what he has SOWN. He has NO INTEGRITY. SHOUT OUT TO QUEEN MO NIQUE

[@nitarobinson9511]

THIS WOMAN IS SO LOVELY INSIDE AND OUT...AND SHE IS INTELLECTUAL AS WELL...SHE KNOWS HER WORTH AND NOT WILLING TO COMPROMISE HERSELF..FOR THE WEALTH AND FAME DO MANY ENTERTAINERS DO THIS AS A BLACK WOMAN I ADMIRE HER FOR THIS...AND LEE DANIELS SHOULD BE ASHAME OF HIMSELF.....I KNOW ITS ALL THE MONEY FOR THESE GUYS BUT WJAT ASHAME WHEN YOU BRING SOMEONE ELSE DOWN WHEN THEY DON'T PLAY YOUR GAME.....ITS ALL THIS BEHIND THE DOOR SHIT WE DONT SEE TAKING PLACE...BUT PEOPLE SUPPORT THIS BEHAVIOR UNKNOWINGLY WHEN WE PLACE TOO MUCH VALUE ON SOMEONES SUCCESS AND DONT KNOW THE HELL THEY WENT THRU TO ACHIEVE IT. STAND UP FOR YOURSELF IS WHAT I GET FROM HER AND BE PUT IN A PLACE YOU DON'T WANT TO BE. THANK YOU MO'NIQUE FOR BEING REAL !!!!!!

[@nyag1764]

Wow, this woman's countenance is outstanding. Most unfortunately, the "angry black woman" label is immediately slapped upon most any black woman attempting to address fallacy. I'm so glad that Ms. Mo’Nique maintained her composure, thus disproving the societally perpetuated notion that black woman are belligerent. I believe the issue of who got what role is a non-point as all of these actors involved are each enormously successful in their own right. I just hope that the writers, directors, producers, etc., consider the true, yet hidden matters at hand and choose to be objective and realistic about the underlying issues that affect the actors and the roles they obtain (and are unable to obtain) and choose to propagate unity rather than division and selfish ambition.

[@Hollablackgirl93]

Monique is tired if playing the stereotypical black woman on TV! this is obvious.

[@preciousbabydoll9793]

+Diona Stampley- I agree and she should be respected and admired for that.

[@sophisticatedlady3376]

Yes, and people will say you're difficult when you stand up for yourself and your right to be respected.

[@atndaguba]

+patricia m she is NOT ugly. What an unnecessary thing to say. Not every role is for sticks and bones. I do think she made some over sentimental choices though. Progress does not mean you are selling out those who supported you in the past. If anything, it puts you in a place where you can empower and inspire them. Love you Monique. Don't drink the kool aid of enemies of progress. You were made for the world stage. Go get yours!!!!!

[@kylerreynolds911]

But she looks like a prototypical black woman she is not a sexy fine gorgeous chick with good hair she's a big fat black chick who happens to be kind of cute in her own way with hair and makeup and stuff like that but she's only going to get rose that physically she fits and verbally she fits she tries to sound politically correct which is good that she's able to put together words and have a strong vocabulary but she does not look the part for a serious drama or biography Ty trolls so she just gets what she looks like and sounds like take those rolls make your money and live happy and stop complaining

[@clintonmiller8346]

She deserves so much more!!!

[@wendytriumph]

SHE IS SO GENUINE & AUTHENTIC WITH EVERYTHING SHE DOES & SAIDS! I LOVE YOU MoNique!!

[@SnoopVee]

I love how supportive her husband is. I will ALWAYS support Monique

[@natasha275]

did the good amount of people commenting here not get what Mo'nique was going on about? I don't think Mo'nique is bitter about not being able to be apart of Empire or play Cookie BUT the way they called her "difficult" or vehemently denied the fact that Mo'nique was considered to be apart of Empire even though they did. What's wrong with offering Mo'nique a role in Empire? Sure if she played Cookie it wouldn't be the same Cookie we know now but that's the beauty in those who act. They can take the same character and portray them differently.

[@Liberalshinigami]

I saw Monique as taking Gabourey Sidibe's role. She would be better for that

[@clovisbond9145]

Liberalshinigami lol thats funny lol

[@Liberalshinigami]

Clovis Bond I didn't mean it like that lol. Monique seems sassier and can make that role more lively haha

[@janetwashington2561]

Klkolkiaerimmujiukiuiuuu

[@mimisha24]

+natasha275 My guess is that they told Taraji that the role was only offered to her so they don't want to get caught in a lie.

[@leighatl3277]

I love Sydney's demeanor. He always speaks objectively and well balanced. Monique has a good partner in her corner.

[@ftibbs78]

Lee Daniels, a black man, really tried to get the masses to play into a typical black woman stereotype by calling her "difficult" really. I always thought that was called being a mature adult or being grown and comfy in ur skin. She had an independent thought and made a decision on her own. Wow, imagine that.... and Kudos to Mo'Nique for answering this in a classy way. xoxoxoxoxo

[@Gr8LilLady]

Let's face it! Lee Daniels is TOOoo confused to even know that he is A MAN! Nor does he want to be. As for his casting, he works to please the enemy. If it takes setting his own folks especially black women a thousand yrs back to get a Dollar that is EXACTLY what he will do! 😢😡

[@djdelante9924]

I love Monique, she more woke than a bear coming out of hibernation

[@handl3_me]

Too right 💯

[@starroguex6006]

Corny ass quite wtf is wrong with you

[@judethaddeus9856]

She is lmao I guess « woke » has a definition now

[@ljmnukwa9350]

😂

[@lwilliams7570]

Monique is not complaining, she is explaining!!! Stand your ground!!!

[@CapricornKidd90]

Exactly

[@formerlyknownas123]

Monique has developed into a beautiful spirit. I wish you much success and joy Mrs. Monique. God bless

[@latoyadavis7707]

I respect Mo’Nique for standing her ground and holding he integrity even through it all.

[@sweetdreamscr]

this aged so well lol, love you Mo, you were so brave

[@zv8381]

I am super proud of her. She is standing up for herself. Money v.s, morale character? I'm not sure, but I loved how confident and well poised she was in this interview.

[@danninicole85]

Monique is a sweetheart very loving and supportive to all. Pretty shady no one supports her. But I'm very happy she cleared this up. ppl think the worst of her based off rumors.

[@rockyblaq510]

Ms. Monique is a real queen and she stands for something and always keeps it SOLID!! Gotta love that, integrity over money!

[@LaCheleWallace]

Dang. Kelly Price was saying the exact same thing. The truth is, Mo is big so she should just go along with everything they say. When you're dealing with somebody that has integrity, you'll end up losing. Lee wanted Mo to decrease in talent because he felt like it all belonged to him. I don't really care for Taraji simply because she kind of gets annoying at times, but if Mo was on Empire, please. I would've been all in. Excellent interview.

[@Gr8LilLady]

Some of us have had the Blessing of living long enough to know lies from truth! The enemy will do ANYTHING to destroy your level of HONESTY & INTEGRITY! To NO AVAIL. Truth will ALWAYS prevail! God Bless you Monique! 🥰🙏🙌🏽

[@christiancohen1602]

I love Monique.... I think she portrays every character beautifully.

[@lvngitcouture]

Mo'Nique you are stunning without makeup. Love you ;-)

[@faieyeager5928]

I like how Monique ain't afraid 2 be seen w/o makeup! And she's down 2 earth.

[@faieyeager5928]

I like how Monique ain't afraid 2 be seen w/o makeup! And she's down 2 earth.

[@marymargaretblumhorst5359]

I just like GLAMOUR! You look wonderful without it Mo, but remember, make up also protects your skin.

[@swacfan100]

I'm glad Mo'Nique made it clear that its nothing but love between her & Taraji. ''Divide And Conquer'' is what THEY specialize in when it comes to us, & is all they're trying to do to two beautiful & talented sistahs. #StayStrongMoNique

[@lisahoskin6449]

I Love Monique's Straightforwardness! We need more Black People to take a Stand!

[@king53070]

I used to do stand up with Mo in Baltimore back in the day when she first was getting started. I knew she was gonna blow up because she took the craft super serious. Trust me I knew her then and she ain’t change one bit. And I know she’s sincerely humble grateful appreciative and thankful. When my Dad was dating Oprah she told him she was gonna blow up and she did but she dump my Dad because he wouldn’t bow-down to her. Which he regretted before he died but he made me understand never lose yourself for someone else and trust me I know he broke Oprah’s heart like a lot of men have but she brought it on herself I wish them all love n peace but really there’s no beef. And if Mo wanted do Mo we all would have her back and support her because she is real and talented.

[@Slove4umyboolovey]

I love Monique she's so awesome

[@napptyme8961]

And this is why Monique is so successful, she walks with LOVE

[@HaitianBlackGinger11]

@Pamela Morris Oh.... it's working for her. All in timing.

[@Gemininmyblood]

Yes YES MONIQUE!!!! YES! This is something alot of people dont understand about integrity and dignity also self-respect. Keep it 100.

[@Christoz9]

Now taraji out here crying 😢

[@janemataese7706]

If you listen to the whole interview she is not talking about Taraji as her role as Cookie, she is speaking on what happened behind the scenes with Lee Daniels. And you really never know how the show would've turned out if she got the part. #OneLove

[@blaqthoven100]

I love Monique strong black woman ain't for the fuckery in hollywood

[@toulourjacques6013]

I tieuejysobtfediolvgsdkd Urhyofrdagiklbcbjddsu

[@IAMMOVIN4WARD]

I got so much love for Mo'Nique and I pray she gets her redemption with this new movie called "Bessie!"

[@streetsales23]

Difficult in Hollywood means: Hard to enasave and control.

[@allthingschanice2485]

Even at our everyday jobs.

[@FAGBOUTIQUE]

Love love love Mo'Nique. Classy stand! Ase'

[@paulhaye]

I love Monique. She is a genuine talent. Her comedic timing is great. I hope I can see much, much more of her. Stay up girl.

[@IAmEverythang]

Best of Luck with all things Mo'Nique, this seemed genuine. Just keep it moving that wasn't the first role you didn't get and it wont be the last. This can be said for every Actor or Actress.

[@QueenUglyDuckling]

What's really going on? Mo'Nique was really blacklisted because she thought she could pull a Gwyneth Paltrow or a Reese Witherspoon and get away with it? IAmEv3rythang is it true she was so called blacklisted due to her allegedly being accused of being a diva? Only black chick that could probably get away w/that that i know of is Halle Berry. I'm saying...they say...ususally when an actor wins a Golden Globe...that their stock value in the acting industry goes up (or is supposed to go up). I guess...for whatever reason (maybe due to Halle being allowed to get away with that), Mo'Nique's stock was supposed to go up...idk...sorry...Mo"Nique isn't Reese Witherspoon nor Cameron Diaz...

[@yCh1057]

People keep missing what Monique is saying! She is supportive of other actors, but she won't allow people to make it as if she was never a thought when behind closed doors she was. I love Monique and I think she is one of the realest people you will ever meet.

[@deeelo5501]

U know u 2 should b a part of the United Nations. U show a lot of integrity, COMMON SENSE, respect and u voice ur truth very well PLUS u always have proof to back up WHAT u r talking about. If more people operated these attributes n their lives there wouldn't b gun violence and more could live n harmony. My parents communicated like this and I love and support it

[@clintonmiller8346]

She deserves so much more!!! There is Nobody like her...

[@kayhayhappy6837]

Awesome conversation! ms.Monique has a great support system with her right hand man/ husband. The truth is always revealed. Love ya Monique!

[@lisahayden1355]

I truly believe, Lee Daniel was playing a mind game by offering her the job as cookie. He never intended to give her that job he intended that the disappointment would hurt her

[@theelondonallen]

We love u Monique...we see your humility keep being a light Queen

[@DENEENCRUFF2]

Mrs.Monique this was a absolutely awesome interview well done and well said, I love your work and you, actually when you has your show, I was trying to get on so I could present you with a portrait that I have done of you from the Oscars, so proud of you, continued blessings and success respectfully Deneen

[@nikkitobin8356]

Monique is such an intelligent strong black woman ... Her heart is pure love with everybody.... Sounds like i can use her character in all waks of my life ... I SALUTE u my sister HIGH FIVE

[@monroewhittiii805]

God bless the sista Monique stay strong keep ya guard up we riding with ya.

[@poetparagraph]

Smh they trying to do this sister dirty

[@tammygaddis84]

Yea it's sad

[@sogansta10]

They do. I respect that she wont play the game.

[@imancampbell3207]

***** Yup I agree with you 100%.

[@imancampbell3207]

Cris LeRoi LOL but so true!

[@kennethlatty2752]

Yes they did

[@JRenee-Sings]

Monique is so courageous. Some people feel like she just a sore loser and she snitching but people need to realize she was done wrong,... period PAY MO !

[@christinejohnson3433]

I like Monique. She keeps it real.

[@demarioda1]

I'm so tired of people saying that Monique could never play Cookie. This woman is an incredible actress. She would have been amazing as Cookie. People forget about how funny she is. I keep thinking how funny it would have been to see her in that scene where Cookie has lingerie on under her coat. I'll take humor over sex appeal any day of the week. She would have given Cookie a completely different personality.

[@tonyabutler4741]

***** *SCREAMING* Boflllllll😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@garyboston2228]

Bye Felicia! I loves me some Monique... I believe she is beautiful and talented... I don't know if she could have played Cookie. But, I am so happy that Taraji is playing the role because she is playing the Hell out of it!!!! Let's remember it is just entertainment folks.

[@garyboston2228]

Gary Boston Oh sorry, I responded on my husband's page. This is Rosie40Blue.

[@SunandSunflowers]

Yes she could. All of our sisters are talented

[@demarioda1]

Tennitra Newsome Tell'em T

[@gdhdlvr]

I love MoNique. She is sharper than a lot of people give her credit for

[@missepicfire]

If Mo'Nique doesn't wanna play the Hollywood game, and be silent, then more power to her. I respect that, but in order for her to get her jobs and be respected in HER CAREER CHOICE, she needs to play the Hollywood game. Now, if she was upset then I understand her speaking out once or twice. But she knows she is making it a bigger deal than it should be by hopping from interview to interview with this. I hate to say this, but it is a cold, harsh industry, and if you don't play by the "rules" then honey don't expect roles, money, respect, or awards from them. She is a great actress, but she is really damaging her career. I hate how the game works, but it is what it is and it isn't ready to be changed. This story woulda been dead if she wasn't egging it on. That's why you say "No comment".

[@freegratuits]

Very true! I saw her interview this Sunday on BET and she cited a time she was asked to go to Cannes to promote Precious and after being offered a first class plane ticket and luxury hotel and she refused because she said any promotion was going to benefit the studio and not her since she was already paid as per contract. I was like, but Monique, you are not THAT big yet to be making demands like this. Sure you're big in comedy but in order to kick it in the A-list league you have to make some sacrifices and play the game. In the end it all pays off!! Like what's so bad about a free trip to France to talk about a movie you were in? She says she wanted to spend more time with her family and again I'm like, then you shouldn't have entered this field because it takes you away from family. Even the best of the best either take their family with them or sacrifice raising their kids for that opportunity. That's just the way it is and everyone has had to go through it before making demands. It's like she's demanding something right at the door and then claiming she's fighting for her rights but she JUST got to the top.

[@LegionIvory]

freegratuits She wasn't making demands. She was refusing to be used. You should learn to tell the difference between integrity and pretentiousness.

[@freegratuits]

Goshous Let's not get personal sir. I would prefer you hold off on lecturing me. Anyway. I understand her refusal to be used and I respect that. She has every right to that. But I don't think it was that black & white. She's not the first to be put in her position and not the last either. Did you even hear the interview I'm citing? Lee Daniels threw her under the bus, no doubt. But Monique's refusal to help promote the movie or even show her face is not how movie making works. Never has. Sure she can make the requests she felt entitled to but not in the manner she did. Not yet. More so, I don't understand why she didn't envision that these requests would come forward after the movie wrapped? Go on IMDB and look at the starting salaries of the biggest stars in Hollywood. Look at how their salaries increase over time and then look at the pics on their profile, of them everywhere promoting the films. Hollywood is business - and you're only as good as your last film. Monique was paid $50,000 because this film was done on a low budget (BEFORE Oprah and Tyler walked in and all they did was add money for promotion). She should've known back THEN that that salary was low but no one expected "Precious" to do so well and when it blew up and she was being asked to spread the word, then the salary seems low. That makes sense but that's business. If this movie didn't go anywhere, we would've just moved on. She wanted something out of the fire that had come from the attention but it doesn't work like that. Not yet. Now her NEXT roles she must stand up and demand high salaries and she did. She was being offered low money and she kept declining. I can get with that. Hell Michael Jordan signed his first contract before blowing up and he blew up so quick but his NBA contract didn't even hit a million. He was making money from endorsements until it came time to renegotiate and he got what he was worth. Sure, both he AND Monique deserve much more but imagine if he walked away from the NBA or started talking shit about his team before anyone could really see him stay on top. Sorry for the long reply.

[@TheSnappyNappyDugout]

"She is a great actress"......She's okay at best. Let's be real here!!!

[@jamesbondjr4771]

Goshous They paid her 50,000 before taxes. Then want her to pay for her own travel? Lol. No way.

[@elihuel7015]

i love sydney and Mo' both strong and got each others back to the grave. God give them stregnth mercy and security in times of strugle. Amen, Amen

[@KWoo10DesignsLLC]

I respect her for speaking up for herself and telling her truth. People are trying to tear her down and she has been in this business too long and too strong to deal with bs. Mo'Nique is a real person, a strong Black woman with morals and standards. And on top of all of that, she has talent.

[@devalsmith]

Mark 8:36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Thank you sister for being the example and standing for this important testimony for our people.

[@censai2010]

I like Monique and she is not wrong for upholding her character. Someone lying on her isn't fair. Taraji may be cookie 100% but that doesn't change the fact that they may have offered it to Monique first. I love Taraji too! Both are great actors.

[@TheMsLady4Real]

Mo'Nique is a wonderful actress! I believe her story! She has no reason to lie, especially publicly!!!!

[@centurydollh1697]

I adore and appreciate Mo'Nique so much, so to see her being misconstrued or portrayed as someone she is *not* is very irritating to me. That all said, I enjoy Empire; so I obviously would love nothing more than to see a part be developed and groomed into the story line for her and for her relationship with the director and producers to be repaired and re-established. Either way, nothing will change as far as my perception and respect for her as a person and professional. Keep being you and stay fabulous love!

[@SeniorLife2012]

Monique is handling all of this so maturely. She does not have a problem with Taraji or anything. They cool. She is just trying to set the record straight to what the men who created the show is lying about. That's it. And she doesn't sound upset or anything. She is just speaking regularly. I commend her for being so humble.

[@svmitchell90]

I support her 100%; Lee Daniels said in his interview he would be a sell out if he had to be, and that's what he did.

[@ralonda8622]

Mo is legend Period!!!!

[@SooperFlye]

...and this is why performer's need to learn as much they can about their trade & industry so that they can someday write, produce, finance, direct and even perform in their own projects.

[@abrokenlife]

This is a great discussion and I like the honesty and brotherhood-sisterhood Monique still tries to maintain while asserting her dignity

[@TLoveT]

I love Mo'nique so much

[@cindys4319]

Mo. Nique needs to have several seats.. Every roll Taraji P Henson has played she did an great job.

[@johnnyblack5247]

Like if you’re here after tarajis video

[@mattiegriffin5904]

Mo'nique keep your head up and keep doing a good job don't let them get you down stay strong.

[@a.lawrence4969]

I've seen Lee Daniels on several shows and he appears to be to be a petty person. He was angry she didn't go to Cannes.

[@marisatowler]

mo'nique had worked with lee daniels long before PRECIOUS. she did SHADOWBOXER for him in 2006. and that wasn't hugely successful at all but it was an excellent film also starring cuba gooding . so it isn't as if daniels was all of a sudden considering mo'nique for roles or wasn't aware of her demeanor, when he already offered her one and worked with her before. but now daniels just seems to be taking the low road which is really sad. it just goes to show how a black man can throw you under the bus just as fast as the white man can.

[@olakunbi1170]

Monique thank God for you. I love the way you handle things and answer questions maturely. God will give you more wisdom to deal with the wolves of Hollywood.

[@trapqveen6017]

Taraji really makes a good Cookie😁😁😁😁😁

[@afrocentricsoul]

I was sitting in front of Mo'Nique on a plane to Atlanta once. I was apprehensive about speaking to her due to a negative childhood experience that I had with a celebrity. At the end of the ride though, I finally spoke to her and even though she was obviously under the weather she was so kind and sweet to me. She then took pictures with other people who approached her, and so from that one experience, I can't help but think of her in a positive light. I have to give her the benefit of the doubt because Hollywood is so political and fickle.

[@jonrichdoe84]

This is 💯 as can get . Its not always the money , its the integrity

[@SLVPOSH]

Very well said Monique giving congratulations and support to Taraji P. People, I don't know what interview you are watching, but this woman is not bashing and/or spewing negativity. She is being interviewed and she said her peace.

[@TheMalibu2011]

Lee Daniels is a drama king person and should show more respect to Monique as being a Star in her own right. The rumors they say are really messy for all parties concerned and they need to stop it and get along on both sides.

[@patsybufford3457]

I think Monique is oh so funny would have loved to LIVE next door to her. This is a woman that is real all the time never second guest her .By the way she is both smart and pretty and will always be In her thruth that's what makes her FREE.

[@merialbalogh6455]

monique is in a class all by her self , in other words she is above and beyond what is considered class in hollywood, keep being you monique dont let hollywood change your attitude toward your people and great things are comming your way you will see