Actress Tika Sumpter, who is best known for her recurring role on ABC’s, “One Life To Live“, CB 11 hit show “Gossip Girls“, and BET’s hit show “The Game“, is taking hollywood by storm. The model/actor who stars in the movie “Sparkle“[which is out in movie theaters today] graces the new cover of “Rolling Out” magazine September issue. In the mag, Sumpter talks about her acting success, working on set alongside castmates [Whitney, Jordan Sparks, Mike Epps, Derek Luke and others] in her new movie, her off set hobbies and what she’s looking for in a man.
Check out a few excerpts and photos of her spread below:
Working With An All Black Oppose to Her Previous Roles:
“First off, I just want to say that I am very thankful for the opportunity that I received with “Gossip Girls.” To me though, acting is just acting. I honestly don’t like saying a black film, because on the flip side, we don’t call then white films. At the end of the day, when they say action, we all have to do the same job.”
Preparing for the role of Delores in the movie Sparkle:
I’m grateful to [screenwriter] Mara Brock Akil, because she expanded the role of Delores. I definitely think there is some of me in the character … she is a protector and a strong person, which mirrors my own personality a lot. The great thing about the role, is that I was able to really take chances and expand upon who Delores was in the original.
Working With The Other Castmates On Set: Tika says:
“It was an amazing experience. It really felt like we were a family working toward a common goal. Every part of that experience is something that I will keep with me for the rest of my life.”
What She’s Learned Of Herself Now, After Being In The Business For Some Time Now:
“Well, I know that I’m enough, and that I have something to offer the world. I guess now that I’ve grown up and gotten a little older, I know what I want, and I know what I want in a mate and I’m able to say it. I’m not one to beat around the bush anymore. There was a time when I was so concerned about hurting people’s feelings, but it’s not that way anymore. While I still care about people’s feelings, I understand the importance of being able to express exactly what I want, and exactly how I’m feeling.”
How She Balances Work And Her Personal Life:
“Being that the industry is so crazy, some of the things that I do to just chill out and reflect. I’m kind of a loner… I love to be at home, where I can just shut everything out and either read or meditate. Sometimes, I just can’t be connected every minute and every second of the day, so I just turn off all of the electronics, and just focus on removing myself from the stress and the busyness of the world.”
What She Wants Fans To Know Of Her Aside From What They Only See Of Her On Television:
“I just hope that they are able to get the essence of who I am as a woman. I’ve worked really hard to be where I’m at today, and I still have a long way to go. But from this experience, I hope they see a person who works hard, but still appreciates the little things in life. I really enjoyed this experience, and I hope that comes across in this piece. I’m excited.”
Tika who is currently single [which is so shocking to me given her beautiful looks] talks of the perfect date:
“My perfect date is just a guy that takes control and plans everything. I have to plan so much in my own life, so I wouldn’t want the responsibility of planning something fun. So I’m down for mostly anything, but a nice dinner or bowling would be great. I just like something fun that I don’t have to plan.”
