according to a new york times article critiquing television writer/producer shonda rhimes, viola davis is less “classically beautiful than kerry washington.” the star of rhimes’ new show, how to get away with murder, stopped by the view to respond to the negative comment:
“I’m glad that Shonda Rhimes “SAW” me and said “Why Not.” That’s what makes her a visionary. That’s what makes her iconic. I think that beauty is subjective. I’ve heard that statement (less classically beautiful) my entire life. Being a dark skinned Black woman, you heard it from the womb. And “classically not beautiful” is a fancy term for saying ugly. And denouncing you. And erasing you. Now…it worked when I was younger. It no longer works for me now. It’s about teaching a culture how to treat you. Because at the end of the day, you define you.”
clearly, one of the most beautiful things about viola davis is not just her physical appearance, but her eloquence. watch how to get away with murder after scandal on thursday nights at 10 pm.