Sanaa Lathan has graced our screens as an actor for more than 25 years, starring in such iconic films as Love & Basketball, Brown Sugar, and Something New. In the new film, On the Come Up, now in theaters and streaming on Paramount+, Lathan makes her feature directorial debut. Based on the novel by Angie Thomas, On the Come Up tells the story of Brianna “Bri” Jackson (Jamila C. Gray), a 16-year-old who dreams of becoming a famous rapper and must stay true to herself amid the immense pressure building around her at home, school, and in her neighborhood. Lathan co-stars as Bri’s down-on-her-luck yet supportive mother, Jay. Lathan stepped up to the mic to answer Shondaland’s questions, revealing how she found her voice as a director and who some of her favorite rappers are. Watch the video to find out more.
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