Entertainment
XXXXL Laughs! Interview with Kevin “Dot Com” Brown and Grizz Chapman
XXXXL Laughs! Interview with Kevin “Dot Com” Brown and Grizz Chapman
by Mia Amber Davis
Across America, Thursday nights belong to NBC and for the past three seasons the hit comedy, “30 Rock” starring Tracy Morgan, Tina Fey and Alec Baldwin is a huge reason why. We caught up with two of “30Rock’s” larger than life, award winning actors, Kevin “Dot Com” Brown and Grizz Chapman to talk about mens body issues, the lies people tell themselves and getting animated!
Mia: Kev, we were talking at the photo shoot and you mentioned that most people don’t know that you’re a seasoned stand-up comedian! Tell our readers about your legendary stand-up career…
Kevin: Back in 1989 my brother and I started the Uptown Comedy Club in New York. The club itself became legendary because it was the first black owned comedy club on the east coast. The Uptown Comedy Club was responsible for starting the hip-hop comedy movement. Shows like Def Comedy Jam came from that movement. Our club was the first to pair a D.J. with a comedian for an African-American audience. It changed the game. I never planned to be a comic. I intended to stay behind the scenes and manage comedians. In 1999 we recorded a comedy album and I spoke with each of the eight or so comedians on the tape in hopes of managing their careers. Although I thought each could be the next big thing in comedy the guys seemed crazy and I couldn’t see myself investing in them. I decided to invest in myself and become a comedian. It was a business move for the betterment of my club because in order to put the club on the map it needed a star.
When I made that decision I started from scratch. I re-invented myself and even got a new name, “Big Kev Dot Com.” I didn’t use any of my comedy connections to get ahead –I started standing on line and auditioning like everyone else. I have a lot of respect for the game so I wanted to go about it the right way. I needed to pay my dues. About two years into my stand-up career I was cast on Last Comic Standing.
Mia: Your characters on NBC’s, “30 Rock” have really evolved. What led up to that?
Grizz: Well, when we first got the job I really don’t think they knew what they had in us. When they found out they had two diamonds in the rough they took a bigger chance on us and it all worked out.
Kevin: The characters were originally just “extras” and I remember when the casting director called me asking me to do it I let her know that I didn’t do background/extra work anymore. She asked me three times and I told her no three times! Then she asked me to do it as personal favor so I said yes. We had no idea who was on the show or anything.
When we shot the pilot there were originally four of us big guys assigned to hang out with Tracy Morgan’s character.
Tracy and I knew each other from the comedy club. When we first saw each other on set he knew me as Big Kev Dot Com. He introduced us to Tina Fey as his “family” Grizz and Dot Com. They liked our chemistry and history with Tracy By the second episode they pulled us aside and promoted us. I remember simultaneously smiling and crying a single tear like Denzel Washington in, “Glory.”
Mia: Being such big guys at 6’11 and 6’5 you’re generally cast as security, bouncers, bodyguards and the like. Does that ever get monotonous? What are your dream roles?
Grizz: Yes it does get monotonous! They think all we’re good for are the big guy roles but there’s so much more to us than that. As for my dream role…I would actually love to play a super hero or a doctor!
Kevin: It gets so tiresome! Hollywood is so narrow minded. The major roles with emotional arcs usually go to average sized guys. Hollywood’s leading men get families, have relationships, they get drama and fights, etc. They never give that to the big black guy but there’s always a place for us in the script. We need to fight for the opportunity to get those leading man roles.
“30 Rock” has been developing my character and allowing me to show that I can execute dialogue and I appreciate them for that. Whether it’s one line or 21 lines I feel I have to give it my all.
My dream role is that of a gangster. I recently did an independent film and my character’s name is “World Wide.” I’d love to do more with him. He gave me a chance to do things I’d never do in traditional Hollywood. I’m doing more and more things off “type” because I have changed my approach. Last year I filmed two other movies and my characters name in both films was, “Bouncer.” Now, I don’t even audition for characters unless they have a name.
Mia: How do you feel about the lack of visibility of full figured women in Hollywood?
Kevin: That’s interesting because there definitely is a lack of full figured women, black women or black people in general in Hollywood. In order for us to get our images out there we need to write our own projects and speak out. When you get people like Mo’Nique who champion the cause the then turn their backs on it then it doesn’t give that push to the next full figured woman through the door or up on the pedestal.
Mia: Do you think there’s a double standard when it comes to the roles available for “big guys” vs. the roles available for “big girls” in film and television?
Grizz: Yes I do! The bottom line is that we as people of size don’t get a fair shake. The girls can play an occasional sexy role, and we can be action film heroes but the good thing is that I think the doors are opening for us.
Kevin: I agree that there’s a stigma attached to larger women in Hollywood. Bigger black women usually get the nurturing roles. The thing about Hollywood I was initially insulted by is the fact that it’s all about types. They look at your picture and stereotype it. They always make big girls the friend but not the leading lady.
Basically, you need to develop a personality and make a name for yourself no matter what size you are. Look at Mo’Nique– she can write her own ticket now. She used to promote size acceptance and now she’s sending another message. She sold out big girls to go for her own career. By doing that she somewhat put a damper on the equality big girls were fighting for.
Mia: Grizz, do you think people ever shy away from getting to know the real you because of your size?
Grizz: (Laughing) Yes! People look at me and get scared. Those same people never take the time to get to know me. A lot of people tell stupid little jokes about my size or they’ll call me “Tiny” thinking that it’s a great ice breaker. It does work, though! I’m changing as a person and in my career so I’ve learned to just put on a smile so that I will seem more approachable.
Mia: Kevin,you’ve just signed on as a spokesperson for Men’s NutriSystem. Tell us about that. Also, is it a popular misconception that men don’t have “body issues?”
Kevin: Men do have body issues but they can easily be overlooked and camouflaged by great careers, nice cars and hefty bank accounts. If you’re a man with those things you can be short, fat and bald but your body issues become diminished.
I recently became a spokesman for Men’s NutriSystem but I’m only in week two. If the program works for me then you will start to see me in a more active role. I lost 11.4 lbs. in week one! My goal is to lose 100lbs. but it sounds so unreachable! I really want to put Men’s NutriSystem to the test! Losing so much the first week was exciting to me.
I’ve always had a dream that if I could get down to my old fighting weight of 250lbs. I would go for the movie star roles like The Rock and James Bond. I want to be that sexy guy in movies coming out of the water on the beach. Big guys usually keep their shirts on at the beach but if I can get my sexy back I’m running with it.
Mia: Grizz, you recently appeared on the Dr. Oz Show to talk about your personal battle with Hypertension and kidney disease. Please tell us about what you’re going through and ways we can help.
Grizz: First off people don’t realize the connection between high blood pressure and kidney disease. I’m on dialysis today because I didn’t watch my blood pressure. I go to treatment three times week at four and a half hours at a time. It’s no fun at all to be in this situation. So, what I want to say to everyone is please watch your salt intake. Stop eating fast food! Think about what you’re putting into your body before you eat it. If you would like more information please go to www.kidney.organd they will answer all of your questions. Early detection is key. The National Kidney Foundation will also check you out for free. Please don’t end up like me. Please make a change.
Mia: You’ve lost a lot of weight and are looking fantastic! What changes have you had to make in your dietary & fitness regimen?
Grizz: I had to change everything. I stopped eating cheese and wheat bread. I also stopped drinking milk. Those are just some of the things I had to cut out. The biggest change I had to make was learning how to have smaller portions. I also stopped eating at 4a.m.
As for fitness, I try to walk a lot and encourage everyone to try to get in their 10,000 steps per day. I just want to live so I will do whatever it is that I have to do.
Mia: You approached Plus Model Magazine about this photo shoot because you said you’ve always wanted to be a plus-size male model…were you serious? Did we make your dream a reality?
Grizz: Yes I was dead serious! And yes you did make my dream come true. For so many years I knew I could do it but I never got the chance so I thank you for that!
Mia: Kevin, you’re an “overnight success” 21 years in the making…any advice for aspiring entertainers?
Kevin: A friend of mine once told me something so profound when I told him I wanted to try my hand at being a stand-up. He said, “one thing about you is if you couldn’t do it you would know it.” A lot of people can’t do things and they don’t know it. That’s how you end up seeing all of the horrible auditions on American Idol! You have to know what you are capable of. There are things that give individuals credibility and learning about yourself and your capability legitimizes your quest. There will be haters who tell you what you can’t do but don’t listen to them, however, deep down inside you can’t fool yourself. Be honest.
Some say, “either you’ve got it or you don’t.” I say, “if you don’t got it you can get it.” Work hard to find your own motivation. I needed a reason to drive me into the spotlight because I was never the funny guy, the class clown or the kid performing in school plays. I had to work on what I had then I went and got “it.” This April will be the 11th anniversary of my doing stand-up. That’s 11 years of work. Don’t fool yourself or lie to yourself –know your truth.
Mia: Kevin started out as a stand-up comedian, how did you get started? Any advice for aspiring entertainers?
Grizz: Before I started acting I was a celebrity bodyguard. One day one of my clients asked me to be in his video and I think that was the day I got bit by the acting bug! It wasn’t easy in the beginning going from bodyguard to actor. I had to let the bodyguard part of my life go because it didn’t mix well with my new life. I’m glad I took a chance on acting because it worked out nicely!
As for aspiring entertainers my advice is this–follow your dreams. Don’t let anyone tell you “No” or that you can’t because I know that you can. Make a plan and stick to it. The road won’t be easy but it will work out as long as you keep pushing.
Mia: What’s next for “Grizz & DotCom?”
Grizz: Well we’ve been blessed be given a new web series called, “Living Large with Grizz and Dot Com!” We also have a cartoon in the works, we’re still excited to be a part of “30 Rock” and the rest you’re just going to have to wait and see!
We love our fans and would love to hear from them on Twitter @grizzanddotcom We’re also on Facebook as Grizz Chapman or Kevin Brown aka Dot Com and we also have a fan page for NBC’s “30Rock” so anyone can reach us there. Our own personal website is coming soon!
Image Credit: Kevin (Dotcom) Brown and Grizz Chapman
Photographer: www.tonyarmstrongphotos.com
We’ve been following Romy Dya’s journey for many years…
Through her music, Romy Dya has inspired so many of us to not only accept who we are but to love ourselves through the good and bad times accepting the journey that is before us. Having the opportunity to feature such a talented artist is a dream come true for PLUS Model Magazine because through every lyric she allows us to see ourselves in her. She has been open with us through her music allowing us to witness her transformation into who she is today while honoring her journey.
To listen to her music is to enter the heart & soul of this passionate artist.
Get to know our cover model Romy Dya…
We were listening to your EP “Transformation” when we were putting this interview together and it’s so deep. Can you share with those that have not heard it yet, about this EP and your music?
My motto for making music is that there is power in your weakness. Sharing my vulnerability with others through my music helps them to heal.
‘Transformation’ is about my healing journey and going from darkness to light. My life has been a rollercoaster and I’ve had a tough youth. All these years I pushed my tears away, but in 2021 I started to face the demons from the past. I had to go through it and get to the root of my pain. I had to understand where certain trauma responses came from but also certain patterns in life that kept repeating. I found peace in meditation, went to retreats, did a few Ayahuasca ceremonies, and learned to accept things and let them go with love. The EP is a message to myself as well as to others. All of the songs are intuitively created, from writing, recording to producing and mixing my EP. What I learned from this healing journey is that this is also an ongoing journey.
This year I’m also going to release a Love EP because I found love and I want to share this beautiful and transformative experience with the world.
Take us back to the beginning, was this what little Romy always knew she wanted to do?
At the age of four I already knew that I wanted to be a singer because my mom was a singer too. She was a country singer and even though it wasn’t my genre, I looked up to her. She told me to practice every day and so I did. One of my favorite artists was Gloria Estefan. I would always sing along to her song ‘Rhythm is gonna get you’ together with my dad. Those are my earliest memories.
At the age of ten I started writing my own songs in English (I’m from The Netherlands) and that has always been my therapy. I never stopped writing ever since.
We have interviewed several entertainers and many of them have told us stories about how the music industry has been very tough in regards to size and how you represent yourself. Is this something you experienced? Do you see a change in our culture for diversity and representation in the music industry?
Yes, I definitely experienced that unfortunately. I’m curvy and I’m proud of it now, but in the past, they told me a lot of times that I needed to lose weight.
Nowadays a lot has changed. Especially since Lizzo became known. She opened a lot of doors for many and is unapologetically her amazing, authentic self.
PMM: If you could do a collab with another entertainer who would it be and why?
I would love to make a song with Russ. I look up to him because like me he does everything himself, from writing to recording, producing, mixing, and mastering. He motivated me to do all of that myself and I love how he wrote a book about changing your mindset and being aware of your thoughts. You can manifest anything you want. So, I’ll manifest a song with him in 2024.
I Fkn Love Myself is the title of your 2021 album and the songs spoke to many of us because it was raw, unapologetic, and sultry all in one. Can you take us back to this time in your life and how you use your music to inspire self-love?
I created that album to remind myself that I have to love myself unconditionally. Yes, life can be a rollercoaster and we constantly change inside and outside. But I had to learn to love myself in every phase of my life. And sometimes I’m really feeling myself and some days I don’t like my Scorpio attitude and feel like shit. But even on those days I talk to myself in the mirror and I tell myself: ‘You are strong, beautiful and you got this.’
Quick FIVE:
1) Stilettos or Flats?
Flats
2) Outdoor Concert or Small Intimate Venue?
Small intimate venue
3) How would you describe your fashion aesthetic?
Goddess vibes with a touch of darkness and light
4) One thing you have learned through your journey.
Love heals everything.
5) Your favorite quote.
‘When you want something, all the Universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.’ Paulo Coelho.
Photo Credits
Picture by Rocky Khedoe | @13plus31
Make-Up by @mifasstudio
Clothing by @miidorie
Creative Direction by @blessjoyba
Cover model credits:
Instagram @romydya
Website romydya.com/
TikTok @romydya
Facebook @RomyDyaMusic
Youtube @romydya
For singer/songwriter Chel, there’s nothing more important than following your dreams and staying true to what you believe in.
It’s a principle Chel follows in her life and budding music career, where her talent and authenticity combine to create a pop force on the rise.
Born in Springfield, Illinois, Chel always knew she wanted to make her mark in the world. She has a passion for music and women’s empowerment, things that haven’t always served her well in the male-dominated and superficial industry.
She faced hurdles immediately, including people telling her she didn’t have the “look or body type” to succeed in music.
Thankfully, Chel didn’t like being told she couldn’t do something. She refocused her energy on herself and her gifts, finding her voice and confidence along the way, creating a lane for her that truly fits her goals and desires.
She’s an outspoken advocate for people of all backgrounds and body types, aiming to use her musical skills to her story: a tale of perseverance, hard work, and blossoming into the queen she always knew she was. It’s a story familiar to many and Chel’s determination along her journey has resonated with them.
She quickly became a prominent influencer with an audience that spans millions across her Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram pages. She uses her growing platform to spread a message of body positivity and power for major clothing brands and more. She’s also a host on DASH Radio, where she interviews the hottest new artists on a primetime weekend show that reaches millions of listeners. She has been featured by Billboard and New Music Friday.
Through her music and social media presence, a career in modeling emerged. This is something Chel never saw for herself but sees it as an opportunity to be the person she wished she had growing up. This has lead her to work with the likes of Good American, Anthropologie, Target, and Disney.
No matter what life has thrown her, Chel has persevered and kept going. With new music out and on the way and her accomplishments and influence only growing, Chel is a name you won’t soon forget.”
PMM: As a singer, model, and radio host you are in the spotlight often. Was this the life little Chel dreamed of?
Chel: Little Chel started putting on weight at 7 or 8 and was on weight watchers by 10. Little Chel went to school and was told she wasn’t worth anything. My parents loved me and wanted the best for me so they tried to help by encouraging weight loss but that deepened the already deep wounds and insecurities. Throughout all of this, little me held on to my dream of one day being a real pop singer. There is part of me that wants to say little me always knew I could do it because she never stopped holding on… but there’s also a part of me that wants to say she would be staring at me now with disbelief and tears of joy in her eyes.
For those that are not familiar with your music, can you tell us about your exciting career and how you balance it all?
I’ve been making music for about 10-11 years now. I find so much joy in the creation process and can definitely say that’s by far my favorite part. As much as I like making the music, opening up stadium shows for Jason Derulo and Nelly or headlining the pride festival a few years in a row doesn’t hurt either.
I have a bunch of new music that I will be releasing this year. I have an album ready to go and I just need to choose a date. It is so cool to get to reinforce the messages of all the things I care about in my music and I can’t wait to share that with everyone.
I’m not going to lie, it can be really challenging to balance everything. I do everything myself. I have three careers and making time to build/maintain a brand, create content, market yourself, manage yourself, find opportunities, network, and still make time for a social life can sometimes be overwhelming.
As I’ve continued this journey, I’ve found that it’s really important to
1. Make lists
2. Have a day planner (organizer)
3. Have a mom or a friend who reminds you to get your things done
4. Let yourself take breaks
It’s really easy to overdo it when you work for yourself because you’re technically never off the clock. Realizing that you need to step back sometimes is the key to making it all work.
Most people will be very shocked that you are considered a “plus-size” model in the fashion industry, but here we are… let’s chat about your modeling career and why you feel diversity and inclusion are so important.
It’s funny… I still feel imposter syndrome sometimes in regard to my modeling career. I still feel the need to tell people I’m a “plus-size” model when they ask what I do because I fear that if I say “model” they won’t believe me.
I have had people argue with me about if I’m “plus-size enough” and I’ll be honest, it’s frustrating. I don’t fit into straight sizes. I’ve been over 200 pounds since I was a teenager. I’ve been called a “whale” in a swimsuit and “miss piggy” in my regular clothes. To this day, there are still men who won’t date me publicly because they don’t want to be seen with a “fat” girl.
I say all of this to say that my experience in this world as a heavier-set woman, has not been easy. Even as the industry changes, and even as the weight and size I’m at have become more accepted there’s still so much pressure on how my body should look. To some people, I’m still “a big girl” and to others “I’m not big enough.” To that I say, no matter what your body looks like, someone will always have something to say so you might as well rock what you’ve got and do your best to make peace with the internal war on yourself.
The reason this is all so important to me is that I don’t want ANY other 13-year-old to sit in their room and wonder if their life is worth living based on their weight. I didn’t have any examples of gorgeous, confident, plus-size women in the media growing up. If I can make just one other person feel comfortable in their skin because of something I did, then it’s all worth it.
With so much happening in the world, often we turn to music to help during heartbreak or ease anxiety or just to start our day. What are your days like and how does music fill your soul?
I start the day by responding to emails and texts. I then move to writing down a list of all the things I need to get done that day. I proceed to go through that list. I’m constantly on the lookout for new opportunities whether it be music or modeling or influencing. Some days I’ll have a modeling gig, some days I’ll have a studio session, and some days will be filled with content creation.
It’s actually kind of interesting, lately, I haven’t been listening to a lot of music. I don’t really know why. I do sing in the shower every day, love to go to karaoke, and I love to see live music. When I do listen to music, I really take it in. I listen to the words that are being said and I really feel it. Music is definitely a form of therapy and writing music has gotten me through some of the hardest points of my life.
On the cover you are wearing a swimsuit that says CHANGE… what changes would you like to see in the entertainment and fashion industry and why?
So much. In the music industry, I’d love to see it become more equal. I think it’s a VERY male-dominated field and women in the industry get paid less, taken less seriously, and are taken advantage of. I’m currently working with TuneCore and Gritty In Pink to bring awareness to this. I’d also love to see the music industry become more size-inclusive. We are starting to see it but I want to see so much more representation.
In the modeling world, I would also like to see more representation. I want to see not only size inclusivity (plus, mid-size, thin) for both men and women, but I also want to see more inclusivity in race, religion, and age. We all want to feel beautiful and the more different kinds of beauty we represent, the less the industry can profit off of insecurities. I’d also love to see equal pay. I know sometimes in the industry women of color are paid less and that’s unacceptable. It’s cool to see pages like @shitmodelmgmt where models can finally have a voice and a platform to discuss what should and should not be happening in the industry.
Is there a mentor in your life or a favorite quote you can share with us and why it resonates with you?
I wouldn’t be here and could not do any of this without my parents. It took them a second to get on board because of their fear of this being a harder path. That being said, once they did, they have been my biggest fans and my biggest support system. They are my world and I am so lucky to have them and to be doing all of this with them right by my side.
I got my love of music from my Dad (he’s taken me to almost all the concerts I’ve been to in my life, which is a lot)… and my refusal to give up from my mom.
My favorite quote is; “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone”
Thank you Chel… we are so incredibly honored to feature you this month.
Follow Chel: linktr.ee/musicbychel
Instagram @musicbychel
Photographer: Kat Thompson
MUA: Chel Sgro
Body
Why The New Docuseries of Plus Size Dance Squad The Honeybeez of ASU Should Be on Your #StayHome Watch List
The Honeybeez, a plus-size dance squad from Alabama State University are now TV stars with their new show on Snapchat.
We’re all in need of some inspiration right now during this hard time and the Honeybeez of ASU (IG @asuhoneybeez) are delivering that and more with their new series.
The plus size dance squad, who we mentioned in our “10 Best Plus Size Moments of 2019” round-up here, caught the eye of actress La La Anthony, who in turn partnered with ITV America’s Leftfield Pictures to produce the 10-part series for Snapchat featuring the plus-size athletes.
The series gives viewers a look into the life of the Honeybeez. Led by the fearless Coach Ruth “Anna Marshae” Williams, the episodes chronicle the squad’s journey, from tryouts through high-pressure performances, as the Honeybeez overcome myriad challenges and criticisms, fulfilling the team’s motto to “be bold, be beautiful and be you”.
That motto, according to Coach Williams, means to “be your authentic self, step outside of the box and be bold enough to accomplish your goals while staying beautiful inside and out”.
Coach Williams went on to tell us:
“I’m hoping viewers not only learn what it takes to be a Honeybee, but that anyone can do anything no matter what size, through confidence, hard work, and determination.”
We’re not surprised. When Nike featured the group in their Dream Crazier campaign, we knew that was just the beginning for this amazing group of dancers in inspiring the world. They epitomize what it means to never let your size stop you from doing what you love.
La La Anthony expressed why she felt the Honeybeez are such an inspiration:
“The Honeybeez are an inspiration, not just among the HBCU dance scene, but to young dancers and performers everywhere. Their impact and success are a result of immense determination and talent, all while projecting strength, positivity and love. We can’t wait for Snapchat’s audience to get to know these amazing young women.”
Leftfield Co-Presidents Shawn Witt and Gretchen Palek added:
“We’re ecstatic to be sharing this story, alongside La La and Snap, at a time in which we could all benefit from witnessing the unbridled perseverance and strength of character on display in each episode.”
You can check out the 10-episode series on Snapchat’s Discover page here.
And this is just the beginning for The Honeybeez. According to Coach Williams, there’s more to come from the dance squad.
“I have set high expectations for this 2020-2021 line. I want to blow people’s minds when they see us this season. Right now, we’re just enjoying our accomplishments with this Snap Original Series.”
What do you think of The Honeybeez of ASU? Will you be watching their new TV show? Follow us on social media and let us know: @plusmodelmag: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
#MyPlusJourney
#MyPlusJourney: Plus Size Comedian Erica Watson On Building a Media Empire, Dating & More!
Plus size comedian Erica Watson continues to be a major figure in the plus size industry, defying stereotypes in Hollywood and beyond.
Our #MyPlusJourney series will share the many stories of those within the plus size community who have persevered and thrived throughout their lives despite immense challenges. These individuals continue to inspire and empower others in the process.
During Women’s History Month, we are honoring amazing women within our industry who are doing incredible things and Watson is definitely one of them.
The comedian, actress, writer and director is an incredible powerhouse, having been a leader in the plus size industry for several years, inspiring others along the way to know that anything is possible, no matter what your size or age.
From her critically acclaimed Fat Bitch comedy show and supporting role on Showtime’s The Chi to guest host duties on Windy City Live Chicago and being the face of Avenue’s Show Your Confidence campaign, as well as having her own beauty line with NENA Cosmetics, Watson has an impressive resume that shows her versatility and talent.
She’s now ushering into the new decade with new projects that continue to expand that resume, laying the foundation for an epic media empire. We chatted with Watson about the next chapter in her career and more.
PMM: New decade, new projects! Please tell us all about your new dating podcast called “Get in The Game”.
EW: “Get In The Game” is my love letter to every single woman who keeps losing in the game of love. I’ve struggled with dating over the years as many women have. But I think many times it’s because we really don’t know the proper way to date. So I decided that from now on, I will date multiple men at once. At least 5… with the goal of building a “Dream Team” of players to be on my roster. I’m looking for my point guard, my center and my power forward. I will put them in rotation and hopefully win a Championship Ring! <laughs> It’s all in fun and if you tune in, you can hear my journey as a Coach and build your own team too.
PMM: You’re also planning to direct a short film called “The Waiting Room”, which you also wrote. What is the film about and what inspired you to take on a director role?
EW: “The Waiting Room” is a dark comedy about a woman who meets an interesting stranger in the waiting room of a medical clinic. It’s hilarious but also super smart, analyzing how a chance encounter with a random stranger can make you think differently about your life.
I received my Bachelor’s degree in Film Directing years ago from Columbia College Chicago and it’s about time I put it to use. Before I did stand-up comedy, I was writing and directing, but took a break to make folks laugh. Now I’m back on track to pursue my first love and true passion… writing and directing. I plan to start a GOFUNDME campaign in May to help fund the movie and am aiming to start shooting this summer.
PMM: As a fat Black woman in the entertainment industry, what advice would you offer other plus size women of color about pursuing a career in Hollywood?
EW: Go for it! Do it NOW!!! What are you waiting for? You are talented and brilliant. You deserve to shine and the world needs to see your light. Study your craft, take it seriously and don’t stop until you reach the top. The time is NOW!!!
PMM: You’re launching a new media relations company called “The Brainstorm” this Spring. What will your company offer and what’s your goal with The Brainstorm?
EW: The Brainstorm will allow me to help entrepreneurs, small businesses and brands get the exposure they need to be successful. I’ve always loved to AMPLIFY amazing people and help them reach their customers and fans in a major way. Think of me as your brand’s best friend and biggest cheerleader! Stay tuned for The Brainstorm!
Special thanks to Erica Watson for talking to us and for her passion in celebrating and supporting others. We are in awe of how she turned her comedy career into a major empire that empowers others to be their best selves.
You can follow Erica Watson on Instagram here and visit her official website here.
You can learn more about the GET IN THE GAME podcast and listen to episodes via Spreaker, iHeartRADIO and iTunes.
You can get updates on GET IN THE GAME via Instagram here.
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(Images courtesy of Erica Watson)
We’ve heard it many times before… plus size celebrities share their struggles to find a look for a red carpet event.
This time, it’s television host Nina Parker, who was a red carpet correspondent for E! at the Oscars.
She shared her struggles on Twitter along with her happy ending, which was her reaching out to Lynne Carter Atelier to get a dress custom made for her.
And mainstream media is now a-buzz, with the chatter mostly talking to how there are a lack of plus size options available to women, especially in couture.
We have to ask…
Why are plus size celebrities still expecting luxury non-plus designers to cater to them?
Yes, ALL women should be able to have access to fashion they want and need.
Nina Parker is just as worthy as her thinner counterparts on the red carpet from E! and ANY woman needing a gown for a red carpet affair.
However, let’s keep it real here. While more high-end designers are starting to expand on sizing, there’s still a long way to go when it comes to getting those designers up to speed on how to dress curves for a red carpet affair.
There is only one Christian Siriano and while he continually shows up for us, he is the minority, not the majority, within the luxury mainstream designer space. Change is happening in that space but we’re not fully there yet.
But that does not mean there aren’t plus size luxury designer options out there.
Here’s three ways plus size celebrities can successfully find couture in their size:
#1: Support luxury designers within the plus size industry.
Parker spoke with Buzzfeed about her struggles and experiences in trying to find a designer to dress her:
“To get them to dress you is almost impossible unless you’re damn near A list. So that was also an issue, because we reached out to those people. We heard back from a few people and then they kind of just disappeared and we didn’t really hear back in a timely manner. We reached out and never heard back, so it was just kind of like, ‘Okay, are we going to sit here and be frustrated? Are we going to do something about it?’”
Mainstream luxury designers usually lend dresses to celebrities for red carpet events but the drawback to that is celebrities have to pull from the designer’s sample sizes. That means if you’re not a sample size, you will not be able to get a gown or suit.
Most plus size celebrities, even those not considered plus size (sizes 8 to 12), won’t fit into a designer’s sample size.
We don’t know for certain if Parker reached out to Siriano like actress Chrissy Metz did or what other designers she reached out to, but what we do know is that we have many luxury designers within our own community that would offer up something gorgeous in a heartbeat that would fit a plus size curvy woman like a glove.
Would she have had to get something custom made instead of off-the-rack? Yes.
However, when it comes to ensuring the perfect fit, a custom dress is the better choice. Metz’s dress by Siriano was custom-made.
Parker could have taken this opportunity to support one of those amazing designers. I can name so many designers off the top of my head such as Courtney Noelle, A’Shontay Hubbard of Christian Omeshun, Jasmine Elder of Jibri, Jenine Nerecina of Nerecina Couture, Robert E. Knight; all designers of color who create luxury looks for ALL sizes.
Think of the impact Parker could have had not only within this community by giving a plus size designer some major shine at the Oscars but also to support someone of color during Black History Month, at an event which has undergone so much criticism over the lack of nominees of color.
This was definitely a missed opportunity, especially with mainstream media reporting it as a travesty and making it appear as if there are no plus size luxury designers out there.
Is there a huge gap in plus size luxury clothing in the mainstream high-end designer world? Yes.
However, there are more luxury options available for plus size women now than there was 10, 20, 30 years ago.
We can’t expect mainstream designers to expand on their sample sizes without us leading by example via supporting our own and in turn, giving exposure to those designers who are very knowledgeable on dressing plus size bodies.
You may not be looked at as A-list to mainstream luxury designers but to plus size designers, you are.
#2: Hire a great plus size stylist.
Parker told Buzzfeed:
“I’ve been doing award season a few years now, and I think a lot of people don’t know that there are a lot of stylists who don’t even know how to style a plus-size woman.”
Enter Tess Holliday, who replied to Nina Parker’s original tweet about her dress, with a referral for her stylist Meaghan O’Connor, a celebrity stylist in our industry who has been dressing plus size bodies for years.
“@meaghanpoconnor is an amazing stylist who specializes in plus and would make sure you had options. you look amazing!”
Having a stylist that truly knows how to dress a plus size body can make such a difference and give a celebrity more options as they know where to find gorgeous pieces.
A celebrity’s stylist is essentially their fashion advocate and that is so needed for those with plus size bodies, who may need that extra help in choosing the best silhouette to accentuate their curves.
And they are out there.
We have some amazing plus size stylists in our industry… Stylist Susan Moses is a veteran in our community who has styled Queen Latifah and also wrote a book titled The Art of Dressing Curves: The Best-Kept Secrets of a Fashion Stylist.
Stylist Marcy Guevara-Prete, who also co-owns vintage store The Plus Bus in Los Angeles with plus size designer Jen Wilder, has most notably styled actress Gabourey Sidibe for years.
Looking for a plus size stylist who is knowledgeable of sustainable and ethical fashion? Stylist Kat Eves, based in Los Angeles, has dressed celebrities such as singer/songwriter Mary Lambert, actress/comedian Jenny Zigrino and actress/comedian Dulce Sloan. She also runs a blog called Style Ethic.
A plus size stylist can really up a celebrity’s style game not just on the red carpet, but in everyday life.
Parker also told Buzzfeed:
“You can be a fashionable stylist and be completely ignorant about the plus-size community and not know where to shop. That takes a little bit of vetting and conversations JUST to find someone who knows where to go and how to fit you.”
And while it may be annoying to not have it as easy as a thinner celebrity, a plus size celebrity would really benefit from hiring a plus size stylist, which would ensure that they would have a better experience with being dressed for red carpet events.
#3: Don’t dismiss plus size brands when looking for a red carpet look.
Brands such as 11 Honoré, Sydney’s Closet, Eloquii, Kiyonna and Generose offer beautiful gowns, dresses and separates that are red carpet ready.
11 Honoré, in particular, offers designer brands and will even work with you to custom make a dress, as they did previously with Chrissy Metz.
Chances are Parker could have been able to get something off-the-rack from a brand, perhaps needing minor alterations. With 11 Honoré offering up to size 24 and pieces from major designers such as Jason Wu, Carolina Herrera and Dolce & Gabbana, we’re pretty sure Parker would have found something to wear.
There’s also Rent The Runway, which offers plus size designer fashion including red carpet looks.
We hope that Parker takes Tess Holliday’s advice. And we hope to see more plus size stylists, designers and brands front and center because they are out there and ready to work with celebrities to make fashion magic.
What are your thoughts on Nina Parker and plus size celebrities who struggle to find designer red carpet looks? Follow us on social media and let us know: @plusmodelmag: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Body
Loni Love Has Twitter Feud with Project Runway’s Liris Crosse Over “No Plus Size Icons” comment
Loni Love continues to get herself into hot water over a recent comment she made in an interview with Hello Beautiful.
That comment Loni Love made, “There are no real plus size icons for me” has resulted in taking the focus off her recent holiday collection with Ashley Stewart and putting more focus on plus size women voicing their opinions on Love’s comments, including naming many plus size icons, white and black.
And it appears Love’s way of listening to those opinions is to block those individuals, most recently blocking plus size model and Project Runway model winner Liris Crosse, after having a heated discussion in a series of tweets.
Yes, you read right. Liris Crosse.
As many in the fashion industry know, plus and mainstream, Crosse is a veteran in the modeling game. She has had a successful career in modeling for 20+ years, as well as acting, hosting and public speaking. She is now an author and has a successful Boot Camp program she developed for aspiring models. She was dubbed the Naomi Campbell of Plus by the media and was the first plus size model to win the model competition on Project Runway.
So when Jami Griggs of the blog Style Over Size responded to Love on Twitter, mentioning Crosse and Ashley Graham are plus size icons, it ignited a heated conversation, which resulted in Love blocking both Griggs and Crosse. See the exchange below (Screenshots courtesy of Liris Crosse/Twitter):
Author Danielle James wrote in that infamous article for Hello Beautiful:
“Loni Love is a pioneer in the industry for plus size women from being a hilarious comedian to having a successful talk show as well as an acting career and an author. One thing about Love is that she has always empowered plus size women, particularly Black plus size women, while on and off the set.”
We don’t dispute Love’s career accolades or her contribution in empowering women with those boss moves. However, after that interview, her recent interactions with plus size women, most of whom are Black, are not empowering other plus size women. What it’s doing is showing a side of Love that is not plus positive at all.
These women are simply trying to point out that there are plus size icons out there, including recent ones in the last five years. Past or present, that is a fact… the plus size industry is full of plus size icons in many areas, including fashion.
As Crosse pointed out, Love could have used her platform to actually empower plus size women but in turn, she is showing herself as a plus size woman talking negatively about the plus size industry.
To echo Crosse, we haven’t been afforded the mainstream press opportunities to become the type of plus size icon that Love is apparently seeking.
Your words are not helping to elevate us, Loni Love. And that’s not the definition of empowering plus size women.
Instead of blocking our voices, we hope you will consider humbling yourself and actually listening to what we’re saying. You might actually find that plus size icon you seek in the process and learn more about the plus size industry.
We reached out to Loni Love for comment and no response has been received as of the publishing of this article.
What do you think of Loni Love and her “no plus size icons” comment? Follow us on social media and sound off: @plusmodelmag: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
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