10 Things about Ebony Obsidian
Originally from New York, when did you decide that you would have a career in the entertainment industry and how did you get your start?
I always knew that I wanted to tell stories. At first, I thought I’d accomplish that through journalism or feature writing, which in essence would allow me to explore the lives of other people, events and a never-ending range of topics. However, I decided to work toward creating a career in entertainment when I failed, in my opinion, at covering those topics without becoming attached them. When I learned that my sense of accomplishment and joy came from putting myself in the shoes of others, I knew it was time to take it seriously.
Getting into this business is not an easy task. What can you tell us about your support system?
No, it isn’t. I’m grateful that I grew up around women who consistently demonstrated that perseverance – it’s the only way to gain what you want. My mother, in particular, has always been supportive of me leading a life that brings me joy, so long as it was backed with the knowledge that I’d have to work my ass off to do so, regardless of what that life looked like. That, partnered with my own drive to feel fulfilled on a daily basis, has been a huge support on this journey.
Which actors body of work made a positive impact on your career choice and which ones would you want to work with if given the opportunity?
Too many to list them all. Several of whom I’ve had the honor of working with already, including Regina King, Aunjanue Ellis, Angela Basset and more. Overall, actors who are versatile, who have never allowed themselves to be placed in a box, and who have been bold in their choices, have been the most impactful. Off the top of my head, I’d love to work with Denzel Washington, Meryl Streep, and Dev Patel.
You have several projects under your belt. Let’s first talk about BET’s Sistas. How were you first introduced to the series and what was it about the script that made you want to be a part of it?
My agent reached out with the pilot for Sistas. When I read it, I fell in love with the intricate relationships between all the characters, and the relationship my character Karen had with herself. Also, up until that point, I had never read a script with a group of friends that all looked like me. It was refreshing. The love, the drama, the comedy, the complexity of it all.
On Sistas, you play the role of Karen Mott, who’s a street-smart hair salon owner. What can you tell us about Karen’s personality and what you enjoy most about bringing her character to life?
Out of every woman I’ve portrayed, I’ve spent the most time, episode wise, with Karen. In that time, I’ve come to learn that the best way to describe her, is a force. She owns her own business, car, and home. So, where her story begins, she’s at a point of recognizing that she’s beyond ready to move onto the next goal in life. This turns into a very fierce restructuring of relationships around her, specifically with the main man in her life. My favorite part about being Karen is how straightforward she is. She says what she means and practices what she says. And, the times when she isn’t practicing, she’ll opt for the route she believes is best for her, regardless if it causes pain to do so. That takes guts.
Another project that you’re a part of is Amazon’s HUNTERS, a show inspired by true events in 1977 New York City. For those who have not seen the show yet, what can you share about your character, Carol Lockhart?
Carol is a ride or die chick. A childhood friend of Jonah, who sincerely wishes she knew what was going on in his head, heart, and life. Even though he attempts to keep her in the dark, she is persistent in learning exactly what is going on. I mean, who wouldn’t be persistently suspicious with a title like Hunters?
You’re also on Hulu’s Wu Tang: An American Saga. You play the role of Nia. How much fun did you have working on this set and developing this storyline?
I had a blast. It was such a dope way to learn more about the Wu-Tang Clan. Nia has an interesting place in the story, as she’s so close to the drama, yet so far away. As the girlfriend of Divine, elder brother of RZA, she skates on the potential that he, and the relationship, could be living up to. It quickly becomes a tug of war between her and the streets, so watching that unfold was cool.
If you weren’t working as an actress, what other career path would you choose to do instead?
Honestly, I think I answer this question differently every time it’s asked. But today, I was watching documentaries on ancient Egypt, which I used to be obsessed with as a kid. Especially when archeologist Zahi Hawass was on. The stories of rulers like Nefertiti and Hatshepsut was, and still is, mind-blowing. In this moment, I’d say being an archeologist would be incredible.
When it comes to fashion, which designers and styles appeal most to your personality?
I love anything interesting. Whether through fabric, pattern, beads, or stones, statement pieces usually enhance whatever mood I’m in. I love to be in bold, soft, loud etc. And then, sometimes comfort wins. Luckily, baggy clothes are cute too. I worked with some really talented designers thus far, but two of my favorites I’ve yet to work with are Laquan Smith and Alexander Wang.
We look forward to catching up on all three shows that you’re on. What other projects do you have coming up in the future?
That’s a great question. Maybe some music?
Instagram @EbonyObsidian
Twitter @EObsidian
Photo: Barbara Jayy
Makeup: @SadeAndPaint
Styling: @Petty_Cash