IN CONVERSATION TIFFANY BOONE
interview by JANA LETONJA
Actress Tiffany Boone will be starring as the female lead in Disney's highly anticipated 'Mufasa: The Lion King', which will premiere on 20th December. Earlier this year, she captivated audiences in the critically acclaimed Apple TV+ series 'The Big Cigar'. Her other credits include Hulu's 'Nine Perfect Strangers', Netflix's 'The Midnight Sky', and Amazon's 'Hunters' amongst others. Besides acting, Tiffany is passionately involved in youth arts education and women’s health issues.
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Tell us more about your role as Sarabi in 'Mufasa: The Lion King' and what drew you to this character?
In the film, we see Sarabi’s journey to becoming the iconic Queen, wife, and mother from the original. I was drawn to her character for her sass, wit, and vulnerability.
What can the viewers and fans expect from the film when it comes out?
Viewers can expect to learn surprising new details about the background of the characters we've loved for 30 years.
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This version of 'The Lion King' is set in a different time period. How does your portrayal of Sarabi differ from the previous one, and how did you approach making the character your own?
In previous films, Sarabi is depicted as wise, royal and nearly perfect. In this prequel, Barry gave me the freedom to explore the more complicated elements of Sarabi as she struggles to figure out her place in a new world.
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What do you think Sarabi’s role is in this retelling of 'The Lion King'? How does she shape the story and the legacy of Mufasa?
Sarabi helps explain the relationship between Mufasa and Scar in the previous films, showing how she becomes the all-knowing wife to Mufasa and mother to Simba.
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Can you share some insight into your on-screen chemistry with Aaron Pierre and Kelvin Harrison Jr.? What was it like working with them on this film?
Our chemistry was built through Zoom recording sessions and socially distanced in-person sessions. It was essential to record together, either virtually or in person, to develop the complex relationships between the three of them.
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You’ve been a part of some diverse projects, from 'The Big Cigar' to 'Hunters' and 'Little Fires Everywhere'. What attracts you to certain roles, and how do you choose which projects to take on?
I’m always looking for a character I haven’t played before. I’m drawn to strong storytelling and working with filmmakers and artists I admire.
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You worked with incredible actors like Nicole Kidman, George Clooney, and Al Pacino. What have you learned from working alongside such seasoned professionals?
I’ve learned that true stars are passionate about their work but don’t take themselves too seriously.
Looking back at your career, is there a role or project that you feel was a defining moment for you, or one that shaped your path the most?
‘Little Fires Everywhere’ was a defining moment for me because I believe it allowed audiences to see a new side to my artistry.
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If you could step into any other Disney character’s shoes for a day, who would it be and why?
I would step into Ariel’s shoes for a day because, since I’m afraid of the ocean, I’d love to explore it without fear.
You are also passionate about youth arts education and women’s health issues. How do you balance your career with your advocacy work, and do you see your platform as an actress as a way to champion these causes?
I think everyone is affected by some form of art and I am lucky to interact with people because of the art I create. I’m always looking for opportunities to use whatever small level of influence I have to help others.
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TEAM CREDITS:
talent TIFFANY BOONE
photography ASHLEY CHAPPELL
styling JASMINE AMINI
makeup NADIA MOHAM
hair INDIA HAMMOND
photography assistant JON
styling assistant MEGAN MORALES
editor TIMI LETONJA
interview JANA LETONJA
