IN CONVERSATION WITH AJA NAOMI KING

interview by JANA LETONJA

Aja Naomi King will next be starring in NBC’s ‘Grosse Pointe Garden Society’, premiering on 23rd February. Most recently, she starred in Apple TV+’s critically acclaimed ‘Lessons in Chemistry’, for which she was nominated for an Emmy for Best Supporting Actress in a Limited Series in addition to Critics Choice Awards and NAACP Image Award nominations.

 
 

dress and shoes FERRAGAMO
earrings MESSIKA
bracelets SUZANNE KALAN
rings ALEXIS BITTAR
rings SUZANNE KALAN

‘Lessons in Chemistry’ received widespread acclaim. What drew you to the role, and how did you prepare to bring your character to life alongside such a talented cast? 

I was drawn to ‘Lessons in Chemistry’ because I loved the book and was excited to step into Harriet’s world. What captivated me most was how we intended to craft Harriet’s character in a way that expanded the depth of the story beyond what was originally on the page. The writing was both compelling and nuanced, allowing us to explore deeply personal aspects of her life, such as her marriage, her sense of self, and her journey as a Black woman in that era. It was also a perfect balance of lighthearted moments and profound, heartbreaking realities that I knew so many would be able to relate to and feel fully seen by with her depiction. Portraying her fight, her struggles, but also her joy, her community, and the bonds of friendship and family made this role incredibly meaningful.

bodysuit MIU MIU
coat ZIMMERMAN
shoes MALONE SOULIERS
socks MIU MIU
shoes MIU MIU
cuff MESSIKA
earrings MESSIKA

Your performance earned you multiple nominations, including an Emmy. How does it feel to have your work recognized on such prestigious platforms? 

Being recognized for my work is truly an honor. These are the moments you dream about, not just for the accolades themselves, but for the opportunity to do work that is both challenging and deeply meaningful. As an actor, you pour so much of yourself into a role, hoping to tell a story that resonates with people, that moves them, or makes them feel seen. To know that my performance reached someone, that it had an impact, is incredibly fulfilling. The recognition is wonderful because it’s never guaranteed in this industry, and it serves as a reminder of why I do what I do, which is to bring complex, authentic characters to life and to be part of storytelling that sparks conversation and connection.

Soon, we’ll be seeing you in NBC’s ‘Grosse Pointe Garden Society’. What can the audiences expect from this new project? 

Audiences can expect a thrilling, stylish, and darkly comedic ride with ‘Grosse Pointe Garden Society’. It’s sexy, sharp, and filled with an irresistible tension as the lives of these seemingly ordinary people spiral wildly out of control. This show follows four members of a suburban garden club whose worlds become dangerously intertwined by a shared secret, a murder no one wants to talk about. On the show, I play Catherine, a woman fighting to maintain the illusion of perfection by crafting a carefully manicured life, but the facade begins to crumble as she wrestles with her growing dissatisfaction and gets entangled in a murder that threatens everything. ‘Grosse Pointe Garden Society’ premieres on Sunday, 23rd February, at 10 PM on NBC and will beavailable the next day on Peacock. It’s the escapist fantasy you’ve been dreaming of and you won’t want to miss it.

dress GABRIELA HEARST
shoes AQUAZURRA
earrings BERNARD JAMES
rings SUZANNE KALAN
ringsEÉRA


Having worked across various genres, from legal dramas to limited series, how do you approach the challenge of stepping into such diverse roles? 

For me, it all begins with the story. Being able to understand what is at the core of the story we are trying to tell. Every role, no matter the genre, is an opportunity to step into a new world and bring a character to life in a way that feels authentic and deeply human. Once I grasp the heart of the story, I focus on crafting my character’s journey within it, who they are, what drives them, and how they evolve. I also think about the emotional truth of the character I’m playing. I have to consider what part of them will resonate with audiences, what makes them relatable, even in the most extraordinary circumstances. So whether I’m playing a law student in a legal drama, a woman navigating historical challenges of a certain era, or a well to-do woman navigating a whirlwind of scandal and mystery, my approach is always rooted in finding the humanity in the role. It’s about bringing depth, complexity and vulnerability to each character, ensuring that no matter how different the roles may be, they all feel real and lived-in. That challenge is what excites me most as an actor.


How do you choose roles that challenge and inspire you? Are there specific themes or stories you’re drawn to? 

I’m always drawn to great writing. I love stories that are rich, layered, and full of complexity. What excites me most about a role is the opportunity to explore the nuances of human nature, to dive deep into the “why.” Why do people behave the way they do? What motivates their choices? How do they contradict themselves, surprise themselves, or evolve in unexpected ways? I enjoy being able to explore the psychology of it all within a character and I’m particularly drawn to characters who challenge perceptions, either around identity, morality, ambition, or resilience. I love exploring the ways our environment shapes us, how circumstances push us to either flourish or fail. The messiness of being human, the contradictions, the vulnerabilities, those are the things that make a character feel real and worth exploring. And if a script makes me feel something deeply, whether it’s excitement, discomfort or curiosity, that’s usually a sign that it’s a challenge I want to take on.

 
 

top and skirt ULLA JOHNSON
shoes BRANDON BLACKWOOD
earrings and rings EÉRA


What has been the most significant turning point in your career so far? 

It’s hard to pinpoint a single turning point because every step of the journey has mattered. There wasn’t just one watershed moment that defined my career, rather it’s been a culmination of many experiences, opportunities and even setbacks that have shaped me along the way. Beyond just my own path, I recognize that the foundation for my career was laid long before I ever stepped in front of a camera. The choices my parents made, the values they instilled in me, the way they raised us, all of it has played a role in shaping my mindset, my work ethic and my deep gratitude for every opportunity. Every audition, every role, every challenge and even every failure has contributed to where I am today. It’s all connected and I truly believe that every experience, whether it felt like a breakthrough or a lesson in resilience, has been instrumental in leading me to this moment.


You’ve had some standout fashion moments recently, including appearances at Miu Miu and Schiaparelli shows. How does fashion play a role in your personal and professional identity?

Fashion is more than just clothing, fashion is a language that communicates identity, ambition and creativity. Personally, it allows me to express who I am, but most importantly who I aspire to be, shaping how I move through the world with confidence and authenticity. Professionally, fashion can be a strategic tool, signaling alignment with certain trends, innovation, and an understanding of visual storytelling. I see it as an extension of myself where every choice, from fabric to silhouette, conveys a message. My approach to fashion is intentional, blending artistry with cultural awareness to create a distinct presence that resonates in any space I enter.

dress DIOTIMA
shoes BIRMAN
earrings BERNARD JAMES
necklace SUZANNE KALAN


Are there any designers or fashion houses you dream of collaborating with in the future?

Absolutely. I have a deep admiration for designers who are reshaping the fashion industry with their innovation and cultural impact. Brands like LaQuan Smith and Pyer Moss are redefining luxury and accessibility while telling powerful stories through their work. At the same time, I have immense respect for iconic fashion houses like Prada, Dior, Balenciaga, and Ferragamo, each with a legacy rich in craftsmanship, artistry and timeless luxury. What I find truly inspiring is how these houses have managed to evolve while staying true to their roots. A collaboration with such houses would be an incredible opportunity to blend their heritage with a fresh, modern perspective. I also admire Olivier Rousteing’s vision at Balmain, which pushes boundaries with its unique combination of opulence and inclusivity. And Christopher John Rogers, with his unapologetic use of color and volume, encapsulates the bold, fearless spirit of fashion. Ultimately, I want to work with designers and houses that don’t just create clothing, but tell stories, celebrate culture and push the very limits of what fashion can be.


When you’re not filming, how do you unwind and recharge your batteries?

When I’m not filming, I really make it a point to prioritize my mental, physical and emotional well-being. First and foremost, I pour a lot of energy into spending time with my family. It’s important to me to stay grounded and connect with the people I love, so we often go on little adventures together, whether it’s bike riding, hiking or just enjoying a day out in nature. It’s the simple, quiet moments that recharge me the most. 

In addition to family time, I’ve built a routine around self-care and physical health. Working out is a big part of my life, it helps me stay balanced, both mentally and physically. I also make time for sauna and cold plunge, which are such great ways to detox and reset. I love to take moments to meditate, practice mindfulness and read, which allows me to slow down and clear my mind. Ultimately, I try to savor the present, appreciating all the gifts life has to offer. Whether it’s in the form of a good book, a challenging workout or a quiet moment with my family, I believe it’s those moments of stillness and connection that help me recharge and stay focused for whatever comes next.

dress SIMKHAI
shoes TORY BURCH
cuffs ALEXIS BITTAR


What excites you most about 2025, both in your career and personal life?

There’s so much that excites me, both professionally and personally for 2025. On the career front, I’ve been pouring so much energy into making ‘Grosse Pointe Garden Society’, and it’s been an incredibly fun and rewarding experience. I’m truly excited for the world to see it, it’s a show that I think people will really connect with, and I can’t wait for it to premiere. I’m also incredibly proud of my role as a global spokesperson for L’Oréal Paris. The work we’ve done around bystander intervention in street harassment has been so meaningful, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help spark conversations and drive positive change. Additionally, being part of L’Oréal’s Women of Worth program, especially as it celebrates its 20th anniversary, has been a privilege. I’ve had the chance to meet so many extraordinary women who are making a real impact in their communities, and it’s been incredibly inspiring.

On a personal level, I’m just excited for another year to fully embrace this beautiful life. The opportunity to continue creating art, being present with the people I love, and appreciating the little moments is something I’ll never take for granted. 2025 feels like a year full of possibilities and I’m ready for all of it.

 

TEAM CREDITS:

talent AJA NAOMI KING
photography RUBEN CHAMORRO
styling RAZ MARTINEZ
makeup VINCENT OQUENDO at THE WALL GROUP
hair GEO BRIAN at EXCLUSIVE ARTISTS using ORIBE HAIRCARE
market editing HANNAH ATIRA
styling assistance OYCE ONOURAH and ANNA WEBBER
editor TIMI LETONJA
editorial direction and interview JANA LETONJA
cover design ARTHUR ROELOFFZEN

 
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