IN CONVERSATION WITH CHRISTINA COOPER
interview by JANA LETONJA
Christina Cooper, the television producer, movie director, actress, international model, self-published author, and the CEO of Christina Cooper Productions, stars in ‘Sugar Baby’, which premiered this February. In addition to acting, Christina produced films such as ‘South Central Love’, ‘Bid For Love’, and ‘Athena Saves Christmas’. But Christina is most recognized on tv from her role as Jade on BET’s “Sugar Baby”, Niecey on AMC’s “The Influencer”, Miko on Netflix’s show “Dear White People” and on Disney’s new show “Behind the Animation”.
shoes SCHUTZ
jewelry LOVISA
top AURA PLEATED CORSET TOP (FASHION NOVA COLLECTION)
bottom THALIA MAXI SKIRT (FASHION NOVA COLLECTION)
‘Sugar Baby’ explores themes of love, power, and self-discovery. What initially drew you to the role of Jade?
I could really relate to the character of Jade in so many different ways. I feel like throughout the movie she is finding herself and learning how to live life for her happiness, instead of living for other people’s happiness. I feel like I’ve definitely been on that journey and continue to learn more about myself day by day as I go through this journey of self discovery.
Jade’s journey is complex, navigating love and independence while dealing with past challenges. How did you prepare for this character emotionally?
There were definitely some challenging moments to get there emotionally, but I definitely channeled hurt and pain I’ve experienced in the past to get to those darker moments. I think it’s hard to sometimes get out of those dark moments mentally once you’re in it, so it can be scary to go there. But that’s why I strongly feel it’s important for actors to be aware of their mental health. It’s important to find ways to bring yourself out of those dark and emotional moments.
What do you hope audiences take away from ‘Sugar Baby’?
I hope people learn to live their lives for themselves and to follow their heart. I also hope people see you can overcome struggles in life and still find that happy ending when it comes to love and life.
shoes SCHUTZ
jewelry LOVISA
top AURA PLEATED CORSET TOP (FASHION NOVA COLLECTION)
bottom THALIA MAXI SKIRT (FASHION NOVA COLLECTION)
You’ve made a name for yourself as a director, producer, and actress. Do you prefer being in front of the camera or behind it?
I’m honestly still figuring it out. But I love both. As of right this moment, I’m enjoying the storytelling from in front of the camera, but I can’t wait to get back behind the camera this year and produce something. I enjoy doing both and I learn so much from each position. I feel like each position teaches me more about the other, so it’s all a learning process for me.
‘South Central Love’ was a major success. How did that experience shape your approach to storytelling and filmmaking?
I think it definitely inspired me to make stories that influence positive change, because filmmaking is a great way to influence change and to tell much needed stories from a variety of different voices and perspectives.
As the CEO of Christina Cooper Productions, how do you decide which stories you want to tell?
It has to mean something to me. It has to inspire something. Love, change, or inspiration of some sort.
Can you share any challenges you’ve faced as a female filmmaker in Hollywood and how you’ve overcome them?
Sometimes I feel like I used to not get taken seriously. I remember I was set to direct a music video and when I got there, they were directing me to where the models were. It was so funny.
How do you balance being an actress, director, producer, and entrepreneur with your personal life?
Oh my goodness, it can be so hard. But when I’m not working, I like to try to relax at home and take a bubble bath. I’ve been learning to take better care of my needs and my mental health in between work. And I’ve also learned to pace myself and try to focus on certain things at a time. Also, I utilize my calendar for planning everyday. It keeps me organized with my to do’s.
What’s coming up next for you? Any exciting upcoming projects you can tease?
I’ll be playing Lisette in the new movie ‘Omaha’, which premiered at the Sundance film festival. I will also be playing Nikki in the new TV series ‘Dope Unit’, as well as some other projects in the works, including some new Disney stuff. Super grateful and excited for this year.
TEAM CREDITS:
talent CHRISTINA COOPER
photography VON ROBINSON
styling DESIREE DELRIO
lashes ADORED ESTHETICS by ONYX
makeup ISLAND GAL PRODUCTS by CHRISTINA COOPER
