Before Kerry Washington and her husband, actor Nnamdi Asomugha, took their efforts to Arizona and Michigan to encourage voter participation, they had important discussions with their children. Isabelle, 6, and Caleb, 4, were old enough to understand that, given the rising COVID-19 cases, traveling to another state might not be the safest choice. “We had to explain to them why we were getting on a plane during a pandemic when we’ve stressed the importance of staying safe at home. We were flying to motivate others to vote, which led to significant conversations in our household,” Washington explains.
Washington is candid and straightforward. While she chooses not to disclose personal details about her marriage or children, she does so in a way that doesn’t make anyone feel uncomfortable for asking. It reflects her upbringing.
Despite the challenges of the pandemic, Washington experienced a remarkable year. She kicked it off with a role in Hulu’s Little Fires Everywhere and ended it as a mother in The Prom, a Netflix film premiering Friday, while also actively campaigning for Biden/Harris and sharing uplifting yoga videos from her yard. She claimed her first Emmy for producing the special Live in Front of a Studio Audience: All in the Family and Good Times, which attracted 10.4 million viewers, and invested in the women-owned jewelry brand Aurate.
Washington discusses her parenting philosophy, the courage it took to sing in The Prom, and the fun of being ‘mean’ to co-star Meryl Streep.
On the Importance of Voting:
“I’m incredibly proud of our nation. Despite the obstacles, seeing so many people show up to vote during a pandemic brings hope. It was a significant moment for our family, especially when the kids realized we could have ice cream for breakfast after the results were declared!”
On Inclusion and Acceptance:
“The film conveys a powerful message: everyone deserves unconditional love. It’s crucial to find those who will accept you for who you are, even if that love isn’t found within your immediate family.”
On Working with Meryl Streep:
“I was thrilled when Ryan called me about the role. I got to be a bit mean to Meryl, which was a fun twist!”
On Motherhood:
“Bringing my own experiences into my roles is essential. The protective motherly instinct I portrayed was deeply personal, reflecting my own journey and the lessons I’ve learned about unconditional love.”
On Parenting Influences:
“My upbringing plays a significant role in how I parent. I aim to adopt the best aspects of my parents’ methods while evolving to create a better environment for my children. Parenting is about trying your best and accepting that nobody is perfect.”
On Finding Her Voice:
“I’m continuously discovering my voice. Singing in The Prom was a way to express myself, and my time on Scandal taught me the value of my perspective.”
On Future Plans:
“There’s no reunion in the works for Scandal at this time, but I love that my dad’s humor has become an online sensation, thanks to his endless collection of dad jokes!”
On Holiday Traditions:
“This year, we will stay home for the holidays, celebrating with our close circle, while maintaining some of our cherished traditions like Christmas jammies and gingerbread house decorating.”
The film The Prom is set to premiere on Netflix on December 11, 2020.