In a recent, candid conversation, actor Corey Hardwick has stirred up discussion by reflecting on his Hollywood journey and personal life. His remarks not only offer insight into his career but also reveal the challenges and pressures he has faced both professionally and personally.

The Color Purple Controversy

Hardwick nearly walked away from the role of Shug Avery in the highly anticipated remake of The Color Purple. He recounted a pivotal moment when he was informed by a colleague that he had been “blackballed” in the industry. “I asked, ‘Why have I been blackballed?’ and he said, ‘Because you didn’t play the game.’ I wanted to know what game I was supposed to play, but he couldn’t answer that,” Hardwick shared. Despite the challenges, Hardwick expressed deep appreciation for the film’s creator, Tyler Perry, describing his experience on set as “the most incredible” and praising Perry for his care of the actors.

On Personal and Professional Struggles

In his reflective comments, Hardwick touched upon the personal and professional pressures that come with being in the spotlight. He humorously discussed the struggles of starting a day at 7:00 AM, comparing it to “gang banging on bacon” and suggesting that sometimes people need to reevaluate their priorities and find joy in simple things. He highlighted the role of cannabis in altering one’s perception of life’s difficulties, albeit with a light-hearted tone

.

Hardwick also addressed the broader issue of actor compensation and recognition, noting that despite significant achievements, he has not seen a raise in his income since his role in Proud Mary. He expressed frustration with how the industry values and compensates talent, particularly for Black actors, who often face systemic challenges and underpayment.

A Shift in Stance: From Critic to Supporter

Previously, Hardwick had been a vocal critic of Hollywood’s darker practices. He had expressed skepticism about the industry’s ethical standards and its treatment of actors. However, his recent work with Tyler Perry, despite the film receiving a rare 0% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, marks a notable shift. Hardwick defended the film, focusing on its reception among audiences rather than critical reviews. He emphasized that his commitment was to the viewers and their enjoyment of the film.

This shift has drawn attention, especially given Hardwick’s earlier criticisms of Perry and the entertainment industry. Comedian Cat Williams and actress Mo’Nique have been outspoken about similar issues, highlighting systemic challenges faced by Black actors. Williams criticized the industry for its treatment of talented Black actresses, while Mo’Nique spoke about being blackballed after refusing to promote Precious during the awards season.

The Personal Life of Corey Hardwick

Hardwick’s personal life has also been under scrutiny. His marriage to actress Tia Mowry ended after 14 years, a separation that was publicly announced in October 2022. The couple’s split was finalized in April 2023, with both parties agreeing on joint custody of their children and no spousal support. Tia has been open about her journey post-divorce, focusing on self-care and personal growth. She emphasized the importance of self-love and happiness, reflecting on her life changes with positivity.

Rumors about Hardwick’s sexuality surfaced following the divorce, with speculation about his potential interest in men. Tia Mowry addressed these rumors, encouraging authenticity and self-expression. Hardwick, for his part, has been more reserved about the details of his personal life but has expressed continued love and support for his children.

Corey Hardwick’s Hollywood Legacy

Corey Hardwick’s career began in the late 1990s with notable TV appearances and film roles. His breakthrough came with a supporting role in Clint Eastwood’s Gran Torino. Over the years, Hardwick has navigated both success and struggle, facing industry challenges while striving to make a name for himself.

The contrast between Hardwick’s earlier criticisms and his current support of Tyler Perry raises questions about the pressures and compromises actors face in Hollywood. As the industry continues to evolve, Hardwick’s journey reflects the complex dynamics of fame, integrity, and personal growth.