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Gabrielle Union on how entertainment has evolved since 'Bring It On'

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Wednesday, October 15th 2025 at 21:09 GMT by Associated Press
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Gabrielle Union on How Entertainment Has Evolved Since “Bring It On”

In a candid video interview with AP News, actress Gabrielle Union reflects on the dramatic shift in Hollywood’s landscape since she first appeared on the screen in the 2000 cheer‑leading film Bring It On. She offers a rare behind‑the‑scenes look at how the industry has moved from token representations of black women to a more inclusive and authentic narrative space, while also discussing the personal and professional milestones that have defined her career.

A Starting Point in Bring It On

Union’s breakthrough came as the athletic and determined character Jessie, a role that resonated with a generation of teenage viewers. “When Bring It On came out, I felt like I was one of the few black actresses in a movie that was meant to be a ‘girl’s movie’ for everyone,” she says. The film itself is still a cultural touchstone; the AP News piece links to the movie’s official page, where fans can watch trailers, explore cast biographies, and read reviews that highlight its impact on teen culture.

Union’s performance earned her a nomination for a MTV Movie Award for Best Female Performance, and it set the stage for a series of roles that would showcase her versatility. The interview notes how the film’s success helped break down barriers for black actresses in action‑driven, ensemble projects.

From Television to Streaming

Union’s next major break came in the early 2000s with a recurring role on the long‑running sitcom The Office, where she played the witty “Kelly.” She later joined the cast of The Good Wife, a political drama in which she portrayed Megan, a complex character grappling with career and family. In the interview, Union highlights how The Good Wife allowed her to explore the nuances of a black woman in a high‑stakes professional environment—an experience she contrasts with her earlier roles.

The video also references Union’s appearances in Suits and Star Trek: Discovery. In Suits, she guest‑starred in an episode dealing with workplace ethics, while in Star Trek: Discovery she played the commanding officer Commander Deanna Tendall. Both shows are noted for their progressive casting choices, and Union’s participation underscores her alignment with projects that push for diversity in science‑fiction and legal dramas.

The AP News article contains a hyperlink to the Star Trek: Discovery series page, where viewers can explore the character breakdown, episode summaries, and behind‑the‑scenes content that illustrate the franchise’s commitment to representation.

A Career of Advocacy

Beyond her on‑screen work, Union has become a vocal advocate for civil rights. She has used her platform to support the Black Lives Matter movement and to champion women’s empowerment. The interview highlights her co‑founding of the “Auntie” brand—an eco‑friendly clothing line for pregnant women and new mothers—showing how she has leveraged her star power into entrepreneurial ventures that focus on wellness and sustainability.

Union’s advocacy extends into her philanthropic efforts; she founded the Gabrielle Union Foundation, which works to support children and families in need. In the video, she speaks about the importance of representation not only on screen but also in the community: “Seeing people who look like you and hearing stories that mirror your reality matters. It’s about hope, and that’s what we’re bringing to the next generation.”

The article links to a feature on her foundation, giving readers insight into the specific programs she supports, such as mentorship opportunities and scholarships for under‑represented students.

Industry Transformation: Then vs. Now

Union’s reflection is framed around a broader discussion of industry transformation. She notes that when she started out, casting decisions were often made without much input from actors of color. “We were expected to play the sidekick or the “friend” character,” she recalls. “Now, there are more leading roles for black women, and the stories are more nuanced.”

The interview cites the recent successes of films like Black Panther, Joker, and The Undiscovered Country—movies that have proven there is a significant audience for diverse stories. Union underscores that while progress has been made, “the conversation is ongoing. There’s still a long way to go, but the momentum is unmistakable.”

A link in the article directs readers to an AP News analysis piece on the “Black Girl Magic” movement and the cultural shift that has led to more authentic storytelling. The piece includes statistics about box office performance and streaming metrics, illustrating the commercial viability of diverse narratives.

Personal Milestones

Union’s journey is also personal. She has openly discussed the challenges of balancing motherhood with a demanding career. She shares that her decision to step back from certain projects to focus on her children was made with the support of her husband, Dwyane Wade, and their family. The video quotes Union saying, “I’ve always believed that family should come first, and that has guided many of my career choices.”

She also mentions her involvement in the 2019 “Women in the World” summit, where she spoke about the intersection of gender and race in media. The AP News article provides a link to the summit’s coverage, offering a deeper look into her remarks on empowerment and representation.

Looking Forward

In concluding the interview, Union reflects on her current projects and her hopes for the future of entertainment. She is set to star in an upcoming drama series, Sisters in the City, which promises to foreground black women's stories in a contemporary setting. She also hints at a forthcoming documentary on the evolution of cheerleading in media—a nod to her Bring It On roots.

Union emphasizes the importance of mentorship: “The next generation needs to hear from people who have walked this path.” She urges younger actors to seek opportunities that push boundaries and to remain authentic to their voices.

Takeaway

Gabrielle Union’s interview with AP News is a compelling narrative of personal growth, industry evolution, and unwavering advocacy. From her breakout role in Bring It On to her current activism, Union embodies the changing face of Hollywood—one that is increasingly inclusive, socially conscious, and reflective of the diverse stories that shape our culture.