Article Summary: Runway interviews Tyler Perry's For Better or Worse star Cocoa Brown discussing her remarkable acting career and distinctive personal style.
You play Jennifer in Tyler Perry’s For Better or Worse. Tell us a little about the show and your character.
The show is a spinoff of Tyler Perry’s Why Did I Get Married. It is based on the characters Marcus and Angela, and I play Jennifer who’s Angela’s best friend and helps her manage her own salon. Jennifer’s character is the truth; if you don’t want it, don’t ask her, and don’t expect her to give it to you with flowers. She’s brutally honest, but you love her for that; her heart is golden.
What’s the biggest difference between you and Jennifer?
I have little more tact than Jennifer. I’m gonna be honest with you, but I will consider your feelings first.
Can you tell us your favorite off-screen moment filming the show?
When I had my son towards the end of filming and all the cast showed up to the hospital for me.
Working as a stand-up comedian and a successful television actress, do you prefer one to the other?
Yeah. I prefer acting more, it allows me to step outside my normal character and become another, plus the schedule is less grueling. That being said, comedy will always be a love of mine.
What has been the most difficult obstacle to overcome so far in your career?
Sexism, and the chauvinistic mindset that female comics are not funny.
In addition to your acting and comedy career, you’re also a mother. Tell us a little about juggling a busy career while having children.
It really takes a village to raise a child, and I’ve been blessed with an incredible village that loves me and my son and they have done a terrific job helping me. Without them I would probably be a bit crazy.
What would you say are your top three priorities in life?
My son and family, my health and my career.
If you could give an aspiring comedian one tip, what would it be?
Stay true to yourself. Don’t let the machine/industry define you. Always keep a piece of yourself.
You starred in The Single Moms Club earlier this year. What was your favorite part of filming the movie?
Working with Terry Crews and Nia Long, two people I’ve admired for years.
If you had to pick one best friend from the cast, who would it be?
Nia Long.
Do you have any upcoming projects that we can watch for?
I’ll be recurring on the new Martin Lawrence and Kelsey Grammer sitcom Braddock & Jackson.
