Viola Davis Shares Her Candid Reaction to Being Called ‘One of the Greatest of All Time’ (Exclusive)

Viola Davis Reacts to Acclaim as ‘One of the Greatest of All Time’

Viola Davis, the esteemed actress and EGOT achiever, recently shared her thoughts on being hailed as “one of the greatest of all time” in an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE at the premiere of G20 in Los Angeles on March 27. Davis, known for her exceptional talent, humility, and dedication to her craft, emphasized her collaborative approach to acting and the importance of seeing her co-stars as equals, rather than placing herself on a pedestal.

During the Los Angeles premiere of G20, Viola Davis spoke candidly with PEOPLE about her perspective on her own legacy in the entertainment industry. When questioned about how she navigates working alongside individuals who regard her as a legendary figure, Davis humbly rejected the accolade. She stated, “I don’t feel like I’m the greatest of all time. I see them as peers… I learn from them, and I really do believe that.”

As one of the rare artists to achieve EGOT status, having won an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and two Tonys, Viola Davis attributes her success to her belief in the power of collaboration. She emphasised her affinity for the concept of an ‘ensemble’, which underscores her commitment to working harmoniously with others in the industry. This ethos of collective effort is at the heart of her approach to every project she undertakes.

Davis’s latest venture, the film G20 set to premiere on Prime Video on April 10, showcases her versatility in a high-octane action-thriller role. Portraying U.S. President Danielle Sutton, Davis brings a commanding presence as she navigates a high-stakes scenario involving terrorism at the G20 Summit in South Africa. The character’s strength and resilience resonate deeply with Davis, who describes the experience as empowering and liberating.

Reflecting on her journey into acting and the impact of her latest role, Viola Davis expounded on the significance of feeling strong and capable as a woman in the industry. Her portrayal of President Sutton in G20 allowed her to explore a different facet of her identity, free from the constraints of conventional gender norms. Davis’s portrayal exemplifies her commitment to portraying multifaceted, empowered female characters on screen.

As the premiere audience at G20 bear witness to Viola Davis’s remarkable performance, the actress’s dedication to pushing boundaries and defying expectations shines through. Her portrayal of a powerful female protagonist resonates with viewers, showcasing her ability to transcend stereotypes and embody complex, compelling roles. The film’s director Patricia Riggen praised Davis’s transformative performance, stating, “This is Viola Davis as you’ve never seen her — heroically kicking tons of ass in a global thrill ride.”

Viola Davis’s journey to stardom is marked by resilience, determination, and a profound connection to her craft. Her recent accolades, including the prestigious Cecil B. DeMille Award at the Golden Globes, serve as a testament to her enduring impact on the industry. Through her powerful performances and unwavering commitment to authenticity, Davis continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

In conclusion, Viola Davis’s response to being revered as “one of the greatest of all time” underscores her humility, dedication to collaborative artistry, and transformative impact on the entertainment landscape. Her grace, talent, and unwavering commitment to authenticity serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists and audiences alike. As she continues to break barriers and redefine the boundaries of storytelling, Viola Davis remains an icon whose influence transcends the silver screen.