This year, Vivica A. Fox celebrates the 25th anniversary of the romantic comedy, *Two Can Play That Game*, a film that continues to resonate with audiences. Renowned for her diverse roles across various genres, including action and drama, Fox has carved out a significant place in Hollywood. However, it is her portrayal of Shante Smith in this 2001 hit that has endeared her to fans.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Vivica-A-Fox-attends-A-Toast-To-Hollywood-Royalty-030526-1e4de47040734293a40a3526b41d8c05.jpg)
In a recent interview with *Woman’s World*, Fox reflected on her iconic yellow Versace suit from the film, revealing that it holds a special place in her heart. “My favourite is my yellow Versace suit from *Two Can Play That Game*,” she shared. “I had to fight for that costume when I was going through wardrobe fittings.” The suit’s vibrant colour was inspired by her friend Cassandra Mills, who suggested that Fox’s character needed to embody a “ray of sunshine.”
Fox’s role in *Two Can Play That Game* represented a significant turning point in her career, allowing her to take centre stage for the first time. Prior to this role, she primarily inhabited secondary positions within ensemble casts. “I’d always been number two or three on the call sheet, and this was my first time being number one,” she remarked. This transition not only challenged her as an actress but also taught her to assert herself during the production process.
Despite initial hurdles, Fox demonstrated her commitment to the project by investing in her own wardrobe. “I ended up whipping out my own credit card and paying for a lot of my own wardrobe, and it was worth it,” she explained. Her choice to take this financial risk ultimately allowed her to create a character portrayal that felt authentic and resonated deeply with audiences.
The investment in her attire not only enhanced her confidence but also helped her establish a lasting identity for Shante Smith. “Because of that, the yellow Versace suit will always be my favourite costume,” Fox stated. This bold choice has influenced her fashion sense beyond the film, as she frequently incorporates the colour yellow into her wardrobe for various projects.
Her affinity for yellow extends into her work with Lifetime, where she insists on wearing bright colours that empower women. “I love it, and I always include the colour in my collection,” she revealed. Fox encourages women to embrace vibrant fashion choices, countering the often-dominant black attire seen in some film genres. “I don’t want women to be afraid of colour. You don’t always have to wear black. Come in the room and stand out, honey!” she added.
As the film industry evolves, Fox’s reflections on her journey in *Two Can Play That Game* underscore the importance of self-advocacy and confidence. By championing her choices, both in her wardrobe and as an actress, she has paved the way for other women in the industry to express themselves boldly.
In revisiting her beloved role, Fox not only highlights her personal growth but also encourages future generations of actresses to embrace their power within the entertainment realm. As her 25th anniversary with the film approaches, fans continue to celebrate both her enduring career and the lasting impact of her character’s vibrant style.