**Blair Underwood Discusses Parenting, Acting, and His Tribute to His Late Mother in New Book**
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Renowned actor Blair Underwood has revealed that his children have mixed feelings about watching his performances, particularly when it comes to scenes featuring nudity. In a recent interview with PEOPLE, the 61-year-old star shared insights about family dynamics and his latest literary venture, “A Soldier’s Wife: My Mother, the Marvelous Mrs. Marilyn A. Underwood,” which was released on April 14.
Underwood, a father of three—Brielle, 27, and sons Paris, 29, and Blake, 24—stated that his children enjoy viewing his film and television work, but prefer to skip over the more risqué moments. He joked about their reaction, noting, “They don’t mind watching me onscreen. But they don’t like seeing my naked body, like on *Sex and the City* or some of the other things I’ve done.” His candid admission underscores the challenges many parents face when balancing their personal and professional lives.

The actor’s role as Dr. Robert Leeds on the iconic series *Sex and the City* came up during the interview, and he recounted how his children recently discovered the show. While they are pleased with their father’s presence on screen, they also expressed embarrassment, according to Underwood. He reflected on a recent appearance on *The View*, where co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin prompted an amusing exchange. “They’re happy that their dad’s on this show, but they’re also like, ‘All my friends are telling me they saw your butt,’” he recounted with laughter.

Despite their reservations regarding his more intimate scenes, Underwood has found ways to bond with his children through his work. He mentioned earning “brownie points” for his participation in the forthcoming film *One Spoon of Chocolate*, a project helmed by RZA from the Wu-Tang Clan. “When it’s somebody they know, or get excited about, you definitely get brownie points with the kids,” he remarked, highlighting how familial connections can amplify parental pride in the entertainment industry.
Underwood’s children have also engaged with his work in other genres. He noted that they particularly enjoyed his performances in the horror film *Longlegs* and the action-packed series *Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.*, signalling their appreciation for various aspects of his career. “They really were into that,” he offered, reflecting on the thrill of seeing their father in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
In addition to discussing his family life, Underwood opened up about his new book, which pays homage to his late mother, Marilyn A. Underwood, who passed away in 2020. The narrative chronicles her extraordinary journey from being an assistant designer to becoming the first Black female executive at the Barmon Brothers Company. Blair described his mother as “elegance and strength in motion,” noting her groundbreaking role in the fashion industry during the 1950s and her unwavering determination in her marriage to Lieutenant Frank Underwood.
“This book is her legacy, and everything I am began with her,” Underwood stated, underscoring the significant influence his mother had on his life and career. He acknowledged her visionary spirit, saying, “She was already a visionary, an entrepreneur, a fashion designer who broke barriers at Bowman Brothers.”
The publication of “A Soldier’s Wife” represents not only a tribute to his mother’s accomplishments but also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices many parents make for their families. Underwood’s reflections provide a glimpse into the values that shaped him, revealing a deep appreciation for familial bonds and personal history.
“A Soldier’s Wife: My Mother, the Marvelous Mrs. Marilyn A. Underwood” is now available in bookstores, ready to inspire readers with the remarkable story of a woman who made her mark in a male-dominated industry. Through this literary work, Blair Underwood not only celebrates his mother’s life but also invites others to reflect on the legacies that influence their own journeys.
