Vanessa Williams Responds After She’s Asked, ‘Why Do You Keep Playing Bitches?’

Vanessa Williams, renowned for her iconic roles in both film and television, has recently shared insights into her career path and the characters she has portrayed over the years. With notable performances in “Ugly Betty,” “Desperate Housewives,” and the musical adaptation of “The Devil Wears Prada,” Williams has become synonymous with dynamic, strong female characters often deemed the ‘divas’ of their stories.

During an episode of The Happy Grownup Podcast aired on 28 April, host Hal Rubenstein posed a question that resonated with many of Williams’ fans: “Why do you keep playing bitches?” Williams responded with laughter, highlighting the fact that some of her most memorable roles frequently embody female characters with complex, often antagonistic traits.

Between 2006 and 2010, Williams brought to life the character of Wilhelmina Slater, the self-centred creative director in “Ugly Betty.” This role earned her three Emmy nominations and solidified her status as a talented actress capable of portraying multifaceted and sometimes troublesome personalities. Following that, she captivated audiences once more as Renee Perry in “Desperate Housewives,” where she leaned into the more scandalous aspects of her character’s arc from 2010 to 2012. Currently, she is thrilling West End audiences with her performance as Miranda Priestly in the musical interpretation of “The Devil Wears Prada.”

Reflecting on her career choices, Williams remarked on the absurdity of only wanting to play ‘likable’ characters. “You know, I think you have to not be afraid, because some people are like, ‘Oh I want to be liked.’ Well, why have a career if you just take roles that you want to be liked in? That’s ridiculous,” she stated. This philosophy has allowed her to explore a diverse portfolio of characters that challenge conventional notions of femininity and strength.

Williams revealed that her ability to assume these larger-than-life roles comes from her “chutzpah” and “gravitas,” traits she believes are essential for stepping beyond one’s comfort zone. “I take risks,” she said, emphasising the importance of putting oneself out there to convey characters with bold and commanding personalities. For her, these roles are not just about being the antagonist; they also come with rich, engaging dialogue. “They have the most delicious lines, always. I mean, every day, I’ll read a script, I’m like ‘That’s hilarious. Oh, that’s really terrifying. I want to do that.’ It’s fun for me,” she explained.

The allure of playing such captivating characters is not limited to her recent work. Williams’ past roles, such as her portrayal of The Witch in Stephen Sondheim’s “Into the Woods” revival back in 2002, further showcase her affinity for complex and commanding roles. Her performance earned her a Tony nomination, marking yet another significant highlight in her illustrious career.

In reflecting on her body of work, Williams acknowledged the possibility of being typecast due to the formidable nature of her characters. However, she finds depth in their backgrounds and motivations. “I always find it fascinating,” she noted. “My characters are formidable because they’ve worked their lives to create something that means something.” Such attributes resonate not only with Williams but also with audiences who admire her resilience and prowess.

Born in 1963, Williams first achieved fame by becoming the first Black Miss America in 1984. Although her reign was marred by controversy following a nude photo scandal, she quickly rebounded by venturing into music, releasing her debut album, “The Right Stuff,” in 1988. Over the years, she has amassed 11 Grammy nominations, with her hit single “Save the Best for Last” reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in 1992.

Williams’ creative journey has encompassed various artistic avenues, from music to theatre. She made a notable Broadway debut in the 1994 production of “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” which further demonstrates her versatility and command over the performing arts. Despite her illustrious career, she remains committed to challenging herself with each new role she takes on.

As Williams continues her run in “The Devil Wears Prada” on London’s West End, her candid reflections on the complexities of playing strong female roles highlight both her passion and her unique contribution to the arts. Her career choices encourage the idea that it is not only acceptable but also vital to explore characters that evoke a range of emotions, challenging societal expectations along the way. Williams’ bold approach and willingness to step into the shoes of the ‘divas’ invites audiences to reconsider traditional views on women in entertainment, ultimately celebrating the multifaceted nature of femininity in the performing arts.