Naturi Naughton – Power

Q) What are the recent projects that you are working on?

A) Well, I just wrapped shooting “Power” so that’s my most recent. I’m really excited about this show and, hopefully, we will be doing this show for many more seasons to come.

Q) Please tell us the premise for “Power” and about your character Tasha St. Patrick.

A) “Power” is about a man struggling between two very distinct worlds who’s forced to face the challenges of trying to live a double life.  “Ghost” St. Patrick (played by Omari Hardwick) wants to transition from being a big-time drug dealer into a legitimate businessman by opening his own NYC nightclub. It’s gritty and authentic and I think people will enjoy it.  My character, Tasha St. Patrick, is Ghost’s “ride or die” wife. She’s an edgy woman from Queens, NY who is both street smart and book smart. Tasha helped Ghost build his empire and she will do whatever it takes to keep her family together. I loved playing such a strong, fierce woman.

Q) What made you want to be a part of the show?

A) I was drawn to the script! The complexities of the characters were written beautifully by our Creator/Showrunner Courtney Kemp Agboh. So, I fell in love with it. I loved that the show was set in New York City and I loved how real it was. I loved “Power” from the very beginning and I feel like the luckiest girl in the world that it “liked” me back!

Q) Was there anything about the character you added that wasn’t originally scripted for you?

A) Fortunately, the writer and producers of the show wanted to incorporate my musical background into the Tasha character. So, I got to sing in the show, which I don’t believe was originally scripted. Also, Tasha was originally written to be a bit older, but the role was adjusted to fit closer to my actual age. As an actress, I have been given the opportunity to create this character and tailor fit it to me, which is a huge blessing.

Q) The show is produced by 50 Cent. How hands on has he been with the show?

A) 50 was very hands on and extremely passionate about “Power.” He would come on set, check on us, see how we were doing and be such a supportive energy. I really enjoyed working with him.  Listening to him share his own story even helped me to better understand the world of “Power.”

Q) You play the wife of Omari Hardwick. Was there instant chemistry when you started working together or did you take time to bond?

A) Oh Omari and I had chemistry even before we started shooting “Power.” I had known him from before.  He was so supportive, even in me getting this opportunity with “Power.”  I’ve always loved his work and respected his journey as an actor. So, for me, I was excited that we could finally join forces and create something special through this show.

Q) What were some of your most memorable moments from filming?

A) I would say one particular memorable moment for me was during our filming of Episode 6. I got to sing and perform. The episode was directed by George Tillman, Jr., who directed me as Lil Kim in Notorious. So, I felt really safe and comfortable working with him again. But I remember everybody being on set, my cast members, producers, my director, even my parents came to visit me on set that day.  When I finished pouring my heart out in this song, everybody started clapping for me and really cheering for me as if I had just given a real concert.  I was almost in tears, not only because of the support I felt, but because it hit me that I was literally living my dreams and doing what I always said I wanted to do – be a singer and an actress. It was a special moment and I won’t ever forget it.

Q) What is it about Power that makes it a good fit for the Starz Network?

A) I think Starz is a network that wants authentic material and content that is diverse, gritty and provocative. I believe that “Power” is all of that. It fits the network because we have an ethnically diverse cast with a story that will definitely get the audience talking. I honestly believe we are at the perfect home where I think this show can hopefully live for a very long time.

Q) You are a part of social networking sites. Are you looking forward to the immediate response to the TV show that you’ll receive through social media?

A) Yes, I am on twitter (@naturinaughton) and on Instagram (@naturi4real).  I look forward to hearing people’s thoughts about the show. I love how social media can connect you immediately to the pulse of your audience. I can’t wait!

Q) Is there anything else you would like to be sure to share with fans about the TV Show?

A) Essentially, “Power” is not your typical show. The music is powerful, the story is daring and dangerously smart and the characters are full and multi-dimensional. So, stick with them to see how they grow. I want the fans to take flight with us and just be prepared for a very exciting ride. I am so proud of this show and all the work that we’ve done to create it. At the end of the day, I hope people enjoy watching it just as much as I did making it!

Q) What are a couple quick and easy fashion tips when going out?

A) I would say, when I’m going out I always have a safety pin in case of a wardrobe malfunction! Top Stick double sided tape works when I’m wearing a plunging neckline and I need the fabric to stay put and cover all my bits. Another key fashion tip would be dress to express yourself. Do you and you will feel awesome when you walk out the house!

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

A) To all my fans, you have been watching me grow and I am so grateful for your undying support! Some of you may remember my beginnings as a teenager in a pop girl group and it means so much that you all have been riding with me ever since. But to the old and new fans, you all give me the confidence to keep striving and keep fighting when I have my rough days. I need you and I love you. You’ve given me your best and I promise to always give my best right back to you.