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Denisha Hardeman: Jamie is one of the sweetest and funniest guys in the room. He was so accommodating, and I was able to be around his daughter. Quentin actually introduced me to Samuel L Jackson. They asked about other things I was doing. They were able to offer so much advice. Jamie was the one who told me about New York Film Academy. They really encouraged me. And my family is a blessing. I know a lot of people without that support, and they get caught up in Hollywood. It’s extremely expensive to live here. People get stuck in other things because it’s really hard. I won’t give up though. I’d sleep in my car before I give up. My family is such a blessing, and my mom is one of the best mothers. Everybody says that (laughing). But for me to move to L.A., my mom had to sell my childhood home. She did that to make sure I had money, had a car, and that I was sufficient. I lived there my entire life, but they sold it and moved. At one point, I begged her not to do it because I felt so bad. My grandparents have sent me money, and then weeks later I’d find out it was their last. My family is just so supportive. People think you can come out here, look good, and it’s
done. Not anymore. Hollywood can eat you up and spit you out. You can be doing things today, and then tomorrow they don’t need you anymore. I’m very strong willed, and I’m not going to let that happen to me. This is why I take on the director roles, and I also write. This is why Paula Jai Parker, she has won awards, and been nominated for Oscars. She’s glued to me. I don’t take no for an answer. I don’t have time for people to recognize. I say if you don’t know who I am, I’m going to make you know. Samuel L Jackson gave me that added confidence. He told me not to take no for an answer. My dream is to be inspiring to someone else. I want to be that person, like that Spike Lee, that started careers for so many people.
Urban Grandstand: Talk to me about the short stories you’ve been writing with Paula Jai Parker?