A Conversation with Darryl Bell and Tempestt Bledsoe
The Hampton University Center for Public Policy and Leadership Spring Speaker’s Series, and the Department of Performing Arts co-sponsored a Conversation with Tempestt Bledsoe and Darryl M. Bell Friday Feb. 17 in the Little Theater from 12-1 pm. Bledsoe, known for her role as Vanessa in The Cosby Show and Bell known for his role as Ron in A Different World, discussed the importance of artists using their creative influence to become activists in the community.
Bledsoe and Bell both mentioned the influence The Cosby Show and A Different World had on the African-American community, and specifically, college-aged students. Bell even commented on how Hillman, the pretend college from the show, was modeled after Hampton University and even helped boost college enrollment during the 90s.
Bledsoe believes that it is an artist’s responsibility to use his/her craft as a form of activism and has even used her career as a platform to help make a difference.
“I use my craft as a form of activism in my choices and the roles I play. Growing up on The Cosby Show, I saw the influence of fame and how it can be used in a positive way. I have made a conscious effort to take on roles that have the potential to impact the community.
Bell shares similar beliefs as Bledsoe and reminisced on feelings about working on pressing political and philosophical issues and what he has done since A Different World to impact the community.
“We tackled issues that were deliberately thought provoking and had open dialogues with our writers. Our show affected college-age students, and revolutions have started with college-age students. I also transcended activism into my personal life and used my celebrity to make an impact on the community. I supported President Obama and held voter registration drives and helped his campaign.”
The discussion seemed to spark the interests of many students wanting to enter the entertainment industry. Senior music recording technology major, Michael Thompson, commented on his feelings regarding artists as activists.
“It is always a good thing to see an artist having an influence on his/her audience; and using this influence to gain support for pertinent issues. This helps get important points across to people who wouldn’t ordinarily follow news events.”
Bledsoe also offered advice to Hamptonians interested in a career in the arts.
“Fully prepare and open yourself to theater and film pieces in order to fully develop into an artist. Create your own path and always stay true to yourself. Never compromise your integrity.
