Actress Denise Boutte talks being a “Weeziana Girl” and more

HM: We are so excited about your latest movie Her Only Choice. What was your experience like playing this role?

DB: My mother being a proud survivor fed my portrayal and helped me discover how fearless I truly was in breathing life into such a complicated character. When the public associates you with other beloved, more glamorous characters, unfamiliar with grittier, embattled portrayals, it’s hard to convince them of your range and ability. While I’ve been professing my preparedness for some time now, I must remind myself that I’m on HIS time, not mine. It was a surprise how much I’d repressed my emotions and fear of this disease. When you’re doing your best to be strong, positive and encouraging for the individual who’s on the battlefield, you often push personal feelings aside. After one particular hospital scene, a flashback of sorts, the director clearly said “cut” but I was so shaken, crying, and hyperventilating that Producer and Assistant Director (thank you Brett and Drue) had to console and calm me. Later that night, several crew members shared how affected they were by the scene, sharing how touched they were by dialogue that I’d improvised and was so “in the moment” of, that I couldn’t recall.

HM: Was it particularly challenging given the nature of the storyline?

DB: Portraying Tasha Jackson was by far the most emotionally taxing, yet gratifying character portrayal I’ve had to date. That said, I’d wake up each morning, reminding myself that this project was “bigger than me” and was a tribute to the brave women who have fought and won, battled but were overcome, and those who are currently fighting, advocating, educating and will inevitably CURE breast cancer. Another beautiful aspect of this film was the ultimate friendship, relationship, and evolution of love that childhood friends Tasha and Bernie, develop for each other. True love seems to be under attack these days and is often not seen with such depth and humanity. You can’t fake chemistry I and was honored that Queen Sugar star Timon Kyle Durrett was along for the Her Only Choice adventure, beautifully portraying best friend turned husband, Bernie Jackson.

HM: Have you ever been faced with any such critical decision making?

DB: As previously mentioned, I am blessed to say that my mother is a proud survivor, along with several aunts! Due to family history and an early self-exam scare, I’ve had to get mammograms (starting off with ultrasounds) since the age of 26 and because my mother carries the gene, had to get genetically tested. This wasn’t just another film, it was personal and I was honored to be a part of something so powerful, personal, informative, and inspiring.

HM: What is your dream project?

DB: I will say that I want to kick some butt...Angelina Jolie, aka Jane Smith in Mr. and Mrs. Smith style! I’m not toting these biceps around just for the fun of it people! I’d like to get more physical and know theres an action role with my name all over it!

HM: Denise, with being a successful actress and entrepreneur, how do you balance your work and personal life? 

DB: My foundation provides the stability necessary to sustain, anchored by a healthy presence of Faith and Family. Of course, leaving home for months at a time has its difficult moments. That said, I’m beyond grateful for our close-knit village of supportive family and friends. Without them, it would be impossible for me to thrive in my gift.

HM: You seem like such a warm and calm person. How do you maintain your inner peace?

DB: Rather than being inundated with “mommy guilt,” I choose to empower my daughter with independence and work ethic by being a positive example. I want nothing more than to raise a beautifully well-rounded, confident, self-respecting young lady. I want to build her up with a secure sense of empowerment and identity so strong that she doesn’t have to search for love, knowing beyond a shadow of a doubt, that she has two parents and a village who love and will always be there for her.

HM: How did it all begin?

DB: While working in the Dallas, Texas world of advertising, overseeing commercial and photo shoots for a range of clients’ campaigns, I was introduced to life on set. On several occasions, I was asked by the client to step in front of the camera, replacing the person who was actually cast. The initial resistance didn’t last long and, after being approached by a local talent agent, I found myself in front of the lens for a variety of print and commercial campaigns. A chance introduction landed me a talent manager, who I’m still with, till this day in Hollywood. Shortly after, I decided to take a leap of faith, packed my bags, and headed West. Trust me, no one is more surprised by my career choice, than me! It’s been quite the journey thus far and trust me when I say…I’m just getting started!

HM: Are there any childhood experiences that shaped you into the wonderful person you are today?

DB: “Wonderful! Oh the flattery! It actually took me leaving home to appreciate home. The simplicity with which I was raised wasn’t recognized as a positive. That changed when I realized the emptiness and brokenness that often plagued so many chasing fame and fortune in hopes of filling a void.

HM: Encouragement goes a very long way. Has anyone ever given you advice that you still find viable today?

DB: Tyler Perry was one, who inspired me to create my own opportunities rather than put my destiny all in the hands of others. Diversification is key...in addition to producing my own film and television concepts, I’m in the thick of creating a culinary empire! From Weeziana Girl Seasoning Blends, to my cookbook Southern Modified up first, to heat-&-eat meals and desserts...the sky is the limit!

HM: What are your thoughts on diversity in the industry?

DB: I feel so blessed to be part of the “Be the change you want to see” movement, with regard to diversified casts and content on both the big screen and small. There's a fair amount of content, but when the decision-makers continue to fill roles with the same names/faces because the business side of things requires it for box-office draw, they shut out an entire group of talented artists. You miss out on the opportunity to cultivate the next generation of storytellers.

HM: What would you like to see change as far as more major studio involvement? And, is creating your own avenues just as important?

DB: It’s called show business for a reason and while acting it is indeed a beautiful art form, I’m mindful of approaching various facets of it as just that a business. For me, diversification is key. In additional to several recurring roles, multiple opportunities have unexpectedly blossomed on the voiceover front, the biggest of which I’m sworn to secrecy on, as animation takes time. Let’s just say that my superhero desires have been achieved on the animation front.

HM: Are you involved in any charitable causes?

DB: I thoroughly enjoy speaking with youth and giving back to the Louisiana folks who gave so much to me. Thanks to my dear friend, choreographer Jonas Vanderbilt, I had the pleasure of addressing the students of Southern University in Baton Rouge. By now, you’ve realized that I’m a huge proponent of individuals conducting themselves in a professional manner, no matter the business. Another crucial component is surrounding yourself with a trustworthy team/village that truthfully tells you not necessarily what you want, but rather what you need to hear. For me, the creative element is one slice of an even larger pie. Diversify, persevere with conviction, and stay the Course “YOUR course”!

HM: We are in a social media driven era. What are your thoughts on the rise of trolling and bullying?

DB: My thoughts on Social Media “Proceed with caution.” Often vulnerable individuals are seeking to connect and even tear down, in an age of false friendships and personal portrayals. Inadvertently the technology that was supposed to bring us closer is rather producing a age of non-connectivity. I prefer to share parts of me, but not all of me. I’m not the “live out loud” type and prefer to keep parts of my private life, just that… private. Everyone is different so navigate as you see fit. Just make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons and according to your own comfort level and not for others.

HM: Are there any projects or ventures coming up that you’d like to tell us about?

DB: Only God knows and I can’t wait to see what blessings he has in store! That said, I continue to work, plant seeds, train, and prepare for the harvest. In other exciting news, Her Only Choice has been nominated for an International Press Academy, Satellite Award, in the “Motion Picture, Made for Television” category. With only four nominees total including Netflix’s Cargo, Prime Video’s King Lear, and HBO’s The Tale, it’s quite the honor, accomplishment among some impressive company!

HM: With the success of your Creole all-purpose seasoning, “Weeziana Girl – Low Sodium”, what other tasty pleasures do we have to look forward to?

DB: When I couldn’t find the perfect off-the-shelf blend I desired, I created my own! After years of mixing countless batches of this all-natural blend in my kitchen for myself and family/friends that desired bottles of their own, I figured it was time to think bigger. Also this Spring, Weeziana Girl, Seasoning, will have additional blends available. A proud thespian, on the verge of a next level breakout role, I can now add author to my list of accomplishments. My new cookbook Southern Modified, is currently available online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and my website www.WeezianaGirl.com. This is a collaboration with Next Food Network Star, Chef Jernard Wells. Him being from Mississippi and I of course from Louisiana, we crossed borders and joined forces to take Southern inspired dishes and modify them for today’s healthier lifestyle.++