Viola Davis, renowned for her incredible achievements in film and television, emphasizes the importance of teamwork in her acting career. On March 27, the 59-year-old actress appeared at the Los Angeles premiere of “G20” at the TCL Chinese Theatre and discussed her impact on the entertainment industry. When questioned about how she makes her costars comfortable despite her reputation as one of the greatest, Davis downplayed the title. “I’ll tell you how I deal with that: I don’t feel like I’m the greatest of all time,” she stated.
The celebrated actress, who has achieved EGOT status, emphasized her belief in collaborating with peers. “I see them as peers,” Davis continued. “I don’t feel like I’m the great actress Buddha in the sky and you are all minions that have to learn from me. I learn from them, and I really do believe that.” Her passion for teamwork is evident, stemming from a genuine love for the art itself.
Davis’s latest film, “G20,” available on Prime Video starting April 10, showcases her in an action-thriller role as U.S. President Danielle Sutton. The character navigates the challenging terrain of a terrorist takeover during the G20 Summit in South Africa, utilizing her military and political knowledge to protect her family and global leaders. The role left Davis feeling both powerful and capable. “I love feeling like my body was capable as a woman,” she told PEOPLE. She relished portraying a character who represents strength and self-preservation beyond societal norms.
At the film’s premiere, Davis highlighted her inspiration for the movie. “We wanted to make a film that showed that there is no limit, no obstacles in what I am capable of doing. As a woman, as a woman of color, and as a woman of a certain age, this is a testament to our ability,” she declared. The film, as noted by director Patricia Riggen, casts Davis in a new light, showcasing her as a formidable force in a high-stakes, global narrative.
Earlier this year, Davis was honored with the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the Golden Gala ahead of the 2025 Golden Globes. Her acceptance speech, dedicated to her younger self, touched on the profound reasons she pursued acting. Reflecting on her childhood challenges, she explained, “I was born into a life that just simply did not make sense. I didn’t fit in. I was born into abject poverty. I was mischievous. I was imaginative. I was rambunctious.” It was this imaginative spirit and determination that propelled her toward a successful acting journey.
Davis fondly recalled the “magic” within her that fueled her dreams. “And you know what my magic was? That I could teleport. That I can take myself out of this worthless world and relieve myself of it at times,” she said. Her journey from childhood poverty to Hollywood acclaim is a testament to her resilience and passion for the craft.
The significance of Davis’s journey extends beyond her personal achievements, underscoring her role as a pioneer for diversity and representation. Her story resonates with many, offering a powerful narrative of inspiration and determination. As Davis continues to take on roles that break boundaries, her collaborative spirit remains at the core of her work, highlighting her belief in the collective power of storytelling.
