For Comedy H News, I’m John ABA. The pressure to maintain a certain image in Hollywood often creates an environment where feuds thrive, and unfortunately, this has recently put a few notable Black women at odds.

On Friday, Oprah Winfrey shared a post on Instagram that appears to connect with a potential feud involving actress Taraji P. Henson over the highly anticipated remake of The Color Purple. I’ve long admired Taraji; she has the incredible ability to make us laugh, cry, and feel everything in between. But I had no idea she could sing! Taraji’s transformation from actress to singer is a complete revelation. What I love about her portrayal of Shug Avery is that she embodies a woman who not only sang the blues but truly lived them.

In her heartfelt message, she recounted that her late father once told her, “You’re going to be one of the greatest actresses alive, but wait until the world hears you sing.” Taraji, the stage is now yours, and I can already envision the standing ovations coming your way! I’m fiercely welcoming Taraji to the Purple Sisterhood and can’t wait for everyone to experience her version of Shug. The Color Purple hits theaters on Christmas Day, and the excitement is palpable.

In her Instagram post, Oprah shared several photos of Taraji on set and during press for the film. One video captured Henson’s reaction when she learned she had landed the role and who she would be sharing the screen with. However, this latest post from Oprah has some speculating about an alleged feud brewing behind the scenes with Henson. Earlier this week, Taraji publicly addressed pay disparities in her career, revealing in a press interview that she nearly declined to be part of the Color Purple reboot due to salary issues.

As soon as the news broke, discussions began to swirl around Oprah, who is listed as a producer on the reboot. Questions arose about why she couldn’t advocate for better pay for the Black actresses in the cast. One user on X (formerly Twitter) pointedly remarked, “Oprah is far from broke. You mean to tell me Taraji and Fantasia almost walked away because they were lowballed?” Another user echoed the sentiment, suggesting that “Oprah and company don’t pay Black actors.”

Additionally, fans started dissecting a video of Winfrey taking photos with Henson, Danielle Brooks, and Fantasia. Some observers interpreted their body language as a sign of tension, fueling rumors of an alleged feud, while others defended the video, asserting that the cold weather might have contributed to their demeanor.

Interestingly, just last month, in an interview with Essence magazine, Henson revealed she made only $35,000 for her role as Sophia in the original Color Purple. She commented, “They were only offering $35,000 to be in this film, and it is the best $35,000 I’ve ever earned.” Adjusting for inflation, that amount is equivalent to nearly $999,000 in 2023. As Oprah began to trend online, highlights from past Oprah Winfrey Show episodes resurfaced, showing that this isn’t the first time Winfrey has faced tension related to The Color Purple.

During an episode of her show in 2010, Winfrey and guest Whoopi Goldberg revealed they hadn’t spoken in years, believing the other was mad at them after sharing the screen in the 1995 original Color Purple. They would later reconcile during a gathering at Tyler Perry’s house.

Fast forward to this week, as rumors of a feud between Henson and Winfrey circulated online. Taraji took to Instagram to thank her supporters and clarify her feelings about Oprah. She emphasized, “It is so important for Black women and all women of color to support each other. It’s also imperative to have women of color in decision-making positions across all industries. Thank you for responding to my message with compassion, understanding, and support.” She added that Oprah has been a steady and solid beacon of light for the cast of The Color Purple, providing encouragement, guidance, and unwavering support.

Unfortunately, Henson’s post didn’t quell the skepticism among some followers. One user commented, “Must have gotten the call once people started noticing the body language on TikTok. We still don’t mess with Oprah, but I love you, Taraji.” Another echoed, “I don’t buy it, but I support you, Taraji.”

As this conversation unfolds, it raises the question: should Oprah, with a reported net worth of $2.8 billion, be held responsible for the offers extended to Taraji and the rest of the cast? Do you think this potential feud will resolve amicably? Let’s discuss in the comments below.

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