Editor’s Note: “The Reel Black List” is our annual spotlight of brothers and sisters in the worlds of advertising, film, TV, music, radio and media who are making a difference through their contributions and creativity. For the next 29 days, you will be able to celebrate these various personalities with us.
Talk about a woman who embodies Black Girl Magic. A personal embodiment of female empowerment and class, Gwendolyn Osborne has been pegged for her acting talents as she sets her sights on a heart stopping, action packed new role in WONDER WOMAN 1984 (June 5, 2020) alongside heavy hitters including Gal Gadot, Pedro Pascal, Kristen Wiig, Chris Pine, Robin Wright, and Connie Nielsen.
In the highly anticipated sequel to the highest-grossing live-action film ever directed by a woman (Patty Jenkins), hitting over $800 million at the box office, audiences can expect to see ‘Diana’ coming to America and taking on two new super-villains in this action-packed, nostalgic take on one of DC’s most popular franchises. The film will be filled with exciting flash backs to a young ‘Diana’ and the Amazons that raised her, which is where Gwendolyn will be taking center stage.
With roots from Nigeria, from Cuba, the West Indies, Ireland and England, Gwendolyn has embraced every part of her background as she’s come into her own and become the powerful, confident, and ambitious woman she is today.
With a long list of acting credits alongside some of today’s top Academy recognized stars, and years modeling, Gwendolyn has continued to expanded into her long time passion of music – her single “Give My Love” available on Apple music and all streaming platforms.
Gwendolyn’s love for the arts started in grade school, attending performing arts schools and performing in both England and America. Gwendolyn is best known for her role as ‘Jade Dominguez’ for two seasons on the television show Ocean Ave in addition to her roles on Charmed and Huff. Along with her most recent film appearance in Wonder Woman 1984, Gwendolyn is also known for her film roles in Jack & Jill, Snow Dogs and Any Given Sunday.
She, of course, was also the first pregnant model to continue working on CBS’ The Price is Right and was crowned, “the longest model of color” on the popular gameshow.
Gwendolyn is also working on a launch of a new face oil product for her sought after skin care secrets. When she’s not filming or performing, Gwendolyn spends time with her kids in Los Angeles and stays fit by eating well – and staying sane with balance and fitness.
What did You Originally Want to be When You Grow Up? A singing and dancing Wonder Woman!
How did You Get into Modeling and Acting? My Brazilian aunt used to dress me up and take pictures of me. She sent them to agencies in London when I was 13. I was signed by Marco Rasala at that time.
Who were Your Mentors? Modeling, Tyra Banks. Singing, Mariah Carrey. Hosting, Oprah. Acting, Meryl Streep and Halle Berry.
What is Your Biggest Achievement? Being able to balance motherhood and career. Becoming a real-life Amazon in Wonder Woman 1984!! Continuing to believe that I can live out my dreams of working in the business while supporting my children’s dreams too!
What is Your Biggest Disappointment? I don’t dwell on disappointments so this a hard one to answer but I guess not knowing when I’ll be working with Patti Jenkins again. Hopefully that will change soon!
Name Your Biggest Pet Peeves? People with no manners. No matter what, please be kind to each other. We are humans before anything else, let’s treat each other that way.
Predictions for the Industry Over the Next Decade: Women’s empowerment will come to the forefront of the discussion. I am a huge part of that, being the first pregnant model to continue working on The Price is Right with Drew Carey. I think more authenticity in characters, such as real LGBTQ actors playing their parts. More opening up about issues from the real world finally being heard and spoken about.
Name a Job You had that Would Surprise People: I worked at Hooters as a waitress for two years when I was 19! I was a single, teenage mom modeling and I was scared to rely solely on my modeling paychecks.
ALSO READ: Rodney Lucas, Director from South Side to the West Coast
Tell Us About Your Character in Wonder Woman 1984? I am a fearless bad-ass Amazon, who lives in the world where Wonder Woman grew up.
What do You Wish You had More Time to do? I stay in a place of gratitude. That keeps me happy with where I am everyday. I make the most of my time with whoever I am with or around, that includes myself, so I’m not in a space where I’m wishing for more.
What Drives You to be Extraordinary at What You do? My children are my biggest educators. They teach me how to keep things in perspective, to stay grounded and grateful.
Congratulations, You Built a Time Machine! What do You Go Back and Tell Your 15-Year-Old Self? GIRL! You are incredible, unique and enough!! Believe in yourself and go share your talents and vibrant self with the world. Stay dedicated, consistent and your dreams will come true. Don’t let anyone take your magic away!
Follow Gwendolyn:
Instagram: @itsgwendolyn
Twitter: @MrsGwennieSmith
