IN CONVERSATION WITH LAILA ODOM
interview by JANA LETONJA
Laila Odom is a woman who embodies power, purpose, and presence, both on and off the screen. Currently lighting up BET+’s hit series ‘Zatima’ as Connie, the bold, unpredictable ex-girlfriend whose energy and honesty have captivated audiences, she continues to prove herself as one of television’s most magnetic talents. Beyond her acting career, she’s become a passionate advocate for women’s health and wellness, using her platform to raise awareness about breast cancer and health equity within Black and Brown communities.
‘Zatima’ has built such a loyal fanbase, and Connie has quickly become one of the show’s most talked-about characters. What drew you to her in the first place?
What drew me to Connie was her unabashed realness. Connie says what people think, out loud. Connie is a real person that is extremely loyal.
Connie is confident, outspoken, and complex. How do you approach bringing authenticity to a role that could easily be misunderstood?
Connie is definitely confident, outspoken and complex. As an actress, I had to approach Connie in a very honest and transparent way, so the audience could connect to her.
How do you navigate the balance between the show’s dramatic tension and its comedic, high-energy moments?
The drama and comedic moments make this show truly a dramedy. Drama and comedy makes the show so real, because we all have the blend of drama and comedy in our lives.
What do you hope viewers take away from Connie’s story this season?
The most important take away from Connie's storyline is the importance of getting proper healthcare. Especially with any cancer diagnosis, early detection is key. The second takeaway would be being honest and open asking for help amongst your friends and family. We should learn how to share and not be embarrassed to be vunerable.
You’ve portrayed such a wide range of women, from the legendary Sandra “Pepa” Denton in ‘Salt-N-Pepa’ to Connie in ‘Zatima’. What connects the characters you’re drawn to?
I love when I get to play complex characters. Characters that have multiple layers, dealing with varies issues. I'm drawn to characters that have a story, I find traits about each character I love, like and dislike, and I work on portraying that character honestly.
How did your training at Rutgers’ Mason Gross School of the Arts shape the way you approach your work today?
Mason Gross gave me such a strong foundation in theater. Studying comedy and improv once I moved to Los Angeles really helped and expanded my artistry. I also believe traveling and just living has been my greatest teacher.
You’ve become a powerful voice for women’s health, particularly around breast cancer awareness and equity. What inspired you to step into that advocacy role?
There was such an outpouring response to the scene where Connie reveals her breast cancer diagonsis on ‘Zatima’. I felt compelled to use my platform and get involved. I became a brand ambassador for American Cancer Society, especially working with voices of Black women, a groundbreaking initiative led by the American Cancer Society to understand and improve health care of Black women across the nation.
How do you use your platform to foster real conversations about wellness, especially in Black and Brown communities?
It’s important to use my platform to get information out to Black and Brown communities about healthcare, especially cancer. We have to start with a younger demographic and educating ourselving on how to live healthier lives.
You’ve spoken openly about navigating personal challenges. What has been your biggest lesson in resilience?
We have to forgive and show grace to ourselves. We all experience personal challenges, and having patience goes hand and hand with resilience.
As an actress and a producer, how do you see storytelling as a tool for healing and awareness?
Sharing our stories is cathartic.
TEAM CREDITS:
photography RYAN WEST
styling E. BURNS
makeup ALEX NAVARRI
hair ESKEE LEE
