Exclusive: Aunjanue Ellis talks King Richard and playing Oracene "Brandy” Price
Now playing in theaters and on HBO Max is “King Richard,” which centers on one father’s relentless drive and unapologetic vision to change the game. Determined to do things his way, Richard Williams made a plan and defied the odds by raising not one, but two of the greatest athletes of all time: Venus and Serena Williams.
Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green and starring Will Smith as the sibling’s father, “King Richard” also stars Saniyya Sidney and Demi Singleton as young Venus and Serena Williams, respectively. Emmy-nominated Lovecraft Country star Aunjanue Ellis plays the role of matriarch Oracene “Brandy” Williams. Also in the film are Jon Bernthal as coach Rick Macci, Tony Goldwyn as coach Paul Cohen, and Dylan McDermott as a sports agent.
The film is based on a script by Zach Baylin and on the true story that will inspire the world, “King Richard” follows the journey of Richard Williams, an undeterred father instrumental in raising two of the most extraordinarily gifted athletes of all time, who will end up changing the sport of tennis forever. Driven by a clear vision of their future and using unconventional methods, Richard has a plan that will take Venus and Serena Williams from the streets of Compton, California to the global stage as legendary icons. “King Richard” is a profoundly moving film that shows the power of family, perseverance and unwavering belief as a means to achieve the impossible and impact the world.
A fixture in television and films for years with roles in Men of Honor, The Caveman's Valentine, Undercover Brother , Ray, The Express: The Ernie Davis Story, The Taking of Pelham 123 , The Help , as well as The Practice, True Blood, The Mentalist, NCIS: Los Angeles, Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story, Abducted: The Carlina White Story, and The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel, Ellis has been on a row where she’s now been recognized with accolades, including Emmy nominated roles in Ava DuVernay’s When They See Us and Misha Green’s Lovecraft Country.
In speaking with BlackFilmandTV.com’s Wilson Morales, Ellis talks about playing Oracene "Brandy” Price and sharing what the world never really knew about her.