‘The Woman King’ cast discuss studio backlash, Black women in Hollywood and more in a SiriusXM Town Hall

Cast members from the acclaimed new movie The Woman King sat down for an exclusive Town Hall with SiriusXM hosts Sway Calloway, Heather B, Tracy G and Mike Muse. During the special interview, co-stars Viola Davis, Thuso Mbedu, Lashana Lynch and Sheila Atim, plus director Gina Prince-Bythewood, discussed the making of what Viola told us is her “magnum opus.” Additionally, they reflected on the “fight” they endured in light of studio backlash surrounding its production — from the cast’s hair to labels — and how Black actors need to “make choices” to score roles.

The Woman King follows a group of all-female warriors in the 1800s who protect the African kingdom of Dahomey — with skills and fierceness, unlike anything the world has ever seen. Faced with a new threat, Gen. Nanisca trains the next generation of recruits to fight against a foreign enemy that’s determined to destroy their way of life. The movie is being hailed as an Oscar contender and is currently 100% on Rotten Tomatoes.