The day I saw my mom eating the Santa cookies on the plate was one of the most horrific days of my life.

I have to live for me. I have to do what I need to do for me, and I have stopped concerning myself with what people say.

I've pretty much learned I can let that [being black] hinder me if I want to ... or I can fight for different kinds of roles.

I'm not afraid of portraying anything on-screen

When I was younger, living in an all-black neighborhood the other kids thought I was better than them because of my light skin and straight hair. Then we moved to an all-white neighborhood and that was a culture shock ... I'd been used to being around all black kids.

If you set out to do something and you give it your all and it doesn't work out, be willing to modify your goal slightly. Have the ability to look in another direction. A small shift could guide you to the real purposes of your life.

There have been so many people who have said to me, 'You can't do that,' but I've had an innate belief that they were wrong. Be unwavering and relentless in your approach.