The Mane Attraction

We’re wrapped up in all things Tracee Ellis Ross, who has launched her own hair care line. Here she reflects on what it means to be a badass Black woman showing up in the world as her most beautiful self—both inside and out

- Julee Wilson

Tracee Ellis Ross has all the qualities of a great best friend—the one she prominently plays in our heads. She’s successful, silly, self-deprecating, stylish and woke. And like any true BFF, the Golden Globe-winning actress also regales us via Instagram with her daily shenanigans. We’re particularly fond of her beauty musings. We’re tuned into every bit of what Ross shares, from her awe-inspiring skin care gadgets to her glorious head of curls. In one of her many videos, she explains her love for face massagers and admits how ridiculous she may appear to some when using the tools. But it’s not solely about vanity, Ross points out. It’s just one of the ways she strives to live “an abundant, juicy life.” Same, sis.

Ross maintained that same abundant, juicy energy when she arrived at our suite at the h Club in Hollywood to record this interview for The Color Files podcast, ESSENCE’s newest audio series focusing on beauty, hosted by moi. We embraced, exchanged pleasantries and then twirled around the room, delighting in its eclectic decor while also chatting about her big news. There was also some jumping on the bed—but that was after we settled onto the couch and dished for more than an hour.

Let’s face it: The abundance and juiciness of Ross’s life was inevitable, given that she was beautifully formed inside the womb of the one and only Diana Ross. But epic genetics aside, Ross is mighty talented. Our love affair with Diana’s daughter began back in 2000, when the hit sitcom Girlfriends debuted. Her portrayal of Joan Carol Clayton, Esq., alongside three other brilliant Black lead actresses was just what television needed—and what we needed as women of color. Ross continues playing essential leading ladies with her current role on ABC’s award-winning black-ish—and now narrating its latest spin-off, mixed-ish.