Naturi Naughton-Lewis Regrets Passing on Ryan Coogler

Looking back on career choices can often bring a mix of pride and regret, and for actress Naturi Naughton-Lewis, one particular decision stands out. At a recent ABFF Pop-Up event in New York City, she shared that she once turned down an opportunity to work with a then-emerging director named Ryan Coogler, a move she now wishes she could revisit.

An Early Opportunity Missed

The year was 2010, long before Ryan Coogler became a household name with blockbusters like ‘Black Panther’ and ‘Sinners.’ Impressed by Naughton-Lewis’s portrayal of Lil’ Kim in the 2009 film ‘Notorious,’ Coogler offered her a leading role in his short film, ‘Fig.’ Naughton-Lewis was initially enthusiastic, recognizing Coogler’s talent and appreciating the script.

However, the offer came with a significant drawback: the pay. Naughton-Lewis revealed during a panel discussion that the offered day rate was only a couple of hundred dollars. Compounding the issue, her management team at the time was vehemently opposed to her taking the role. They argued it wasn’t a good look, especially as she was slated to work on a series called ‘The Playboy Club’ and needed to maintain a certain ‘prestige.’

The Value of Opportunity Over Optics

Despite encouragement from casting director Twinkie Byrd, who recognized Coogler’s potential, Naughton-Lewis ultimately bowed to her team’s pressure and turned down the role. In hindsight, she acknowledges this as a valuable lesson about prioritizing opportunity and growth over perceived prestige.

I just want to share with everyone, sometimes access and opportunity are more valuable than money. Prestige is bigger than money. But so is relational currency. Write that down, y’all: relational currency. — Naturi Naughton-Lewis

The film ‘Fig’ went on to achieve significant recognition, winning awards at the American Black Film Festival, AFI Fest, and the HBO Short Film Competition. These early successes paved the way for Coogler’s directorial debut with ‘Fruitvale Station’ and his subsequent blockbuster hits.

A Mature Perspective

Naughton-Lewis has since built an impressive career, earning accolades for her roles in ‘Power’ and ‘Power Book II: Ghost.’ She occasionally crosses paths with Coogler, and they can now share a laugh about the situation. ‘I see Ryan all the time, and I’m like, ‘You know I’m ready! Whatever you need!’’ she shared, adding that Coogler still remembers her from ‘Notorious’ and expressed his admiration.

Her reflection serves as a powerful reminder that early career decisions, even those made under pressure, can offer profound insights into the true value of collaboration and seizing opportunities, regardless of immediate financial or prestige gains.