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Tag: Naturi Naughton

  • Naturi Naughton’s 30-Pound Weight Loss Journey

    It’s not always easy to bounce back after having children, and actress Naturi Naughton is getting real about her journey to regaining confidence in her body. The star, known for her roles in ‘Power’ and ‘Friends and Lovers,’ recently opened up about losing 30 pounds and the significant mental and physical shift it took.

    Finding Confidence Again

    Naturi admitted that after welcoming her children, she struggled with her body image. “I just really didn’t feel as confident in my clothes, in my dress, and in my own skin in a way,” she shared with PEOPLE. It took time and a conscious decision to make changes.

    She explained that a mental shift was crucial. “I was like, ‘I’m going to have to eat and workout differently, try different things,’ ” Naughton recalled. “I was just willing to go harder, so that I could really see true results. And I think that was the shift.”

    An ‘Elevation’ of Self

    This renewed dedication led Naturi back to the gym with a focus on “elevation” and self-discovery. She sees her physical changes as part of a larger personal growth. “I feel like yes, my physical may look different to some people, but I’m the same girl, just elevated,” she stated.

    Over a nine-month period, Naturi transformed her eating habits and workout routine, while also prioritizing her mental well-being. The result? A significant 30-pound weight loss that has made her feel healthier and lighter.

    Taking Back Control as a Mother

    For Naturi, this journey was deeply personal, especially as a mother of two. “As someone who’s had two children, I know that even how I was feeling after my second baby, it was more like taking back control of my body and taking back control of how I feel in my own skin,” she shared.

    She encourages others, particularly mothers, to embrace their own paths to wellness. “I encourage people no matter what it is, just do what works for you and don’t apologize for it, just do you,” Naughton advised. Her motivation is clear: “I really want to be able to still be able to be healthy and feel active, not just for me, but for my kids.”

    Naturi’s commitment to her health journey is inspiring, reminding us that taking care of ourselves is essential, especially when we’re taking care of others. Her story echoes the sentiment of other public figures, like Mo’Nique, who have shifted the conversation from weight loss to overall health and well-being.

    What are your favorite ways to take back control of your health and well-being? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!

  • Naturi Naughton Feels Like Herself Again

    You know Naturi Naughton – the powerhouse actress who captivated us as Tasha on ‘Power’ and continues to shine as a devoted mom. While many saw her thriving publicly, Naturi recently opened up to PEOPLE magazine about an internal journey that has helped her feel lighter, stronger, and more like herself than ever before.

    A Shift in Mindset

    Despite recently winning an NAACP Image Award, Naturi confessed that she hadn’t been feeling her most confident. “I just really didn’t feel as confident in my clothes, in my dress and in my own skin,” she shared. Post-pregnancy, while appearing to be doing great, she felt differently on the inside.

    This realization prompted a significant “mental shift.” Naturi changed her eating habits, partnered with trainer Jerry Joseph, and made her mental health a top priority. As she explained, “It is literally a mental shift because losing weight is changing your mindset first… everything else will follow.”

    More Than Just Weight Loss

    For Naturi, this journey wasn’t about achieving a specific aesthetic. It was about personal elevation and feeling good from the inside out. “My physical may look different to some people, but I’m the same girl — just elevated,” she stated. Her goal was to feel empowered and reclaim control over her body and well-being.

    With the support of her husband, children, and family, Naturi embraced the changes. She described feeling like a “superwoman” as she gained strength, both physically and mentally. “I feel really empowered… I feel young again,” she shared, and we couldn’t be happier for her.

    An Inspiring Journey

    Naturi Naughton’s story is a powerful reminder that self-care and personal growth are ongoing processes. Her intentional and deliberate approach to wellness, focusing on mindset and holistic health, shows what’s possible when you decide to pour back into yourself.

    Her journey highlights that feeling like yourself again is about more than just physical appearance; it’s about reclaiming your confidence, strength, and sense of empowerment on your own terms.

    What inspires you most about Naturi Naughton’s journey? Share your thoughts on self-care and empowerment in the comments below!

  • Naturi Naughton: From 3LW to Cheetah Girls Snub

    Remember the early 2000s girl group 3LW? Well, one of its members, Naturi Naughton-Lewis, is opening up about some of the toughest moments from her music career and how she’s finally found peace. From a surprising revelation about Disney’s ‘The Cheetah Girls’ to a heartwarming reconnection with former bandmate Adrienne Bailon-Houghton, Naturi is ready to embrace her past.

    Healing Through Forgiveness and Friendship

    Naturi recently shared on SiriusXM’s Page Six Radio that reconnecting with Adrienne Bailon-Houghton has been a huge part of her healing process. After years of distance following their tumultuous time in 3LW, the two women met for dinner about two years ago. This meeting allowed them to finally have the honest conversation they needed since their teenage years.

    “We were kids,” Naturi explained, emphasizing that the adults around them should have provided more guidance. She added, “Once I got a chance to really talk to Adrienne and reconnect, forgiveness started. We’re now both wives and mothers, and forgiveness is the biggest thing for healing.” This renewed friendship has brought unexpected joy, including a spontaneous performance of their 3LW hit, ‘No More (Baby I’ma Do Right),’ at Adrienne’s Thanksgiving party.

    The ‘Cheetah Girls’ Snub: A Shocking Revelation

    In a surprising turn, Naturi revealed that 3LW was originally considered for Disney’s ‘The Cheetah Girls.’ The plan was for the girl group, along with Raven-Symoné, to star in the movie. However, Naturi was deliberately excluded from the deal by her group’s manager, who attended the meeting without her.

    She recounted how her groupmates later informed her that Disney wanted to offer 3LW a deal for ‘The Cheetah Girls,’ but she wouldn’t be part of it. This news was devastating at the time, marking the beginning of her being ‘X-ed out.’ Despite the initial hurt and resentment, Naturi now sees it as a form of divine redirection, allowing her a clean slate for future roles, like playing Lil’ Kim in ‘Notorious.’

    Embracing the Past, Teasing the Future

    Naturi has been open about the trauma she experienced during her time in 3LW, including the physical altercation that led to her departure in 2002. She plans to return to music soon, potentially addressing some of those past feelings. However, she’s learned to focus on gratitude rather than grief.

    “Forgiveness is healing,” she stated, noting that she can now happily revisit her 3LW days. While a full 3LW tour isn’t confirmed, Naturi is more open than ever to celebrating the group’s legacy. She teased, ‘We might pop out. A little throwback never hurt nobody.’

    What are your favorite memories of 3LW or ‘The Cheetah Girls’? Do you hope for a 3LW reunion? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Naturi Naughton: Keeping the Spark Alive

    Naturi Naughton, known for her captivating roles, is also sharing her insights on keeping the romance alive in marriage. As a newlywed herself, the actress understands the importance of intentionality when it comes to maintaining passion and intimacy, especially after saying ‘I do.’

    Fighting Routine, Embracing Spontaneity

    Naughton, who married Xavier “Two” Lewis in April 2022, acknowledges that routine can be a major hurdle in married life. ‘Now that I’m married, you do have to fight the urge and resistance of routine and just getting into a rep,’ she told Madamenoire. To combat this, she and her husband prioritize intentional connection.

    Their strategy includes regular date nights, often on Fridays, and embracing spontaneity. Whether it’s a staycation, exploring different travel destinations, or hitting up clubs in different parts of their city like Harlem, they aim to keep things fresh. ‘That unpredictable nature of us dating makes it fun again,’ Naughton explained, emphasizing that their designated date nights are crucial for pouring into each other without it feeling like a chore.

    The Power of Mental and Emotional Intimacy

    Romance, Naughton believes, begins long before the bedroom. She credits her and her husband’s mentors, Montel Jordan and his wife Kristin Hudson, for helping them stay grounded. Spiritual connection plays a vital role, with activities like praying and attending church together. Even shared challenges, like working out together, create a powerful bond.

    ‘It’s kind of hot and sexy, and it also makes me feel close to him,’ she shared about running together. ‘Doing something together that’s challenging definitely bonds you, I think, spiritually, as well as physically.’

    Foreplay: Touch, Whispers, and Asking for What You Need

    When it comes to foreplay, Naughton highlights the importance of both physical touch and verbal connection. She’s a big fan of massages, noting that her husband is skilled at easing discomfort, starting with her feet and moving upwards. ‘Next thing I know, it’s a wrap,’ she chuckled.

    Beyond touch, Naughton emphasizes the power of words. ‘Foreplay is also in your mind, like how you speak to me, the things you whisper in my ear.’ Crucially, she encourages women, especially Black women, to overcome any shame and clearly communicate their needs and desires in the bedroom. ‘It’s okay to direct or redirect… You should never feel ashamed to say what you like and what you need. I think that empowers your partner, too.’

    The Nightstand Essential: Coconut Oil

    For couples looking to add a little spice, Naughton offers a simple, accessible suggestion for their nightstand: coconut oil. ‘Get you a jar,’ she urged. ‘Have it on the nightstand. You don’t need no lubrication. That’ll do it.’

    What are your favorite ways to keep the romance alive in your relationship? Share your tips and thoughts in the comments below!

  • 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.

    What are your thoughts on Naturi Naughton-Lewis’s career reflection? Do you agree that opportunity and relational currency can be more valuable than money? Share your perspective in the comments below!

  • Naturi Naughton’s Ryan Coogler Film Regret

    Ever have one of those career moments you look back on and think, ‘What if?’ Naturi Naughton-Lewis recently shared a significant ‘what if’ from her past, involving a filmmaker who has since become a household name: Ryan Coogler.

    The Missed Opportunity with Ryan Coogler

    During a panel at the BFF Pop-Up in New York City, Naughton-Lewis opened up about a pivotal decision early in her career. Coogler, who was then mentored by the legendary John Singleton, had offered her a role in his early short film titled ‘Fig.’ At the time, Coogler was not yet the star director behind blockbusters like ‘Black Panther’ and ‘Creed.’

    Naughton-Lewis was excited about the project, drawn to Coogler’s talent and the compelling script. However, her management team strongly advised against it. They were concerned about the low day rate, reportedly only a couple of hundred dollars, and felt it didn’t align with the ‘prestige’ they wanted for her career.

    They told me if I did it, they’d drop me. They said it wasn’t a good look because I was about to do a series called ‘The Playboy Club.’ They said, ‘You have to maintain a certain prestige.’ — Naturi Naughton-Lewis

    The ‘Playboy Club’ Dilemma

    The pressure came from her team’s focus on her upcoming role in the network TV series ‘The Playboy Club.’ The idea was to maintain a certain image, and taking a low-paying gig on an unproven director’s short film was seen as a step backward. Naughton-Lewis, who had recently impressed audiences in the Notorious B.I.G. biopic ‘Notorious,’ was at a crucial point in her career.

    Ultimately, ‘Fig’ went on to gain recognition, winning top honors at the American Black Film Festival and earning a nomination at the Black Reel Awards. Meanwhile, ‘The Playboy Club’ sadly only lasted three episodes before its cancellation in 2011. It would be three years before Naughton-Lewis found her next major TV role on ‘Power.’

    A Lesson Learned: Get In Early

    Despite the regret, Naughton-Lewis doesn’t harbor deep pain over the missed opportunity. She and Coogler have since crossed paths, sharing a laugh about ‘Fig.’ She playfully tells him, ‘You know I’m ready! Whatever you need!’ and he acknowledges her talent, recalling her performance in ‘Notorious.’

    The key takeaway for Naughton-Lewis? The importance of recognizing potential and getting involved early in promising projects. ‘Sometimes you just have to go ahead and do stuff, even when the money or the prestige doesn’t make sense yet,’ she shared.

    The Value of Early Opportunities

    This experience serves as a powerful reminder for aspiring artists: trust your instincts, recognize emerging talent, and don’t be afraid to take calculated risks, even when the immediate rewards aren’t obvious. The long-term payoff, as Ryan Coogler’s career demonstrates, can be immense.

    What career ‘what ifs’ do you have? Share your thoughts on trusting your gut in creative decisions in the comments below!

  • Naturi Naughton’s ’16 Candles’ Remix of Beyoncé’s ’16 Carriages’ Goes Viral

    Naturi Naughton recently had a moment on the red carpet that has the internet buzzing and cackling. When asked about her favorite song from Beyoncé’s latest album, ‘Cowboy Carter,’ Naughton confidently declared “16 Candles!” and proceeded to sing the chorus, replacing the actual title “16 Carriages” with “16 Candles” multiple times. The interviewer, J Lamar Nichols, initially hyped her up, making the mix-up even funnier.

    The Accidental Remix Goes Viral

    Social media wasted no time in catching the lyrical slip-up. The internet quickly turned Naturi’s confident misremembering into a full-blown comedy thread, with users creating their own lyrics and memes. While some playfully questioned if she had actually listened to the song, others playfully called out the interviewer for hyping her up and singing along to the incorrect lyrics. The interviewer himself humorously defended his role in the comments, admitting he was caught up in the vibe and believed her rendition.

    The accidental remix has drawn comparisons to other memorable viral moments, like Dr. Wendy Osefo’s misquoted Nicki Minaj lyric, “Pull up in the Sri Lanka!” This latest instance of a celebrity confidently remixing a popular song has become a cultural moment, proving that sometimes, the most entertaining moments are the unscripted ones.

    Fans Weigh In with Their Own ‘Remixes’

    The internet’s creativity was on full display as users chimed in with their own versions of the “16 Candles” remix. From “16 cartridges, printing away, on plain white paper without ink stains…” to “16 CANDLES lighting the way. Cause the power bill I for got to pay!”, the playful interpretations highlight the song’s catchy melody and the humor found in the situation. Even Naturi’s own comment, “‘I listen to it so much‘ 🤣,” added to the comedic effect.

    While some might side-eye Naturi for the lyrical mix-up, her confident delivery and the overall positive vibe of the interaction have made it a lighthearted moment rather than a serious misstep. It’s a reminder that even celebrities are human and can have their funny, relatable moments.

    What’s your favorite accidental remix or lyrical mix-up you’ve heard? Share it in the comments below!