Digest

This podcast features Leslie Uggams, a celebrated actress and singer, discussing her extensive career. From her early performances at the Apollo Theater with legends like Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald, to her Tony Award-winning role in *Hallelujah, Baby*, and iconic roles in *Roots* and *Deadpool*, Uggams shares personal anecdotes and reflections. She details the challenges she faced as an interracial couple in the 1960s and the resistance her variety show faced from Southern stations due to her race. Uggams also discusses her role in *The Gilded Age*, connecting it to her own family history and the show's themes of class and race. She reflects on the emotional impact of playing Kizzy in *Roots*, the significance of her album *Uptown Downtown*, and her experience on *Sing Along with Mitch*. The conversation concludes with Uggams expressing concern over the current political climate and the rollback of DEI initiatives, emphasizing the continued need for diversity and inclusion in the arts.

Outlines

00:00:00

Early Life, Career Beginnings, and Family Influences

Introduction to Leslie Uggams' career, highlighting her early performances at the Apollo Theater, family background in the arts (mother at the Cotton Club, aunt on Broadway), and the impact of these experiences on her career path.

00:01:31

Landmark Roles and Career Reflections

Uggams reflects on her long career, discussing her mindset of always seeking new opportunities, her surprise at being considered an icon, and the significance of her roles in *Roots*, *Deadpool*, and *The Gilded Age*.

00:04:28

*The Gilded Age*, *Roots*, and Social Commentary

Discussion of Uggams' role in *The Gilded Age*, its themes of class and race, and its connection to her family history. She also reflects on the emotional impact of her role in *Roots* and the lasting effect it had on her.

00:30:23

Television Appearances and Broadway Success

Uggams recounts her experiences on *Name That Tune*, leading to her work on *Sing Along with Mitch*, and her Tony Award-winning role in *Hallelujah, Baby*, discussing the show's impact and its themes of civil rights.

00:39:20

The Leslie Uggams Show, Interracial Marriage, and Current Political Climate

Uggams discusses her own variety show, the challenges she faced as an interracial couple in the 1960s, and her disappointment with the current political climate and the rollback of DEI initiatives.

00:16:41

Music, Personal Meaning, and the Importance of DEI

Uggams discusses her album *Uptown Downtown*, the personal significance of the songs, and her views on the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the arts.

Keywords

Q&A

• What was the most significant challenge you faced in your career due to your race?

  Uggams faced significant resistance from Southern television stations who refused to air her variety show because she was Black.

• How did your family background influence your career choice?

  Uggams' family's involvement in the arts provided a supportive environment and early exposure to the industry.

• What is the most memorable lesson you learned from working with Louis Armstrong or Ella Fitzgerald?

  Uggams learned from Armstrong's rhythm and Fitzgerald's stage presence, emphasizing audience connection.

• How did your experience filming *Roots* impact you personally?

  The emotional intensity of portraying Kizzy's trauma deeply affected Uggams.

• What are your thoughts on the current state of diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry?

  Uggams expresses concern over the rollback of DEI initiatives and emphasizes the importance of representation.

Show Notes