Sanaa Lathan Calls For More Diversity: ‘Black Movies Are American Movies’

Sanaa Lathan is calling out Hollywood for its lack of diversity.

During the premiere of her new film “The Perfect Guy,” also starring Morris Chestnut and Michael Ealy, Lathan shared with Access Hollywood her thoughts on the frequent marginalization of black actors in Hollywood.

“I’ve been in the business for 20 years and I’ve done a lot of movies, from romantic comedies to dramas, and I know for a fact that people of all races see them,” she told Access Hollywood guest correspondent Alex Hudgens on the red carpet.

“It’s not a niche thing. Black movies are American movies,” the actress said of Hollywood’s tendency to label certain films as “black movies.”

Lathan specifically cited the record-breaking NWA biopic “Straight Outta Compton” (in just three weeks, the film has brought in more than $134 million and is the highest grossing music biopic in box office history) as an example of a movie with a primarily black cast, but a general appeal to diverse audiences.

“‘Straight Outta Compton’ was brilliant, and there are so many other examples,” she added.

“Hollywood should reflect the melting pot of America. It’s not reflecting that yet,” the “Love and Basketball” actress lamented.

While Lathan admits she likes what she’s seeing on the small screen, noting, “I’m really excited about what’s happening in TV with diversity,” the actress admits there is a still a long way to go.

“Let’s see some more diverse stories on our screens,” a smiling Lathan said. “This is the 21st century. It’s time. It’s way, way overdue.”

— Evan Seymour