When the Broadway musical Dreamgirls was still in its early stages, Jennifer Holliday, the legendary performer who originated the role of Effie Melody White, delivered a performance of "And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going" that stole the show. This powerful number was initially scheduled early in Act 1, but audiences couldn’t contain their applause, prompting the creative team to move it closer to intermission. “Audiences wouldn’t stop applauding,” Jennifer recalls in a candid conversation with Closer. Her unforgettable portrayal of Effie earned her a Tony Award, while the recording of that iconic song soared to No. 1 on Billboard’s R&B chart, ultimately securing her a Grammy Award in 1983. “It’s remarkable for a song from a Broadway show to travel the world and touch so many lives,” Jennifer, now 63, reflects. “It made me a household name, and it’s been an incredible journey.”
Decades later, Jennifer continues to captivate audiences with her rendition of the showstopper. “I’m performing at the Café Carlyle in New York this February and March,” she shares. “It’s such a beautiful and intimate venue with a rich history. While I’ll be delivering a jazz set, fans always expect me to perform my unforgettable song from Dreamgirls. It’s a part of who I am, and I cherish every moment on stage.”
Memories That Resonate
What are your favorite memories of performing in Dreamgirls?
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“It’s incredible to think that we’re celebrating the 42nd anniversary of our Broadway opening. The most cherished memories for me are the moments we spent creating our roles. It was an exhilarating time because each principal had a significant voice in shaping their character. There was so much passion and creativity, and the pressure was minimal. We were driven by our love for the show and our devotion to the theater.”
Did the pressure increase once the show opened?
“Absolutely. Once the curtain rises, the grind begins. It’s not easy juggling the demands of the show with other aspects of life. People often underestimate the toll it takes, but it’s a reality many performers face.”
The Lasting Impact of Dreamgirls
Were you surprised by the enduring success of Dreamgirls?
“We always knew we were working on something extraordinary, but we never imagined it would resonate with audiences for over four decades. At the time, our primary goal was to create a compelling show that would run its course. The global impact and lasting legacy of Dreamgirls is nothing short of astonishing.”
Exploring Other Roles
Aside from Effie in Dreamgirls, what other roles stand out in your career?
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“From a purely fun perspective, playing Mama Morton in Chicago was an absolute blast. But for personal growth, portraying Shug Avery in The Color Purple alongside the incredible Cynthia Erivo was transformative. As the eldest in the cast, I had to redefine Shug as a mature, yet alluring sanctuary. It was a challenging yet rewarding experience, and Cynthia’s talent was nothing short of extraordinary.”
How would you describe this phase of your life?
“I’m experiencing what I like to call my third act—both personally and professionally. Social media has rekindled my career, introducing me to a whole new generation of fans. Turning 63 was a milestone, and it feels like I’ve embarked on a fresh chapter. I’m truly grateful for this unexpected revival.”
What’s the most significant lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?
“One of the most profound lessons is the importance of living in the moment. In theater, even with glowing reviews, there’s always uncertainty about the future. Instead of worrying about tomorrow, I’ve learned to embrace opportunities and make the most of each day.”
Do you have any regrets?
“Looking back, I wish I had been more assertive. Fear of rejection held me back, especially when I weighed nearly 400 pounds. My self-image and confidence were deeply tied to how I perceived myself physically.”
How did you overcome that fear?
“I realized that self-acceptance isn’t contingent on physical appearance. Whether I was overweight or slim, my worth remained constant. Understanding that I have a purpose in life, even if it’s not immediately clear, was a game-changer. You’re here for a reason, and embracing that truth is liberating.”
After losing a significant amount of weight, did your perspective on yourself change?
“I underwent gastric bypass surgery and lost around 200 pounds. Surprisingly, I still struggled with self-consciousness. It wasn’t until I started facing rejection in the entertainment industry for being too small that I truly understood the complexities of self-acceptance. Ironically, I faced rejection both as a larger individual and as a size 10.”
You must be kidding!
“Producers like David Kelley of Ally McBeal were among the few who gave me a chance, though he almost passed on me because he initially wanted another Jennifer Holliday. It’s a testament to the unpredictable nature of the industry.”
Overcoming Challenges
What advice would you give to others battling depression?
“Being vulnerable and seeking help was pivotal for me. Acknowledging that I wasn’t feeling like myself and reaching out for support was crucial. Understanding the type of depression you’re dealing with is equally important, which is why professional guidance is invaluable. Realizing that you’re not alone in this struggle can be incredibly empowering.”
How is your health? You were diagnosed with MS some time ago.
“I’m doing well, thanks to being in remission for the past eight years. As I age,
