When Vivica A. Fox was offered the chance to host the new true crime series The Interrogation Room, she didn’t hesitate for a moment. “I’ve always been such a fan of these shows that I had to stop watching them before bed because they’d invade my dreams!” she tells Closer. “So, when the opportunity came knocking, I was all in. I said, ‘Yes, I’m in love with it!’”
Returning to Her Detective Roots
This groundbreaking series takes viewers behind the scenes of the intense moments when investigators apprehend suspects and sit them down for questioning. For Vivica, 59, who has portrayed law enforcement officers throughout her illustrious career, this was a chance to revisit her detective roots. “It felt like slipping back into a familiar role,” she shares. “I got to put my detective hat back on, and it was exhilarating.”
Emotional Impact of True Crime Cases
Did any of the cases in The Interrogation Room hit close to home emotionally?
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“Absolutely. There were several cases that left a deep impression on me. The story of the young African American man who lost his life simply because he was playing his music too loud was particularly heart-wrenching. The courage and resilience of his father, who has dedicated his life to preventing such tragedies in the future, truly moved me. Another case that stood out was about a man who believed he could just eliminate his girlfriend because she didn’t want to be with him anymore. It’s a chilling reminder of the importance of being cautious about who we let into our lives.”
A Journey into Acting
Of course, you're best known as an actress. Was acting always your dream?
“Not at all. Acting found me rather unexpectedly. I’m originally from the Midwest, where I was more of an athlete than anything else. I participated in basketball, volleyball, and cheerleading during my school years. Talent shows were my thing, but sports were my true passion. Acting wasn’t even on my radar until life took me in a different direction.”
From Midwest to California
How did you end up in California?
“I attended Golden West College in Huntington Beach, California, where I earned a degree in social sciences, making my mom proud. Although I wasn’t entirely sure what career path that degree would lead to, it made her happy. But modeling is what really opened the door for me.”
Breaking Into Show Business
And you were on Soul Train!
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“Yes, Soul Train was a pivotal moment in my early career. Back then, you’d wait in line for hours, and if you were lucky, you’d get picked to be part of the show. The reward? A small box of Kentucky Fried Chicken for lunch! It wasn’t glamorous, but it was a stepping stone. I became a regular there, and eventually, Don Cornelius, the legendary host and creator, became a dear friend. Hosting the Soul Train Awards was a dream come true.”
Discovering Her Acting Career
How did you begin acting?
“I owe my acting career to Trevor Walton. I was having lunch with a friend when he approached me. He seemed like any ordinary guy in a tennis outfit, but he had something special to say. He asked if I was an actress and handed me his card, mentioning he had a project that he thought I’d be perfect for. That encounter changed everything. Trevor opened the doors to my acting career, and the rest is history.”
Family Support and Identity
What did your family think about your decision to become a full-time actress?
“My mom was initially apprehensive, but my family has always been incredibly supportive, no matter the highs or lows. They remind me that I’ll always be ‘Angie’ to them, because my middle name is Anjanetta. Growing up, people struggled to pronounce Vivica, so I went by Angie. But a casting director once told me, ‘Your name is Vivica. It’s unique and beautiful. People will never forget it.’ And she was right.”
Reaching Success
What was the moment when you felt like you’d finally arrived in Hollywood?
“There have been several defining moments, but one stands out. It was the premiere of Two Can Play That Game. Stepping out of the limousine that night and seeing ‘starring Vivica A. Fox’ on the marquee was surreal. I stopped to take it all in and savor the moment. It was one of those ‘I made it’ experiences.”
Lessons Learned Along the Way
What advice would you give to your younger self?
“Patience. When I first started acting, I was caught up in the relentless pursuit of success. You finish one project and immediately start looking for the next, never taking the time to pause and appreciate the journey. It’s a lot of pressure, and I wish I had taken more time to breathe and enjoy the process.”
Balance in Life
Do you feel like you have a better balance in life today?
“I’m still learning. In the past, I was a workhorse, taking on six projects back-to-back without a break. Now, I make it a point to call my agent and tell her I need time off. I cherish spending time with my family and traveling. Recently, I had the unforgettable experience of seeing Beyoncé in concert in Paris. It was magical.”
The Joys of Aging Gracefully
What’s the best part about being the age you are now?
“Right now, I’m living my best life. I’ve let go of negative people and energy, finding a sense of peace I never imagined. At
