In the opening episode of I'll Fly Away, a historical drama set in the dawn of the civil rights movement, Regina Taylor's character, Lilly Harper, takes on a housekeeping role with a prominent Southern white family. But before she even steps foot into their home, she makes her expectations clear. "My name is Lilly," she says firmly to her new employer. This powerful moment set the tone for the entire series and earned Regina, now 62, back-to-back Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress. Her performance not only highlighted her incredible acting range but also showcased her versatility as an artist who thrives across theater, film, playwriting, and directing. In a candid chat with Closer, Regina shares, "I truly love all aspects of my work. It’s like a well-rounded exercise for the soul. One part of my craft always informs and enhances the other."
This TV season, Regina has once again captured audiences' attention with her guest-starring role as the grieving mother of a murdered child on CSI: Vegas. Her portrayal of this deeply emotional character has generated fresh Emmy buzz. Regina praises the writing team, saying, "They crafted such a heartfelt and powerful story. It’s one of those roles that sticks with you long after the credits roll."
Inside Regina's Powerful Role in 'CSI: Vegas'
Can you tell us more about the character you played in the CSI: Vegas episode titled "The Promise"?
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"Raquel is a mother who lost her daughter years ago, and the body was never found. Her story is one of relentless love and determination. When she meets Maxine, played by the brilliant Paula Newsome, they form an unexpected bond. It’s about a mother’s unyielding love and the comfort she finds in someone who truly listens and fights for her. Filming that episode was an emotional journey. It brought up feelings of grief, sorrow, and rage, but it also showed the beauty of human connection."
Is there a message you hope viewers take away from this episode?
"Absolutely. Love knows no boundaries. It transcends time, space, and even tragedy. That’s the message I hope resonates with everyone who watches."
Regina's Journey to Stardom
From Writer to Actress: The Early Years
When you were growing up, did you ever imagine becoming an actress?
"Not at all. Writing was my passion back then. I considered myself an introvert, which is perfect for someone who loves to write. I attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas with dreams of becoming a novelist. Acting wasn’t even on my radar until fate intervened—and I blame it all on Henry Fonda."
Why Henry Fonda? What role did he play in your career?
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"Henry Fonda was filming a live broadcast called The Oldest Living Graduate at my school. I was too shy to approach him, so I followed him down the hall instead. That’s when an agent spotted me and asked if I’d ever considered acting. I told her I had taken one acting class, Acting 101, and she said, 'There’s an audition this weekend. Would you like to go?' Little did I know, that decision would change everything."
What happened next?
"I got the job! It was a made-for-TV movie starring the legendary Joanne Woodward. The film focused on the first students to integrate the Arkansas school system. That summer, I boarded my first plane and flew to Arkansas to film the movie in the very same locations where those brave students made history. And just like that, I became an actress."
Memorable Moments from 'I'll Fly Away'
I'll Fly Away earned you two Emmy nominations. What stands out most about your experience on the show?
"That show holds a special place in my heart. It was my first time leading a series, and I poured every ounce of myself into it. Lilly Harper was a character I deeply connected with because she reminded me of the strong women in my own life—my grandmothers, aunts, and especially my mother. The writing was exceptional, and the storytelling was cinematic. It was a labor of love from start to finish."
Do you have any favorite memories from the set?
"Oh, absolutely. Meeting Bill Cobbs, who played my father on the show, was unforgettable. Bill is a treasure trove of knowledge and talent. He’s been in countless productions and is also a gifted jazz drummer. As a newcomer to Atlanta, he introduced me to some incredible jazz clubs and even gave me a crash course in jazz. Those moments were priceless."
A Career Filled with Highlights
What are some of your favorite roles throughout your career?
"I’ve been incredibly fortunate to play a wide range of characters. Whether it was portraying Juliet on Broadway in Romeo and Juliet, playing Samuel L. Jackson’s wife in The Negotiator, or working alongside Denzel Washington in Courage Under Fire, each role has been a gift. I’ll never forget collaborating with Spike Lee in Clockers, where I got to unleash a bit of insanity beating up a drug dealer. More recently, I’ve loved being part of Lovecraft Country and portraying Michelle Obama’s mother with Viola Davis in The First Lady. Each project has allowed me to explore different facets of the human experience."
Life Beyond the Spotlight
Have you ever worked alongside one of your childhood idols?
"Yes, I had the incredible opportunity to work with Sidney Poitier on a project called A Good Day to Die. It was a story about the migration west into Oklahoma, and he played a black cowboy. Being able to share scenes with him was surreal. Growing up, he was someone I looked up to, so it felt like a dream come true."
What do you enjoy doing when you're not working?
"Gardening has become a passion of mine, especially during the pandemic. I spent a lot of time tending to my mother’s flower garden. Even now, the plants she nurtured continue to bloom each year, keeping her memory alive. During that time, I also started growing vegetables, which has been incredibly rewarding."
What do you love about being your age today?
"I’m approaching the age my mother was when she passed away, and it’s given me a lot to reflect on. I’ve come to cherish life deeply and feel immense gratitude every morning. Every experience, good or bad, has been a lesson, and I’ve learned to embrace them all."
On Love, Travel, and Life Lessons
Do you think you'd ever remarry?
"At this point, marriage isn’t something I’m actively thinking about. However, I recently attended a wedding where the couple was in their 70s, and it reminded me that love can bloom at any stage of life. If the right person comes along, I’m open to the possibility."
What’s left on your
