Jill Marie Jones from ‘Girlfriends,’ Speaks On Colorism

Jill Marie Jones from ‘Girlfriends,’ Speaks On Colorism And Being A Beacon Of Representation

Jill Marie Jones & Delila star said she’s grateful to loyal Girlfriends fans on the latest podcast episode of Shadow And Act’s Opening Act with S&A’s Managing Editor, Trey Mangum.

Mangum says that she didn’t realize Girlfriends would become as influential as it is.

“I don’t even know if I have the words because it’s such a surreal experience,” she said. “You really just want to do good work and… We really just wanted to do great work and we really didn’t what impact we would have on the community and the culture and it just fills my heart up.”

“Let’s be very clear, the fans got it on Netflix. They fought…and God bless them. Thank you so much,” she continued; adding that when she writes on social media that she loves her fans, she means it.

“I really do because as an actor, you have good years and not so good years; and those Girlfriends fans have rocked with us from the very beginning and it means so much to me,” she said.

She also added that she’s excited by the prospect of so many creators making shows featuring Black women friend groups; consider Girlfriends as one of their inspirations.

“Shout out to Mara Brock Akil for her vision. Just the fact that I’ve been a part of something of such beauty and art and inspiration for people…I’m just so proud to be a part of it,” she said.

Jones also talked about how colorism and other discriminatory practices in Hollywood are being dealt with. In her experience, she said that the industry has changed a lot from her start as an actress. But there is so much more work to be done before the industry can call itself free from discrimination.

“I think we have a long way to go, but I’d be remiss in saying that I see a lot of change from where I first started,” she said. “I remember…in casting sessions having someone tell me to ‘sass it up’ a bit… It’s crazy that I’ve been in this business as long as I’ve been… But I really do think that we’ve come a long way, but we should not become comfortable here because we have so much more to go. But I do see a lot of change. I really do.”

Jones can currently be seen on Delilah as corporate lawyer Tamara Roberts. The series airs on OWN Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT.