December 28th 2024.
During an interview with Atlanta's V-103 radio station, Geoffrey Owen, best known for his role on The Cosby Show, opened up about his current struggles to make ends meet, even after working with renowned director Tyler Perry. As a graduate of Yale University, Owen wants to shed light on the reality of being a middle-class actor in Hollywood, as he himself falls into this category.
"People often have a false perception of what it means to be a middle-class actor and the financial challenges that come with it," Owen explained. Despite his role on The Cosby Show, which brought him some residual earnings, he admits that it only makes up about 20% of his income and is not enough to support his family. "Every day is a struggle for me to make ends meet, and people have a hard time understanding that because they see me on the big screen," he shared.
Previously known for his role as Elvin Thibadeaux on The Cosby Show, Owen faced a decrease in acting opportunities after the show's end. He then turned to working a regular 9-5 job at Trader Joe's. However, fate had a different plan for him when he was recognized by a "fan" while working at the grocery store. As he went about his job, his picture was taken and shared on social media, leading to speculation about why an actor like him would be working at a supermarket.
Feeling uncomfortable with the attention and scrutiny, Owen made the decision to quit his job with good benefits and step into the unknown. "I couldn't imagine continuing to work at the store, wondering who might take a picture of me next. It just didn't feel right. I'm a very private person," he shared. Little did he know, this bold move would change his life in unexpected ways.
As news of his story spread nationally, Owen received an outpouring of support and job offers from fans and potential employers. Things began to look up for him, and he landed roles in several shows, including Tyler Perry's The Haves and the Have Nots, Power, Power Book II: Ghost, and his current project, Poppa's House, alongside Damon Wayans, Damon Wayans Jr., and Essence Atkins.
It's clear that Owen's decision to leave his job at Trader Joe's paid off, and he is now back to doing what he loves. His story serves as a reminder to never give up on your dreams and to always stay true to yourself, no matter what challenges come your way. As fellow actor Marlon Wayans once said, "Stay in therapy, and we'll stay in Hollywood."
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