We’ve seen Vivian Billings on The Gossip Game doing her thing and pursuing her beat, but we didn’t see—until recently—what Viv was dealing with at home. Here Viv opens up about supporting her son through his gender change, her issues with Steph Lova, and how she copes with sharing her private life on national television. —April Dawn Ricchuito
Vibe Vixen: Is there really beef with Rich Dollaz? Would you ever collaborate with Ms. Drama and Steph Lova in the future?
Vivian Billings: I have no problems with Rich Dollaz. I am not open to working with either one of those ladies (Ms. Drama or Steph Lova) and I think that’s all I’m going to say about that.
We saw you meet up with Steph Lova to discuss the remarks she made on air about your son, Kayden, and KK’s sexual orientation. What was going through your head at that moment? How did you stay so calm in that situation? What were you hoping the outcome would be?
When I filmed the scene with Steph Lova, I wasn’t there to talk. For those that may not be aware, Mona (Scott Young) begged me to have a dialogue with Stephen and asked if I would take out my hair pins in which I said “No”. However, I was open to hearing Stephen apologize, which she never did, so at one point I felt like I had said enough and just spit at her.
Photo Credit: VH1
When Star appeared on Steph’s show, he let her think you said a few things. Do you feel like Star was maybe playing you both to help himself come up? Did you take this up with him off camera? If not, do you have any plans too?
Star and I have a really close relationship and so when he went on Steph’s show, I already knew there was a possibility that he would say something to set her off. It’s what he does, that’s his job. He’s a shock jock and he did just that. I have no issues with Star because at the end of the day, Steph should’ve known better than to fall for the okey doke.
I love that you’re so supportive of KK. Were you hesitant to discuss such a sensitive issue on the show? Have you and KK received a lot of support from fans?
I certainly did not want to have my child’s sexual orientation put on blast, especially not on a public platform. However, due to Stephen’s ratchet mouth, it’s what happened. At this time, KK and I have received a lot of positive support from outsiders. Renee Graziano offered a shoulder to lean on and I thought that was so nice of her.
What are some ways women can be supportive of others in similar situations?
I think the only way to be supportive in these situations is just to let the person know that you are there for them no matter what. And I feel like that’s just what I did with my child.
Photo Credit: newnownext.com
Violence against women–violence in general–is something we see a lot of in the hip-hop culture. How do you feel about Rick Ross’ rape lyrics? Do you think hip-hop has gone too far?
Yes, I was in an abusive relationship at one time in my life, but my situation has nothing to do with Rick Ross. I think nowadays people are too sensitive and easily offended. I live by the motto “if it doesn’t apply, let it fly” so a lot of things just don’t bother me. So was I wasn’t offended by Rick Ross’ lyrics.
What advice would you give to someone who is currently experiencing abuse? How did you cope? What helped you heal?
I’ve learned that the individual has to be ready to leave. They have to want to leave because if they don’t, you become the villain and not the person who is doing the abusing. It took me some time [to develop the courage to leave], but I realized I could do a hell of a lot better in life. And I did.
Your makeup is always on point. What are some of your favorite beauty products and secrets?
My favorite beauty product of all time is Pond’s cold cream.
Lastly, what’s next for you? What can we look forward to?
You can look forward to growth, maturity and a possible radio deal.
Photo Credit: VH1