Geoffrey Owens, the former Cosby Show actor who was shamed for bagging groceries at Trader Joe’s, unintentionally ignited a nationwide conversation about privacy and humility. While initial reports attempted to paint the 57-year-old as a has been, many online–fans, friends, and fellow acting peers–rallied behind him and his commitment to feeding his family.
LaTavia Roberson, a founding member of Destiny’s Child, also got wind of Owens’ predicament and detailed life after being removed from the chart-topping group. The 36-year-old Texas native said while it was a humbling experience, she had no choice but to press on.
https://twitter.com/IamLaTavia/status/1037138618077331457
“After I was removed from the group, I ended up working at a little record shop I think in Acres Homes. People used to come in just to see if it was really me,” the 36-year-old tweeted. “However, I still had to feed my family and survive.”
Actress and comedienne Jackée Harry saw LaTavia’s tweet and also spoke on her hard times in Hollywood and the importance of having a support system.
Once I considered joining a “celebrity” circus until Loretta Devine gave me a loan & some encouragement.
We have to stick together, keep our priorities straight & never lose our drive in order to turn things around.
That applies to ALL careers in which we hope to find success. https://t.co/8MvxxS97BJ
— Jackée Harry (@JackeeHarry) September 5, 2018
Owens appeared on Good Morning America Tuesday (Sept. 4) to discuss the recent attention he’s received. While wearing his Trader Joe’s nametag and sporting a great attitude, Owens said he began working at the chain grocery store because he enjoyed the flexibility of the job and it still allows him to teach acting and directing.
Guess this is just further proof everyone has to hustle in order to eat.
READ MORE: Tyler Perry Offers Geoffrey Owens An Acting Gig Amid Trader Joe’s Shaming