“Because she’s a classic beauty.” –Ericka Perry, ESSENCE Magazine Creative Director
“Because she was the face of the iconic White Diamonds fragrance” –Deena Campbell, ESSENCE.com Hair and Beauty Editor
“Because we see a little of ourselves in ALL of her leading roles. (See: Jordan in The Best Man, Bird in Soul Food and Nina in Love Jones)” –Charli Penn, ESSENCE.com Love & Relationships Editor
“Because she is the epitome of cool. From her fashion to her lifestyle.” – Yolanda Sangweni, ESSENCE.com Entertainment Editor
“Because she made the balance between her career and single motherhood look effortless.” – Dominique Hobdy, ESSENCE.com Freelance Editor
“Because she has beautiful, brown skin that is simply flawless!” –Jolie A. Doggett, ESSENCE.com Editorial Intern
“Because was the one woman for Will on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” –Taylor Lewis, ESSENCE Magazine Editorial Assistant
“Because she’s the love interest in Snoop Dogg’s new “California Roll” music video.” –Gia Peppers, ESSENCE Fest Junior Editor
“Because she’s the all-American girl next door.” –Tracey Woods, ESSENCE Magazine Associate Photo Editor
“Because no one can rock a short, pixie cut like she can.” –Taylor Lewis, ESSENCE Magazine Editorial Assistant
“Because she was able to find love after 40.” –Charli Penn, ESSENCE.com Love & Relationships Editor
“Because she stepped to Deebo in the first Friday movie.” –Dominique Hobdy, ESSENCE.com Freelance Editor
“Because her Instagram is addictive!” –Jolie A. Doggett, ESSENCE.com Editorial Intern
“Because she looks exactly the same as she did on her 2007 ESSENCE Magazine cover!” –Gia Peppers, ESSENCE Fest Junior Editor
“Because she makes being over 40 look AMAZING” – Abby West, ESSENCE.com Senior Editor
