Viola Davis Responds to ‘Incredibly Hurtful’ Criticism of Her Portrayal of Michelle Obama

Academy, EMMY, and TONY Award-winning actress Viola Davis may be used to getting nothing but rave reviews for her acting performances, but – as she’s finding out with her portrayal of former First Lady Michelle Obama aboard Showtime’s ‘The First Lady’ – even the best aren’t exempt from criticism.

Since the limited series’ April 17 premiere, viewers have taken to social media in droves to express their disappointment in Davis’ depiction of Obama – with some even branding her endeavor, chock full of exaggerative facial expressions and pursed lips, as ‘mockery.’

During a recent interview with BBC News, Viola waxed honest about the feedback. Deeming some of the comments ‘incredibly hurtful,’ look inside to hear what else she said about the negative reaction.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GA70FUpMXm4

Viola kept it all the way real when speaking about the impact the critical response is having on her. Calling it ‘incredibly hurtful’ yet an ‘occupational hazard,’ the 56-year-old didn’t mince words.

“Not everything is going to be an awards-worthy performance,” Viola said before later continuing, “Critics absolutely serve no purpose. And I’m not saying that to be nasty either. They always feel like they’re telling you something that you don’t know. Somehow that you’re living a life that you’re surrounded by people who lie to you and ‘I’m going to be the person that leans in and tells you the truth’.”

Rounding out the conversation, she made clear that she had no personal contact with Obama. She even suggested that her perception of some of the criticism wasn’t constructive, but instead it was borderline bullying.

“It gives them an opportunity to be cruel to you, but ultimately I feel like it is my job as a leader to make bold choices. Win or fail it is my duty to do that.” Davis said of the role – adding that portraying someone as prominent as Obama was “almost impossible” without either “doing too much or not enough.”

Showtime’s ‘First Lady’ is airing now. Click here to view the trailer.

[main photo source: Getty Images/AP Photos]