Teyana Taylor, the multi-talented actress and performer, is making waves in Hollywood with her recent role in the action thriller film One Battle After Another. Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, the film features an impressive cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, Benicio del Toro, and Regina Hall. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Taylor expressed her eagerness to absorb knowledge from her esteemed co-stars, describing herself as a “sponge.”
Taylor, 34, acknowledged the unique opportunity of working alongside such legendary figures. “Imagine having these legends for teachers,” she remarked. “You think I’m about to fall asleep in class? No. I’m going to open that notebook, pen to pad. I’m here to be a sponge. Even when I’m teaching, I’m a student. And I’m a straight-A student.”
Paul Thomas Anderson Praises Taylor’s Unique Talent
The experience of collaborating with Taylor left a lasting impression on Paul Thomas Anderson, who highlighted her “special” talent. He noted a transformative quality in her performance, particularly during costume fittings and camera tests. “When the costume comes on and the situation is authentic, she really lights up and starts to go,” Anderson said. He recalled an early scene where Taylor ran at full speed at sundown, a moment that revealed to the crew that they were working with someone exceptional.
Over the years, Taylor has ventured into various fields, including acting, singing, modeling, and directing. Reflecting on her journey, she remarked, “You can see my patience being in this game since I was 15, doing a little bit of everything. This moment hits a lot harder than it would’ve if everything had gone my way when I wanted it to.”
Taraji P. Henson Recognizes Taylor’s Versatility
Acclaimed actress Taraji P. Henson, a close friend of Taylor’s, has expressed admiration for her versatility. Henson believes the broader audience is just starting to recognize Taylor’s multi-faceted talents. “She’s just that girl,” Henson stated. “They always tell you in this business that you’ve got to choose a lane, that nobody’s good at everything. Well, guess who is?”
Taylor has previously referred to her adaptability as being a “universal charger,” emphasizing her ability to fit into various roles effortlessly. In an interview with i-D magazine, she elaborated, “You can plug me in anywhere you see a socket. Best believe, that’s where I’m going to be. I’m a universal charger baby. I got the prongs for everything.”
Her aspirations of becoming a prominent actress and a sought-after director were clear from a young age. “I would tell myself, I’m going to be a big actress and a go-to director. And I did everything I said I would do—but in divine time. I didn’t force it,” she explained.
As Taylor continues to carve her path in the entertainment industry, her commitment to learning and evolving remains evident. With her recent successes and the recognition from industry giants, she is poised to further establish herself as a significant force in Hollywood.
