Claudeen Benoit™ - Celebrity Events - BET Premieres - "Being Mary Jane" - Starring Gabrielle Union.
- Claudeen Benoit
- Aug 25
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 28
“BEING MARY JANE” STARRING GABRIELLE UNION PREMIERES AT THE 16TH ANNUAL BET FILM FESTIVAL.
Celebrity Photography, Event Coverage & Article Written by Claudeen Benoit™
Hello Community!
Hello, Community!
Let’s take it back to a standout moment on the red carpet—a flashback to the fabulous premiere of "Being Mary Jane", covered through my lens.
This weekend, Gabrielle Union lit up the 16th Annual BET Urbanworld Film Festival, turning heads and commanding attention at the premiere of her highly anticipated series, "Being Mary Jane". Dressed in a sleek metallic ensemble, (that resembles mine!)
she radiated confidence and sophistication—embodying the spirit of the night: bold, beautiful, and unapologetically powerful.
Brought to life by the powerhouse team at Akil Productions, Being Mary Jane is the latest creation from Hollywood royalty Salim Akil and Mara Brock Akil—visionaries behind cultural staples like "The Game" and "Girlfriends". Their new series follows Mary Jane Paul, a successful TV anchorwoman navigating the ever-complicated intersections of career, love, and a busy personal life.
Ms. Gabrielle Union delivers what may be her most compelling performance to date. She invites us intimately into Mary Jane’s world—flawed, resilient, and wholly relatable. In just one episode, the cast creates a deep emotional connection with viewers. And credit where it's due: renowned casting director Twinkie Byrd (Sparkle - Featuring Mariah Carey,, Stomp the Yard, Notorious) nails every role with her signature precision and heart.
Following the screening, the cast and creative team gathered for an insightful talkback. Writer and producer Mara Brock Akil moved the audience with her thoughtful reflections on the art of storytelling. When asked about her creative process, she offered a simple yet profound answer: “I start with HONESTY.”
That same honesty is the soul of "Being Mary Jane". It’s a show that grips you from the first scene—intimate, and emotionally intelligent. Union’s portrayal is nuanced and fearless. She allows us to laugh with Mary Jane, cry with her, and see our own vulnerabilities reflected in her triumphs and mistakes. That emotional resonance is what sets this show apart.
The direction is sharp, the writing authentic, and the performances unforgettable. If the premiere is any indication, "Being Mary Jane" is poised to become essential viewing.
An unforgettable premiere for what’s sure to be a powerful series. "Being Mary Jane"—don't miss it! Only on BET.
Check out more photos from the red carpet below—and stay tuned for more exclusive celebrity coverage from Ms. Claudeen Benoit.™
Celebrity Photography, Event Coverage & Article Written by Claudeen Benoit™
Claudeen Benoit™ - Celebrity Event Host & Red Carpet Photographer
