Naturi Naughton-Lewis is back, and she’s shining brighter than ever. We’re thrilled to share our exclusive interview with the talented actress as she takes on a pivotal role in Lifetime’s latest film, Abducted at an HBCU: A Black Girl Missing Movie, premiering tonight at 8 pm ET.
Following the success of last year’s critically acclaimed Black Girl Missing, executive produced by and starring Garcelle Beauvais, this sequel stars Naughton-Lewis and Tanyell Quian in a gripping narrative that sheds light on the alarming epidemic of missing Black women and girls, particularly those from underserved communities.
“When I read the script, I was really moved by the story,” Naturi Naughton-Lewis told PopViewers. “A student goes missing, and an advisor cares enough to search for her and fight for her. I wanted to bring attention to it. Part of my goal as an actress is to do things that matter and be intentional about the work. So that’s why I said yes.”
A Heart-Wrenching Story
Abducted at an HBCU: A Black Girl Missing Movie follows Shannon (Tanyell Quian), a college student grappling with financial struggles. Her sudden disappearance goes unnoticed by everyone except her counselor, Ellen (Naturi Naughton-Lewis). As Ellen’s concerns are dismissed by those around her, she uncovers a disturbing trafficking ring targeting students like Shannon. With time running out, Ellen must rally support to rescue Shannon and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“The narrative should be: don’t be afraid to speak up and say something,” Naughton-Lewis emphasized. “We need to get involved, we need to say something, and we need to get comfortable with fighting back against these evils and these girls getting taken. It takes all of us.”
A Cast of Excellence
Naturi Naughton-Lewis is celebrated for her powerful performances, particularly in Starz’s #1 hit series Power, where she received two NAACP awards. Co-star Tanyell Quian, known for her role in Ava DuVernay’s Queen Sugar, brings a compelling presence to the film.
Behind the Camera
Produced by Johnson Production Group in association with Motion Content Group, the film is helmed by an impressive team of executive producers, including Garcelle Beauvais and Tim Johnson. Directed by Delmar Washington with a script by Avery O’Williams, this film promises to leave a lasting impact.
Naturi’s Personal Insights
Reflecting on her career and experiences, Naturi shared a touching memory of meeting her childhood idol, Whitney Houston, at New Hope Baptist Church in New Jersey.
“I wish I could have told 9-year-old Naturi to be careful in this industry. When you do make it, don’t let people question you and who you are. Don’t let people make you feel small and question your value. Remember who you are and where you come from, and that will always keep you safe and grounded.”
Raising Awareness
Abducted at an HBCU: A Black Girl Missing Movie aims to shine a light on the alarming number of missing Black women. Although Black women make up about seven percent of the U.S. population, they accounted for 35% of all missing persons cases involving women and children in 2022, according to the National Crime Information Center. The film seeks to bring this crisis to the forefront and inspire collective action.
Don’t miss the premiere tonight on Lifetime. Join us in supporting this critical film and the important conversation it ignites.
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