For years, “Auntie” has been a go-to term of endearment, a word used to honor women who paved the way, exude wisdom, or radiate that familiar, nurturing energy. But Garcelle Beauvais wants no part of it.
During a recent interview with Blavity’s Shadow and Act, journalist Brenda Alexander affectionately referred to the actress and producer as a “bomb auntie of a certain age.” The compliment didn’t land as intended.
“If there is a word I hate, it’s the word ‘auntie’ — unless I’m really your auntie, and unless I’m related to you,” Beauvais replied.
Alexander quickly clarified that she meant it as a sign of respect. “We use it as a term of endearment,” she said. Beauvais didn’t take offense but stood firm, offering a gentle redirect: “No, I know. We’ll just say that you’re an icon, OK?” Beauvais smiled. “I like that.”
It’s an exchange that highlights how generational language can blur lines between admiration and identity. While “auntie” has become shorthand for status in the culture, Beauvais’ response underscores that not everyone embraces the title, even when it’s meant with love.
The conversation took place while discussing Beauvais’ expanding creative footprint with Lifetime, where she has cemented herself as one of the network’s leading faces. Her new film, Taken at a Truck Stop: A Black Girl Missing Movie, continues her mission of spotlighting missing Black women and girls—stories that often go underreported.
Beauvais stars as Kai, a tough, no-nonsense trucker who launches a grassroots search for her abducted niece after law enforcement hits a dead end. “I loved playing Kai,” she said. “She’s a bada**, but also family-oriented. Sister relationships and family dynamics are complicated, and I wanted to show that.”
As both star and executive producer, Beauvais said she has learned to balance her creative roles by separating them. “When I’m on set, I’m an actor. We make all the big decisions before we start shooting,” she explained. “Being a producer has taught me so much. You don’t realize how much goes into production until you’re on the other side.”
Now fully focused on producing more projects, Beauvais confirmed that she’s walked away from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills for good. “It was just time. I had to choose me,” she said. “Sometimes we have to choose us.”
And as for any future reality TV appearances? She laughed off the idea. “I would host a reality show,” Beauvais said, “but I won’t be in one.”