TV ONE kicked off 2019 with a brand new original comedy. “Three’s Complicated” shares the hilarious adventure of a mother who is trapped in a love triangle after a night of partying. The one night fling turns complicated when the mother finds out her college-aged daughter knows the man.
Known for her role in the drama-filled show “Shameless,” Shanola Hampton executive produced and starred in the film. Hampton spoke to the Los Angeles Sentinel Newspaper about how she became the executive producer.
LOS ANGELES SENTINEL NEWSPAPER: Before we begin, how has your new year started?
SHANOLA HAMPTON: The new year has been great! I try to set intentions throughout the year as opposed to resolutions. One of those intentions was to be an executive producer and work with people that I’ve never worked with before. That’s what I did with “Three’s Complicated” so I can’t complain. I’m having a great year so far!
LAS: Speaking of intentions, what was your intention to executively produce this movie?
HAMPTON: I wanted to go out and do different things. I wanted to be my own boss rather than waiting for other people to hire me.
LAS: That’s great you’re doing that. There is a huge lack of Black women producers out there.
HAMPTON: I agree. There’s definitely the ratio that we are not in the high percentile. I’m glad that actresses like Regina King and Kerry Washington give back. That’s what I’m trying to do as well. It all starts with our roots, which is acting. You have to take the initiative and really come out of your comfort zone and believe you can do it.
LAS: How has being a mother changed your perspective on your career?
HAMPTON: Before I had a child, I was responsible for the material I chose. But since I’m a mother of a daughter, I pay even more attention. I want to be responsible with my language and speak that energy into projects. It’s all about balance too. My career is important to me but my child is my number one priority.
LAS: You have millions of followers on social media. Does that impact how you maneuver in the industry?
HAMPTON: It’s about the audience. You want them to follow you on different projects as well. Social media helps aid that.
LAS: What advice would you give to someone who wants to do what you’re doing?
HAMPTON: Well what I always say is that anything you do, you need to be clear about your passion and intention. You never want to go to work miserable especially if your passion is something else. But you can’t just sit on the couch and wait. Set clear intention so God or The Universe can manifest towards you. Don’t be afraid of the hard work.
“Three’s Complicated” aired on Sunday, Jan. 13 on TV ONE.
