Two of Hollywood’s brightest lights, Tisha Campbell and Wendy Raquel Robinson, recently joined “Sway in the Morning” for a lively, heartfelt conversation about their upcoming film, “Operation Aunties.” Premiering exclusively on AMC Network’s Allblk, this crypto-crime dramedy brings together comedy, drama, and real-world issues in a way that only these two powerhouses could pull off. 🌟
Celebrating Legendary Careers
The interview kicked off with a look back at the incredible resumes of Tisha and Wendy. From Tisha’s unforgettable performances in “Martin,” “Boomerang,” “School Daze,” and “My Wife and Kids,” to Wendy’s iconic roles in “The Steve Harvey Show” and “The Game,” both stars have made indelible marks on the entertainment industry. They’ve racked up Soul Train Awards, NAACP Image Award nominations, and even Emmy wins along the way. These women are more than just actors—they’re trailblazers and role models. 🎥
As Wendy shared, her journey also includes 28 years of running the Amazing Grace Conservatory, an institution that has nurtured the talents of stars like Issa Rae. For her, the arts have always been about “each one, teach one”—a sentiment echoed by Tisha, who credits her passion for acting to early mentors like Marla Gibbs, Melba Moore, and her own grandmother, who told her, “You have to be extraordinary to be considered average.”
The Heart and Humor of “Operation Aunties”
“Operation Aunties” isn’t just another movie—it’s a movement. As Wendy explained, the film tackles the dark realities of cybercrime and human trafficking, particularly their impact on Black women and youth. Blending intense drama with laugh-out-loud comedy, the film follows a group of fierce, intelligent Black women who go undercover to expose a criminal ring. Or, as Tisha calls it, “a crypto-crime dramedy with a little bit of everything.” 🎭
The project marks a new chapter for Wendy, who directed the film with a vision to highlight the strength, vulnerability, and love of Black women. “We wanted to show powerful Black women who are bold, beautiful, educated, and ballsy,” she said. Tisha added, “It’s not just funny—it’s thought-provoking. It’ll make you think twice before you hop into a ride-share.”
Sisterhood in Action
The bond between Tisha and Wendy is unmistakable. Having known each other since the 1990s, their mutual respect and admiration shine through every word. Wendy didn’t hesitate to direct “Operation Aunties” when Tisha signed on, and Tisha trusted Wendy’s storytelling so much that she agreed to the project before even reading the script. “I knew she was going to be an incredible director,” Tisha shared. “I trust her completely.”
Their camaraderie extends beyond the set. Both women emphasized the importance of uplifting others in the industry. “When one of my sisters wins, I win,” Tisha said, recounting her lifelong friendship with Tichina Arnold and their shared commitment to supporting each other’s careers. Wendy echoed the sentiment, adding, “We are here to serve others, not to be served.”
Lessons Learned and New Horizons
Despite their decades in the industry, both stars are still pushing boundaries. Tisha recently ventured into stand-up comedy, overcoming her fears to perform live. “I knew during COVID that I wanted to do everything I’d ever been afraid to try,” she revealed. Wendy, meanwhile, is thriving as a director, finding joy in bringing stories to life from behind the camera.
Their advice to aspiring artists? Be versatile. “You have to do everything,” Tisha said. “Take a writing class, create your own opportunities, and never stand in line for your career.” Wendy added, “Ask yourself if you love the art in yourself or yourself in the art. Passion is what will sustain you.”
Why “Operation Aunties” Matters
At its core, “Operation Aunties” is about more than entertainment—it’s about raising awareness and sparking conversations. With sobering statistics like Black women making up 40% of sex trafficking survivors, the film sheds light on issues that are often ignored. “We took bold, daring steps to tell this story authentically,” Wendy said. “It’s going to open eyes and hearts.”
Yet the film also celebrates joy, resilience, and community. “It’s a love letter to Black women and their strength,” Tisha explained. “It has something for everyone—comedy, drama, action, and heart.”
“Operation Aunties” premieres this Friday on AMC Network’s Allblk, and it’s a must-watch. Whether you’re drawn to its powerful storytelling, its humor, or its important social message, this film is sure to leave an impact.
As we celebrate the legacy of Tisha Campbell and Wendy Raquel Robinson, their inspiring words remind us of the power of art, the importance of sisterhood, and the joy of living with purpose. “Our seeds shall exceed us,” Wendy said, summing up their shared mission. “We’re here to water each other.” 🌱
What inspires you most about Tisha and Wendy’s journey? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to tune in to “Operation Aunties” this Friday. Let’s celebrate these incredible women and the stories they tell! 💬
