Dominique Madison: Hollywood’s Rising Powerhouse on Breaking Barriers, Fashion, and Her Unstoppable 2024

Few names are rising as fast and fiercely as Dominique Madison. From her disciplined upbringing to the bright lights of the big screen, Dominique’s journey is a testament to grit, determination, and undeniable talent. She’s not just an actress with standout roles in “Superfly” and “Greenleaf”–2024 is poised to be her breakthrough year with her first lead role in a Tubi original film and an appearance in Peacock’s “Fight Night.” 

But Dominique’s versatility doesn’t stop there. She’s also a fashion maven, comedic force, and fierce advocate for Black women, proving she’s much more than Hollywood’s next big thing–she’s a powerhouse destined for greatness. In this exclusive interview, we dive deep into her inspiring story, her love for fashion, and what’s next on her unstoppable path to stardom.

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Dominique, your journey from a disciplined upbringing to starring alongside Hollywood legends is incredibly inspiring. How did your early experiences shape your approach to acting and your work ethic in the industry?

My early experiences were foundational in shaping both my approach to acting and my work ethic. Growing up, I was taught the importance of discipline, persistence, and resilience—values that have carried over into my career. Whether it was being involved in sports, having a strong educational background, or navigating personal challenges, those experiences taught me how to stay focused and dedicated. 

In acting, this translates to always being prepared, understanding the value of continuous learning, and maintaining a strong sense of professionalism on set. The industry can be tough, but those early lessons instilled in me the determination to keep going, even in the face of rejection or difficult roles.

Congratulations on your first lead role in a Tubi original film! What does this milestone mean to you, and how do you feel it will impact your career moving forward?

This milestone is incredibly meaningful to me. It represents not only the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my craft but also the growth and progress I’ve made over the years. It’s a validation of the sacrifices and challenges I’ve faced along the way, and I feel both proud and grateful for this moment. 

Looking ahead, I believe this accomplishment will open new doors for me, pushing me to take on even more challenging and diverse roles. It also boosts my confidence in pursuing new creative projects and collaborations. I see it as a stepping stone to further growth in my career, and I’m excited to see where it leads.

Your upcoming role in “Fight Night” on Peacock has generated a lot of buzz. What can you tell us about your character, and what was it like working with industry giants like Taraji P. Henson, Don Cheadle, and Samuel L. Jackson?

My character is… “Granny, close your eyes on this part.” Working with legends like Taraji P. Henson, Don Cheadle, and Samuel L. Jackson felt like taking a master class—not just watching it but being in the room, feeling the energy, hearing the “uhhhs,” “hmmms,” and “muthaf**kas” in all their tones. The lights, the atmosphere—it was life-changing for me as an artist. It’s something I’ll never forget.

With roles in diverse genres—from drama to horror and comedy—how do you choose your projects, and what do you find most rewarding about exploring different facets of your talent?

I choose projects based on the story and the depth of the character, regardless of the genre. I’m always drawn to roles that challenge me or offer new perspectives, whether it’s drama, horror, or comedy. Each genre has its own unique demands and opportunities for expression, and I find that exploring those different worlds allows me to stretch my range as an actor. What I find most rewarding about working across diverse genres is the ability to constantly reinvent myself.

Whether it’s the emotional intensity of drama, the adrenaline of horror, or the timing and nuance required in comedy, each project offers something new to learn and experience. That variety keeps me engaged and helps me grow, both as a performer and as a person.

Fashion is another passion of yours, particularly curating vintage clothing with a unique feminine/tomboy style. Can you share how your fashion sense influences your personal brand and public image?

It’s simple—I buy pieces, never full outfits. Over the years, I’ve curated all these individual pieces, and when it’s time for an event, I’m able to à la carte each piece to suit the occasion. That makes it special and timeless.

You’re an advocate for Black women and their representation in media. How do you incorporate this advocacy into your work, and what impact do you hope to make in the industry?

My advocacy for Black women and their representation in media is at the heart of everything I do. When I choose roles or projects, I’m always thinking about how they portray Black women—whether the characters are multidimensional, authentic, and free from stereotypes. I seek out stories that highlight our diverse experiences, strengths, and vulnerabilities, ensuring that the characters I play reflect the richness of who we are. 

Beyond my acting, I also use my platform to uplift other Black women in the industry, whether by supporting up-and-coming talent, working with Black creatives behind the scenes, or speaking out about the need for greater inclusion and equity. My hope is to contribute to a shift in how Black women are seen and valued in media—both in front of and behind the camera. I want to help create a space where our stories are told with honesty, respect, and complexity.

Your comedic work with Kountry Wayne has been a hit with fans. How does your approach to comedy differ from your dramatic roles, and what do you enjoy most about making people laugh?

They’re two different beasts. But what I enjoy about comedy is that laughter is healing.

2024 is shaping up to be a monumental year for you. Looking ahead, what are your biggest goals, and how do you plan to continue pushing boundaries in your career?

Simply, to keep booking.

For aspiring actors who look up to you, what advice would you give them about pursuing a career in Hollywood, especially when faced with challenges?

Do the work and get trained—the rest will fall in line. If you want this, you’ve got to put in the work.

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