Kerry Washington & Experts: How to Build Mental Strength When You Can’t Control the Outcome
Kerry Washington revealed she felt immense pressure as the lead of ABC’s “Scandal” knowing the display could determine opportunities for other Black women in television. The actress shared her experience on a recent episode of the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, explaining the weight she carried knowing it had been decades since a Black woman had headlined a network drama.
“It had been almost 40 years since a Black woman had been the lead on a network drama,” Washington told host Alex Cooper. She felt a responsibility to succeed, fearing that a failure of “Scandal” could mean another 40 years before another woman of color would receive the same opportunity. “I felt like if this show didn’t do well, it might be another 40 years,” she said, according to CNBC.
Rather than succumb to the pressure, Washington adopted a mindset focused on control. “It was an exercise of really trying to be clear about what I can control and what I can’t,” she explained. She determined she couldn’t control audience viewership, but she could control her work ethic and dedication to the role.
“What I can control is my work ethic, pouring my heart into it,” Washington said. That approach proved successful. “Scandal” ran for seven seasons and earned a Peabody Award. Washington received numerous award nominations for her portrayal of Olivia Pope, including Emmy and Golden Globe recognition.
Psychotherapist Amy Morin echoed Washington’s strategy, telling CNBC Create It that focusing on controllable factors is a key to building mental strength. “There’s a lot you can’t control in life — other people’s actions, unexpected setbacks, the weather,” Morin said. “But focusing on what you can control ‘shifts your energy toward solutions and empowers you to keep improving.'”
Morin suggests a daily self-assessment: “What did I do today to grow mentally stronger?” This encourages individuals to acknowledge their accomplishments rather than dwell on perceived failures. Psychotherapist Steven Stosny recommends focusing on improving emotional reactions, planning future actions instead of regretting past mistakes, and considering the broader context of a situation to find solutions.
During the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, Washington also revisited memorable scenes from “Scandal,” including a particularly steamy encounter in Vermont. She even took a call from her former co-star, Tony Goldwyn, who played President Fitzgerald Grant, at the prompting of host Alex Cooper. Goldwyn jokingly responded, “Should I say, ‘Uh-oh?’” when contacted mid-interview, according to Entertainment Now. The two actors then reminisced about their on-screen chemistry and favorite moments, including a scene filmed in an electrical closet, as reported by Entertainment Now.
The podcast also touched on Washington’s new show, “Imperfect Women,” and family secrets, as highlighted in a TikTok video posted by Call Her Daddy. No details about the show were immediately available.