Discover Queen Latifah’s rap sessions, cast bonds, and behind-the-scenes advice from “The Equalizer” in this exclusive Q&A.
Does Queen Latifah Rap Between Takes on “The Equalizer”?
“She does!” Lorraine Toussaint confirmed to PEOPLE at the NAACP Image Awards. Queen Latifah’s spontaneous rap sessions shine behind the scenes.
The Oscar-nominated actress and rapper turns downtime into dance parties, blasting music from a boom box between takes.
Toussaint, 64, calls it a first in her decades-long career: “She’ll rock whatever tune she’s feeling—it’s electric!”
How Tight-Knit Is “The Equalizer” Cast Off-Screen?
“We’re a true family,” Toussaint shares. After five seasons filming the CBS hit, bonds mirror their on-screen roles.
Delilah’s aunt (Toussaint) and mom (Latifah) nurture real-life connections with Laya DeLeon Hayes.
Hayes, now 20, echoed this in 2021: “They’ve guided me like family from day one.” The cast’s closeness? “No acting required!”
What Hilarious Advice Did Hayes Get From Her On-Screen Mentors?
“Never eat the props!” Latifah and Toussaint warned Hayes about food scenes early on. Hayes learned the hard way: “Take 10 of biting the same burger? Not fun.”
The teen star laughed, “[Now] I pretend-chew!” Their wisdom highlights the quirky realities of filmmaking—and avoiding stomachaches during 12-hour shoots.
How Did Latifah Shape Hayes’s Role as Delilah?
Collaboration was key. Latifah urged Hayes to blend personal experiences into Delilah’s bond with Robyn (Latifah).
Hayes revealed, “She asked about my mom and me, then wove those moments into scenes.”
Their dynamic—like inside jokes or secret handshakes—stems from Latifah fostering trust. “She’s the ultimate mentor,” Hayes gushed.
When Can Fans Catch New Episodes?
Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on CBS. Now in Season 5, “The Equalizer” blends action with heart, anchored by Latifah’s Robin McCall.
Toussaint teases upcoming twists: “Expect more music, laughs, and family drama. We’re just getting started!”
Quick Facts About “The Equalizer”
- Queen Latifah’s Dual Role: Actor and executive producer since Season 1 (2021).
- Real-Life Bonds: Cast describes off-screen camaraderie as “unbreakable.”
- Behind-the-Scenes Jams: Latifah’s playlist keeps energy high during filming.
- Hayes’s Growth: Joined the show at 16; now 20 and thriving with cast support.
- Food Prop Rule: “No real eating!”—advice every new actor learns fast.