Hollywood legend Vivica. A. Fox spills the tea on new movie The Lost Holliday

By Sarah Tetteh

When Hollywood legend Vivica. A. Fox flew into London for the Soul Film Festival with Empire co-star Jussie Smollett, I just had to saddle up beside them to get the tea on their new movie The Lost Holliday. 

In this Showbiz exclusive, filmed in a private bar at the British Film Institute in Southwark, Vivica chatted Independence Day, what’s it like working with on-screen hubby Will Smith, and if there would an Independence Day 3? 

She let us into the secrets of how this Kill Bill movie maven, who looks sensational at 60  ,broke through as a black actress and made it into mainstream Hollywood, oh, and who’s their favourite royal.

Jussie talked about Empire and how he’s ‘moving forward’ after life’s ups and downs with his friends, family and his faith by side. 

He said: “I’m so blessed that life has been so kind”, adding, “I’m so grateful for my ancestors for guiding me”.

The talented star also teased new music, which is sure to be a delight to his army of fans.

How exciting! I didn’t know what to expect when I got the call that Jussie and Vivica were in town for their new movie, and ‘would I like to interview them?’ 

It was a no-brainer. Having grown up watching Vivica in all her movies from Soul Food, right through to Independence Day, Kill Bill and Booty Call, interviewing such a cultural icon was surely something to tick off the bucket list. 

And she didn’t disappoint. Gliding into our rustic private bar suite looking radiant and regal in her chic thigh-split evening gown, Vivica brought old-school Hollywood glam, with a pinch of sass to London town.

“Come here darling, let me straighten the label on your dress”, was the first thing she said to me as we saddled beside each other on the sofa. 

See, a girl’s girl already. Vivica’s nurturing side was clear for all to see –  especially how loving and protective she was over her ‘nephew’ Jussie. 

Jussie was such a gent from the get-go, greeting me with a big smile and warm hug, he seemed a little shy at first, but soon warmed up with plenty of banter. 

Speaking about their trip to London, the film stars told me: “I love London. I’ve this time been fortunate to find a great hotel, great food. 

“And now we are here for ABFF (American black Film Festival x Soul Film Festival )for our new movie The Lost Holliday, so this is exciting.” 

Just like us any other visitors to London, they couldn’t resist a sneak peek at the most famous property in the capital, easily their highlight so far. 

Jussie said: “We walked by Buckingham Palace yesterday and the flag was up. Guess that meant that King Charles was there.” 

Vivica added: “We pray for him to have good health. King Charles and Princess Kate. I’d like to meet the little Prince (Louis). He looks like he’s having a lot of fun. He’s quite the character.” 

It doesn’t surprise me that Vivica had already been to Buckingham Palace, as rubbing shoulders with fellow Hollywood royalty is something that is second nature to the star. 

Action hero fans will be at the edge of their seats if Vivica’s hopes for an Independence Day 3 come to pass. 

She said: “If they get Will Smith, absolutely. That’s what they should have done for Part two. I would love to work again with Will Smith. He is such an incredible man, incredible actor, very generous. 

“Megastar! You know when you work with Big Will, it’s going to be on like popcorn.”

Vivica shared that incredibly she had to audition for the part in Independence Day “six times, because they didn’t think I was a big enough actress.”

Sharing her wisdom with young actresses, she said: “Do the work, go to your acting classes. Don’t just swipe to success.”

Jussie and Vivica reflected on the significance of premiering The Lost Holliday in London at ABFF Global x @s.o.u.l.fest Film Festival. 

Vivica said: “We filmed it in 11 days. I was cracking whip because I was executive producer, but we had a lot of fun on Jussie’s birthday. “

She added: “He’s my nephew, my handsome nephew. The fact we having this moment together is incredible. 

“We had a moment in Empire, so he hit me up after Empire ended, he has been working on this for 8 years.

“He said, ‘’Vivica, I can’t make this movie without you’. I said: ‘Ok, let’s do it.’ 

“I didn’t even read the script. So here we are, in London.”

Watch the full interview on Showbizmama YouTube . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-HA4pAEsFs&t=23s

The Lost Holiday will be out in the US from September 27 and in the UK in 2025.

Pictured top: Vivica. A. Fox with Sarah Tetteh at the British Film Institute (Picture: Sarah Tetteh)