The Hattie Project
The Hattie Project is a four-episode podcast exploring the complicated legacy of actress Hattie McDaniel, the first African American to receive an Academy Award for her portrayal of a racial stereotype in the film Gone With the Wind. This podcast is not a traditional biography. Rather, host Sharyll Burroughs and female artists of color explore the contradictions of McDaniel’s life and career within contexts such as identity and self-determination: A celebration of her exceptional humanity.
Episodes
Mar 20, 2025
Mar 20, 2025
39 min
Sharyll Burroughs interviews artist, educator, and independent curator Jaleesa Johnston whose work is influenced by Conduction, a methodology inspired by African American musician Butch Morris and writer Ta-Nehisi Coates. Conduction creates unconventional routes toward self-determination, transformation, and new futures. The discussion highlights the ways in which Conduction intersects with McDaniel’s life.
Verneice Turner reads the part of Hattie McDaniel. Producers: Amy & Nancy Harrington, Vikki MeeEditors: Amy & Nancy Harrington
Mar 20, 2025
Mar 20, 2025
29 min
Sharyll Burroughs' conversation with writer/producer Valerie C. Woods delves into McDaniel’s tense relationship with the NAACP, cultural representation, and issues of colorism and misogyny in Hollywood. Burroughs also contemplates the meaning of privilege.
Verneice Turner reads the part of Hattie McDaniel.Producers: Amy & Nancy Harrington, Vikki Mee Editors: Amy & Nancy Harrington
Mar 20, 2025
Mar 20, 2025
44 min
Sharyll Burroughs' interview with writer and producer Valerie C. Woods explores black excellence, McDaniel’s historic Oscar win, the ongoing impact of racism in the movie industry, and more.
Producers: Amy & Nancy Harrington, Vikki MeeEditors: Amy & Nancy. Harrington
Mar 20, 2025
Mar 20, 2025
14 min
A brief but spectacular introduction to the fabulous Hattie McDaniel.
Verneice Turner reads the part of Hattie McDaniel. Producers: Amy & Nancy Harrington, Vikki MeeEditors: Amy & Nancy Harrington