Gabrielle Union’s trademark smile and irresistible dimples make her a household favorite. She has shown great range in her acting abilities through numerous roles in movies. From just looking on the surface, one could not imagine the personal tragedies that this beautiful actress has suffered through in her youth. Her life appears to be pristine. She fell into the movie business and has displayed a staying power that is unusual for most actresses. One of her most recent roles was in the Tyler Perry “Daddy’s Little Girls.”

In this box office hit, Union was able to capture audiences with her endearing portrayal of a successful lawyer who lacked romance. When this character was finally able to relax and let go, she opened herself to a relationship with a caring, loving mechanic. Despite discouragement from well meaning friends, Gabrielle’s character allowed herself to fall in love with the character Monty, a single father of three little girls.

This role is one out of many that shows Union’s raw talent. In spite of recent successes, everything wasn’t always roses and dahlias for Union.

As a teen, she was the victim of rape at gunpoint. Initially, she had trouble dealing with this traumatic experience. However, she has now come to terms with this violation and has even begun to speak out on the issue. She hasn’t let the horrible act of violence deter her, and continues to shine brightly as a person and as an actress. She is now an activist for women and she speaks about rape in order to assist those who have been victims. May she continue to entertain audiences, stay devoted to her cause, and remain a strong, Black woman.