Originally reported by Black Girl Nerds
During the ABFF Pop-Up in New York City, actress and singer Naturi Naughton-Lewis joined Ally’s Erica Hughes for an engaging discussion on Money Wellness and the Creator. The conversation centered on how artists can stay grounded in their creative purpose while managing financial growth — but it also took an introspective turn when Naughton shared one of her biggest career “what if” moments.
Early in her career, shortly after her breakout portrayal of Lil’ Kim in Notorious (2009), Naughton was approached to star in Ryan Coogler’s short film Fig. The project, which came with a modest day rate, was being cast by Twinkie Byrd, who believed Coogler had the potential to be “the next one.” Still, Naughton’s team at the time discouraged her from taking on the smaller, independent project, advising her to focus on maintaining prestige as she prepared to star in NBC’s The Playboy Club.
In hindsight, she admitted it was a decision that taught her the value of opportunity over optics.
Fig went on to win top honors at the American Black Film Festival, later earning recognition from AFI Fest and the HBO Short Film Competition — pivotal milestones that launched Coogler’s career. Shortly after, he made his feature debut with Fruitvale Station (2013), and within a few years, became one of the most influential filmmakers in Hollywood with Creed and Black Panther (2018). Today, Coogler continues to expand his creative legacy through his company Proximity Media, producing projects like Creed III, Judas and the Black Messiah. He most recently wrote and directed Sinners and is now developing the X-Files reboot.
For Naughton, the experience became a reminder that the early days of someone’s journey can hold just as much promise as established opportunities.Since 2010, she’s continued to evolve as one of television’s most consistent talents. Her standout performances as Tasha St. Patrick in Power and Power Book II: Ghost cemented her as a dramatic force, while projects like Queens, The Family Business, A Holiday Chance, and The Perfect Find showcased her range. Beyond acting, she’s become a vocal advocate for financial literacy and creative ownership, sharing her lessons with up-and-coming artists navigating the business side of Hollywood.
During the panel, she encouraged attendees to remember that not every opportunity is measured in money or prestige. Though she didn’t take part in the short that launched his career, she says she’s grateful for the lesson it taught her about opportunity and “relational currency.”
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