Thicker Than Water summary

Kerry Washington's path to fame began like many – with big dreams seeded in childhood. Born in the Bronx in 1977, Kerry grew up the daughter of a real estate broker and professor. Her parents divorced when she was still young, leading to a childhood split between two very different worlds.

Kerry spent weekdays living in more affluent suburban Bronxville with her mother, while weekends were in the city with her father. She credits her ancestors for giving her the strength to adapt and thrive in diverse communities early on. This experience of navigating contrasting worlds shaped Kerry's worldview.

Though life was stable thanks to her middle-class upbringing, these years also influenced her activism later on. Kerry was aware of the privilege she carried compared to her ancestors who endured slavery and oppression. She felt driven to use her opportunity to make an impact.

In high school, Kerry's creative side flourished when she landed the lead role in a play. The thrill of performing set her on the path to pursuing acting. She was accepted to George Washington University, where she earned a double major in anthropology and sociology. But Kerry couldn't shake her passion for the stage.

She soon realized acting was more than just a pipe dream – it could be a viable career path. Kerry began intense study of her craft in college, while also booking early roles in productions like ABC's Magical Make-Over and indie film Our Song. She spent a semester training in New York City too.

After graduation, Kerry began the tough work of grinding out auditions while studying acting further at Fordham University. She supported herself with side jobs between roles.

In 2002, Kerry got her first big break on television in the ABC legal drama 100 Centre Street. More TV and film roles followed, but it was her recurring part on Boston Legal that really opened doors.

Still, Kerry paid her dues with many small roles over the next few years. She never lost faith she could make it as a black actress, even when parts were slim. Her motivation was both personal and political – to expand limited opportunities in Hollywood for women of color.

Kerry's persistence paid off in 2012 when she landed the career-defining role of Olivia Pope on Scandal. As a complex lead character, Olivia was a rarity. Kerry's nuanced acting earned critical praise and mainstream fame. Over seven seasons, Scandal cemented her as a pioneering actress – and household name.