Columbus Short On the Chris Brown/Rihanna Controversy and Being A Role Model
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Since making his big splash in 2007’s Stomp the Yard, actor Columbus Short has become a regular fixture at the Cineplex. Short starred in two box-office hits in 2008, (Quarantine and Cadillac Records),
and looks to continue the streak in 2009. But, he believes that his
good fortune has been the result of just being given the opportunity to
showcase his talents. “I think my opportunities have grown,” Short
explains. “Without those opportunities … you can’t grow. I hope I
continue to step up to the plate, no matter what I choose.”
Short isn’t afraid to speak his mind — even in
a town of calculated sound bites and cue cards. And there is one
particular controversy that seems to be on his mind these days. When
asked what one can do to be a positive role model, Short’s answer was
sarcastic —and pointed. “I try not to knock women out — I try not to
bruise women’s faces,” Short said, in a not-so-thinly veiled reference
to his This Christmas
co-star, Chris Brown. Brown was arrested two weeks ago after
allegations that he attacked a woman believed to be his girlfriend, pop
star Rihanna. “If you want to talk about positivity and representation
— whether or not you want to be [an] example, you are [an] example. … I
love him, that’s my baby brother — he made a mistake.”
In
regards to Brown’s arrest and the aftermath, Short offered
encouragement: “I hope you can repent, in whatever aspect that means
for you, and move forward.” –todd williams
