Saweetie used to feel starstruck around Gabrielle Union. The revelation comes as part of a broader conversation about family dynamics in the entertainment industry, where such connections often remain unknown to the public.
The 52-year-old actress is Saweetie’s first cousin, and the rapper has recalled being in awe of Gabrielle during her younger years. Their family connection represents one of Hollywood’s many surprising familial ties that have emerged in recent years.
“Honestly, I didn’t really connect with her until I was older,” the 31-year-old rap star – whose real name is Diamonte Harper – told Us Weekly. This candid admission reflects the common experience of many celebrity families who maintain private relationships away from the public eye.
“But I have to say, when I was a young girl, I would be so shy around her, because she’s always been so beautiful. So bright.” Union has been a prominent figure in Hollywood for over two decades, with her career spanning multiple successful television series and films.
Saweetie used to admire the Hollywood star “from a distance” during her childhood. Their relationship has evolved over the years, as both women have established successful careers in entertainment.
“She’s always just had this really bright light about herself, so I’m happy to call her my cousin,” the rapper said. Union’s influence in Hollywood has included numerous acclaimed roles and advocacy for diversity in the entertainment industry.
Saweetie previously claimed that she’s “always been underestimated”. This sentiment echoes the experiences of many women of color in the entertainment industry, where representation and recognition continue to be significant challenges.
The ‘Best Friend’ hitmaker feels she’s been underestimated throughout her life – but Saweetie hasn’t allowed her doubters to stop her from realizing her ambitions. Her resilience has contributed to her rising success in the music industry, where she has achieved multiple Billboard Hot 100 entries.
Speaking to Allure magazine, she shared: “I’ve always been underestimated – it’s like a recurring theme in my life. That’s why the internet don’t really bother me. There’d be moments in classes when the white teachers would be like, ‘Does your mom do your homework for you? Because we know that you’re not this smart.’ Or when I would try out for sports, they’d be, ‘Oh, she’s a pretty girl, she probably sucks.’ It was just constant doubt, all the time.” These experiences mirror those of many successful artists who have faced similar prejudices.
“But that created the confidence, created me depending on myself, and me always wanting to break boundaries.” Her determination has led to multiple platinum-certified singles and high-profile collaborations in the music industry.
Saweetie also claimed that she’s been given bad advice by some music executives. The music industry has long faced criticism for its treatment of female artists, particularly regarding image and presentation.
“I was told I should twerk more on my Instagram,” she said. This type of guidance reflects ongoing debates about the sexualization of female artists in the music industry.
“I was told that my voice was very boring. I was told that I rapped too monotone and needed more energy. I was told that I needed to share more of my life on the internet.” These criticisms highlight the various pressures faced by female artists in maintaining their public image.
“I’m going to twerk when I want to. That’s not going to be my marketing. And if that’s what you truly love to do, then empower yourself through that. But that’s not innate to me.” Her stance on authentic self-expression has resonated with fans and fellow artists alike.
The relationship between Saweetie and Union represents a unique intersection of hip-hop and Hollywood, highlighting the often-unexpected connections within the entertainment industry. Their story adds to the growing narrative of strong female relationships in show business, where support and mentorship play crucial roles in success.
