Michelle Buteau Lets Us In On Her Journey Of Motherhood, Comedic Healing, And How She’s Making History Via Standup Comedy

Source: Courtesy of Amazon / Amazon

The name Michelle Buteau brings joy and laughter to people worldwide, and we absolutely need it right now. After her critically acclaimed performance in the 2024 film Babes , she is elevating in more ways than one as she embarks on new ventures. The actress, comedian, producer and television host is set to tape her second Netflix comedy special at Radio City Music Hall, making history as the first Black woman to film a stand-up comedy special at this iconic venue.

Buteau is also a proud member of an elite group of superheroes, otherwise known as motherhood. Like most parents, she’s juggling a demanding career while raising her twins, Hazel and Otis. As she prepares for the children’s first school experience, the actress finally understands the pressure of school shopping. Because Amazon is a one-stop shop for practically everything, her recent collaboration with the brand on their back-to-school campaign, with a focus parents, was a no-brainer. It also serves as an annual reminder of the financial burden of raising children.

The campaign directly addresses parents’ concerns about saving money on school supplies, snagging some “rizzy rizz clothes,” and acknowledging the challenges posed by their children’s needs. The project is directed by Golden Globe-winning actor and fellow stand-up comedian Ramy Youssef, marking his directorial debut in the commercial realm.

With all of these glow-ups, we had to sit down with the First Wives Club alum to learn more about how she’s bringing the Black Girl Magic into every single one of her projects.

HelloBeautiful: How do you balance your career with being a mother, especially now that your twins are starting school?

Michelle Buteau: I’m always looking for ways to stress less and save more. Since this is my first back-to-school season with my little ones, I don’t know where I’d be without Amazon’s Back-to-School shopping guide because balance is a joke. There is no balance. Balance is just a word for people to make sure they know that you get sleep at some point.

When it comes to motherhood or a relationship, the most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself. If you’re doing something that you love, and it’s taking up time, that’s ok; it’s important! You’re leading by example. Just make sure you’re not beating yourself up too much. It can feel like everything you’re doing is wrong, but it’s not.

Can you share what it means to you to be a part of Amazon’s 2024 Back to School campaign and how it resonates with your personal journey as a mom?

Buteau: With two kiddos heading to school for the first time, I’ll take all the savings I can get! Amazon has been an absolute game-changer for my family. It has everyday low prices, a huge selection of top brands, PLUS fast delivery. This was a very natural partnership because I truly love and shop Amazon to get everything I need for my entire family!

Source: Courtesy / Netflix

As a Black actor, how do you see your work in films and shows like BABES and Survival of the Thickest impacting representation and diversity in the entertainment industry?

Buteau: Diversity matters; it all matters. To see yourself and for someone else to see themselves in you is everything . Creating art and music matters. Some of the hardest and most awkward conversations I’ve had with my mom have come from a lyric in a song or a line in a movie. You’re not going to learn everything in school. It’s impossible to, and that is why representation matters for any and all .

To make history as the first Black person to do something in 2024 is bittersweet. You think, “How come other people haven’t had the opportunity,” and you secretly know why. Radio City Music Hall is such an iconic venue; why not just open up that space? If we’re going to be doing a crazy job like stand-up comedy, why aren’t we dreaming bigger in other spaces? It’s not just about me; I think it’s about everybody else who wants to play it safe, right? Don’t. What’s the point of that? You’re out here making magic for a reason, so keep on keeping on.

The state of plus-size fashion is under fire right now as brands fail to show up for plus-size women. Shows like Survival of the Thickest keep this conversation of empowerment going. What does that signify to you both personally and professionally?

Buteau: I’m not really a person who reads a lot of DMs or comments, but since my show premiered during a strike, it was the only way to connect with the audience. I was expecting a lot of backlash because that’s what I’ve been used to in terms of stand-up comedy. However, making the show and having it be so well received showed me that there is a huge need and desire for us to see ourselves and our world.

Especially when we can feel under attack, the need to find joy and to love and laugh, and be educated through humor is paramount. I’ve gotten DMs from someone saying, “I have only worn black since I gained weight, and your show inspired me to wear color,” or “This is the first time I’ve laughed since my husband’s brain cancer came back.” That is so insane , heartwarming , and really motivates me to keep doing what I’m doing.

How has comedy helped you navigate the challenges of motherhood, career pressures, and societal expectations?

Buteau: Standup comedy has really helped me find my voice, to ask for things that I need, and advocate for myself. Whether I’m traveling to a small town 700 miles outside of a major airport or if I’m on stage trying to do a comedy set to a bunch of people who don’t want me there, at the end of the day, it’s my time. It’s my life, and I have to take control. That has helped me advocate not only for myself but for my children.

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The post Michelle Buteau Lets Us In On Her Journey Of Motherhood, Comedic Healing, And How She’s Making History Via Standup Comedy appeared first on HelloBeautiful - Fashion, Beauty, Lifestyle and Hair Care for Black Women .