Waiting To Exhale

“Waiting To Exhale” Cast: Where Are They Now?

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In 1995, Waiting to Exhale took the world by storm. The classic movie offered a poignant exploration of friendship, love, and self-discovery among four black women. Directed by Forest Whitaker and based on Terry McMillan’s bestselling novel, the movie not only struck a chord with viewers but also showcased a talented ensemble cast. It soon became a staple in homes around the world. Moreover, the film’s soundtrack is still widely adored today. Almost three decades later, fans still wonder: where are the stars of Waiting to Exhale now? Here’s what they’ve been up to.

Whitney Houston (Savannah Jackson)

Whitney Houston’s portrayal of Savannah Jackson, a successful television producer struggling with the complexities of love and career, was equal parts powerful and relatable. After Waiting to Exhale, she continued her incredibly successful music career. She also ventured further into acting, starring in films like The Preacher’s Wife, Cinderella, and Sparkle. Houston passed away in 2012, leaving behind a legacy of unparalleled talent, and an unmistakable voice. 

Angela Bassett (Bernadine Harris)

In Waiting to Exhale, Angela Bassett took on the role of Bernadine Harris, a woman dealing with betrayal, and rebuilding her life. As is expected of Bassett, her performance was nothing short of mesmerizing. After the film, her career continued to grow exponentially. Bassett is now an Oscar winner, and known for her powerful, gripping roles in film and television alike. Decades after Waiting to Exhale, and her drive hasn’t stopped. Angela Bassett’s talents continue to shine, earning her numerous accolades and admiration from audiences around the globe.

Loretta Devine (Gloria Matthews)

At the time, Loretta Devine, like much of the Waiting to Exhale cast, was already a household name. She starred as Gloria Matthews, the supportive friend and single mother facing her own romantic challenges. She has since then remained a prominent figure in Hollywood, appearing in numerous films and TV shows. Now in her 70s, Devine is still capturing the audience’s attention, with no indication of slowing down. 

Lela Rochon (Robin Stokes)

Lela Rochon’s portrayal of Robin Stokes resonated deeply with audiences. Robin Stokes was a woman searching for love and fulfillment, while juggling her personal demons. Since Waiting to Exhale, Rochon has continued to work in entertainment, particularly in television. She will star in a lead role in the upcoming BET+ drama, The Family Business: New Orleans.  

Gregory Hines (Marvin King)

Gregory Hines brought charm and sophistication to the role of Marvin King, Gloria’s neighbor and love interest. Before Waiting to Exhale, Hines was already a respected figure in the entertainment industry. In the same vein, he continued to showcase his talent in several projects. Hines sadly passed away in 2003 as a result of liver cancer. He left behind a catalog of incredible performances and contributions to the arts. 

Dennis Haysbert (Kenneth Dawkins)

The iconic Dennis Haybert played Kenneth Dawkins, a man entangled in a complicated affair. His portrayal definitely added depth and complexity to the film. Since then, Haysbert’s career has soared, particularly in television. He became widely recognized for his roles in projects like Soul Food and, most notably, 24. His illustrious career spans film, television, theater, and voice acting. 

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Lela Rochon Net Worth 2024: What Is The “Waiting To Exhale” Icon Worth?

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Lela Rochon, a name synonymous with grace, talent, and enduring presence in Hollywood, has amassed a considerable fortune through her work in the entertainment industry. As of 2024, Celebrity Net Worth estimates her net worth at an impressive $60 million. Rochon, best known for her role in the iconic film Waiting to Exhale, has made a mark with her performances and ventured into production, contributing to her substantial net worth.

Starting her career in the late 1980s, Rochon quickly rose to prominence with her ability to embody complex characters and her undeniable on-screen charisma. Her role as Robin Stokes in Waiting to Exhale brought her into the spotlight, earning her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Beyond her acting prowess, Rochon’s career reflects a commitment to choosing roles that resonate with audiences and showcase her range as an actress. This strategic selection of projects has played a crucial role in her financial success and longevity in the competitive landscape of Hollywood.

Early Years & Breakthrough

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FILM ‘WAITING TO EXHALE’ BY FOREST WHITAKER (Photo by Frank Trapper/Corbis via Getty Images)

Lela Rochon’s journey into acting began in Los Angeles, California, where she was born and raised. Showing an interest in the arts from a young age, Rochon honed her skills at California State University, Dominguez Hills, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism. However, her foray into acting truly set the stage for her future. Her early career was marked by appearances in music videos and small television roles, which laid the foundation for her breakthrough in cinema.

The early 1990s were a pivotal time for Rochon. Her role in the critically acclaimed film Boomerang, alongside Eddie Murphy and Halle Berry, showcased her talent and versatility. However, her portrayal of Robin Stokes in Waiting to Exhale solidified her place in Hollywood. The film, directed by Forest Whitaker and based on the novel by Terry McMillan, was not only a box office success but also a cultural phenomenon, highlighting the lives and relationships of African American women.

Staying Power In Hollywood

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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 22: (L-R) Zachary Fuqua, Brando Fuqua, Lela Rochon, Antoine Fuqua, Asia Fuqua and Parker Whitfield attend the “The Terminal List” Los Angeles Premiere at DGA Theater Complex on June 22, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)

Lela Rochon’s ability to navigate the changing tides of Hollywood over the years is a testament to her talent and resilience. Following her early success, she continued to choose roles that challenged stereotypes and offered depth. Films like Why Do Fools Fall in Love, where she portrayed the wife of Frankie Lymon, further demonstrated her range and commitment to storytelling. Her participation in various genres, from romantic comedies to drama and action, showcased her versatility and helped maintain her relevance in the industry.

Beyond the silver screen, Rochon has also made significant contributions to television. Her appearances in TV series and made-for-TV movies have been well-received, adding another layer to her accomplished career. This diversification of roles and mediums has expanded her fan base and contributed significantly to her net worth, illustrating her savvy understanding of the entertainment industry’s dynamics.

Philanthropy & Personal Life

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NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 22: Film director Antoine Fuqua and actress Lela Rochon Fuqua attend “The Equalizer” New York Screening at AMC Lincoln Square Theater on September 22, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Gilbert Carrasquillo/FilmMagic)

While Lela Rochon’s professional achievements are well-documented, her personal life and philanthropic efforts are equally noteworthy. Known for her low-key lifestyle and dedication to her family, Rochon has balanced her public persona with a grounded personal life. Her marriage to director Antoine Fuqua has been a source of stability and support, further highlighting her multifaceted life.

Rochon’s commitment to giving back is evident in her involvement with charitable organizations and causes. Her efforts to support education and the arts reflect her understanding of her platform’s power and her desire to make a positive impact beyond Hollywood. Although less publicized, this aspect of her life is an essential part of her legacy and contributes to her enduring appeal.

Lela Rochon’s journey from aspiring actress to Hollywood mainstay is a narrative of talent, perseverance, and strategic career choices. With a net worth of $60 million in 2024, her story is one of success, both on and off the screen. As she continues to evolve and take on new challenges, Rochon’s legacy in the entertainment industry is secure, marked by memorable performances and a significant contribution to the cultural landscape.

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Toni Braxton’s 7 Hottest Billboard Hits

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Toni Braxton is rightfully considered an R&B icon. Throughout her career, she has released many undeniable hits, even topping the Hot 100 chart a few times. The singer’s discography is filled with timeless songs and is a testament to her vocal prowess and emotional depth. From the sultry strains of “Un-Break My Heart” to the empowering anthem “He Wasn’t Man Enough,” each song serves as a chapter in the narrative of Braxton’s artistic evolution. Although Braxton has had many songs appear on the Billboard charts, a handful of the singer’s hit songs stand heads and shoulders above the rest. So far, Toni Braxton has had a handful of Top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Here they are.

7. “You Mean The World To Me” (1994)

Released as the fourth single from her eponymous debut album, this timeless R&B ballad holds a significant place in Braxton’s illustrious career. The song showcases her exceptional vocal prowess and cemented her status as a prominent figure in ‘90s R&B. This track played a notable role in propelling Toni Braxton to stardom during the ‘90s, as it’s one of her biggest hits.

On the Billboard Hot 100 chart, “You Mean the World to Me” debuted at No. 86. However, it progressively climbed the chart with each passing week. Finally, on May 28, 1994, it peaked at No. 7. Likewise, it peaked within the Top 10 on several other Billboard charts, including Adult Contemporary, Rhythmic, and Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs.

6. “Another Sad Love Song” (1993)

“Another Sad Love Song” was released as Braxton’s debut album’s lead single. The song showcased the singer’s distinctive contralto vocals and laid the foundation for her successful career. Her debut single, “Love Shoulda Brought You Home” (1992), made it onto the Hot 100 chart, peaking at No. 33. While that served as a marker of the potential success of her career, it was “Another Sad Love Song” that truly began that trajectory.

Despite only being her second-ever single, the song peaked within the Top 10 on the Hot 100 chart. It reached the No. 7 spot on the chart, becoming the first song on a list of Toni Braxton hits to break into that bracket. “Another Sad Love Song” signaled Braxton’s arrival as a formidable force in the music industry. 

5. “Breathe Again” (1993)

A soul-stirring ballad, “Breathe Again” is another standout track from Toni Braxton’s self-titled debut album. It was released as the album’s second single and is arguably its most popular and recognizable track. Upon its release, “Breathe Again” quickly ascended the charts, solidifying Braxton’s status as a powerhouse in the R&B genre. The song’s lush and nostalgic feel and the singer’s heartfelt vocal performance continue to strike a chord with listeners even now. Braxton’s emotive interpretation makes “Breathe Again” an anthem for those navigating the complexities of love and loss. It peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Braxton’s highest-charting song at the time.

4. “He Wasn’t Man Enough” (2000)

Toni Braxton released hits throughout the ‘90s, and some wondered if her success would extend beyond that decade. With “He Wasn’t Man Enough,” the singer proved that her talent and hitmaking ability were the enduring kind. The song was the lead single from Braxton’s third studio album, The Heat, her first in four years.

The bold and empowering anthem also catapulted her back into the mainstream with a contemporary R&B sound and a fierce attitude. “He Wasn’t Man Enough” quickly climbed the charts upon its release, becoming one of Braxton’s most successful singles. On the Billboard Hot 100 chart, the track missed the topmost position, peaking at No. 2. While it unfortunately didn’t top the Hot 100 chart, it peaked atop the Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs chart. 

3. “Let It Flow” (1996)

This song was initially recorded as a part of the soundtrack for the 1995 movie Waiting to Exhale. “Let It Flow” is one of the biggest Billboard hits Toni Braxton has recorded. The soulful and evocative track became synonymous with both musical excellence and cinematic storytelling. In a similar fashion to most of her songs, Braxton’s vocals are rich with emotion and breathe life into the lyrics. “Let It Flow” climbed to the topmost spot on both the Billboard Hot 100 and Hot R&B/Hip Hop charts.

2. “You’re Making Me High” (1996)

Sultry and sensual in its sound and Braxton’s delivery, “You’re Making Me High” is an unforgettable song in the singer’s catalog. It was released as the lead single from her second studio album, Secrets, and quickly captivated audiences. Altogether, the song’s infectious rhythm, smooth production, and Braxton’s breathy vocals created an irresistible blend that resonated with fans and critics alike. Soon after its release, it peaked at No. 1 on the Hot 100 chart, becoming Braxton’s first chart-topping single. Subsequently, it earned the singer her third Grammy for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.

1. “Un-Break My Heart” (1996)

Without a doubt, 1996 was a highly successful year for Toni Braxton as all three singles she released became chart-topping hits. “Un-Break My Heart” is a behemoth of a song and a worldwide commercial success. The emotional tour de force also stands as one of the most iconic ballads in the history of contemporary R&B. Released as the second single from Secrets, the song catapulted Braxton to new heights of fame.

Undoubtedly, it is the singer’s hottest Billboard hit to date. It easily reached the number one spot on the Hot 100 chart and remained in that position for a whopping 11 weeks. Beyond its immediate success, “Un-Break My Heart” has endured as a classic, and rightly so. Toni Braxton will always be respected for the musical sorcery she pulled off with her performance on this track.

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