Talking “Miss Governor” With Two Icons
I had the pleasure of sitting down with Terri J. Vaughn and Jo Marie Payton to talk all about Netflix’s comedy series “Miss Governor.”
The show follows Lieutenant Governor Antoinette Dunkerson, a woman who runs a successful campaign but then finds herself working under a sexist and condescending governor while also trying to manage her family, who are suddenly living life in the public eye.
Created by Tyler Perry and Niya Palmer, the series stars Terri J. Vaughn, Jade Novah, Drew Olivia Tillman, Tré Boyd, Dyon Brooks, and Jo Marie Payton.
From the moment our conversation began, it was clear this project was personal for Terri, who not only stars in the series but also helped bring it to life.
Terri J. Vaughn On The Inspiration
When I asked Terri where the idea for Miss Governor began, she told me:
The inspiration started back in 2017 when my girlfriend, London Breed, became the mayor of San Francisco.
She was the first Black female mayor, and knowing her upbringing and journey made it even more beautiful when she became the mayor.
That inspired me.
She went on to explain why comedy was her chosen vehicle for telling such layered stories.
Of course, my sweet spot is comedy.
If we were gonna tell the stories and attack these subjects that are very serious, I wanted it to be delivered in a comical way.
Jo Marie Payton On Family And Love
Jo Marie’s role as the protective, outspoken matriarch struck a chord with me, especially in those moments where family comes first.
She said:
When Antoinette got in that position, she didn’t come there by herself, she came with a family.
That happens in real life too.
You love your family no matter what, and I love this role because we get to travel all these journeys through life.
She also praised the strength of Terri’s Antoinette:
She’s been whipped in a modern-day way, but she handles it so beautifully, so powerfully, so dignified with excellence.
She’s doing a hell of a thing, and anybody that says she’s not…you need to talk to me.
Reflecting On Season One
One of the most powerful moments for Terri came in episode eight.
I love when Antoinette finally had enough and she goes into the governor’s office.
She doesn’t back down, she says everything that is wrong, and she challenges him.
I just remember being in that moment and feeling the reality of everything I was saying.
I felt it, and I meant it for us.
She also admitted her favorite episode was the season finale.
Episode 16, when they go through the trial, there were so many amazing moments.
It just really shifted in me
Why “Miss Governor” Matters
Through laughs, family chaos, and political drama, “Miss Governor” delivers a story that’s both entertaining and relatable.
It’s about women finding their voice, the strength of family, and the reality of navigating spaces that aren’t built for you.
As Jo Marie reminded me during our chat:
Sometimes you’ve got to laugh to keep from crying.
But you’ve also got to face the situation.
That’s what this show does, it gives us a way to do both.
Watch Our Full Conversation
Talking with Terri J. Vaughn and Jo Marie Payton about “Miss Governor” was not only insightful but also inspiring.
Their love for this project is undeniable, and their passion shines through in every episode.
🎥 Watch my full conversation with Terri and Jo Marie below.
All episodes of “Miss Governor” are currently streaming on Netflix for your viewing pleasure.
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