For years, “Auntie” has been used as a warm term of respect — a nod to women admired for their wisdom, influence, and nurturing presence. But Garcelle Beauvais isn’t a fan of the label.
In a recent chat with Blavity’s Shadow and Act, journalist Brenda Alexander lovingly described the actress and producer as a “bomb auntie of a certain age.” The comment, however, didn’t sit quite right with Beauvais.
“If there’s one word I can’t stand, it’s ‘auntie’—unless I’m actually your aunt and we’re related,” Garcelle Beauvais said.
Journalist Brenda Alexander quickly clarified that she meant it as a compliment. “We use it as a term of endearment,” she explained. Beauvais wasn’t offended but stood her ground, offering a lighter alternative: “No, I know. We’ll just say that you’re an icon, OK?” she said with a smile. “I like that.”
The exchange perfectly captured how generational language can blur the line between admiration and identity. Though “auntie” has become a cultural badge of honor for respected women, Beauvais’ response shows that not everyone feels comfortable with the title—even when it’s meant with love.
The conversation came as Beauvais discussed her growing work with Lifetime, where she’s become one of the network’s standout faces. Her latest project, Taken at a Truck Stop: A Black Girl Missing Movie, continues her mission to spotlight stories of missing Black women and girls that often go untold.
Beauvais stars as Kai, a fierce, family-driven trucker who takes matters into her own hands after her niece is abducted and police efforts stall. “I loved playing Kai,” she said. “She’s a bada**, but also deeply family-oriented. Sisterhood and family dynamics are complicated, and I wanted to show that.”
As both lead actress and executive producer, Beauvais shared how she’s learned to manage both sides of production. “When I’m on set, I’m an actor. All the big decisions happen before shooting starts,” she explained. “Producing has taught me so much—you don’t realize how much goes into it until you’re behind the scenes.”
Now fully focused on producing, Beauvais confirmed she’s officially done with The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. “It was just time. I had to choose me,” she said. “Sometimes, we have to choose ourselves.”
And when asked about returning to reality TV, she laughed, “I’d host a reality show—but I won’t be in one.”
