The Colombian-born actress got her big break alongside Omarion in the Jennifer Lopez produced film, “Feel The Noise” in 2007. Since then, she has done several projects including Tyler Perry’s hit show, “Love Thy Neighbor” which airs on The O.W.N Network. The half-hour comedy follows the family and neighbors of Hattie Mae Love, owner of the Love Train Diner. Henao’s character Marianna runs an internet design firm, where Love’s grandson Danny also works. “She’s a strong, educated and independent Latin woman,” Henao said of her character, which she considers to be the voice of reason for the other over-the-top players on the sitcom.
Henao is also starring in comedy-drama The Single Moms Club, where we find five single mothers from very different backgrounds pulled together to spearhead a project thanks to the misbehavior of their middle schoolers. Check out our interview below as Zulay takes discusses her role of Esperanza, working with Tyler Perry & the missing Latino presence in film & television.
Photography by ADOLPHUS AMISSAH . Styling by LAURYN STONE
Makeup by JOSEA FLORES FOR DIOR COSMETICS . Hair by MIYAKO MARIE JOHNSON
Production Assistant LOUIE GARAY JR.
Interview by SAILEY WILLIAMS
Jacket by ANDREW MARC . Dress by IRIS VON ARNIM . Ring by XXI
In “The Single Mom’s Club” you play single mom Esperanza. What can you tell us about your character?
My character, Esperanza, is at a crossroads in her life right now. She is recently divorced and dealing with a lot of different obstacles, such as losing control of her daughter and dealing with her rebellion. She is also dealing with her manipulative ex-husband who is controlling her emotionally and financially. Our journey together was to get to a place where she let the fear go and regained her independence.
You are no stranger to the Tyler Perry franchise as you star on OWN’s Love Thy Neighbor. Tell us about Tyler’s directing style. Was working with his team on a film different from the a television series?
Working with Tyler has been a blessing. His style of direction is very comfortable for me because he tells you what he wants and then lets you explore. Working on the TV show was a lot more fast paced and also just a different experience altogether because it is a comedy. Having the chance to work on The Single Moms Club with him as a director and actor was very interesting. He flowed between the two effortlessly and was committed to both. Since the film also delivers a very important message to single parents, there was room for more dramatic story telling. Tyler was very good at getting to the core of our experiences and the performance he wanted. Very talented.
Jacket by KRISA . Dress by MINGLE . Necklace by CIRCA SIXTY THREE
“The Single Mom’s Club” has a great ensemble cast which includes Nia Long, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Terry Crews, Amy Smart, and Tyler Perry himself. What was it like to work with this talented cast all with such collective comedic timing?
I made a choice to be in a place and spirit to be able to absorb. This cast was so talented and experienced that I just wanted to listen and watch. I feel tremendously grateful for having had this experience.
During our shoot we chatted about the need for more Latino presence in film & television. The Single Mom’s Club includes Eddie Cibrian and your love interest in the film William Levy. Is this a step in the right direction?
Absolutely. Our society is experiencing a cultural shift and our demographic is growing exponentially. I believe we are going to start seeing a shift and change in the way we are seen and showcased through entertainment. I feel honored to be here at this moment, to have the opportunity to take part and responsibility of showing our value and the beauty of our culture.
Graphic T-shirt by ERICA RAY . Cuff by RIVER ISLAND . Clutch by AMI CLUBWEAR
Sunglasses by PAUL FRANK . Shoes by BCBG GENERATION
How would you describe your personal style? Was there anything on the runway this season that caught your eye?
I love a very chic, elegant and feminine silhouette to showcase my Latina curves. I loved a lot of the floral patterns I saw on the runway this season.
What can we expect from you in 2014? With your military background we would love to see you in a action film.
Wow! I am going to manifest that! I would love to do an action film. I am working very hard and auditioning. It’s pilot season, so there is a lot of opportunity. I would really love to find myself on a new TV venture.
PURCHASE YOUR COPY OF THE REBEL EDITION HERE!