Aja Naomi King Celebrates Viola Davis: An EGOT Icon’s Unmatched Brilliance
Aja Naomi King, the ever-enthusiastic star of NBC’s new series *Grosse Pointe Garden Society*, recently took a moment to shower her former *How to Get Away with Murder* co-star Viola Davis with praise, and honestly, who could blame her? In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, King delivered a heartfelt message directly to Davis, who, in a stunning career arc, was crowned an EGOT winner in 2023—yes, that’s an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony, folks! King, with her characteristic charm, expressed her admiration: “Viola, you are incredible … and inspire all of us. No one does it like you do it. You are one of a kind.”
Davis, who portrayed the formidable Annalise Keating, won an Emmy in 2015 for her groundbreaking role, making history as the first African American woman to snag that award for a lead actress in a drama series. King, who played the ambitious Michaela Pratt, has also carved out her niche in the industry, recently earning an Emmy nomination in 2024 for her role as Harriet Sloane in *Lessons in Chemistry*, an Apple TV+ limited series that showcases the struggles and triumphs of women in the 1960s, further underlining the era’s societal challenges.
Now, in her latest venture, King takes on the role of Catherine in *Grosse Pointe Garden Society*, a show that promises a delightful mix of scandal and intrigue among suburban garden club members, all while confronting a murder that no one dares to discuss. The show premiered on February 23 and also stars notable talents like Melissa Fumero and AnnaSophia Robb, ensuring that the drama is well-rounded with a touch of camaraderie.
In a world where actresses often find themselves pitted against one another, King’s public acknowledgment of Davis’s unparalleled talent is a refreshing reminder of the support that exists behind the scenes. As Davis continues to inspire both her peers and fans alike with her groundbreaking achievements, it’s clear that both women are not just surviving in Hollywood—they are thriving and lifting each other up in the process.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, Variety, Deadline
Image Credit: Attribution from EXIF: Artist: Rich Polk
