Interview: Jurnee Smollett on understanding Leti, working with Jonathan Majors in ‘Lovecraft Country’ and how she found out about her Emmy nomination [VIDEO]

Jurnee Smollett may have began her career by Hanging with Mr. Cooper and visiting Full House playing Denise Frazier, but this brilliant actress has been bringing the heat since her breakout role in Eve’s Bayou at the age of 10. Whether it’s been Beautiful Joe, The Great Debaters, Smollett never fails to impress audiences with range. Her popularity began exploding after fantastic performance as Black Canary in Birds of Prey. Her talent though was on center stage in Lovecraft Country with Smollett taking on the role of Letitia “Leti” Lewis which earned her critical acclaim and her first Emmy nomination.

“I’m lightening, he’s thunder”

Jurnee Smollett on Jonathan Majors in Lovecraft Country

We were lucky enough to catch up with Smollett in her trailer before filming her latest project in Vancouver with Allison Janney to discuss Lovecraft Country and how she prepared to play such an emotionally tacking role.

Jurnee Smollett nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series and has submitted the episode “Holy Ghost” of Lovecraft Country for Emmy consideration.

Photo: Eli Joshua Ade/HBO