Oprah Told LeToya Luckett the REAL Reason She Got ‘Greenleaf’ Role

LeToya Luckett stopped by the Keisha Nicole Show and revealed how one decision to change her look ended up having a major impact on both her life and career. While discussing her journey with short hair, the Houston native said the transformation went far beyond simply trying a new style. “Short hair changed my life. It changed my career,” Luckett said.

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Luckett recalled attending an event where she crossed paths with Oprah Winfrey after landing a role on the OWN drama “Greenleaf.” When Winfrey asked if she knew why she got the part, Luckett assumed it was because of her performance and ability to connect with the character during her audition. Instead, Oprah gave her an unexpected answer. “She said, ‘No, baby, it was your haircut,’” Luckett recalled. According to Luckett, Winfrey explained that her short hairstyle immediately made her stand out among the other audition tapes. “Yes, you did a phenomenal job, but your haircut was striking on you,” Luckett remembered her saying.

The moment gave Luckett a new appreciation for just how powerful the right hairstyle can be. She joked that before making the change, there was almost nothing that could convince her to give up her signature swoop bang. “I was swoop bang gang president, CEO,” she laughed. But embracing a shorter look ultimately helped Luckett see how hair can complement someone’s face, boost confidence and even change how others see them.

Luckett shared the story while promoting the RB International Trailblazers & Trendsetters Hair Show and Beauty Expo, an event celebrating the professionals and innovators shaping the worlds of hair, beauty and style. Presented by Firstline, the expo is coming to Houston’s NRG Center on September 6 and will bring together beauty professionals, trendsetters and fans for a showcase centered around the industry and its culture.

Check out the clip below.