Viola Davis’ story is one of resilience, strength, and triumph. The only surviving image of her childhood is a kindergarten photo — a haunting reminder of the young girl who, even at that early age, understood what it meant to go without.
Viola Davis, 59, is a true powerhouse of our time. When you think of exceptional acting, her name is undoubtedly at the forefront. I always thought she was a beautiful person inside and out, but after learning about her tragic past, she deserves everything and more.
A childhood marked by hardship
Viola Davis was born on August 11, 1965, in St. Matthews, South Carolina. Nearly 59 years ago, she entered the world in a small, one-room shack on her grandmother’s farm — a piece of land that had once been part of a plantation.
Her early years were shaped by poverty and hardship.
Her mother worked as a maid and was a dedicated activist during the Civil Rights Movement. At just two years old, Davis was taken to jail alongside her mother after she was arrested during a protest for civil rights.
When her family relocated to Central Falls, Rhode Island, they hoped for a better life — but poverty and discrimination followed them.
In a town that stretched just 1.29 square miles, Davis grew up in a place where, despite the passing of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the illegality of Jim Crow laws, racism still thrived.
“People wouldn’t drink out of the same water faucet after us,” Davis recalled. “There was a lot of name-calling and expletives.”
Viola was the second youngest of six siblings. The two eldest remained behind in South Carolina and were raised by their grandparents for several years.
In Central Falls, Viola’s new home was a condemned building with no working plumbing, no heat, and a constant battle against rats. Her family relied on food stamps that often ran out before the month was over, and hunger was a constant companion.
”Let me tell you something about poverty: You’re invisible. Nobody sees the poor. You have access to nothing. You’re no one’s demographic,” Viola once shared.
Caught stealing food
For Davis and her siblings, school lunches were often their only reliable meals. She made friends with kids whose moms always had three meals on the table and would hang out at their houses whenever she got the chance.
At just nine years old, Davis was caught stealing food from a store, an incident that would haunt her for years.
”The store owner screamed at me to get out, looking at me like I was nothing,” she later recalled.
At the age of 9, Viola Davis experienced what she describes as a profound awakening. She recalls a particularly painful moment when the fighting between her parents became so intense that she couldn’t hold back her cries.
”I started screaming at the top of my lungs, and I couldn’t stop,” she remembers. Her older sister, Dianne, urged her to get inside to avoid drawing attention, but the anguish inside her continued.
She ran into the house, into the bathroom, and collapsed to the floor, still screaming. It was a desperate moment, and with all her young heart, she cried out, “God! If you exist, if you love me, you’ll take me away from this life! Now I’m going to count to 10, and when I open my eyes, I want to be gone! You hear me?!” She prayed with such raw belief, counting each number slowly: “One, two, three…” When she reached ten and opened her eyes, nothing had changed — she was still there.
But as she reflects, God didn’t take her away. Instead, He allowed her to stay. “He left me right there so when I gained vision, strength, and forgiveness, I could remember,” she says. She recalls that moment, the hunger, the trauma, the poverty, and the despair that came with them. “I could remember what it means to be a child who dreams and sees no physical manifestation of it. I could remember because I lived it. I was there.”
Thought she was going to be a maid
Growing up in poverty, Davis felt like she was on a path that had already been set for her. She and her siblings often went to school in clothes that were unwashed and worn.
She recalls: ”I knew I was going to be a maid because my mother was a maid and my grandmother was a house slave.’”
Davis’s own mother had been a maid in the South. “It’s true of every black woman and grandmother of that time,” Davis said. “That’s what we did. That was the occupation open to us.
But when it came to her future career, Viola would be wrong – and it was school that saved her.
She excelled academically, but it was in extracurricular activities that she found her true escape. She and her siblings rarely missed school, immersing themselves in sports, drama, and music as outlets from the hardships they faced.
Her passion for performing began early. At age seven, Davis and her sisters entered a local talent show, writing their own skits and creating costumes. She joined the Upward Bound program, which prepares students from low-income families for college, and later earned a scholarship to Rhode Island College, majoring in theater.
Went to a prestigious school
Davis’ raw talent did not go unnoticed. One of her professors famously remarked that she was ”a talent that doesn’t come down the pike very often.” After college, she auditioned for Juilliard — one of the world’s most prestigious performing arts schools — and secured one of only 14 spots out of 2,500 applicants.
To give an idea of the kind of talent that’s passed through its doors, you’ll find names like Robin Williams, Christopher Reeve, Aretha Franklin, Val Kilmer, Miles Davis, Kelsey Grammer, and Kelly McGillis.
Going to Julliard marked a crucial turning point in her life, and she was on her way to achieving her dreams.
Davis’ time at the school honed her craft, and soon after, she began making waves in the theater world. At 29, she received her first Tony Award nomination for her role in August Wilson’s Seven Guitars. She recalls that opening night as a defining moment. ”My mom and dad were in the audience, and my dad cried. I thought, ‘I’ve arrived. This is it.’”
Breakthrough in Hollywood
Hollywood soon took notice, and Davis transitioned to film and television, where she delivered memorable performances that resonated deeply with audiences. Her first Oscar nomination came in 2008 for Doubt, and in 2011, she received another nomination for her portrayal in The Help.
In 2015, she made history by becoming the first Black woman to win the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role in How to Get Away with Murder. Two years later, Davis won an Oscar for her role in Fences (2016), cementing her place as one of the most respected actresses of her generation.
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She is one of only three African-American actresses, alongside Whoopi Goldberg and Angela Bassett, to be nominated for an Academy Award in both the Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress categories.
Throughout her career, Davis has also used her platform to advocate for social change, particularly in the fight against childhood hunger and poverty.
Given her own background, it was only natural for her to get involved in these issues.
Through her work with the Hunger Is campaign, she helped raise over $4.5 million to provide meals for children in need. ”This is the richest country in the world,” she remarked. ”There’s no reason kids should be going to school hungry.”
Felt a complete absence of love
In her memoir Finding Me, Davis opens up about the trauma of her early years, describing how she carried the shame of her childhood experiences with her for many years.
”What I felt was a complete absence of love,” she writes, recalling how she longed for the love and stability that so many others take for granted.
Davis recalls that her father, a horse-groomer, struggled with alcoholism, infidelity, and was frequently abusive toward her mother and their six children.
Davis’ efforts to combat hunger and poverty have made a significant impact in her hometown of Central Falls. She has become a beacon of hope and a reminder of the importance of sharing one’s story and advocating for those who have been forgotten.
Viola Davis husband
Today, Davis has achieved not only professional success but also the personal life she once dreamed of.
She is married to actor and producer Julius Tennon. In 2011, they adopted their daughter, Genesis.
Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock.com
In 2020, on her 55th birthday, Davis made a full-circle move by purchasing the South Carolina house where she was born, sharing a photo of it on Instagram.
””The above is the house where I was born… Today on my 55th year of life… I own it… all of it.”
Reflecting on her journey, Davis has spoken about healing the little girl she once was — the one who dreamed of something better. ”That’s the little girl who follows me all the time,” she told People. ”I always feel like I have to go back and heal her.”
From a childhood of unimaginable hardship to a life filled with love, stability, and gratitude, Viola Davis’ journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of never giving up.
Today, she remains not only an inspiration to those who share her struggles but also a voice for change and empowerment. Share this story if you want to pay tribute to this legendary actress and woman!
Whiten Your Teeth – Home Remedy with Ginger & Salt
Want instantly brighter teeth? This quick and natural ginger and salt remedy lifts stains, eliminates bacteria, and enhances your smile
Why Ginger & Salt Work for Whitening Teeth
✔ Removes Yellow Stains – Salt works as a natural exfoliant to cleanse and polish the enamel. ✔ K-ills Bacteria & Plaque – Ginger is packed with antibacterial properties to fight bad breath ✔ Strengthens Gums – Helps to reduce gum inflammation and sensitivity ✔ Fast & Effective – Works in just one use for a brighter smile
How to Make & Use the Ginger & Salt Whitening Treatment
Ingredients:
½ teaspoon fresh ginger (grated or powdered) ¼ teaspoon salt (fine sea salt or Himalayan salt) A few drops of water (to form a paste)
Instructions:
– Step 1: Grate fresh ginger or use powdered ginger. – Step 2: Mix it with salt in a small bowl. – Step 3: Add a few drops of water to create a thick paste. – Step 4; Apply the paste to your toothbrush and gently brush for 2 minutes. – Step 5: Rinse well with warm water and enjoy your whiter teeth!
💡 Use this method only 2-3 times a week to avoid enamel damage.
Extra Tips for Brighter Teeth
✔ for extra whitening power, Brush with baking soda once a week ✔ Rinse with coconut oil (oil pulling) for deep cleaning and freshness ✔ Eat crunchy fruits like apples and carrots to naturally clean enamel ✔ Avoid tea, coffee, and smoking, which stain teeth over time
Inside the hectic life of Australia’s biggest family
When Jeni first met her husband Ray, she was certain of one thing — she never wanted children.
“Ray wanted at least four kids. I thought that was crazy. Like, who has that many children?” Jeni told Mamamia.
Now, over three decades later, they are the proud parents of 16 children.
$600 every week on groceries
If you’re from Australia, you might have heard of them, but for me, it was a real shock when I first started reading about The Bonell Family.
Life for the Bonell family, who are raising 16 kids in Australia, is anything but ordinary. From feeding their large brood to coordinating the chaos of daily life, Jeni and Ray Bonell have mastered the art of juggling it all — and with a healthy dose of humor, too.
The Bonell family, from Queensland’s Toowoomba, is made up of nine boys and seven girls – Jesse, 35, Brooke, 34, Claire, 31, Natalie, 30, Karl, 28, Samuel, 26, Cameron, 25, Sabrina, 24, Tim, 22, Brandon, 20, Eve, 19, Nate, 17, Rachel, 16, Eric, 15, Damian, 14 and Katelyn, 10.
Comedian Jim Gaffigan once joked, “You know what it’s like having a fourth kid? Imagine you’re drowning, then someone hands you a baby.” So what’s it like to have sixteen kids?
Jeni, the mother at the helm, spends a staggering $600 every week on groceries just to keep their pantry stocked. With inflation hitting hard, that budget has crept up by $50. For a family of 18 (with 8 kids still living at home), it takes a lot to keep everyone well-fed.
The weekly grocery list is nothing short of impressive: 17 three-litre bottles of milk, 14 boxes of cereal, 45 tubs of yogurt, and a whopping four dozen eggs.
“We go through 50 litres of milk each week and one to two loaves of bread every day,” says Jeni.
Getting a good family photo is difficult
It’s a logistical nightmare for anyone, but for the Bonells, it’s all part of the rhythm of life. The Bonell family’s home life is a carefully choreographed routine.
“Getting a good family photo is difficult,” says Jeni, laughing. “You need an extra-wide lens, and there’s always someone looking away, pulling a funny face, or with their eyes closed. But we enjoy those little quirks in the photos. They’re not picture perfect, but that’s part of the fun.”
With 16 kids, it’s not just about taking photos — it’s about keeping up with the whirlwind of daily life.
Imagine having 16 kids, a full-time job, part-time jobs, and a household to run. That’s the reality for Jeni and Ray.
“I used to think life was busy with little kids,” says Jeni, “but I’m certainly busier these days with older children.” Between coordinating three different schools, sporting activities, part-time jobs, and the older kids’ studies, it’s a juggling act. And yet, Jeni wouldn’t have it any other way. “Life is very hectic – but it’s good.”
The evening routine in their home is a perfect reflection of the Bonell family dynamic. “Take an average-sized family and multiply it by eight, and that’s what our evening routine is like,” Jeni laughs.
Stretching every dollar
Some nights it’s total chaos; other nights, everything falls into place like a well-oiled machine. But regardless of how the evening unfolds, one thing is always consistent: dinner time. “Dinner is always great,” Jeni explains. “Some nights we have eight people at the table, other nights we have more than 20!”
The Bonells are pros at stretching every dollar. Jeni is known for her budget-friendly meals that cost between $2 and $10. She often shares her grocery trips on YouTube to help others manage their food costs.
“It’s a struggle for everyone at the moment,” says Jeni, “We’re all feeling that pinch with the budget.” To stay organized, Jeni uses a chore chart to divide household responsibilities, making sure everyone from age eight upwards pitches in. The kids are also taught to cook from a young age. “Our 12-year-old can put a roast dinner on for 20 people with almost no supervision,” Jeni says with pride.
The laundry load in a house like theirs is equally immense. Jeni does three full loads of laundry every day, which amounts to about six average-sized loads. And when it comes to grocery shopping, Jeni fills up two trolleys each week. “I always need one of the kids to help with the load,” she says.
The Bonell Family religion
When it comes to their finances, the Bonells have learned to make sacrifices. While they pay off their home mortgage, the financial pressures are still real. “It’s expensive and you definitely have to make sacrifices with your budget,” says Jeni. “But we all work, and our family doesn’t live off the taxpayer. However, we do get a lot of criticism for having so many kids.”
Although the Bonells are deeply religious and regularly attend church, Jeni insists that their large family isn’t solely the result of their strong faith.
“God has a funny sense of humour,” says Jeni. They have no regrets, though. ”It just feels right for us,” says Ray, who works as an electrician. ”People have to do what’s right for them. Having 16 kids is not for everyone, but it’s what works for us.”
Despite their busy lives, Jeni and Ray find moments for themselves. “Do I get alone time with my wife? Of course, I do. We make time for each other,” says Ray with a smile. “It’s important to look after each other.”
Their two older children have now left home and are married, adding to the family dynamic as Jeni and Ray become grandparents to two grandchildren. It’s proof that the Bonell family just keeps growing. But with each addition, the love, laughter, and sense of togetherness only deepen.
Inside their roster system
In a family where organization is key, the Bonells have developed a solid routine. From prepping school uniforms and lunches the night before to creating a rotation system for chores, the Bonells make it work.
“We have a roster system, so when a kid turns eight, they get put on the roster,” says Jeni. “They rotate through chores like sweeping, mopping the floor, packing up the table, and helping with meal prep.”
When it comes to snacks, Jeni has a few favorites she shares with fans on YouTube, including air fryer egg cups and air fryer pizza bites. Both snacks are simple to prepare, freeze well, and are perfect for school lunches.
For the Bonells, it’s all about creating a system that allows everyone to pitch in and contribute. And despite the chaos of managing a household of 16, it’s clear that love, teamwork, and humor keep the Bonell family thriving.
Whether it’s feeding the kids, running a household, or finding time for a quick coffee date, the Bonells make it all work — and they do it with a smile.
At the end of the day, the Bonell family proves that with a little creativity, a lot of organization, and plenty of love, you can make just about anything work. Sure, raising 16 kids isn’t easy, but for Jeni and Ray, it’s all part of the adventure.
Whether it’s sharing tips on how to feed a crowd on a budget, keeping up with the endless laundry, or just enjoying the chaos of family life, the Bonells know how to make it happen. And through it all, they’re creating a home full of memories, laughter, and endless love. If there’s one thing we can all take away from this, it’s that family, no matter how big, is always worth it.
Tiger Woods posts an emotional message on social media announcing the death of his mother, Kultida, saying, “My Mom Was Force Of Nature
In a heartfelt social media statement, Tiger Woods revealed that his mother, Kultida Woods, has passed away at the age of 78. She is his “biggest fan” and a “force of nature,” according to the 15-time major champion.
“I want to share with you my deepest sorrow that my beloved mother, Kultida Woods, passed away early this morning,” Tiger wrote in his touching letter. My mother’s spirit was just indisputable; she was a force of nature all her own.
She laughed and used the needle quickly. “She was my biggest supporter and fan, and without her, none of my personal accomplishments would have been possible,” he continued. Her two grandsons, Sam and Charlie, adored her more than anyone else. I appreciate everyone’s prayers, support, and privacy at this trying time for my family and myself. I adore you, Mom.
Kultida, who is originally from Thailand, met Tiger’s father, Earl Woods, in the late 1960s when he was serving with the US military in Bangkok, according to Fox News. After being married in 1969, the pair moved to Brooklyn, New York, and finally settled in Cypress, California, where their only child, Tiger-born Eldrick Woods, was born.
Eldrick was given his parents’ names, K for Kultida and E for Earl. Tiger Phong, his father’s lost companion in Vietnam, inspired the golf champion’s nickname. At the age of 74, Earl passed away in 2006.
During one of the golfer’s darkest moments, Kultida supported her son. In a widely reported news appearance in 2010, he admitted to having several extramarital affairs. Tiger’s mother, who was seated in the front row of the public confession, acknowledged that he had “stopped living by the core values” that his parents had taught him and that his behaviour was unacceptable.
penultimate year, Tiger Woods said on The Tonight Show that his mother was the reason he was able to don the now-famous red and black ensemble that he donned on the penultimate day of golf competitions. Published at 10:45 AM IST on Wednesday, February 5, 2025