Gabourey Sidibe on Grief, Directing Debut & Finding Joy After Loss

Actress Gabourey Sidibe is navigating personal loss and professional growth, marked by the recent premiere of her directorial debut. The film, Be Happy, arrives as Sidibe continues to process the grief following the death of her mother, Alice Tan Ridley, in February of 2025.

A Year of Transition

Around this time last year, Sidibe was preparing for milestones including her twins’ first birthday and her wedding anniversary with husband Brandon Frankel. She was also featured in Apple TV’s Number One on the Call Sheet documentary. Shortly after, her mother passed away at the age of 72.

The Weight of Grief

Sidibe described grief as “big,” particularly when losing a parent, stating, “It’s like, ‘Oh, I’ve never been in the world without this person, right?’” Despite the pain, she found strength in her children, Cooper and Maya, who she says “fill up any corners of sadness.”

Did You Know? Alice Tan Ridley, Gabourey Sidibe’s mother, was a semifinalist on Season 5 of America’s Got Talent and worked for the New York City Department of Education for 20 years.

A New Creative Path

Following her mother’s funeral, Sidibe discussed her interest in directing with Lifetime network representatives, after previously starring in their drama Give Me My Daughter Back. This conversation led to the opportunity to direct Be Happy, a romance-drama produced in partnership with Mary J. Blige’s Blue Butterfly Productions and Monami Productions, led by Mona Scott-Young.

Directorial Debut

Be Happy centers on Val, played by Tisha Campbell, a wife and mother seeking to reignite her marriage. Sidibe described the opportunity as providing “agency” and allowing her to exercise creative control, choosing the visual elements of the film. Mona Scott-Young praised Sidibe as a “prolific, talented, dedicated, caring and nurturing director.”

Expert Insight: Sidibe’s transition to directing represents a significant step in her career, allowing her to move beyond performing and exert greater artistic control over her projects. This shift could open new avenues for creative expression and influence within the entertainment industry.

Filming took place in Atlanta over five weeks, requiring Sidibe to be away from her family. Her husband, a corporate consultant and marketer, provided primary care for their twins with the help of a nanny, a situation Sidibe described as bringing her “great ease and comfort.”

Looking Ahead

Sidibe expressed a desire to continue creating her own art, producing, directing, and starring in projects of her choosing. She is currently preparing to shoot season 13 of American Horror Story. While she doesn’t plan a large celebration for her twins’ second birthday, she feels content with her life, both personally and professionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gabourey Sidibe’s new film about?

Be Happy follows a 50-year-old wife and mother who seeks to reignite her marriage after her youngest child leaves for college, ultimately leading her to question her life and seek fulfillment.

How did Gabourey Sidibe’s mother influence her parenting?

Sidibe remembers her mother having a way of making every child seem “magic,” and she strives to pay attention to the unique qualities of her own children, Cooper and Maya.

What did Gabourey Sidibe say about working with Mona Scott-Young?

Sidibe described Mona Scott-Young as a “fabulous, fantastic” and “very smart woman” who was supportive throughout the production of Be Happy.

As Sidibe continues to balance motherhood, marriage, and a burgeoning directorial career, what role do you think personal experiences play in shaping an artist’s creative vision?