Nicki Minaj’s Generous Donation to Geoffrey Owens: Exploring the Reasons Behind the Rapper’s Gift to the Cosby Show Actor

Nicki Minaj is globally recognized as a leading rapper not only for her exceptional music but also for her philanthropic efforts. The artist often advocates for causes that resonate with her, showcasing her generous spirit.

A pertinent example of her compassion is the incident involving Geoffrey Owens, whose photograph went viral on the internet six years ago. In September 2018, a fan shared an image of the former The Cosby Show actor working at Trader Joe’s, which quickly attracted widespread attention, leading to numerous job-shaming comments.

Nicki Minaj stepped in to support Owens during her radio show, pledging a generous donation of $25,000 to help him.

Nicki Minaj Praised Owens as a “Legend”

After Geoffrey Owens’ Trader Joe’s photo went viral, a wave of job-shaming tweets ensued. Nicki Minaj was one of the celebrities who vocally defended him.

On an episode of Queen Radio following the incident, the rapper referred to Geoffrey as “a f***ing legend,”stating:

“Y’all don’t know how difficult it is to keep getting jobs. You don’t know how hard it is to get your first acting job. And you want to put somebody up on the internet?”

Nicki Minaj, who has shared her own experiences working as a waitress at Red Lobster before achieving fame, reiterated her commitment to donate $25,000 to Owens.

In addition to Nicki, several other celebrities supported Geoffrey on Twitter, with notable posts including:

“I swept floors AFTER the @NFL. If need be, I’d do it again. Good honest work is nothing to be ashamed of.”- wrote Terry Crews

“Again, why is this news? When I worked on “Thirtysomething,” I was also summarizing depositions to pay my rent. Why are you trying to humiliate this honorable, hardworking actor? Shame on you! #geoffreyowens – many great blessings are coming your way!”- wrote Patricia Heaton

“I had been a working actor for years. Jobs stopped, as they do. I worked in retail. At a flower shop. I passed out flyers. It’s about the work. Work gives you pride and purpose. Your visibility as an actor never goes away. But the money sure does.”- posted Pamela Adlon

Geoffrey Owens Donated Nicki Minaj’s Generous Contribution to Charity

Geoffrey Owens received Nicki Minaj’s substantial donation of $25,000 during the last week of September 2018. However, instead of keeping the donation for himself, Owens chose to forward the funds to aid other struggling actors.

In a statement to TMZ regarding his decision, the actor mentioned:

“I would like to give this donation of 25k to the Actor’s Fund in memory of the late, great Earle Hyman – who played Cosby’s father, ‘Russell,’ on ‘The Cosby Show’ – who lived his last many years and died at the Actors’ Home, (funded and run by the Actor’s Fund).

Geoffrey also expressed his gratitude towards the Swalla rapper, stating:

“I am extremely grateful to Nicki Minaj for enabling struggling actors to continue pursuing their dreams.”

Nicki Minaj shared her happiness about Owens’ charitable choice, stating:

“I’m happy to be a part of a great cause. I wish Geoffrey much success and want him to know how loved he is. Rest in Peace to Earle Hyman.”

Brian Stokes Mitchell, chairman of The Actors Fund, expressed his appreciation upon receiving the donation, saying:

“I’m greatly humbled and truly inspired that Geoffrey and Nicki would take action to help their colleagues when they need it most. This donation will help us provide essential programs and services to thousands of entertainment and performing arts professionals in need across the country every year.”

Geoffrey Owens also appeared on Good Morning America on September 4, where he shared hopes that his experience would reshape societal views on “what it means to work, the honor of the working person, [and] the dignity of work.”He further elaborated:

“There is no job that’s better than another job. It might pay better, it might have better benefits, it might look better on a resume and on paper. But actually, it’s not better. Every job is worthwhile and valuable.”

During the interview, Owens revealed he worked at Trader Joe’s for over fifteen months, initially taking the job for its flexibility, allowing him to remain involved in the entertainment industry.

The 60-year-old actor has been working in acting, directing, and teaching for over 30 years. He concluded the interview by expressing contentment with his life and career, something many actors aspire to achieve, urging others not to feel pity for him.

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