Halle Berry is reflecting on one of the boldest decisions of her career—the intimate scene in 2001’s Monster’s Ball that she says could have ended everything she worked for.
Speaking on the Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend podcast, Berry recalled the intense pressure she faced before agreeing to film the raw and emotionally charged scene opposite Billy Bob Thornton. At the time, she had never performed a nude scene, and those around her warned it could damage her career. “People around me were concerned,” Berry shared. “It felt like it could either define my career or be the end of it.”
Despite the risk, Berry said she felt compelled to stay true to the character and the story. “If this ends my career, then at least I’m going out on my own terms,” she explained. Viewing the project as a small independent film with little to lose gave her a sense of freedom. That mindset, she said, allowed her to take the leap.
The gamble ultimately paid off. Berry won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Leticia Musgrove, becoming the first Black woman to win the honor in that category. Now approaching 60, Berry says she still carries that same fearless approach to her work, embracing challenging roles without letting fear dictate her choices.
