For Ebony Obsidian, starring in Tyler Perry’s Six Triple Eight is more than a career milestone—it’s a personal mission to honor the legacy of resilience and determination embodied by the real-life heroes at the heart of the film. Obsidian plays Lena, a member of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, an all-Black, all-female World War II unit tasked with delivering millions of letters to soldiers on the frontlines. The film, premiering on Netflix on December 20, highlights the incredible contributions of these women, who overcame racism and sexism to boost morale during the war’s darkest days.

“I wasn’t raised to believe my color would limit me,” Obsidian shares. “I was raised by women who survived real wars. That resilience is in my fabric. Being part of this film feels like carrying their strength forward.”

Obsidian’s journey to Hollywood is itself a testament to resilience. Early in her career, she faced an industry reluctant to embrace diversity. Instead of waiting for doors to open, she created her own opportunities.

“At the beginning of my career, I used to crash auditions listed for non-Black women,” she reveals. “I didn’t see no’s—I saw opportunities. That drive to focus on the yes that deserves all of me has guided me ever since.”

In Six Triple Eight, Obsidian found a story that mirrored her own experiences of navigating spaces where she wasn’t always welcomed. Playing Lena allowed her to channel the fortitude of the women in her life and the 6888th Battalion’s historic perseverance.

“Lena is a fighter,” Obsidian says. “Her story, like so many of the women in the 6888th, is a rallying cry for Black women to persevere no matter the odds. That’s something I carry with me every day.”

Obsidian credits her co-stars, including Kerry Washington, for inspiring her on and off set.

“Kerry has always been someone I’ve admired,” Obsidian says. “To see her lead with such grace and strength is incredible. She’s a constant reminder of how much is possible when you believe in yourself and your craft.”

Beyond the powerful message of the film, Obsidian hopes Six Triple Eight serves as a call to action for Hollywood to continue amplifying stories about Black women.

“These women were overlooked for decades,” Obsidian notes. “Their story deserves to be part of the fabric of history that we all know. I hope this film inspires more projects that honor those who’ve been ignored for far too long.”

When asked who she’d want to encourage in Hollywood today, Obsidian’s admiration shines through.

“Danielle Deadwyler—she’s an incredible artist and person,” Obsidian says. “There are so many amazing people out there. We’d need about 17 million letters like in the film to celebrate everyone who deserves it.”

As Lena, Obsidian brings a raw and heartfelt performance to Six Triple Eight, showcasing the determination, strength, and humanity of the 6888th Battalion. The film isn’t just a historical drama; it’s a testament to the resilience of Black women who continue to break barriers and demand their rightful place in history.

Catch Ebony Obsidian in Six Triple Eight on Netflix starting December 20, and experience the untold story of the women who changed the course of history.