*Many people use the term “black donʼt crack” when it comes to refer- ring to Black folk aging gracefully. If ever you want to see the quintessential example, look no further than veteran actress Vanessa Bell Calloway who turned 60 on March 20 (2017). To mark the age milestone, she threw a two-night “Sexy Sixty” celebration beginning with a Friday comedy bash at Regency West in Los Angeles.
The former “All My Children” and “Coming To America” icon arrived at the venue wearing skintight black fitted stretch pants with a knitted grey and black left-shoulder- bearing top, looking as if sheʼs turning a mere 35! Most of those in attendance raved over how awesome, beautiful and young she looks.
Calloway invited some of her comedic friends to do a Comic View-style show which also featured her debut stand-up routine. She joked about personal stuff including wak- ing up in the middle of the night going to the bathroom. The audience was pleasantly surprised by her comedic skills and timing. She ended her set with a full Yoga split that brought the house down! It amazed everyone, including Magic Johnson, the Lakers legend who was among the celebrity guests.
Other celebs spotted in the crowd included actresses Holly Robinson Peete, CCH Pounder, Dawnn Lewis, Lela Rochon, Tyra Ferrell, TV hosts Kiki Shepard, former Access Hollywood host Shaun Robinson, and actor James Pickens, Jr of “Greyʼs Anatomy” fame.
Comedian Sherri Shepherd hosted the show, thanking Calloway for being a friend. She acknowledged Star Jones, her predecessor on “The View,” having her come on stage to prove that they “really are two different people.” Jones shared her undying love for Calloway whom she called her best friend in the world.
Comedians KJ Lee, G-Thang, Scruncho, Buddy Lewis, Chris Spencer and Kymm Whitley were all hilarious. Each told side-splitting jokes and shared their love and affection for Calloway as the people dined on finger foods and desserts such as catfish fingers, chicken wings and tasty miniature muffin cakes.
The evening ended with Calloway bringing her husband Anthony, and their daughters Ashley and Alexandra on stage. Each shared their fondness and love for her. She also had her mom stand up for acknowledgement as she sat at a VIP table with friends and relatives. Afterwards, a video played of Calloway dancing in a studio with her daughters. The three of them ended the routine with that same split that brought people to their feet again. The love shown among the three brought some to tears. After the video was over, the DJ turned up the music, turning the venue into a night club as the people danced, laughed and partied until the clean-up crew started folding up tables and chairs.
Night two of the celebration was held Saturday at Cicada in Los Angeles. Tina Knowles Lawson was spotted in the crowd along with many of the celebrities who at- tended the previous nightʼs festivities.
Calloway currently stars on the Bounce TV hit series “Saints & Sinners,” and recently joined Starz TVʼs “Survivorʼs Remorse.” She and her family reside in LA.
Photos courtesy Dr. Eric J. Chambers/TheCUTNetwork.com
EUR BONUS COVERAGE
EUR associate/videographer Michael Ceffareno was also on the scene to capture the event. Check out his coverage below.
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