Four Reasons I Think Gabrielle Union is America's Next Sweetheart

An Omaha, Nebraska native, Union quietly hit the scene with a guest role on Saved By the Bell: The new Class. Soon she was popping up on numerous shows including Moesha and The Smart Guy. She made television history by being the first African-American love interest on the NBC mega-hit Friends. In 2000 Union gained mass recognition starring as Isis, the sassy head cheerleader against Kirsten Dunst in Bring It On. Since then Union has been on a nonstop ride that has included television and movies.

So, with the announcement of the ABC deal, one movie in the theatres, two in post production, and a lucrative endorsement deal with Neutrogena, I got to wondering, is Gabrielle Union America's Next Sweetheart?

Here's why I think she is.

1. I'll start with the obvious…Gabrielle Union is gorgeous. We all know that beauty and youth are valued above all in this country and especially in Hollywood. But when pretty girls are a dime a dozen, flawless skin and picture- perfect looks are not enough to sustain a career. This brings me to…

2. Once Gabrielle opens her mouth, you realize that she is more than a pretty face. In interviews and public appearances, Gabrielle comes off as intelligent, thoughtful and unaffected by the Hollywood Hype. Gabrielle admittedly fell into acting, but over the course of her career she has become a favorite of producers, directors and fans alike. Her role in the upcoming Tyler Perry film, Daddy's Little Girls was written with the actress in mind. Gabrielle's warm personality makes her seem more like a neighbor, friend or sister-girl, than like a movie star. Her accessibility has endeared her into the hearts of millions.

3. Gabrielle Union is dedicated to her craft. She takes roles that she believes in and roles that challenge her as an actor. In her latest film, Running With Scissors, Gabrielle plays a drug-addicted lesbian. A definite departure from her normal character, Gabrielle is proving to the world that she is more than a commercial actress. Union has done several independent films that showcase her ever broadening range as an actor, including Neo Ned, which is currently seeking distribution. Gabrielle's desire to take risks in her roles, deconstruct the preconceived notions of herself as an actor and shatter any molds around her, puts her on the fast track to super stardom.

4. Lastly, Gabrielle cares about the community. She is committed to issues such as breast cancer awareness, literacy and rape crisis awareness. Recently Gabrielle designed a jean pocket for Lee's Breast Cancer Denim Day auction. She has also lobbied Congress for funding to maintain rape crisis centers. Gabrielle also co-founded "A Step For Success," with several other black actresses. The program based in Los Angeles that adopts an inner-city school and provides them with educational tools like computers. Gabrielle is aware of the power of celebrity and uses hers to benefit others.

Whether it's on the television or on the big screen, Gabrielle Union always gives 100%. As 2006 draws to and end and 2007 steadily approaches, it is destined to be a great year for Gabrielle Union..the year she solidifies her spot as one of America's Sweethearts.