By Satchel B. Jester
Director Bille Woodruff has an ego.
It’s not just because he’s directed some of the most memorable videos of the ’90s—see a sexy Tyson Beckford in Toni Braxton’s “Un-Break My Heart” or a refreshed Celine Dion in “My Heart Will Go On” (once the most-played video of all time).
Nor is it because he directed his good friend Jessica Alba in her first starring role in 2003’s Honey, or that Latino model/actor William Levy is starring in his big screen adaptation of Zane’s bestseller Addicted (along with Beckford and Boris Kodjoe) this October. No, Woodruff actually credits embracing his ego to his father.
“I remember having a conversation with my dad about celebrities and their egos after having an unfavorable encounter in my days as a journalist,” he says. “My dad simply responded, ‘You have an ego too. You have to have one to do what you do.’ Because I’ve always had confidence, I embraced it.”
After moving from Executive Producer of Specials and Original Programming at BET, Woodruff planted his feet at the now legendary LaFace Records working his way to the director of the music video department, where he redefined sexy (yes, he was responsible for TLC’s creeping in those silk pajamas).
Now, many years, movies and iconic images later, Woodruff’s artistic acumen is still in overdrive: Along with Addicted, he also directed the VH1 sequel Drumline 2: A New Beat.
“I’m excited about both new pieces and I’ve learned to trust myself and my creative instinct like never before,” he says. With his work, Woodruff is committed to his signature aesthetic: enticing color and beauty, amazing production and stunning set design.
“I love to produce beautiful work. It makes me happy.” And Woodruff doesn’t take his glee for granted. “You only have the moment you’re in, so find a way to enjoy everyday.”
Photo credit: FOTO119