Actress, Crystal Renee’ Hayslett is best known for her role as Fatima on Tyler Perry’s Sistas on BET but the superstar is really a true representation of starting from the bottom and staying committed to your dreams. She started her journey in Washington D.C. where she worked on Capitol Hill for the United States Senate. She was even offered an opportunity to work with Senator Obama (at the time) as he was campaigning for his 1st Presidential Election, though she declined, and would eventually pursue her creative endeavors instead.
Crystal moved to Atlanta began auditioning for small acting roles and accepted jobs as an extra just to get her foot in the door in the midst of receiving no’s and facing rejection for bigger roles.
Crystal later accepted a position as a Production Assistant at Tyler Perry Studios and worked her way up to head costume designer before landing the role of Tyler Perry’s personal stylist. Eventually, Crystal was given a shot by Mr. Tyler Perry, who cast her in the role of Fatima on Tyler Perry’s Sistas on B.E.T., while she still served as a consulting producer for season 1 and the costume designer. He was pleasantly surprised by her talent and promoted her to a series regular for season 2, enabling her to finally transition from behind the lens to the front of the camera. Crystal’s journey wasn’t an easy one, but she stayed consistent and worked hard.
Right off the heels of the season two finale, Crystal joined us on IG Live to cook a delicious Easter recipe and to have girl talk with Nekia Nichelle. Press play to watch full interview.