In 2018, actor Geoffrey Owens, best known for his role as Elvin Tibideaux on The Cosby Show, found himself at the center of an unexpected viral controversy.
After a photo surfaced of him working at a Trader Joe’s, the internet quickly spiraled into a debate over job-shaming. For Owens, the moment felt like it might be career-ending.
“I thought it was going to be catastrophic,” Owens admitted in a candid interview, reflecting on the experience. For an actor whose career had slowed in the years after his Cosby Show fame, working at Trader Joe’s was a way to support his family and maintain a steady income while pursuing other acting opportunities. But when the image of him wearing the supermarket’s uniform spread across social media, Owens feared the worst.
The photo sparked an outpouring of both sympathy and criticism, with many lamenting the treatment of actors whose fame doesn’t always guarantee lifelong financial security. Owens initially felt humiliated by the attention, worried that his credibility as an actor would be tarnished. “You never want people to feel sorry for you,” he said, explaining that the situation seemed to underline the precariousness of a career in entertainment.
However, what began as an instance of job-shaming quickly turned into something more positive. Instead of fading into obscurity or becoming a subject of pity, Owens became a symbol of dignity in the face of adversity. “I had no idea it would turn into something good,” he remarked.
Hollywood figures and fans rallied around him, praising his work ethic and resilience. Soon, job offers came pouring in, including one from Tyler Perry, who offered Owens a role in his series The Haves and the Have Nots. The Trader Joe’s moment, which could have been disastrous, became a testament to his strength and a resurgence in his acting career.
Reflecting on the experience now, Owens is grateful for the support he received. While he initially feared being job-shamed, the actor ultimately found renewed appreciation for his craft and the unpredictable nature of life in Hollywood. “It was tough, but I’m thankful for how it all turned out in the end,” Owens concluded. His story serves as a reminder that hard work and dignity in any profession are worthy of respect, no matter where life takes you.
