At the SAG Awards, Geoffrey Owens, best known for his role as Elvin Tibideaux on The Cosby Show, shared an inspiring reflection on how his time working at Trader Joe’s became a turning point in his life.
The actor, who gained unexpected attention when photos of him working at the grocery store went viral in 2018, used the platform to turn the narrative around, showing how the experience became an emblem of his strength and resilience.
Owens, now revered as a symbol of humility and determination, didn’t shy away from acknowledging the viral moment. Instead, he praised his time at Trader Joe’s for providing him a sense of stability and dignity during a tough period in his acting career. Speaking candidly about how society sometimes places a stigma on “survival jobs” for actors, Owens emphasized the importance of being proud of honest work.
His moving words struck a chord with many attendees at the SAG Awards, where he reflected on how the experience at Trader Joe’s helped him rediscover his passion for acting. Since the viral moment, Owens has been welcomed back into Hollywood with open arms, securing various acting roles, including appearances in NCIS: New Orleans and The Haves and the Have Nots.
At the awards, Owens conveyed a broader message about resilience in the entertainment industry, advocating for the dignity of work in all forms. He reminded fellow actors, and fans alike, that perseverance in the face of adversity is often what leads to triumph. His inspiring story resonates beyond Hollywood, offering a universal lesson in handling challenges with grace and determination.
