Karrueche Tran Transforms for Gritty Rap Role
Karrueche Tran immersed herself in the world of Hip-Hop to authentically portray a rap artist in Lifetime’s film Terry McMillan Presents: Preach, Pray, Love, which premiered on November 8.
Role Preparation
Tran took on the role of Charlisa “Charlie” Jones, a platinum-selling rapper with a troubled past and a sharp tongue. To prepare, she studied Brooklyn rapper Lola Brooke, adopting her gritty energy despite not having a musical background.
“I’m not musically inclined in any way, but it was a great challenge. I studied a rapper named Lola Brooke, I prepared myself, and I did it. I think I did a pretty decent job!” — Karrueche Tran
Film Plot
The story follows Charlie after her release from prison, where she is assigned community service under Pastor Kyrus Owens, played by Mark J.P. Their contrasting worlds—her street life versus his spiritual mission—form the core conflict of the film.
Cast and Direction
- Tobias Truvillion
- B. Simone
- Reginae Carter
- Da Brat
The film is directed by renowned author Terry McMillan, known for Waiting to Exhale and How Stella Got Her Groove Back.
“I learned that I can do anything I put my mind to. I was anxious because I wanted to do the character justice — but once I focused, I realized you can do anything when you really go for it.” — Karrueche Tran
Author's summary: Karrueche Tran embraced an intense transformation inspired by rapper Lola Brooke to deliver a powerful performance as a complex Hip-Hop artist navigating life after prison.