Gabrielle Union Praises Beyoncé as EW's 2023 Entertainer of the Year: 'Her Unparalleled Power Leaves Us in Awe.

Gabrielle Union expresses admiration for Beyoncé as EW's 2023 Entertainer of the Year: 'She embodies a power that surpasses anything we've witnessed before.'

By M Muzamil Shami

The actor fondly remembers the "spiritual journey" of attending Beyoncé's Renaissance World Tour and the sense of community it cultivated, especially for individuals who may not consistently find a sense of belonging.

Since the age of 15, strutting confidently in her stilettos, Beyoncé has been a dominant force in the entertainment industry. Gabrielle Union's first encounter with her was during the early days, at the age of 17 or 18, alongside the members of Destiny’s Child on a commercial set. Even at that young age, the Truth Be Told actress was already captivated by the aspiring diva's remarkable focus and preparedness. Over the decades, Beyoncé's prowess has only grown.

With nearly 30 years in the spotlight, Beyoncé continues to astound her fans and silence critics. She consistently pushes boundaries, innovates, and challenges not only herself but also others in the entertainment industry. She has set the bar high and continually raises it.

This year, Queen Bey extended a global invitation, bringing people together to experience the dazzling reflections of her record-breaking Renaissance World Tour and its accompanying documentary. Gabrielle Union, along with her family—husband Dwyane Wade and daughters Zaya (16) and Kaavia (5)—graced two nights of the Los Angeles stop on Beyoncé’s transformative journey, showcasing their support in silver-clad splendor.

In this piece, Union pays tribute to the Queen and delves into how Beyoncé's global dance celebration evolved into a significant cultural movement.

      Gabrielle Union commemorates Beyoncé. Photo credits: Beyoncé - Mason Poole/Parkwood Media/Getty Images for Atlantis The Royal; Union-Wade - Amy                Sussman/WireImage for Parkwood.

On that initial evening, we opted not to bring the kids along, yet it felt as if we regressed to our 12-year-old selves. Arriving early, we observed the crowd gradually assembling—an eclectic mix of individuals eager to witness the diverse tapestry of community coming together.

The sight of the crowd, resembling a microcosm of the world, resonated powerfully. Numerous attendees radiated an absolute sense of freedom, showing up authentically and feeling secure amidst tens of thousands of like-minded souls. It's rare to find spaces or gatherings that effortlessly unite people from various backgrounds, fostering a sense of safety, visibility, and belonging—and yet, this event accomplished just that.

The subsequent night, accompanied by our children, provided a remarkable perspective as we watched the spectacle through their eyes. While we occupied the Friends & Family area, our daughter Zaya ventured into the Club Renaissance zone, seamlessly blending into her own community. Witnessing her glow with delight was a unique experience, especially now that she's a teenager with her own life. It felt like Beyoncé had bestowed upon Zaya a precious gift—a reaction from people, an immersion in the music, and an embrace of the historical significance.

There were moments that moved me to tears—an emotional and, dare I say, spiritual encounter. Beyoncé's unprecedented level of control over every aspect of the tour was remarkable. It wasn't just about being the bottom line; it was about being a Black woman wielding such influence. Her achievement was universally impactful, transcending boundaries and leaving an indelible mark.

Factor in the recent surgery she underwent. Accustomed to dancing and choreography, we discovered, through the Renaissance movie, that she had to reconfigure the entire tour to prioritize her voice as a crucial instrument. The film documented her recovery and the gradual resurgence of strength in her legs, coupled with the incorporation of more choreography. Witnessing her conquer her physical limitations showcased her as an unstoppable force.

She wasn't merely an artist on stage; she was a mother, a protective figure, a boss, and an exceptional vocalist—let's not underestimate her vocal prowess. Beyoncé commanded the stage, inviting all of us to join her in the experience. It's a rarity to witness such a multifaceted performance. The fact that the audience mirrored the diversity of the world only heightened the revelation that Beyoncé embodies—an extraordinary force unlike anything seen before, even after all these years in the industry.