How did you get this role? 

  

Keisha: I had actually worked with House of Payne. And now joined the show. He gave me a call and had me in mine for the role. He was telling me about the script. I really wanted something challenging and I want people to look at it like nothing I had ever done. This was the challenge I was looking for.  

  

Was there anything in particular you did to perfect the role? 

  

Keisha: I did my research. I live here in Atlanta so there are all types of characters. I did speak to a recovering Heroin addict. She was in college and had her whole life in front of her.  

  

Do you agree that a Tyler Perry film is one that everybody can enjoy? That it appeals to all the masses as oppose to one set market? 

 

Keisha: Tyler Perry is one of the only films that everyone can watch or identify with... Even with the House of Payne, it is one of the shows that a whole family of 2 to 82 can sit down and enjoy. His films have a redemption theme.  

  

Mostly I find that actors and actresses use writing as a form of expression. Is that what you’re doing with your new production company ‘Pull pen’? 

  

Keisha: It’s always been and interest of mine to be in front and behind the camera. You’re creating in so many ways, not just one realm. I don't feel like I have to choose. It’s about the story your telling and how many people’s lives can be touched or relate to. 

  

It’s as if the only stories that can be told are ones with guns and violence… 

 

Keisha: The problem is the unbalance... those aren't the only stories we have to tell especially African Americans. As a woman in general you realize that we are not all the same. Even as black people were are different. We all have different life experiences.  

 

You seem to find acting as a companion to your story telling.  

 

Keisha: As an actress you play different roles... you can be a student, doctor or journalist. I don’t have to play just one type of role. 

  

What do you want people to take from your new role in Madea Goes to Jail? 

 

Keisha: This role teaches people about choices. There is a story to be told and a lesson to learn. And you have to take the lesson. 

And what is the lesson to be learned in this film? 

 

Keisha: The lesson is about choices and about just dealing with the stuff that happens in their life. People have BS that goes down but it’s how you deal with that. And the choices that you make and work through affect the rest of your life. 

  

You seem to be transcending into adulthood full force. Are concerned at all with how you’ll be perceived in this film? 

 

Keisha: I just feel that it’s doing something that is different and out of your comfort zone. I really hope that people can look at it and respect me for my talent. I look a hot mess. That was a humbling experience. Having them yellow your teeth.  

 

What part of the film holds the most memories for you? 

 

Keisha: Madea is absolutely hilarious. There is this scene where I'm standing looking at a mirror and that is one moment in life that people have where they see themselves and it’s a turning point. How did I get here and how do I get out it?  

 

Yeah, I think everyone has one or two of those moments in their life. 

 

Keisha: I wanted to take a shower and wash the day off. When you’re in the moment and in the character you’re in that mind frame. It’s hard to be normal. I hop in my convertible and I forgot that I had not wiped the makeup off my face... so I pull up to this light and the people across they have this look of horror. I look crazy. This is one of the scenes with bruises. 

 

So, what’s next for Keisha Knight Pulliam? 

  

Keisha: I'm focusing on my production company. I'm in different stages. I am partnered with Edmonds Entertainment.  In addition to that we are doing some stuff. We are doing some direct to internet and television projects.