The long-anticipated Abbott Elementary episode featuring Taraji P. Henson has finally aired, and it did not disappoint. In Season 2, Episode 21, titled “Mom,” the Emmy-nominated actress plays Vanetta, the estranged mother of Janine Teagues (portrayed by Quinta Brunson).
The episode follows Janine as she prepares for a peaceful Memorial Day weekend solo getaway, only to have her plans upended by Vanetta’s unexpected arrival. What begins as a surprise visit quickly spirals into an emotional exploration of their complicated and, at times, toxic mother-daughter relationship.
Taraji P. Henson made a bold entrance as Vanetta in Abbott Elementary, wearing a cropped green fur coat, pink floral Versace leggings ($506 at Farfetch), and a large black Gucci tote. She completed the look with black slouchy leather ankle boots featuring gold stiletto heels, oversized hoop earrings, a choker necklace, and bedazzled pointy nails. Her voluminous waves and soft glam makeup added a touch of polish to the eye-catching ensemble.
Sheryl Lee Ralph stuns as Barbara Howard in a vibrant orange blazer, while Taraji P. Henson makes a bold entrance in a green fur coat and colorful leggings. Quinta Brunson, as Janine Teague, completes the trio in a striking red zebra-print dress in Abbott Elementary Season 2, Episode 21 (Credit: ABC)
The guest appearance was announced during The Paley Center for Media’s annual PaleyFest LA event. The show’s stars, including Sheryl Lee Ralph, Lisa Ann Walter, Tyler James Williams, and William Stanford Davis, gathered in person, as well as Janelle James and Chris Perfetti, via Zoom, to discuss the upcoming season.
Unfortunately, Brunson, the show’s lead and executive producer, couldn’t attend the occasion in person because she was hosting “Saturday Night Live” that evening.
Quinta Brunson, the co-executive producer, writer, and lead actress in the sitcom “Abbott Elementary” on ABC, along with fellow series regulars Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, Lisa Ann Walter, and Sheryl Lee Ralph, and executive producer/director Randall Einhorn, gathered for an advanced screening of the season one finale and reception at NeueHouse in Hollywood on April 10, 2023 (Credit: Michael Simon / Startraksphoto)
Taraji P. Henson Wows in Sleek All-Black Outfit and Dramatic Gloves on “The View”
On April 6, 2023, Taraji P. Henson graced ABC Studios with her stunning presence as she prepared to appear as a guest on “The View.”
The actress made quite the fashion statement as she arrived at the studio, clad in a sleek and stylish ensemble. Henson looked sharp and sophisticated in a classic black waistcoat vest and straight-leg pants, exuding confidence and professionalism.
Taraji P. Henson arrived to tape an episode of The View in New York City in a black jumpsuit with a plunging neckline, voluminous elbow-length gloves, and a silver choker necklace on April 6, 2023, in New York City (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages)
But that’s not all—the “Hidden Figures” star also added a touch of drama to her look with striking puff-sleeve gloves, which added a unique and eye-catching element to her outfit.
To complete her chic and polished look, Henson wore shiny black pumps that elongated her legs and gave her a confident stride.
The “Smokin’ Aces” actress didn’t shy away from accessorizing either. She wore a silver choker that delicately hugged her neck and matched the overall tone of her outfit. Henson added a touch of drama to her attire with oversized black sunglasses.
Taraji P. Henson’s makeup was on point with hot pink lipstick for a pop of color, dramatic false eyelashes, and bronzer that gave her a sun-kissed glow (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages)
Her hot pink lip added a pop of color to her otherwise monochromatic outfit, making her stand out in all the right ways. Henson’s sleek and edgy black bob perfectly framed her face, giving her an elegant look.
Taraji P. Henson Turns Heads in Marc Jacobs Faux Fur Dress and 8-Inch Platform Heels
After appearing on “The View,” Henson left the ABC studios in a show-stopping Marc Jacobs ensemble that made a bold fashion statement.
The award-winning actress wowed onlookers with her opulent faux fur dress, part of the designer’s ready-to-wear Spring 2023 collection.
Her outfit featured an oversized jacket attached around her waist, creating a unique layering effect. But the real showstopper was her footwear—a towering pair of platform heels from Marc Jacobs’ Fall 2016 collection.
Taraji P. Henson left The View’s taping in New York City in a grey dress with statement-making sleeves that resembled octopus tentacles (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages)
While the dress, which walked the runway at Jacobs’s Fall 2023 presentation, was sculptural and fuzzy, Henson’s movement brought it to life.
She swung the sleeves around, showcasing the dress’s movement and making it look as if she were an octopus herself. Henson added a pair of bronze gloves and sky-high purple boots to complete the look, which she maneuvered flawlessly in.
These statement-making shoes had an 8-inch heel and a relatively high platform, making them a bold choice for anyone. The pumps also had elaborate straps extending up the shaft, adding an edgy touch to the fierce outfit.
Taraji P. Henson styled her grey midi dress with bronze gloves and completed her Marc Jacobs outfit with sky-high purple boots (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages)
To add some color to her ensemble, Henson opted for a burgundy lip, which perfectly complemented the shades of the dress. She was also accessorized with dark brown gloves, which added a touch of elegance to the outfit.
Taraji P. Henson is a talented actress who has consistently proven herself a force to be reckoned with. For her work on both the big and small screens, she has garnered numerous awards and nominations.
Her portrayal of Cookie Lyon on the popular television show “Empire” earned her three Emmy nominations, a Golden Globe, a Critics’ Choice Award, and three BET Awards.
Taraji P. Henson turned heads with 8-inch purple platform boots by Marc Jacobs (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages)
Her breakthrough performance in “Hustle & Flow,” among her other roles, brought her recognition and a BET Award for Best Actress.
Henson is a formidable presence in the entertainment industry, and her inclusion in the cast of Abbott Elementary is sure to generate even more buzz for the show.
🎬 Explore Abbott Elementary & Taraji P. Henson Coverage:
- 📏 How Tall Are the Stars of Abbott Elementary? Cast Heights, Roles & Shoe Styles – Detailed height info and footwear notes on cast members like Sheryl Lee Ralph and William Stanford Davis.
- 👠 Quinta Brunson’s Height, Shoe Style, and Husband – Insights into Abbott Elementary’s lead star, including her shoe-wearing habits and style.
- 💎 Taraji P. Henson: Height, Favorite Shoe Brands & Iconic Heel Moments – A rich gallery of her go-to footwear designers and standout red‑carpet heels.
- 🌸 Taraji P. Henson’s Show‑Stopping Dolce & Gabbana Floral‑Embellished Sandals – Breakout moment featuring crystal‑draped D&G heels that captivated onlookers.