Karrueche Tran fully immersed herself in the world of Hip-Hop to portray a rapper in Lifetime's upcoming film Terry McMillan Presents: Preach, Pray, Love, which premiered November 8. She based her performance on Brooklyn rapper Lola Brooke to authentically capture the character’s spirit.
Tran plays Charlisa “Charlie” Jones, a platinum-selling artist struggling with a troubled past and a sharp tongue. She shared with Celeb Secrets that despite not being musically inclined, she embraced the challenge:
“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!”
The movie follows Charlie after her release from prison, as she serves community service under the supervision of Pastor Kyrus Owens, played by Mark J.P. Their contrasting worlds—her street life and his spiritual mission—form the emotional core of the story.
“I learned that I can do anything I put my mind to,” Tran stated. “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.”
The film is directed by acclaimed author Terry McMillan, known for Waiting to Exhale and How Stella Got Her Groove Back.
Summary: Karrueche Tran redefined herself for a challenging role, drawing inspiration from rapper Lola Brooke and demonstrating her determination to portray a complex Hip-Hop artist authentically.