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Tracee Ellis Ross On Why She Only Packs Two Pairs Of Undies For Vacation

Tracee Ellis Ross Opens Up: Why She Embraces Life on Her Own Terms

Tracee Ellis Ross, the multifaceted actress, entrepreneur, and style icon, has long captivated audiences with her radiant presence on screen and her unapologetic approach to life. Best known for her Emmy-nominated role as Dr. Rainbow "Bow" Johnson on the hit ABC sitcom *Black-ish*, Ross has built a career that spans television, film, fashion, and beauty. But beyond her professional achievements, it's her candid discussions about personal choices—particularly around relationships, marriage, and motherhood—that have resonated deeply with fans and sparked widespread conversations. In a recent in-depth interview, Ross delves into the reasons behind her life decisions, offering a refreshing perspective on autonomy, self-fulfillment, and defying societal norms.

Born on October 29, 1972, in Los Angeles, California, Tracee Ellis Ross is the daughter of legendary singer Diana Ross and music executive Robert Ellis Silberstein. Growing up in the shadow of her mother's superstardom, Ross navigated the complexities of fame from an early age. She attended Brown University, where she studied theater, and later honed her skills at the William Esper Studio in New York. Her breakthrough came with the 2000 film *Girlfriends*, where she played the sharp-witted Joan Clayton, a role that earned her critical acclaim and a loyal following. Since then, she's starred in projects like *Reed Between the Lines*, *The High Note*, and voiced characters in animated films, all while establishing herself as a fashion maven with her bold, eclectic style.

Yet, it's Ross's personal philosophy that truly sets her apart. At 51, she remains single and childfree by choice, a decision she attributes to a deep commitment to her own happiness and growth. "I've always known that my life would be full, with or without a partner or children," Ross explains. She emphasizes that her choices stem from a place of empowerment rather than lack. In a culture that often pressures women to follow traditional paths—marriage by a certain age, starting a family—Ross pushes back against these expectations. "Society tells us that our worth is tied to these milestones, but I've learned that true fulfillment comes from within," she says.

One of the key reasons Ross has chosen this path is her dedication to self-discovery and personal freedom. She describes her 20s and 30s as a period of exploration, where she focused on building her career and understanding her identity outside of relationships. "I didn't want to settle," she admits. "I've seen too many people enter partnerships out of fear of being alone, and that wasn't going to be my story." Instead, Ross invested in herself, traveling the world, pursuing passions like fashion design, and launching her hair care line, Pattern Beauty, in 2019. Pattern, designed specifically for curly and textured hair, was born from her own experiences with natural hair in an industry that often marginalized Black women's beauty. The brand's success—boasting products like hydrating shampoos, conditioners, and styling tools—has not only empowered countless women but also reinforced Ross's belief in creating her own narrative.

Ross is vocal about the societal double standards that women face, particularly Black women. "Men are celebrated for being bachelors, but women are pitied if they're single past a certain age," she notes. Drawing from her mother's influence—Diana Ross, a single mother who balanced a groundbreaking career with raising five children—Tracee learned the value of independence. However, she chose a different route, one that prioritizes solitude as a space for creativity and reflection. "Being alone doesn't mean being lonely," Ross asserts. "I've cultivated a rich inner life, surrounded by friends, family, and meaningful work." She shares anecdotes of solo adventures, like hiking in the mountains or spending quiet evenings journaling, which have become cornerstones of her well-being.

Motherhood is another topic Ross addresses with honesty. While she adores children—evident in her warm portrayal of a mother on *Black-ish*—she never felt the biological clock ticking as urgently as society suggested it should. "I love kids, and I've been an aunt and a godmother, which has been incredibly fulfilling," she says. But Ross questions the notion that motherhood is a woman's ultimate purpose. "For me, it's about choice. I didn't want to bring a child into the world unless I was fully ready, and life took me in other directions." She points to the pressures of her career, which often involves long hours and travel, as a factor, but stresses that her decision is rooted in self-awareness rather than sacrifice. In fact, Ross sees her childfree status as a form of liberation, allowing her to mentor young people through her platform and advocate for issues like body positivity and mental health.

Feminism plays a central role in Ross's worldview. As a self-proclaimed feminist, she draws inspiration from trailblazers like bell hooks and Audre Lorde, integrating their teachings into her life and work. "Feminism isn't just about equality; it's about reclaiming our stories," she explains. Ross uses her influence to challenge beauty standards, particularly for women of color. Through Pattern Beauty, she's created a community that celebrates natural hair textures, countering the Eurocentric ideals that dominated her early modeling days. She recalls struggling with her curls in an industry that favored straight hair, which fueled her mission to foster self-love. "When women feel good about their hair, it radiates into every aspect of their lives," she says.

In terms of relationships, Ross isn't closed off to love but approaches it with intention. She's had high-profile romances in the past, including with music executive Bu Thiam, but prioritizes compatibility and mutual growth over settling down. "I'm open to partnership, but it has to add to my life, not define it," she states. Ross humorously recounts dating mishaps, like awkward blind dates set up by well-meaning friends, but underscores the joy she's found in her independence. "I've dated myself for years, and it's the best relationship I've ever had," she laughs.

Looking ahead, Ross shows no signs of slowing down. She's expanding Pattern Beauty with new product lines and collaborations, while teasing upcoming acting projects that explore themes of empowerment. Her podcast, *I Am America*, further amplifies diverse voices, aligning with her commitment to social justice. Ross also engages in philanthropy, supporting organizations like Time's Up and Black Lives Matter, using her platform to advocate for systemic change.

Ultimately, Tracee Ellis Ross's story is one of intentional living. By choosing paths that align with her values, she's become a beacon for women navigating similar crossroads. "My life is a testament to the fact that you can be whole on your own," she concludes. In a world that often equates success with traditional markers, Ross reminds us that true happiness comes from authenticity. Her journey encourages others to question norms, embrace solitude, and craft lives that feel genuinely theirs. As she continues to shine—on screen, in business, and in her personal evolution—Ross proves that the most compelling stories are those we write for ourselves.

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