‘Orange’ actor relishes in women’s rights role

Associated Press

LOS ANGELES

Uzo Aduba said the upcoming FX limited series “Mrs. America” encompasses a whole lot of what she loves best about acting.

“It’s a story of women. It’s bringing great women together, incredibly talented women who I have respected and admired for years,” she told The Associated Press in a recent interview.

Featuring Aduba as the late U.S. Rep. Shirley Chisholm, Cate Blanchett as conservative activist and orange juice queen Phyllis Schlafly and Rose Byrne as feminist Gloria Steinem, the show is based on the true story of the 1970s battle over the Equal Rights Amendment.

There’s more to the slew of stars onboard. Tracey Ullman will play “The Feminine Mystique” author Betty Friedan and Margo Martindale is U.S. Rep. Bella Abzug, known for – among other things – her statement hats. James Marsden, Sarah Paulsen, Kayli Carter, John Slattery and Jeanne Tripplehorn will also appear.

Aduba said she also has long admired the late Chisholm, who was the first black woman elected to Congress.

“It represents authenticity and truth, and it’s a story that wants to tell the truth about that time. The hard and the good truth. That’s exciting for me,” the “Orange is the New Black” co-star said of her new show, which is in production and doesn’t yet have a release date.