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How Taraji P. Henson Feels About Following in Carol Burnett's Footsteps for NBC's Annie Live!

By Brett Malec Jun 25, 2021 6:05 PMTags

Taraji P. Henson has some "big shoes to fill."

The Oscar nominee is opening up about landing the iconic role of Miss Hannigan in NBC's upcoming TV musical Annie Live!. The role of Miss Hannigan was first made famous on film by the legendary Carol Burnett in 1982's Annie.

So, has Henson reached out to the comedy legend for advice on playing the hilariously awful orphanage villain?

"I have actually already sent her a letter because I love her so much," the Empire star told E! News' Nina Parker today on the June 25 episode of Daily Pop. "I grew up in the hood, but I watched Carol Burnett. I didn't miss the show. I have big shoes to fill. I totally have the talent to make it my own but with so much respect for her."

Henson also opened up about her role hosting the 2021 BET Awards this weekend and what the gig means to her.

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Taraji P. Henson's Best Looks

"Black women have done so much in changing history," Henson gushed. "I mean, Stacey Abrams, Kamala Harris, Beyoncé, the most awarded artist ever. We just out there doing things, big things, things that are going to keep history on the right side. So I think they picked the right host for this thing. I got goosebumps."

And expect some major fashion moments from Henson. She added that her stylist has "got me squeezing in dresses already."

Getty Images; Shutterstock

Check out our full interview with Henson above to hear her thoughts on Megan Thee Stallion's "Thot Girl Summer."

The BET Awards air live on BET this Sunday, June 27 at 8 p.m. And start getting excited for NBC's Annie Live! coming to TV this December!

(E! and NBC are both part of the NBCUniversal family)