Kerry Washington: Olivia Pope Taught Me the True Meaning of Power

Kerry Washington is not only known as Olivia Pope in the series Scandal, but also acknowledges that the role changed the way she views power and leadership. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the 49-year-old actress revealed that the character she played for six seasons (2012–2018) gave her invaluable life lessons.

Washington realized that before playing Olivia, she only understood power from the outside—how power looks and sounds—but had never truly felt it in her own life. "I didn't have an office before. Now I sit in a room with my production company's name on the door," she said, adding that she often delivered the line "my name is on that door" as Olivia.

More than just dialogue, the role taught Washington about responsibility as a leader. She learned what it means to be number one on the production call sheet and in her own life—that the final decision rests with her. "Olivia taught me to be a leader and to find the meaning of power in my life," she said.

Although the series has ended, the bond between the cast remains strong. Washington said she is still close with many of her former co-stars, such as Darby Stanchfield, Katie Lowes, and Bellamy Young. When asked about a possible reboot, she said she had not discussed it specifically with Shonda Rhimes, the series creator. "That's such a Shonda question. I haven't talked to her about it, even though I've talked about it with the other cast members," she said.

Washington also stated that she would be thrilled if the original cast could reunite. "My heart would explode seeing Darby, Katie, and Bellamy sitting in the makeup trailer again. We're all so close," she said. Although there are no concrete plans yet, Washington's enthusiasm shows that the legacy of Scandal is still alive in the hearts of fans and its cast.

For the entertainment industry, Washington's story is an example of how a role can shape an actor's identity and confidence off screen. Meanwhile, for fans in Indonesia, Scandal, which was once popular on streaming platforms, serves as a reminder of the importance of women's representation in leadership positions—a theme relevant to the dynamics of the country's creative industry, which is increasingly giving space to women behind the scenes.

Looking ahead, will the cast's longing lead to a reunion project? Or will Washington instead bring the lessons from Olivia Pope to her own production projects? What is clear is that, for Washington, power is no longer just a costume—it has become part of who she is.