*Days after the “Cosby Show” actor Geoffrey Owens went viral after being spotted working at a Trader Joe’s in New Jersey, and subsequently job-shamed by some media outlets, he’s now being offered a new gig by Tyler Perry.
“#GeoffreyOwens I’m about to start shootings OWN’s number one drama next week,” the famed director and playwright shared on Twitter on Tuesday, referring to “The Haves and the Have Nots.” “Come join us!!! I have so much respect for people who hustle between gigs. The measure of a true artist.”
As reported by Page Six, despite the generosity from Perry, Owens shared in a Tuesday “Good Morning America” interview that he didn’t want any handouts from this recent burst of publicity.
OTHER NEWS YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED: Geoffrey Owens (‘Cosby Show’ Actor Now Bagging Groceries): ‘Devastated’ by Job-Shaming – WATCH
“I wouldn’t feel comfortable getting acting jobs from this event,” said Owens. “I wouldn’t mind getting auditions. I don’t mind if people call me to try out for things, due to what’s happened … I want to get a job because I’m the right person.”
The 57-year-old added that there’s “all kinds of interest” now and that he feels more like a “celebrity” than ever before.
Owens played Elvin Tiabideaux —boyfriend-then-husband of oldest daughter Sondra Huxtable— in 44 episodes on the NBC show from 1985 to 1992.
He’s been working at Trader Joe’s for 15 months before his picture and story went viral over Labor Day weekend. On “GMA,” Owens noted that he’s been teaching acting and directing for years.
He also explained that he’s not ashamed of working at the grocery store because: “Every job is worthwhile and valuable.”
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