Mary J. Blige Opens Up About the Legends Who Protected, Guided & Lifted Her
During her visit to The Jennifer Hudson Show, Mary J. Blige opened up about the icons who shaped her life — but the moment that stopped the room cold was her story about Prince stepping in to defend her at a time when she felt most alone.
Prince — “One of my guardian angels.”
Mary calls Prince “another angel… one of my guardian angels.” She explains that during a rough period — when the press was harsh and people were abandoning her — Prince quietly summoned her and went off on someone who had wronged her.
Mary laughs remembering how he didn’t even sound like Prince in that moment — he sounded like “a dude from up the street somewhere.”
But the message was unmistakable: “We don’t play about our Mary.”
It was protection, loyalty, and love from a legend who rarely showed that side publicly — and Mary has never forgotten it.
Patti LaBelle — “She mothered me.”
Mary beams when Jennifer asks about Patti LaBelle. She describes Patti as beautiful, humble, welcoming, and motherly, saying she literally “mothered me” early in her career.
Whitney Houston — “A angel.”
Mary calls Whitney “a angel”, praising her generosity and confidence. She remembers Whitney inviting her to perform at her first Divas Live — the iconic red‑leather moment — and later returning the love by showing up for Mary’s own Divas Live.
Mary and Jennifer agree: It’s time to bring Divas Live back.
Related Story: Mary J. Blige Spills Why She Said “Nah” to Rihanna’s “Umbrella”
Taraji P. Henson — A Sister in the Industry
Mary also honors Taraji P. Henson, who supported her during the filming of Mudbound, her first major acting role.
When Mary called overwhelmed, Taraji told her: “You got this, Mary. You know how to do this.”
Mary says having friends who aren’t threatened by your growth — and who lift you up — is everything.
