Written by | Cyrena Rose
“My mindset has changed, I will be more aggressive…I’ll be mentally stronger than the last time,” replied Gabrielle “Gabby” Douglas when asked what she’ll do differently in Rio this summer than at her historic run at the 2012 London Summer Olympics, where she won gold medals in both the team and individual all-around competitions.
Keep in mind, Gabby is the first woman of color of any nationality and the first African-American gymnast in Olympic history to become the individual all-around Champion. She is also the first American gymnast to win gold in both the gymnastic individual all-around and team competitions at the same Olympic games. However, before she takes on her next goal and attempts another history-making performance in the 2016 Olympic Games, she and her family have tried their hand at reality television.
“Douglas Family Gold” premieres tonight on the Oxygen network and follows the gold medalist and her support system, which includes matriarch Natalie Hawkins, sisters Arielle “Arie” Hawkins, Joyelle “Joy” Douglas, brother, Johnathan Douglas and grandmother Miss Carolyn. This series chronicles their journey and sacrifices as well as their close-nit bond.
Initially, momager Natalie Hawkins didn’t approve of the show, Gabby was hesitant and felt the cameras would be a distraction but older sister Arielle Hawkins (who had the idea for the show and pitched it to her family) won them over.
So, what should viewers expect to see? A strong family, grounded in their faith, tackling adversity, supporting one another in their endeavors especially the youngest Gabby. Yes, they know that doing a reality show allows people to weigh-in/give an opinion about their lives but they’ve decided to use the platform to shine a positive light on families.
Gabby expressed the overall message of the show is to shed light on what inspires her and her family, display their supportive bonds, highlight what it takes to reach your goals and emphasize how they all keep fighting no matter what obstacles they face.
“My faith is key, my mom raised us on scriptures and meditation….when I didn’t pray or meditate a lot I lost it…I had to get back to it and it keeps me confident and my abilities are what my heavenly father has given me.”
Tune in tonight for the premier of “Douglas Family Gold!”