Queen Latifah Raps Between Takes on The Equalizer Set – Lorraine Toussaint Reveals All!

Actress Lorraine Toussaint recently shared an unexpected behind-the-scenes detail about working with Queen Latifah on CBS’s hit series The Equalizer. In an interview with PEOPLE magazine at the NAACP Image Awards Creative Honors on February 21, 2025, Toussaint revealed that Latifah frequently raps between takes, bringing her musical talents to the set and creating a lively atmosphere.

A Musical Touch Behind the Scenes

Toussaint, who portrays Viola “Vi” Marsette on the show, described how Latifah, who stars as Robin McCall, uses music to keep the energy up during long filming days. “It’s the first set I’ve been on where, between takes, she will come and she will show up with a boom box and start to — I’m for real — she will blast tunes,” Toussaint said. Latifah’s impromptu rap sessions and music breaks have become a unique hallmark of The Equalizer set.

“There’s definitely music behind the scenes on our set because of Queen,” Toussaint added, laughing. Her comments highlight Latifah’s deep musical roots—she’s a Grammy-winning rapper who made history in the ‘90s with hits like “U.N.I.T.Y.”—and demonstrate how her dual talents as an actor and musician influence the show’s culture.

A Collaborative and Close-Knit Cast

Now in its fifth season, The Equalizer is known not only for its action-packed storylines but also for its tightly bonded cast. In addition to Latifah and Toussaint, the ensemble includes Liza Lapira as Melody and Laya DeLeon Hayes as Delilah. Toussaint described the group as a “family,” a sentiment echoed by Hayes in a previous PEOPLE interview where she praised the mentorship she’s received from both Latifah and Toussaint.

This familial dynamic, paired with Latifah’s musical interludes, contributes to a positive and collaborative environment on set—one that Toussaint and others clearly enjoy. It’s a setting where creativity flows both in front of and behind the camera, thanks in large part to Latifah’s ability to blend her musical and acting backgrounds seamlessly.

A New Revelation in a Long-Standing Relationship

Toussaint and Latifah’s professional relationship goes back years. Toussaint, a respected actress known for her roles in Orange Is the New Black and Any Day Now, has previously spoken about her admiration for Latifah’s leadership and their shared love of tea. However, the detail about Latifah rapping on set is a fresh revelation, one that showcases how their bond has evolved over time. As the series has progressed, their working relationship appears to have deepened, with Toussaint openly embracing Latifah’s unique approach to set culture.

Enhancing the Energy of The Equalizer

Latifah’s dual role as star and executive producer of The Equalizer likely gives her the creative freedom to influence the tone on set. Her musical breaks and rap sessions not only keep spirits high but also inject a sense of fun into the production process. For a series known for its intense action and drama, these lighter, music-infused moments provide balance, helping cast and crew stay energized and connected.

Conclusion: A Star Who Brings It All Together

Queen Latifah’s presence on The Equalizer set is about more than just acting; it’s about setting a tone, creating an environment where cast and crew feel inspired and supported. Lorraine Toussaint’s revelation about Latifah’s rapping adds another layer to the Queen’s multifaceted legacy. It’s not just about the music or the acting—it’s about the community she fosters behind the scenes, turning a television set into a space filled with creativity, laughter, and, of course, a bit of hip-hop.