![Nicki Minaj](./media_1efa8ad8f63508ef36140b1d00fc53cc863866cb6.jpeg?width=750&format=jpeg&optimize=medium)
Recently, former The Cosby Show actor Geoffrey Owens made headlines after a news report attempted to publicly shame him for working at a Trader Joe’s in New Jersey. Social media then worked its magic, coming to the defense of the 57-year-old, who took being thrown into the spotlight for such a reason with stride, reminding others that no one job is more important or more valuable than another.
While the topic was at the height of its trending moment earlier this month, Nicki Minaj addressed the situation during an installment of her Queen Radio show, going on to pledge a $25,000 donation to the actor as a supportive gesture.
In the weeks that followed, with the dust since settling after the whole ordeal was hurled into the court of public opinion and discourse, fans took to social media to question if Minaj actually followed through and made nice on her generous promise.
According to TMZ, the Queen rapper has indeed kept her word, sending the actor a check for $25K. However, upon receipt, Owens has decided to donate the check to a charity of his choice instead of using the money for personal gain.
“I would like to give this donation of 25k to the Actor’s Fund in memory of the late, great Earle Hyman— who played Cosby’s father, Russell, on The Cosby Show—who lived his last many years and died at the Actors’ Home (funded and run by the Actor’s Fund),” he shared in a statement. “I am extremely grateful to Nicki Minaj for enabling struggling actors to continue pursuing their dreams.”
Minaj then shared her response, adding, “I’m happy to be a part of a great cause. I wish Geoffrey much success and want him to know how loved he is. Rest in Peace to Earle Hyman.”
Although Owens stepped away from his job at the beloved grocery chain due to the unwanted attention, he has since reportedly been offered several offers, including one from Tyler Perry’s The Haves And The Have Nots.
Now, back to work. All of us. After all, it’s what Geoffrey Owens would’ve wanted.