Apple TV+ is gearing up to premiere Number One on the Call Sheet, a two-part documentary event that shines a spotlight on the Black leading men and women who have shaped Hollywood. Premiering globally on March 28, the series will explore the challenges, triumphs, and responsibilities that come with being a Black actor at the top of the industry.
The documentary features insights from some of Hollywood’s most influential Black actors, giving audiences a candid look at their journeys, the systemic barriers they have overcome, and how they continue to redefine what it means to be a leading star in entertainment.
With Reginald Hudlin directing Number One on the Call Sheet: Black Leading Men in Hollywood and Shola Lynch helming Number One on the Call Sheet: Black Leading Women in Hollywood, the project is executive produced by industry heavyweights including Jamie Foxx, Kevin Hart, Angela Bassett, Halle Berry, Viola Davis, and Whoopi Goldberg.
Actress Gabrielle Union is one of the stars featured in the documentary. Speaking on The View, Union explained why she felt compelled to be part of Number One on the Call Sheet—not just to celebrate success, but to highlight the responsibility that comes with being at the top.
“I wanted to be a part of this project because I don’t think we get celebrated enough for how hard it is to make it to number one on the call sheet,” Union shared. “There’s so much blood, sweat, and tears that go into reaching that point. But once you’re there, there’s an even bigger responsibility that comes with it.”
Union explained that she sees her role as more than just being the lead actress—she takes on the duty of ensuring equity for the entire crew.
“If I’m hearing that the Teamsters’ check is late, I find that that’s my responsibility as the person who is the most powerful person in the crew,” she said. “If I hear that someone’s being mistreated, if you don’t like catering, I feel like it is my responsibility to make sure that this experience is good for everybody.”
Union says being a leader on set is about more than just status—it’s about action. She takes it upon herself to ensure fair treatment, fighting for proper credits, fair pay, and overall equity for everyone involved in the production.
“That’s how I move as number one on the call sheet. And I hope more people don’t just take it as an ego thing, like ‘I’m number one and that’s where my responsibility begins and ends.’ For me, no. When you finally are that person, be that person. Don’t get comfortable. Be comfortable.”
Check out the trailer for Number one on the Call Sheet.
Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com
