Dying isn’t a straightforward factor to cope with however it’s particularly powerful when it includes a colleague right here at The Root and somebody who I personally thought-about as a good friend: Stephanie Holland.
As a workers author, California native Holland coated all issues leisure together with however not restricted to all the very best in Black TV, music, and movie. Nevertheless it was her area of interest information about matters like wrestling, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), “Star Wars,” ladies’s basketball and extra that made her such a singular and well-rounded addition to the workforce.
Within the moments the place she’d enterprise into overlaying matters outdoors of her beat, there have been numerous articles that confirmed just a little bit extra of Holland’s humorous and quirky character like her annual tirade in opposition to sweet corn and all those that like it round Halloween time; or her hilarious disgust to bizarre pumpkin spice flavored meals.
As a self-described “Blerd” (that’s code for Black nerd, in the event you didn’t know), there weren’t too many issues that Holland, 47, couldn’t wax poetic about. Whether or not that was a bevy of songs by white people that Black people can’t get sufficient of, or recommendation on tips on how to survive a vacation potluck—Stephanie was a wealth of information and shocking info. Her interviews with a myriad of celebrities from Oscar-nominated actor Colman Domingo to “Insecure” star Natasha Rothwell additionally made her a notable reporter who left a useful impression on these she spoke to.
However what shined even brighter than the work she did was who she was outdoors of her 9-5 and her infectious character. After I acquired the prospect to lastly meet her to cowl the Primetime Emmys in individual again in 2022 and 2024, I had excessive hopes that the bond we created on-line was going to translate offline and not using a hitch—and I used to be proper. Holland was simply as heat, inviting, humorous, no nonsense however nonetheless gracious and forgiving. She was even-tempered, honest, and a welcomed face to see throughout our every day conferences.
Over time, Holland and I bonded over our mutual love of our respective moms, daytime cleaning soap operas (particularly “Normal Hospital”), who the following James Bond needs to be, “Black Panther” lore, what’s Black on TV, our fatigue over countless reboots and remakes, our mutual aversion to all issues horror motion pictures (except for Jordan Peele) and extra. On a private observe, Holland made me extra empathic, understanding and I’m fortunate and blessed to have labored so intently along with her for the time that I did. She was extra proficient than she gave herself credit score for, extra affected person than she realized, and extra quick-witted than she let on.
She was a gem, an exquisite collaborator, and an all-around good individual. She was sincere. She was form. She was an incredible author and an exceptional lady wrapped in a single. It’s not usually that you simply run into individuals like Holland within the journalism trade however I’m so glad I did. Overlaying Black leisure received’t be the identical with out her.
I, in addition to the complete workers at The Root and G/O Media will miss Stephanie Holland dearly. We ship our deepest condolences to her household and all those that knew and liked her. You made us all proud, Stephanie. Relaxation in love. This story can be up to date within the weeks to return with additional details about tips on how to help Holland and her household throughout this tough time.