(CNN) — Oscar nominee, star of “The Help” and new mom Viola Davis spoke to CNN about the joys of motherhood at the 15th Annual Hollywood Film Awards on Monday.
Davis and husband Julius Tennon announced their adoption news in August, and welcomed a baby girl earlier this month via domestic adoption. Davis’ rep confirmed that they named their new arrival Genesis.
Davis gushed to CNN about her new outlook on the red carpet: “It’s just given me purpose, you know? After a while your life can’t be about hair and make-up and what film you’re doing next and if you’re good or not and reviews.”
As an older mom, Viola is especially grateful for her new role. “It’s got to be about something bigger and larger, especially when half your life is already gone,” the 46-year-old actress shared. “And you look back and you think, ‘What are you leaving behind? What are the true joys of your life?’ And for me it was a child.”
Davis continued: “You know, they say the meaning of life is to make a difference in the life of a child and that truly is the case. She’s given me so much…I mean, marrying my husband was the first big joy of my life and this child has just increased it.”
Married since 2003, Genesis is the couple’s first child. Tennon has two children from previous relationships.
CNN’s JD Cargill contributed to this report.
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