Love Knows No Label: Raven Symoné and Miranda Pearman-Maday Lead the Way in Mature Magazine’s First-Ever Digital Issue
Photographed by Reinhardt Kenneth
Styled by Oliver Brown
As the editor-in-chief of Mature Magazine, I've had the privilege of witnessing Raven Symone's evolution from her iconic role on The Cosby Show to her captivating presence on Disney Channel. She's become a household name through beloved shows like That's So Raven, Zenon, Kim Possible, and The Cheetah Girls. Raven's journey is a testament to her resilience and growth, inspiring countless millennials, including myself.
Reflecting on my childhood, I vividly recall the summer nights spent eagerly tuning in to watch Raven light up the screen with her infectious energy. To me, Raven felt like a familiar presence, a cousin or a friend, who broke barriers and shattered stereotypes with her relatable authenticity. Little did I know then that she would become a beacon of inspiration for countless millennials, including myself.
In July 2023, I sat down with Raven and her wife, Miranda Pearman-Maday, for an exclusive interview. During our photo shoot and interview, I was struck by the depth of their love and the authenticity they bring to their relationship. Genuine moments of connection and raw beauty, playing on both femininity and androgyny, were captured preceding our conversation.
Raven, known for her wit and humor, opened up about her journey as a child actor and the challenges she faced navigating the entertainment industry from a young age. "It's hard," she admitted, reflecting on the unique pressures of being a child star, "but at the same time, I wouldn't change it because I have a great life. I've met amazing people." Miranda, a producer and podcast host by profession, shared her experiences and insights, revisiting her previous work as a birth doula and highlighting the transformative power of childbirth.
In May 2024, I had the pleasure of interviewing Raven and Miranda again. Raven was excited about her new role on The CW's upcoming original game show, "Scrabble." This new venture is a testament to her versatility as an entertainer and a platform for her to continue inspiring and entertaining her fans. The duo has been trending on social media, whether for a funny clip from their podcast or a viral TikTok, continually finding ways to keep us entertained and inspired.
Since our last conversation, Raven and Miranda have re-launched their YouTube channel with their podcast, 'Tea Time with Raven and Miranda.' They're using this platform to empower and inspire, especially in a world where visibility and acceptance are still ongoing battles for the LGBTQ+ community. Their love and openness pave the way, redefining what it means to be Mature and giving hope to many.
Raven and Miranda's story is not just a love story—it's a testament to the beauty of embracing who you are and sharing that journey with the world. Read below to discover their full interview.
Oliver (Mature Magazine): You have been the influence for so many artists for many years. Can you share with us the early influences and experiences that sparked your interest in the arts? And how did you discover your passion for acting and TV?
Raven: I started so young I don't think there was an influence because my parents actually started the journey. But as I got older I started watching a lot of Janet Jackson — which was a big moment for me. Then “I Love Lucy,” “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” “The Flip Wilson Show, and “The Carol Burnett Show.” I developed an interest in the arts and ventured into all kinds of things and met all kinds of people.
Oliver: Can you discuss your journey as a child actor in the entertainment industry? What were some of the challenges and highlights you experienced during that time?
Raven: Being a child in the industry is — I don't know why people do it. It just doesn't make sense. However, I was lucky to start in the industry on a sitcom that provided an education on “how to be a celebrity” and how to be in the industry, but I still had to make sure I was getting A's and B's in school! I had to go to summer school for algebra 'cause I was on tour with NSYNC and my teacher didn't send in the application! If you've been in the industry since you were three, you just think differently. It's hard, but at the same time, I wouldn't change it because I have a great life.
Oliver: How has your artistic style and approach evolved over the years?
Raven: When I was younger, I wasn't in charge of my style to be 100 with you. I started making my own decisions around thirty - one years old because of the people that were in my life. Everyone feels inclined to show how important their job is by manipulating what you put on, what you say etc. Anytime I wanted to do something, someone would say, “you look crazy!” I was like, “no, this is art. It’s not what people are wearing, but this is what I wanna wear!”
There was always a fight. Anything that you see before “The View,” someone else put together. I had to conform and today I kind of feel stunted. Sometimes I still feel like I'm dressing from 2015 because I wasn't able to live that life as purely as I wanted to. You'll see more of my personal style as I move away from acting — I am eclectic. I’m a little bit more avant-garde. I'm a weird person.
In my paintings, in the projects that we're doing, it's not just coming from the construct of the character on Disney Channel.
Oliver: Are there any specific artists or mentors who have influenced your growth as an artist?
Raven: When it comes to confidence, Whoopi Goldberg. She gets up on that stage without a stitch of makeup and in whatever she wants to wear — and kills it every time. Then there are people like Odessa and Zhu who think to the left a little bit. That kind of music influences me too.
Oliver: You've been on television for over 30 years. What's your most memorable moment? Can you share any memorable experiences or insights from your time?
Raven: The day I retired, (laughs). No. Seriously, it really was. That was really difficult to do. When you've been doing the same thing your whole life, have more than 20 people counting on you for a job and then you just say ‘“no” - that was memorable because it was the first time I took a step in a direction for myself.
Oliver: As time has passed since “The Cheetah Girls,” how do you reflect on the legacy and impact of that franchise?
Raven: I was just talking about this the other day. It’s interesting because while I was doing it, I had so many personal things going on I didn't realize the impact. I don’t remember filming the movie because I was so disassociated. So looking back and hearing about it now, I'm happy that I was a part of something that left such an impression on people. I think it's super important that we continue to make content for people like that in the generations to come. I think it's really important that we know how important it is to listen to the artist's voice, the actor's voice, and the writer's voice so that we can continue to make stories that change people’s lives.
Oliver: Now to Miranda.
Miranda: (Laughs) Oh, to me. Hello!
Oliver: So let me tell you, everyone has a perception of who they think you are, already on the internet. Can you share your words about your upbringing and early life experiences?
Miranda: I grew up in LA, specifically Hancock Park. With loving parents and a younger sister. I was kind of an outgoing, yet introverted, quirky, loner, anxious kid who found safety in her imagination. [I}created worlds and fantasies, drew, wrote, climbed trees and played some sports.
Oliver: Can you share with us a bit about your background and journey as a doula?
Miranda: I’ve always enjoyed working in an environment where I feel like I am making a difference and during my time working as a doula I was able to truly be of service. It is such an honor to do that kind of work for people. Seeing life come to earthside is truly a wild experience.
Oliver: I don't know if you can share, but what's your most memorable experience?
Miranda: All of the experiences were so amazing. However one that sticks out was a client of mine who decided last minute she wanted to opt for a birth center delivery. Once it was clear she was in active labor I came to her house where she labored for like six hours before it was time to drive to the birth center. As things picked up she started questioning her choice (for a non - medicated birth). And because I knew her and her history, the choice to be as fully present and in her body as possible, was a brave choice. She rode all the waves of emotion and I watched her transcend into this unbelievably powerful state. She embodied the female essence and strength that I think all of us can kind of tap into, pushed that baby out and it was just wow.
Oliver: That's beautiful. Can you discuss any role models or individuals who have influenced and inspired you on a personal level, and how have they influenced your values and aspirations?
Miranda: I would say that both my parents have impacted how I live my life, my morals and my ethics. My mom is a really resilient, strong person who has had to overcome her demons. Watching her do that has inspired me. My dad has an amazing work ethic and is a master at acceptance.
Oliver: For the people that don't know, can you share the story of how you two met and fell in love?
Miranda: We met at a karaoke night in West Hollywood. Raven was hosting, [I] didn't know she was going to be there. [We] started talking, connected and then exchanged phone numbers.
Raven: We had another date and then I bought her a ticket to Philadelphia. We had a little vacation. A glamping moment. Then we broke up, then Covid came and I called her and said, yes, I have issues. You were right. And she sent me a care package and fed me and I was like, I'll marry you .. (laughing).
Miranda: Raven is literally the stereotypical, “the way to your man's heart is through his belly” (laughing). She is that person. All I did was literally make gooey butter cake, brownies, lemon curd, barbecue sauce and send it to her in a care package. Three months later we were married.
Oliver: So what initially attracted you to each other?
Raven: What I love about Miranda [is that] she's very, very smart. She's very focused and consistent. She's funny as hell and has soul. I don't know where she got it from, but she got soul in there somewhere. I'll be upstairs painting and I'll hear Al Green. And when it’s up to me I put on No Doubt or Bjork. I appreciate the conversation from her, you know? She got jokes. She got hella jokes, but she grew up in L.A. and L.A. is a melting pot of things. And she didn't just have one type of person that she grew up with. She knows how to cook her ass off. I love her pasta sauce and fantastic peanut butter bark.
Oliver: Now Miranda…
I loved that I could have real conversation with her. That our senses of humor were simpatico. She was cute and doting. Raven made me feel so special. And we had so much fun. Anything felt possible.
Oliver: How do you support and uplift each other as partners of this?
Raven: We say ‘get your ass up, let's go.’
Miranda: We have different ways of doing it, like that's how Raven supports me, (laughs).
Raven: I grew up in a family that believed there was no time to complain, because people who complain don't get shit done. You don't have time to say your back hurts, because there are so many other people out there who wish they could be in the position you're in. But Miranda’s taught me how to reframe some of that.
Oliver: As a prominent lesbian couple, how do you navigate the public spotlight and the representation you provide for the LGBTQ+ community?
Miranda: Honestly the only thing I can do is live authentically. Our podcast has become a platform for us to share some of ourselves with the world. I wanted that to happen so people could connect or feel inspired to live more authentically for themselves. I recognize that there's a lack of representation when it comes to lesbian, married couples. There's a lack of representation when it comes to interracial couples, and it felt important to me to offer some of that representation. If nothing else though I hope people walk away laughing or lighter after listening.
Oliver: Now, how do you feel —at one point the world had one perspective about you, and then you come out with this amazing news —as it always your idea to be a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community?
Raven: Well, I had two brains, right? First brain - I was going to marry a man and have a “best friend” that lives in the house next door. Second brain - come out and live authetically, but I didn’t know if that would ever be possible for myself. I remember when I first came out to a friend they encouraged me to do so publicly because he said our community needed representation. And my first thought was, why? Why do I have to be that person? Like, no one did that for me. No one represented me. Why do I have to be the first person to do that? I always kind of feel I'm in that position - the first to do something. And it has felt kind of unfair. But now, since being married it feels less daunting to share and represent.
Oliver: Can you share details about your podcast? What inspired you to venture into podcasting and what can listeners expect from the show?
Miranda: Absolutely. So the podcast is called “Tea Time with Raven and Miranda.” We ventured into podcasting for all of the reasons that were mentioned before, wanting to invite people into our world, showcase what our relationship looks like, and also just have great interesting conversations. We also wanted to offer a space for our guests to not have the same conversation that they've had a million times, which is why we pull a random topic out of the pot!
Raven: Yes! And we want to start venturing out into guests that have stories that have made an impact in the world. I think it's important.
Oliver: It was recently announced that you have an overall deal at Disney Branded Television. Congratulations! Talk to me about that.
Raven: Thank you! It’s exciting. I’ve been in the Disney family for a long time so this feels right. Miranda and I started a production company called I SEE PICTURES. We are co - executive producing projects, I’m directing, Miranda has done some acting. It’s a fun, creative time.
Miranda: SOME acting! Shout out to our short film “Fresh Paint” which my amazing director wife directed (laughing). It is super exciting to have started this prodco journey! We are interested in LGBTQIA stories and showcasing fresh voices and creatives from all walks of life. I've recently completed my first script (which I'm revising) but that was a big accomplishment for me. And of course bringing more of what Raven is so brilliant at in the children's space to life with Disney is amazing.
Oliver: Something tells me that this will be extremely powerful and it sounds like we’ll be seeing even more of you two! I want to bring up the hilarious videos that your fans have seen regarding cooking greens with Tiffany Haddish, which I've taken a few notes from both of you (laughs). How do you two navigate these trending videos and being in the public eye lately, what's been your strategy with that?
Raven: Just gotta take it one day at a time. We tackle subjects that we feel confident in — that we have something to say about, want to learn from or make us feel comfortable in our space.
Miranda: I remember it’s all fleeting. Whether you’re trending for something the internet deems positive or negative, it won’t last long. So don’t get attached to any of it. I’ve learned to not take any of it personally and just keep doing what we do, creating and enjoying the process.
Oliver: Wait, so can we talk about “Scrabble?”
Raven / Miranda: Yes!
Raven: I am the host of the new Scrabble game show airing on the CW this fall!
Miranda: Nice plug babe! (laughs)
Raven: I’m learning! (laughs) I love Scrabble. It’s a game I’ve played since forever – during the holidays with family, mobily, a random Tuesday! The game is 80 something years old so to be able to host a game show with such a rich history is just mind-blowing to me. I can’t wait for everyone to see it and learn some new Z words (laughing).
Oliver: Looking ahead, what are your hopes and aspirations for the legacy of your love story?
Miranda: I plan to make sure that my partner is happy, healthy content, and that we are working towards our shared goal. I think that when people live in their truth, and when people are willing to be vulnerable with other people, it naturally makes an impact. So that's my intention for us.
Raven: To keep sending her all the YouTube shorts!! (laughs) And work wise, to create really good content that we can be proud of. To tell stories that maybe bigger studios wouldn't tell. I wanna be able to stay connected to the minutiae of life, and remember that we are animals on this planet. Yeah, we're humans. Yeah, we have like super cool brains, but every now and then we need to ground. So keeping it natural, shining light where we can, and keeping the content educational and fun.
Oliver: In your words, how would you describe maturity?
Miranda: Maturity to me, means being self-aware, being able to check yourself, to remember that growth is constant, and that you always have a new opportunity to find perspective and a new lesson. And you can continue to lean into your maturity as time goes on.
Raven: Maturity? That's hard, right? Because two kinds go immediately to my head. There is maturity in the way you hold yourself and maturity in the education you have. You can hold yourself in a mature state, but not know anything about the world. And you can also be very childlike and be Einstein-brained. I think for me, mature is knowing who you are in the area that you're in at that time. Those who are mature, know their lane, stay in it (in a good way) and do it the best that they can.
Oliver: I think this interview is going to give people a new idea of who you two are and what you two mean to each other, and how you two have supported each other. I think it's important for the world to see that.
Miranda: Thank you! And I hope so. We are all complex, layered people. Raven is my person and I’m so happy to be doing this life with her.
Raven: Ditto babes, ditto.
Team Credits:
Editor-in-Chief/Stylist/Interviewer: Oliver Brown @olvrbrwn
Photographer: Reinhardt Kenneth @reinhardtkenneth
Key Makeup Artist for Raven Symoné: Kierra Lanice @kierralanice
Key Barber for Raven Symoné: Ricardo Chavez
Key Hairstylist for Miranda: Glenn Ellis @glennellishair
Key Makeup Artist for Miranda: Carol Park @1carolpark
Assistant Stylists: Safa Haque @magnificent_misfit, India Young @msindiayoungj, Tonya Jones @tljones422, Nekeyta Brunson @nekeytab, Ryan Berry @RyanB3rry Tristen Glenn @Tris10glenn Sheila Fisher @sheilafisherhair
Videographer: Charles Hawthorne @regenerationproductions
BTS Photographers:
Da'Jon Johnson @cappedbydi,
Kayla Turpin @kaylaturpinphotography
Lighting Director: Hugo Arvizu @arvizu_arts
Gaffer: Garret Alvarado @garrettsarchive
Photographer's Assistant: Madelin Park @madelinpark
Producer: @olvrbrwnstudios
Cover Edit & Retoucher: Liam Jenkins @liamjenkins.retoucher
Article Edited by: Sarah Spohn @unknownsphon
Sponsor: Vuliwear (@vuliwear_official)