America couldn’t get enough of Gabrielle Union after the preview premiere of BET’s new scripted series, Being Mary Jane, and neither could Essence as she was snagged for their December issue cover.

The leading lady sat down with entertainment editor Cori Murray to discuss her role a Mary Jane, dealing with rejection in Hollywood and being a former “mean-girl.”

Styled by June Ambrose in an off-white Bibhu Mohapatra gown, the star revealed how she dealt with being rejected for high profile roles to industry peers such as Olivia Pope in the hit series, Scandal, and the lead in Jumping The Broom.

“There’s this intense desire for us all to be chosen by a man, or a job, or chosen for fame, whatever. But when you’re in the public eye and you’re not chosen, the rejection feels public,” says Union. “So to cover the wound, you attack the person who is chosen.”

Although she wasn’t chosen for these roles, Union realized that everything happens for a reason. These rejections repositioned her for more opportunities such as Being Mary Jane. While auditioning for Jumping The Broom, Union impressed Salim Akil so much that he recommended her for Mara Brock-Akil’s latest project, Being Mary Jane.

During the rest of the interview Union discusses changing her life for the better and how “living your truth takes real courage.” She also will be gushing about her love interest, Dwayne Wade. Catch the full in the December issue of Essence on stands now. Also Union’s show Being Mary Jane premieres January 7^th on BET. – Shanae Hatchett