Comedian and actress Tiffany Haddish has opened up about her past struggles with financial hardship, revealing in a candid Instagram Live session on May 6 that she used to go on dates solely to secure a free meal.
The 45-year-old Emmy winner, known for her breakout role in Girls Trip, shared the revelation while reflecting on her life before fame, shedding light on the lengths she went to during tough times.
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“Do you know how horrible it is to go on a date with a guy because you need a meal?” Haddish asked her viewers, her tone a mix of humor and raw honesty. “I don’t even want to be nice to this person or get to know him. I’m hungry.”
The Haunted Mansion star explained that these actions stemmed from a period when she was financially strapped, a stark contrast to her current success.
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She also touched on broader economic struggles, predicting that rising grocery prices might lead to “a lot more thinner people,” adding, “We’re about to learn how amazing the human body can be when you don’t eat.”
Haddish’s admission sparked a flurry of reactions online. Some fans praised her transparency, with one commenter on X noting, “It’s real to hear how Tiffany survived—lots of people have been there.”
Others, however, debated the ethics of her actions, with another user posting, “Women admit to this, but then get upset when men want to split the bill. It’s a double standard.”
This isn’t the first time Haddish has shared stories of her pre-fame struggles. In 2023, she revealed to People that she crashed weddings for free food while homeless, even giving speeches at events where she knew no one.
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She’s also admitted to selling her used underwear, pretending they belonged to Halle Berry, to make ends meet. These anecdotes paint a picture of a determined young woman navigating poverty through resourcefulness, a theme she often weaves into her comedy.
Haddish’s career has soared since those challenging days. She recently promoted her single “Woman Up” on Today with Hoda & Jenna, where she also discussed her eight-month celibacy streak while joking about still enjoying “free meals” on dates.
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Her openness about past hardships and current journey continues to resonate, making her a relatable figure for many. As she navigates her next chapter, Haddish remains unapologetically herself, using humor to reflect on a past that shaped her resilience.
