Both characters are differently hued explorations of the Strong Black Woman stereotype, and how liked they are because of or in spite of their messiness is what sets them apart. “You judged me immediately, just like a white man in a boardroom, because my hips are too wide and hue too dark,” snaps Annalise at Olivia as they sit in a hair salon. “Your skin tone and measurements are not why people don’t like you. It’s you. You, Annalise Keating, are a bully who insults people and then wonders why they won’t help you.” Olivia Pope chose likeability, while Annalise Keating chose self-awareness.
