5 Shocking Facts About Lauryn Hill's Iconic Role In Sister Act 2: Back In The Habit (And Her Recent Reunion With Whoopi Goldberg)

For many, the name Lauryn Hill immediately conjures images of hip-hop royalty, a Grammy-winning solo artist, and the voice of The Fugees. However, long before the monumental success of The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, a teenage Hill was already making waves in Hollywood, securing a role that would immortalize her on the big screen: Rita Watson in Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit. This performance, which earned widespread praise, remains a crucial, yet often overshadowed, chapter in her career.

As of late 2025, the enduring legacy of the 1993 film has resurfaced, with the cast celebrating its 30th anniversary and fresh details emerging about Hill’s time on set, including a recent, heartwarming reunion with co-star Whoopi Goldberg. The connection between the legendary musician and the beloved comedy sequel is far deeper than a simple acting credit; it was a powerful showcase of her burgeoning talent that set the stage for her global dominance.

Lauryn Hill: A Comprehensive Biography and Profile

Lauryn Noelle Hill is a celebrated American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer, widely recognized as one of the most influential artists of her generation.

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• Born: May 26, 1975, in East Orange, New Jersey.
• Early Life & Career Start: Hill grew up pursuing both singing and acting professionally, appearing in local television commercials and auditioning for film roles during her early teens.
• Early Acting Roles: She began her career as a teen actress, notably appearing on the daytime drama As the World Turns in 1991 and in Steven Soderbergh’s drama film King of the Hill in 1993.
• Rise to Music Fame: Hill gained further prominence as the frontwoman of the iconic hip-hop trio, The Fugees, alongside Wyclef Jean and Pras Michel.
• Solo Success: Her 1998 solo debut album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, was a monumental success, earning her multiple Grammy Awards and cementing her status as a global music icon.
• Filmography Highlights: King of the Hill (1993), Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit (1993), and Restaurant (1998).

Her work is known for its unique blend of hip-hop, soul, and reggae music, making her a singular force in the industry.

The Unforgettable Performance: Lauryn Hill as Rita Watson

The role of Rita Watson in Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit is perhaps Hill’s most famous film appearance. The movie, which starred Whoopi Goldberg as Deloris Van Cartier/Sister Mary Clarence, centered on a group of inner-city Catholic school students who find their voice through music. Rita Watson, a rebellious but immensely talented student, served as the emotional core of the choir.

Hill’s performance was a critical and fan favorite. Her rendition of the spiritual "His Eye Is on the Sparrow" and her powerful vocals during the climactic "Joyful, Joyful" sequence showcased a raw, undeniable talent that transcended her acting role. This was more than just a supporting part; it was a star-making turn that foreshadowed the vocal powerhouse she would become.

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The film’s enduring popularity means that millions of fans who may not be familiar with her earlier work on As the World Turns or King of the Hill know her first and foremost as Rita Watson. The movie successfully blended comedy, music, and heart, and Hill’s character was instrumental in that success, particularly in the scenes where she clashes with and is eventually mentored by Whoopi Goldberg's character.

5 Shocking Details From the Sister Act 2 Set and Beyond

The decades since the film's release have brought to light several fascinating and surprising details about Hill's time on set, her co-stars, and the immediate aftermath of her breakout movie role. These facts add layers to the narrative of her transition from actress to music legend.

1. Co-Star Sheryl Lee Ralph Warned Her Against "The Fugees" Name

In a surprising revelation, actress Sheryl Lee Ralph, who played Rita's mother Florence Watson in the film, revealed that she had warned a teenage Hill against using the name "The Fugees" for her band. Ralph, known for her role as Florence, expressed her concern over the name, which is a shortened version of "refugees." Despite the warning, Hill and her bandmates stuck with the name, and The Fugees went on to achieve massive global success, though Ralph maintains she would love to work on a potential *Sister Act 3*.

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2. The Iconic "Joyful, Joyful" Performance Was a Teenage Triumph

The final performance of "Joyful, Joyful" is arguably the most famous moment of the film. It's rumored that the then-high-school-aged Lauryn Hill actually forged her mother's signature on a permission slip so she could participate in the filming of this climactic scene. This anecdote, often shared among fans, highlights the passion and dedication she had for the role and the music, even at a young age.

3. A Recent Reunion with Whoopi Goldberg Over 30 Years Later

In a moment that delighted fans, Lauryn Hill and Whoopi Goldberg, who played the lead role of Deloris Van Cartier, reunited over 30 years after the film's release. The two stars were photographed together during New York Fashion Week, showcasing a heartwarming connection that has lasted for decades. This reunion serves as a powerful reminder of the deep bonds formed on the set of the beloved sequel.

4. She Skipped the 30th Anniversary Cast Reunion

While the film celebrated its 30th anniversary, a cast reunion event took place without two of its biggest stars: Lauryn Hill and Jennifer Love Hewitt. Despite the absence, the reunion brought together many other cast members, underscoring the film’s enduring legacy. Hill's decision to skip such events is consistent with her generally private nature and focus on her touring career, often making her public appearances, like the one with Whoopi Goldberg, all the more special.

5. The Role of Rita Watson Was a Launchpad for Her Music Career

While she was already a member of The Fugees when filming *Sister Act 2*, the widespread praise for her vocal performance in the movie gave her a significant boost in visibility. Her powerful singing in the film proved to be a pivotal moment, showcasing her immense talent to a mass audience just as The Fugees were preparing for their breakthrough, effectively blurring the lines between her acting and music careers.

The Enduring Legacy of Rita Watson and The Miseducation

Lauryn Hill's career trajectory, from a talented teen actress in *Sister Act 2* to the voice behind one of the most critically acclaimed albums of all time, is a testament to her multi-faceted genius. The film role of Rita Watson is not just a footnote; it is a vital piece of her history that showcases the incredible vocal range and magnetic screen presence that would later captivate millions of music fans worldwide. The character of Rita, who fought to use her voice, perfectly mirrored Hill’s own journey as a young artist determined to break through.

Today, the film is often revisited by new generations, ensuring that Hill's acting talent and her unforgettable performance of "Joyful, Joyful" continue to resonate. The recent reunions and co-star recollections keep the conversation fresh, reminding us all that the groundwork for the global phenomenon known as Ms. Lauryn Hill was laid, in part, on the set of a beloved Whoopi Goldberg comedy over three decades ago. The connection between *Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit* and the legend of Lauryn Hill remains one of Hollywood’s most delightful and enduring success stories.