Angela Evelyn Bassett was born on August 16, 1958 in New York City, to Betty Jane (Gilbert), a social worker, and Daniel Benjamin Bassett, a Kerry Washington is an African-American actress, television show producer and film director who is known for her roles in Scandal, Ray, the Tim Story Fantastic Four film series, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Confirmation, Django Unchained, Little Fires Everywhere, Cars 3 and The Last King of Scotland. Her performance in the series earned her four Daytime Emmy Award nominations, and one win. Milwaukee, Wisconsin native, Marcia Wright is an Actor, teacher, coach and collaborator. She made her screen debut with a leading role in the critically acclaimed independent film The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in Love (1995) and went on to appear in Boogie Nights (1997), directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. June 3, 1906 April 12, 1975 Claim to fame: Broadcast journalist, talk show host. Leslie Uggams was born on May 25, 1943 in New York City, New York, USA. She is known for her roles in Moesha, Osmosis Jones and Cinderella. Cindy Herron was born on September 26, 1961 in San Francisco, California, USA. She studied dance with Katherine Dunham, Geoffrey Holder, and Janet Collins. She gave birth to a daughter named . Unlike most children's television programs at the time, the producers of Sesame Street decided against . SistersInc. In this one, directed by George Spencer is a native of Montgomery, Alabama, which she claims is the proverbial buckle of the Bible belt. Nominated for Academy Award. A "closet" lover of acting, this practical Alabamian knew that she'd someday work in the film industry, Niecy Nash was born on February 23, 1970 in Palmdale, California, USA. She was a vocalist with the Is the first African-American actress to host a talk show long before Oprah Winfrey. This was her sixth Tony Award win, and it meant that she set a number of records. She has performed at the Super Bowl twice, and in a move that many couldnt pull off, successfully dropped a surprise self-titled album in 2013. She has released many R&B albums and singles since the 1990s. I feel like the reason Im able to do this is definitely because Brandy did it on TV, Palmer said to the Associated Press. She was previously married to Maxwell Glanville. Contact Sharon Leal is a military brat. Keegan-Michael Key is of Black, Polish, and Belgian Flemish heritage. Why shes extraordinary: Though the 72-year-old star stole our hearts decades earlier as everyones favorite TV mom, Clair Huxtable, Rashad won a Tony Award for her turn in the 2003 revival of the groundbreaking play A Raisin in the Sun. Faye started her own dance school at the age of 12 in her neighborhood. -For Colored Girls. Smollett's performance was lauded by industry insiders and critics alike. McDonald is also the only performer ever to win Tonys in all four possible acting categories: Best Leading Performance in both a play and a musical and Best Supporting Performance in both a play and a musical. Ted Giannoulas, The San Diego Chicken. Notable Film Performances:-Passion Fish Her mother, Emma (Harris), was a teacher and a nurse, and her father, Robert James Johnson, Jr., was a clergyman. Masters of Social Work degree, Clark Atlanta University School of Social Work. She Phylicia was the first African-American actress to win the Best Actress (Play) Tony Award for her 2004 performance as Lena Younger in a revival of "A Raisin in the Sun" (by playwright Lorraine Hansberry). She died on November 25, 1993 in Englewood, New Jersey Best known as the the lead singer of the popular 1960s singing group The Supremes, Diana Ernestine Earle Ross was born on March 26, 1944, in Detroit, Michigan, the second of six children of African-American parents Ernestine Lillian (Moten), a schoolteacher, and Fred Earl Ross, who served in the Kerry Washington is an African-American actress, television show producer and film director who is known for her roles in Scandal, Ray, the Tim Story Fantastic Four film series, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Confirmation, Django Unchained, Little Fires Everywhere, Cars 3 and The Last King of Scotland. Shes also the first Black woman to earn gold in both the individual all around and team competitions at the Olympic games. Jesse Powell, 51 Her white father, Jerry, is an entrepreneur. Its for every nameless, faceless woman of color that now has a chance because this door tonight has been opened. Paige Hurd is a well-known actress born and raised on 20th July 1992, in Dallas, Texas. June 10, 1895 October 26, 1952 She is also a New York Times bestselling author and signed a three year, multimillion-dollar deal with Netflix in 2019. She studied acting at Howard University and began her Hollywood career in guest roles on several television shows before making her breakthrough in Baby Boy (2001). She was recognized for her guest appearance on the Goodnight Sweet Blues episode of Route 66. This is the top 50 Black Actresses of All Time. Sharon then moved with her parents to the Philippines, till she was 6 years old. Elsewhere (1982). Given away by her mother, she arrived in Harlem at age nine. 15. TANISHA LAVERNE GRANT a 2018 distinguished BLACK WOMEN IN MEDIA honoree single-handedly gets the exclusive! The first child of John Johnson, a subway conductor, and Mabel Faulk Johnson, a nurse; music First African-American (male or female) to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy. Halle First African American woman to win an Oscar Award in a leading role. Throughout the pandemic, Rihanna and her Clara Lionel Foundation (CLF) have been working to help marginalized communities that have been affected . Oprah Winfrey -Frankie & Alice She was the second woman and first Black woman to do so. Subscribe to Newsletter They separated before she was born, and Harris was raised by her mother and has no relationship with her father. Hattie McDaniel Actress | Gone with the Wind After working as early as the 1910s as a band vocalist, Hattie McDaniel debuted as a maid in The Golden West (1932). "Hurricane". When she was 10 years old, she and her family moved to the Dominican Republic, where they would live for Kat Graham is an actress, singer, dancer and producer. Best known for the role of Florida Evans on the 1970s sitcoms Maude (1972) and Good Times (1974), African-American actress Esther Rolle proved to be as spirited and iron-willed off-camera as well. -The Dead Girl She's also the bestselling author of Becoming and a podcaster. African-American actress for over five decades, performing on stage, radio, television, and in film; co-founder of Harlem's American Negro Theater. "No one raised me, " she recollected, "I just ran wild." Notable Film Roles:-Beloved Jaden smith. In February 2017, the Dope actress hit the red carpet in a afro . Most recently, Rhimes signed a multiyear $150 million deal with Netflix. Got suggestions? Tell us what you think about this feature. -Diary of a Mad Black Woman Whoopi Goldberg Actress | Ghost Whoopi Goldberg was born Caryn Elaine Johnson in the Chelsea section of Manhattan on November 13, 1955. The child of a teenage rape victim, Ethel Waters grew up in the slums of Philadelphia and neighboring cities, seldom living anywhere for more than a few weeks at a time. Sort by: View: 46 names 1. She is known as "The Vocal Bible". In her biography she stated that, on the day she was born, her father was in the midst of a card game trying to get money to pay the hospital costs. Wood Harris Actor | Remember the Titans Her father was Dominican and her mother is Puerto Rican. Notable Film Performances:-Waiting to Exhale She is an Emmy-winning television host and multiple award-winning voice actor for Archer (2009).Aisha's feature directorial debut, Axis (2017), was shot in just seven days on Bianca Lawson was born on March 20, 1979 in Los Angeles, California, USA. She is married to Vernon L. Bolling. She is an actress and producer, known for Reno 911! Jalen Hill, 22 Source:Getty 7. Solange was born on June 24, 1986 in Houston, Texas, USA. Actress | Maria Howell is known for Hidden Figures (2016), Saints & Sinners (2016) and Devious Maids (2013). Her mother left later in order Vanessa Lynne Williams was born on March 18, 1963 in Tarrytown, Greenburgh, New York and raised in Millwood, New Castle, New York to Helen Williams & Milton Williams, both music teachers. But with the release of "Girls Trip," four black women Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett. She was previously married to Herman McCoy and Unknown. She went to prayer-school there. W hen . Primetime Emmy Award winner. Nominated for a Golden Globe and two time Primetime Emmy nominee. July 17, 1935 Even though the name widow . Extensive professional and Community Theatre background, working Demetria Dyan McKinney (born August 27, 1979) is an American actress and singer. Deborah Kaye Allen was born in Houston, Texas, to African-American parents, Vivian Elizabeth (Ayers), a poet and art director, and Andrew Arthur Allen, an orthodontist. Three Daytime Emmy Awards. Quevenzhe Wallis got her big break at five years old when she landed the role as Hushpuppy in Beasts of the Southern Wild. Pam Grier was born in Winston-Salem, NC, one of four children of Gwendolyn Sylvia (Samuels), a nurse, and Clarence Ransom Grier Jr., an Air Force mechanic. 12. Amanda Edwards 03 Kiersey Clemons. The CCH stands for Carol Christine Hilaria, her birth name. Kirstie Louise Alley (January 12, 1951 - December 5, 2022) was an American actress. Kara Brock was born on March 29th in Long Beach, California, USA as Kara Denean Brock. Here is the list of top African American actresses ever. Abbey Lincoln was born on August 6, 1930 in Chicago, Illinois, USA. She was an actress, known for The Matrix Revolutions (2003), Awakenings (1990) and Malcolm X (1992). Since then, Towanda Underdue is known for Piyalir Password (2009), Black Oaks and House of Cards (2013). She is an Academy Award-winning actress, Grammy Award-winning recording artist and best-selling author. 50 names 1. -The Help. Halle Oprah Gail Winfrey , often known simply as Oprah, is an American talk show host, television producer, actress, author, and philanthropist. Audiences across the United States and internationally have admired her for her work- including her celebrated, Oscar-nominated Third film to feature African-American nominees for both Best Actress and Supporting Actress categories. Morgan Freeman. In 1962 Miss Beah Richards was nominated for a Tony award for her 1965 performance in James Baldwin's The Amen Corner. She studied acting at Howard University and began her Hollywood career in guest roles on several television shows before making her breakthrough in Baby Boy (2001). December 19, 1933 Her African American mother, Thersa, is a corporate manager. B.E. Jennifer Kate Hudson was born on September 12, 1981 in Chicago, Illinois to Darnell Donerson (ne Hudson) & Samuel Simpson. Some of. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE 6. With over 50 film and television As of 2009, she's the sole African-American actress to be honored with a Daytime Emmy for her work in a daytime drama series. Oprah Daily participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. Her father was African-American and her mother is of mostly English and German descent. -Guess Who Jurnee Smollett is an award-winning actress and activist of rare talent and conviction. She Named one of People Magazine's highly-coveted 50 Most Beautiful in 2014, Haitian-born actress Garcelle Beauvais immigrated to the United States at the age of seven with her mother and sisters, and has since charmed audiences with her dramatic and comedic abilities. First African-American actress to be Oscar-nominated for "Best Actress in a Leading Role. She was born in Tucson, Arizona. She thanked Dorothy Dandridge, Lena Horne, Jada Pinkett Smith and a slew of other black actresses. First African-American actress to win in this category. Later she became a chorus girl on Lonette McKee's career began in the music industry in hometown Detroit, Michigan as a child prodigy, where she began playing keyboards composing music and lyrics, singing and performing professionally at a young age. This moment is so much bigger than me, she said at the time. (We all know who runs the world, thanks to her.) Her early life hinted at her future career. Josephine Baker was the first black woman to star in a major motion picture, Zouzou, in 1934. The condition is called Body Dismorphic Disorder. September 6, 1972 They divorced after only a few months of marriage. (She has 13. Dorothy Dandridge was the first black actress nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her starring role in the 1954 film Carmen Jones. She is only the second African-American Actress to win a Primetime Emmy Award for Guest Actress in a Drama Series. The first child of John Johnson, a subway conductor, and Mabel Faulk Johnson, a nurse; music . She is an actress, known for Daddy's Little Girls (2007), 9-1-1: Lone Star (2020) and Shrink (2009). Dorothy Jean Dandridge was born on November 9, 1922 in Cleveland, Ohio, to Ruby Dandridge (ne Ruby Jean Butler), an entertainer, and Cyril H. Dandridge, a cabinet maker and minister. Madge Sinclair was born Madge Dorita Walters on April 28, 1938 in Kingston, Jamaica, married young and had two sons. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. Sales Partnership Solutions right at the forefront of the development of the vaccine, Assistant Professor of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, made the unprecedented move to step back as a senior member, open about everything from her fertility struggles, raising her children with love no matter what, Sen. Kamala Harris of California made history. was one of the first black actresses to portray a character on a television series and science-fiction series who was treated the same as characters of other races. 40 Famous Black Women - influential African American Women in History 1 2022 Holiday Gift Guide 2 75 of the Most Unique Gifts to Give Mom 3 170 Boy Cat Names That Are the Pick of the. Tied with Whoopi Goldberg as the most nominated African-American actress with 2 nominations. This is the top 50 Black Actresses of All Time. Anika Noni Rose is a film and Broadway actress who lent her voice as Princess Tiana, Disneys first African American animated princess, in The Princess and the Frog (2009). She was discovered by a fashion editor at Ebony magazine and Actress | She was previously married Cassi Davis was born on July 31, 1964 in Holly Springs, Mississippi, USA. Notable Film Roles:-Star Trek Her father is from Trinidad and her mother is from Jamaica. Diahann Carroll is the first black actress to star in her own TV series, Julia, in 1968. Equally at home on stage and on screen, award-winning actress Loretta Devine has created some of the most memorable roles in theatre, film and television.Devine first captured national attention in the role of Lorrell, one of the three original "Dreamgirls" in Michael Bennett's classic After working as early as the 1910s as a band vocalist, Hattie McDaniel debuted as a maid in The Golden West (1932). Why shes extraordinary: With films like 13th, Selma, and A Wrinkle in Time (starring our very own O of O), DuVernay has made it a point to put representation at the forefront of her critically acclaimed work. 17 March 1976. She studied acting at Syracuse University and appeared in her One of television's premier African-American series stars, elegant actress, singer and recording artist Diahann Carroll was born Carol Diann (or Diahann) Johnson on July 17, 1935, in the Bronx, New York. Spencer is a native of Montgomery, Alabama, which she claims is the proverbial buckle of the Bible belt. 19 Famous Couples Who Make Forever Look Easy . We have to make the choiceevery single dayto exemplify the truth, the respect, and the grace that we wish for this world, Oprah said in 2019. One of television's premier African-American series stars, elegant actress, singer and recording artist Diahann Carroll was born Carol Diann (or Diahann) Johnson on July 17, 1935, in the Bronx, New York. 1, which ties her for the longest; four Olympic gold medals; and . Won Broadway's 1987 Tony Award as Best Actress (Featured Role - Play) for August Wilson's "Fences." DuBois is credited as the first African-American woman to appear regularly on a daytime soap, Love of Life (1951). -The Last King of Scotland She studied acting at Howard University and began her Hollywood career in guest roles on several television shows before making her breakthrough in Baby Boy (2001). Armed with an acid dry wit and a full arsenal of sarcasm and sass, African-American character comedienne Marla Gibbs showed up on 1970s television with a bang in middle age (44). She gave birth to a daughter named Grace Jones was born on May 19, 1948 in Spanish Town, St Catherine, Jamaica to Marjorie Jones (ne Williams) and Reverend Robert W. Jones. 34 of Michelle Obamas Most Inspiring Quotes, The 55 Best Black Movies on Netflix Right Now, 14 Black Inventors That Changed American Life, 20 Black Christmas Movies for the Best Holiday, 10 bell hooks Books to Read in Your Lifetime, 30 Black TV Shows to Binge-Watch This Year, 40 Famous Black Women Who Are Leaving Their Mark on History, Kent Dayton / Harvard Public Health Magazine, McKenzie Jean-Philippe is the editorial assistant at. Alfre Woodard was born on November 8, 1952 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the youngest of three children of Constance, a homemaker, and Marion H. Woodard, an interior designer. Ruby Dee was an American actress, poet, playwright, screenwriter, journalist and civil rights activist. Is a black widow spider male or female? Or Naomi. Her most memorable role was on the television series All My Children (1970). She first danced for the public on the streets of St. Louis for nickels and dimes. With Greys, shes the first Black woman to create and produce a top 10 network series. Taraji Penda Henson is an American actress and singer. After appearing on the March 2007 issue of Vogue magazine, she became the third African-American celebrity to grace the front cover. China Anne McClain - 22 years Actress China Anne McClain attends the REVOLT and AT&T Summit in Los Angeles. Why shes extraordinary: Though Marklealong with her husband, Prince Harrymade the unprecedented move to step back as a senior member of the royal family in 2019, since she joined the world of the monarchy in 2016, the former actress has established herself as an advocate for a variety of causes, including gender equality and climate change. After her birth, her brothers formed a band later called The Jackson 5. Primetime Emmy award winner. Parks also helped to choreograph the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, The Wiz. Golden Globe nominee. Let us know on Instagram. From 1997 to 2000, she starred as the lead in the sitcom Veronica's Closet, earning additional Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. One of television's premier African-American series stars, elegant actress, singer and recording artist Diahann Carroll was born Carol Diann (or Diahann) Johnson on July 17, 1935, in the Bronx, New York. -Columbiana Although best known since 1993 as the smart and shrewd Lieutenant Anita Van Buren on the long-running TV crime drama Law & Regina King was born in Los Angeles, California, to Gloria, a special education teacher, and Thomas King, an electrician. With roots leading back to Louisiana southern aristocracy, lovely leading lady Lynn Whitfield was born in 1953, the eldest of four children and a third-generation BFA graduate from Howard University. Captivating, gifted, and sensational, Angela Bassett's presence has been felt in theaters and on stages and television screens throughout the world. You may know them as Dr. Callie Torres from Grey's Anatomy. The "Butterfly" stage name, which does describe her Marianne Raigipcien Jean-Baptiste is an English actress. She excelled not only at looking after herself, but also at singing and Viola Davis is a critically revered actress of film, television, and theater and has won rave reviews for her multitude of substantial and intriguingly diverse roles. She's the sixth of seven siblings and holds a BS in Liberal Arts from Auburn University. She Keshia Knight Pulliam was born on April 9, 1979 in Newark, New Jersey, USA. Alice Torrence or Clarissa Mondi or Ester Lion or Pat Meadows or Svenja Bornholm or Valerie Vartan, Roxane Hall, Roxana Grand, Roxana Hall, Roxanne, Roxxanne Hall, Cindy Stevens, Roxie, Angela Hall (Playboy videos), Angela, Angie. 3. Working across a variety of genres in film, television and music, she is one of most accomplished and versatile young talents working today.Graham was recently seen in the 70s period crime thriller "The Poison Rose" opposite Morgan Freeman and Jennifer Kate Hudson was born on September 12, 1981 in Chicago, Illinois to Darnell Donerson (ne Hudson) & Samuel Simpson. Until her passing, Isabel continued to act frequently, most recently in a series of First African-American Actress to win a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. Tika Sumpter was born in New York and graduated from Marymount Manhattan College. Black Men XCEL British actress Naomie Harris was born in London, England, the only child of television scriptwriter Lisselle Kayla. Lauren London first appeared in the film, ATL, opposite actor and recording artist, Tip "TI" Harris. She played Angie Baxter. She died on October 2, 2006 in Baltimore, Maryland, USA. Televised events such as the 1936 Summer Olympics in Germany, the 19340 coronation of King George VI in the UK, and David Sarnoff's famous introduction at the 1939 New York World's Fair in the . October 31, 1896 September 1, 1977 Audiences across the United States and internationally have admired her for her work- including her celebrated, Oscar-nominated Cicely Tyson was born in Harlem, New York City, where she was raised by her devoutly religious parents, from the Caribbean island of Nevis. From her role as the ambitious Joan in the early 2000s show Girlfriends to her current groundbreaking gig as Dr. Rainbow Johnson on the hit sitcom Black-ish, the actress is guaranteed to put a smile on your face with her fashion, goofy Instagram antics, and passion for movements like #TimesUp and #BlackLivesMatter. Tall, graceful, supremely accomplished American actress, singer, dancer and choreographer Paula Kelly was born in Jacksonville, Florida, one of three daughters, to Ruth and Lehman Kelly. Notable Film Roles:-Eve's Bayou A classy, smart-looking African-American actress who broke racial barriers in 1970s Hollywood but suffered greatly in her private life years after her TV glory days, award-winning actress Gail Fisher was born on August 18, 1935, in Orange, New Jersey, the youngest of five children. Weve got quite the inspiring list, with actors, artists, activists, athletes, doctors, and even a poet. Nominated for a Golden Globe, two time Emmy nominee. A widely respected entertainment journalist known as a "Hollywood Insider" Tanisha is one of the industry's leading go to personalities for all things pop culture! Then, her parents packed up to move back to the US and settled in Fresno, California. Sasha the Diva is known for Baby Mama's Club (2010), Daddy's Little Girls (2007) and Wicked City (2022). This is a list of the best, most iconic African American actress to ever appear in cinema. She was born Nell Ruth Hardy in 1948 in Birmingham Tony Award winner and Emmy nominated actress. -Doubt. As such, there are a number of famous actors and actresses, singers . Notable Film Roles:-Ray Audra McDonald was born on July 3, 1970 in Berlin, Germany as Audra Ann McDonald. In 1997 at age 26, she began Robin Simone Givens was born on November 27, 1964 in New York City, to Ruth (Newby) and Reuben Givens. She graduated from Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia in 1971. Shes the first female gymnast to win three World all-around titles in a row; the most decorated American gymnast with 32 total World and Olympic medals; and shes won the most World Championship medals by a woman gymnast in history (25), including 19 gold. If that woman is black or Latina or Asian or otherwise nonwhite the odds just aren't in her favor. Lupita Nyong'o. Lupita Nyong'o is a Kenyan-Mexican actress. She also made history as the first black actress to take the lead in Annie in the 2014 remake. Notable Film Performances:-Claudine Ihre Familie lebt seit Generationen in der Gegend, doch sie gelten immer noch als Eindringlinge. When their reality series Ice Loves Coco hit the air, it appeared that many of us wanted to know . -Down In the Delta -What's Love Got to Do With It As a child, Phylicia, her older brother Andrew (called Tex), and younger sister, dancer and actress Debbie Allen, lived in Mexico. She is known as "The Vocal Bible". She was previously married to Lucien Happersberger. Clarice Taylor was born on September 20, 1917 in Buckingham County, Virginia, USA. Many black stars have voiced our favorite animated characters and entertained us on both the small and big screens. She has released many R&B albums and singles since the 1990s. Before becoming an iconic actor in the 1980s, the mohawked Mr. T served as a military policeman in the Army. First black actress to be nominated in this category. Photo: Amanda Edwards Source: Getty Images The American actress and singer China Anne McClain was born on August 25, 1998, in Decatur, Georgia, USA. Under the prodding of her mother, Dorothy and her sister Vivian Dandridge began performing publicly, usually in Meagan Monique Good was born on 8 August 1981 in Panorama City, California, USA, to Tyra Wardlow-Doyle, who worked as her manager, and Leondis "Leon" Good, an LAPD officer. She lived at home with her sisters, while Thandiwe Newton was born in London. The multi award winning Regina Hall was born December 12, 1970 in Washington, D.C., to Ruby, a teacher, and Odie Hall, a contractor. She was discovered by a fashion editor at Ebony magazine and Has been acting over a decade. She was the first black actress to portray Bonds love interest. Sumpter began her career as model, before she landed the role of "Layla Williamson" in ABC's daytime soap opera, One Life to Live (1968) (2005-2010, 2011).After she left the soap, Sumpter won a recurring role in the Josephine Baker was born Freda Josephine McDonald in St. Louis, MO, in 1906 to Carrie McDonald, a laundress, and Eddie Carson, a musician. Your Money, Your Life, LATEST LISTS Although best known since 1993 as the smart and shrewd Lieutenant Anita Van Buren on the long-running TV crime drama Law & Was nominated for Broadway's 2008 Tony Award for Best Performance By a Leading Actress in a Play for "Come Back, Little Sheba". Freema Agyeman Actress | Doctor Who In addition to her extremely successful music career, she is also involved in fashion and philanthropy. -Crooklyn -Night Catches Us. Megastar Michael Jackson was said to have a form of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), which caused a negative pre-occupation with body image. She is of half African-American (from her father's mother and her mother's father) and half Ashkenazi Jewish (from her father's father and her mother's Beyonc Giselle Knowles was born on September 4, 1981 in Houston, Texas. As a teenager, she toured with gospel great Mahalia Jackson and, at the age of 18, she formed the Meditation Singers and became the first performer to take gospel music to the casinos of Las Vegas. In June 2014, Audra McDonald won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play, for playing Billie Holiday in "Lady Day at Emerson's Bar & Grill." She graduated from Fordham University in 1992, and went on to earn a master's degree in journalism from New York University before shifting to an acting career. December 26, 1947 Fox was born in South Bend, Indiana, on July 30, 1964, and is the daughter of Everlyena, a pharmaceutical technician, and William Fox, a private school administrator. Although filmgoers may be able to trace her back only to that once-in-a-lifetime part, Margaret has been a talented player on the large and Tell us what you think about this feature. Guest performances in regular television series were included in the category at this time or Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or a Movie. She is an Academy Award-winning actress, Grammy Award-winning recording artist and best-selling author. She Gina Ravera was born on May 20, 1966 in San Francisco, California, USA. Vanessa sang and danced in Vanessa Estelle Williams (Actress, Singer, Writer, Director) born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, is a talented force that came to Hollywood in the 90's with passion purpose and staying power. Her career started in 1971, when Roger Corman of New World Pictures launched Regina King was born in Los Angeles, California, to Gloria, a special education teacher, and Thomas King, an electrician. Landing the feisty maid role on the popular ground-breaking CBS sitcom The Jeffersons (1975), eventually led to her very First African-American actress to be nominated for an Emmy as Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. Madge worked as a teacher in Jamaica until she was 30. Ruby Dee was an American actress, poet, playwright, screenwriter, journalist and civil rights activist. ), Claim to fame: Businesswoman, entrepreneur. 20 most famous Australian actresses in Hollywood to watch in 2022 1. It includes people who were born in Haiti or possess Haitian citizenship, who are notable in Haiti and abroad. -Hairspray. Her father is of African-American descent and her mother is of Afro-Caribbean ancestry (from Barbados and Best known as the the lead singer of the popular 1960s singing group The Supremes, Diana Ernestine Earle Ross was born on March 26, 1944, in Detroit, Michigan, the second of six children of African-American parents Ernestine Lillian (Moten), a schoolteacher, and Fred Earl Ross, who served in the Lauren Keyana Palmer was born on August 26, 1993 in Harvey, Illinois to Sharon and Larry Palmer, both former actors. Married, 2 children, 5 grandchildren. African American actress Juanita Moore entered films in the early 1950s, a time in which few black people were given an opportunity to act in major studio films. First time multiple African-American actresses received Best Actress nominations for a movie-Lady Sings the Blues. Isabel Sanford was a Broadway actress for over thirty years before moving to Hollywood. She is an actress and writer, known for Original Sin (2001), The White Shadow (1978) and The Lost City (2022). BLACK ENTERPRISE is the premier business, investing, and wealth-building resource for African Americans. Debbi Morgan moved to New York City when she was three months old. Why shes extraordinary: At the 2012 London Summer Olympics, Douglas became the first woman of color to win the title of Individual All-Around Champion in artistic gymnastics. 50 names 1. With over 50 film and television Sharisse Jackson was born on August 31, 1976 in Boston, Massachusetts and raised in Costa Mesa, California. She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, becoming the first Kenyan to do so. Jackson is of African American and Cherokee descent on her mother's side and Puerto Rican and Mexican descent on her father's. This is a list of notable Haitian people. Notable Film Performances:-Losing Isaiah . Why shes extraordinary: Longtime Oprah fans know that Gayle has been at the top of her game for years now (she has three Emmys to prove it). She attended the University of Kansas for two years before deciding to move to Los Angeles, CA to pursue her acting career.Kara's Monica Calhoun has been acting since the age of 13. She became the 9th actress to win this award on . Tyson is also the oldest actress to win a Tony Award for Best Performance by an Actress (2013) for her role in the play The Trip to Bountiful. Cicely Tyson was born in Harlem, New York City, where she was raised by her devoutly religious parents, from the Caribbean island of Nevis. Claim to fame: Author, lawyer, and the first Black FLOTUS of the United States. Whoopi Goldberg was born Caryn Elaine Johnson in the Chelsea section of Manhattan on November 13, 1955. Lupita Nyong'o received an academy award for the best supporting actress for 2013's '12 years a slave'. She is best known for her talk show, The Oprah Winfrey Show, broadcast from Chicago, which was the highest-rated television program of its kind in history and She was the first African-American women to make the list of billionaires, in 2003. Lily Tomlin . Whoopi's recent ancestors were from Georgia, Florida, and Virginia. Donna Biscoe was born on September 30, 1955 in Fort Benning, Georgia, USA. Marva Hicks Taha, an award-winning actor and singer who originally hailed from Petersburg, Virginia, passed away in New York City on September 17, 2022. About July 17, 1935 - Diahann Carroll is the first black actress to star in her own TV series, Julia, in 1968. Why shes extraordinary: Known to her loyal fanbase as Queen B, Knowles-Carter is arguably one of the best entertainers of our time. She grew up in Brooklyn, New York and began her career on Broadway. ABOUT She is best known for originating the role of "Ruth Younger" in the stage and film versions of A Raisin in the Sun (1961).She also starred in The Jackie Robinson Story (1950), Cat People (1982), six Primetime Emmy nominations one win. -The Manchurian Candidate. -Boomerang She is an actress, known for One on One (2001), Recovery Road (2016) and Love & Basketball (2000). -The Secret Life of Bees "No one raised me, " she recollected, "I just ran wild." 1. 8. A former high school Mo'Nique received a standing ovation when she stepped on stage for the first time in her hometown of Baltimore, Maryland, giving her confidence to pursue a career as a stand-up comedian. What are some names of famous child black male actors? Top 40 Under 40 Black Actors/Actresses (2013 Edition). Rosie O'Donnell, actress and former talk show host. Her mother (once linked to Ruby Dee was an American actress, poet, playwright, screenwriter, journalist and civil rights activist. She is an Academy Award-winning actress, Grammy Award-winning recording artist and best-selling author. Sometimes, being a famous rock star isn't enough to steal the show. Her upcoming projects include My Last Day Without Tasha Smith is a multifaceted actress and director whose work brings style and intensity to the projects she works on, whether in front of or behind the camera. Nominated for a Golden Globe, Primetime Emmy award, and was nominated for a Daytime Emmy award and won one as well. Why shes extraordinary: Part of the gold-winning U.S. womens artistic gymnastics team at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and the silver-winning team at the 2020 Olympics, Biles is a highly decorated gymnast in her own right. -The Curious Case of Benjamin Button She is an actress, known for Haunt (2019), A.N.T. In her biography she stated that, on the day she was born, her father was in the midst of a card game trying to get money to pay the hospital costs. She refused to perform for segregated audiences in America and is equally known for her work in the Civil Rights Movement. Her parents were Henry Okonedo (1939-2009) and Joan Allman. And looking at this list of famous Black Virgos, you might see a few additional stars whom you . She is an actress and producer, known for The Ladykillers (2004), Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (1997) and Collateral (2004). Has the most Emmy wins and second all-time in Emmy nominations at 17. In the fall of 2020, she starred in J.J. Abrams, Jordan Peele and Misha Green's critically acclaimed drama for HBO, "Lovecraft Country." Her mother, Theodosia, was a domestic, and her father, William Tyson, was a carpenter and painter. Vanessa sang and danced in A native of Michigan, S. Epatha Merkerson earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Wayne State University. Here are the actresses who are under 30 in the year 2020: 1. -Talk to Me Why shes extraordinary: A co-host of the now-canceled Emmy winning talk show The Chew, Halls warm, bubbly personality, expertise of Southern comfort food, and her philosophy to always cook with love made her incredibly popular with fans all across the country. 16 of 24 . March 3, 1949 China Anne McClain comes from an artistic family. Nickelback frontman Chad Kroeger seems to have a hilarious story to prove that. She was previously married to Teddy Wilson. She died on August 14, 2010 in Manhattan, New York City, New York, Debbi Morgan moved to New York City when she was three months old. She died on October 2, 2006 in Baltimore, Maryland, USA. She is best known for her talk show, The Oprah Winfrey Show, broadcast from Chicago, which was the highest-rated television program of its kind in history and Often considered hip-hop's first lady, the woman behind the moniker Queen Latifah was born Dana Elaine Owens on March 18, 1970, in East Orange, New Jersey. -The Pursuit of Happyness Known to many as a prodigy in the dance world, Copeland was dancing en pointe three months after her first dance class as a teen and was then performing professionally within a year. With Oscar season upon us, it only makes sense to celebrate Tinseltowns most famed black actresses whove contributed to the month-long observance. 50, fine, and fabulous all the time! Beharie also played Ernie Davis' girlfriend in the movie The Express (2008). Working at the National Institutes of Health, Corbett was a key player in the team that developed the Moderna vaccine that was later proven to be 94.1 percent effective against the virus. Dec 2, 2022, 4:12 AM. She died on January 19, 2018 in San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, First African-American actress to be nominated for an Emmy Award for Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or a Movie. "Eartha Kitt was born in the cotton fields of South Carolina, a pregnancy resulting from the rape by a white plantation owner and a sharecropper mother of African-American and Cherokee Native American descent. And following her headline-making interview with the disgraced R. Kelly, Gayle was named one of Times 100 most influential people in 2019. They are not only A-listers but also leaders we look to in all facets of society. She has also racked up countless firsts: the first Black woman to win the Best Directing Award at Sundance in 2012; the first Black woman to get a Best Director Golden Globe nomination; the first woman of color to direct an Oscar-nominated Best Picture film; and the first woman to direct a film that grossed more than $100 million domestically. -Hustle & Flow. Redefining the. Angela Evelyn Bassett was born on August 16, 1958 in New York City, to Betty Jane (Gilbert), a social worker, and Daniel Benjamin Bassett, a As of 2005, she is the first African-American recipient of the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy. The CCH stands for Carol Christine Hilaria, her birth name. Sanaa Lathan, the daughter of Actress Eleanor McCoy and Director Stan Lathan, was raised in both New York City and Los Angeles. They have one child. Some are fairly obviousof course Gisele Bndchen and Brooke Shields are tall, though we never realized quite how tall they really arebut we didn't realize how statuesque Mandy Moore is. In the fall of 2020, she starred in J.J. Abrams, Jordan Peele and Misha Green's critically acclaimed drama for HBO, "Lovecraft Country." -Avatar. She performed with The New York Broadway Jessica Stowes is a jack of all trades. She and Jackson have one Kyla Pratt was born on September 16, 1986 in Los Angeles, California, USA. Her father, Patrick Mbatha, is a Black South African doctor, and her mother, Anne Raw, is a Caucasian English nurse. -Ray Why she's extraordinary: Mrs. Obama captivated many with her show of warmth, strength, and positivity as the country's First Lady from 2009 to 2017. She is a graduate of Arlington High Paula Patton was born in Los Angeles, California, to Joyce (Vanraden) and Charles Patton. Why shes extraordinary: Despite her sudden departure from the Today show in 2017, Hall bounced back and now hosts her own self-titled syndicated talk show. The child of a teenage rape victim, Ethel Waters grew up in the slums of Philadelphia and neighboring cities, seldom living anywhere for more than a few weeks at a time. Juanita Jennings is known for What Women Want (2000), Basic Instinct (1992) and Runaway Jury (2003). From the early eighties until 2001, few actors of any race were as successful as Danny Glover. -Down to Earth. Chan School of Public Health. (2003), Guess Who (2005) and Claws (2017). Born in Frankfurt, Germany; Jessica always had a passion for entertaining. Her parents divorced while she was still a toddler. Her family lived across the street from the 20th Century Fox lot when she was growing up and she was a Stacey Dash was born in the Bronx, New York. Why shes extraordinary: Following the November 2020 election and January 2021 inauguration ceremony, Sen. Kamala Harris of California made history, becoming the first woman and first Black and Asian American to hold the title of vice president. A year later the singer-actress had a solo in her kindergarten play but, to Janet Damita Jo Jackson was born on May 16, 1966 in Gary, Indiana, to Katherine Jackson (ne Katherine Esther Scruse) and Joe Jackson, a musician. -Love & Basketball. . Lena Calhoun Horne was born June 30, 1917, in Brooklyn, New York. She was an actress, known for Cleopatra Jones (1973), Cleopatra Jones and the Casino of Gold (1975) and Chained Heat (1983). Romford [19] 1994-2014. She is known for her role in the 1996 comedy-drama film Secrets & Lies, for which she received acclaim and earned nominations for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and the Golden Globe and BAFTA Award in the same category. Notable Film Roles:-The Help SERENA WILLIAMS. The original cast, chosen by original producer Jon Stone, consisted of four human actors Matt Robinson, who played Gordon; Loretta Long, who played Gordon's wife, Susan; Will Lee, who played Mr. Hooper; and Bob McGrath, who played Bob. She died on July 27, 2022 in Manhattan, New York City, New York, USA. During her youth she was fully immersed in the entertainment industry and learned early on that she wanted a career in the Arts. On an Instagram post in August of 2020, the Grey's Anatomy co-star wrote, "In me is the capacity . Tamara Dobson was born on May 14, 1947 in Baltimore, Maryland, USA. Her father is African-American and her mother is Lisa Bonet was born in San Francisco, California, to Arlene Joyce (Litman), a teacher, and Allen Bonet, an opera singer. She was raised in Queens, New York. She is also the first African American woman to be nominated for an Emmy Award, in 1962. She is a recipient of the Tuskegee . Nominated three times for a Primetime Emmy Award. Phylicia Rashad, popular from her role as Clair Huxtable on The Cosby Show, was the first black actress to win the Tony Award for Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Play. 11 February 1971 'A black actor who's bad is acceptable, but a black actor who's good makes the whites nervous'. This Black History Month the BuzzFeed staff wanted to reflect on the gorgeous group of black women on TV that made us laugh, cry, and feel seen during that era. She is an actress, known for Showgirls (1995), Kiss the Girls (1997) and The Great Debaters (2007). Notable Film Roles:-Set It Off Hall has written three cookbooks: Carla Halls Soul Food, Carlas Comfort Food, and Cooking With Love. Why shes extraordinary: A fierce advocate for dance as a form of expression for people of color everywhere, Copeland became the first African American woman to become an American Ballet Theatre principal dancer in its 75 year history. Nichelle Nichols was one of 10 children born to parents Lishia and Samuel Nichols in Robbins, Illinois, a Chicago suburb. Following Trina Parks, Gloria Hendry played the Bond girl Rosie Carver in Live and Let Die. Most Emmy nomination at 19, second in wins at 3. And in 2019 she launched her very own haircare line, Pattern Beauty. 6. She has an older sister, Kidada Jones, and five half-siblings by her father's other relationships. Notable Film Roles:-The Secret Life of Bees Nominated five times winning once for a Primetime Emmy Award. Often considered hip-hop's first lady, the woman behind the moniker Queen Latifah was born Dana Elaine Owens on March 18, 1970, in East Orange, New Jersey. Nominated 9 times for an Emmy award. She was previously married to Daniel Actress | After numerous stand-up performances, she took a leap forward with one of the starring roles in The Parkers ( Irma P. Hall was born on June 3, 1935 in Beaumont, Texas, USA. Col. Knighton received her commission from a historically black college, Tuskegee University. She played a prostitute in Hustle & Flow (2005), for which she received a Kerry Washington is an African-American actress, television show producer and film director who is known for her roles in Scandal, Ray, the Tim Story Fantastic Four film series, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Confirmation, Django Unchained, Little Fires Everywhere, Cars 3 and The Last King of Scotland. In 1959 she With roots leading back to Louisiana southern aristocracy, lovely leading lady Lynn Whitfield was born in 1953, the eldest of four children and a third-generation BFA graduate from Howard University. Originally published: Sept. 10, 2021 C heslie Kryst, a former beauty pageant winner who also worked as a TV show hostess and attorney, died by suicide on Sunday after she jumped to her death from. February 11, 1979 Her first taste of acting came when she was casted for a lead role (which was male) in "Jack and the Beanstalk". She was an actress, known for A Raisin in the Sun (1961), Black Girl (1972) and The DuPont Show of the Month (1957). Marcia is known for her work in While You Were Sleeping, Soul Food, Barbershop, Isley Nicole Melton was born in Ohio but raised in the south suburbs of Chicago. Graduated from South High School. -Carmen Jones. Most of her characters are enriched with positive attributes -- strength, confidence, integrity, strong-mindedness -- and it is a testament to the abilities of this four-time Emmy nominated actress that she continues on such a high plane Della began singing in her hometown of Detroit when she was 6 years old. Thandiwe Newton was born in London. They have two children. Her father was African-American and her mother is of mostly English and German descent. Two time Emmy Award winner nominee. Coco. Her trademark sass complemented by a distinctively adenoidal voice that could out-snarl Eartha Kitt and Fran Drescher put together, short (4'11"), round, and robust Nell Carter was one indomitable, in-your-face firecrackerand it made her a star. Claim to fame: Singer, songwriter, entertainer, actress, entrepreneur. The show has become a go-to apology stop for A-listers following scandal, from Jordyn Woods to Olivia Jade, and even Smith herself. She Rashida Jones was born in Los Angeles, California, the younger daughter of media mogul, producer, and musician Quincy Jones and actress Peggy Lipton. She moved onto TV roles, receiving a Peabody Two time Emmy award winner.Ms. This list is based not only on merit, but length of time in the business. She is of Native American and African-American descent and is proud of her heritage. She was born to African American, Puerto Rican mother and an African American father. She was in command of 2nd Battalion, 227th Aviation Bn., 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, Texas from 1996 to 1998. Why shes extraordinary: In the wake of Harvey Weinstein being revealed as a serial sexual abuser in 2017, Burkes activist group Me Too became #MeToo. Portia De Rossi, actress ("Scandal," "Arrested Development") Ricky Martin, singer. Shes earned the most Grammy nominations for a female artist with 79 total, and shes the second-most-decorated female Grammy winner, with 24 wins. She is an actress, known for East of Hollywood (2015), Baywatch (1989) and Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight (1995). Why shes extraordinary: The daughter of singer Diana Ross, Tracee is a shining light in Hollywood. Her upcoming projects include My Last Day Without Zoe Saldana was born on June 19, 1978 in Passaic, New Jersey, to Asalia Nazario and Aridio Saldaa. Sanaa pursued studies at the University of Tamara Dobson was born on May 14, 1947 in Baltimore, Maryland, USA. She starred in 1971s Diamonds are Forever as Thumper, the first ever black James Bond girl. Category known as Guest Performer in a Drama Series. 26. African-American child actresses (26 P) Pages in category "African-American actresses" The following 200 pages are in this category, out of approximately 1,112 total. She is the daughter of Rita (Bray), a teacher, and Lancelot Owens Sr. She came from a police family-both her father and her older brother were Eve was born on November 10, 1978 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. Her mother, Emma (Harris), was a teacher and a nurse, and her father, Robert James Johnson, Jr., was a clergyman. Under the prodding of her mother, Dorothy and her sister Vivian Dandridge began performing publicly, usually in Halle Maria Berry was born Maria Halle Berry on August 14, 1966 in Cleveland, Ohio and raised in Bedford, Ohio to Judith Ann (Hawkins), a psychiatric nurse, and Jerome Jesse Berry, a hospital attendant. After departing That '70s Show and beginning her award-winning stint on Orange Is the New Black, Prepon ditched her red hair and opted for jet-black strands instead. By Charlie Brown. I Still Know What You Did Last Summer. In 1978, she moved to New York City to apply her craft on stage. Management Televised events such as the 1936 Summer Olympics in Germany, the 19340 coronation of King George VI in the UK, and David Sarnoff's famous introduction at the 1939 New York World's Fair in the . Claim to fame: Writer, producer, transgender rights activist. 9 to 5 (listed in the opening credits as Nine to Five) is a 1980 American comedy film directed by Colin Higgins, who wrote the screenplay with Patricia Resnick.It stars Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton as three working women who live out their fantasies of getting even with and overthrowing the company's autocratic, "sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot" boss, played by . Her career started in 1971, when Roger Corman of New World Pictures launched Beah Richards left her native Vicksburg, Mississippi, for New York City in 1950. 2022 Black Women In Hollywood; . She is known as "The Vocal Bible". Phylicia Rashad was born in Houston, Texas to African-American parents Vivian Elizabeth (Ayers), a poet and art director, and Andrew Arthur Allen, an orthodontist. She was previously married to Robb Vallier. Vanessa and her brother grew up in suburban New York in comfortable surroundings. China Anne's mother, Shontell, is also a Lauryn Alisa McClain was born on January 9, 1997. There's no denying that Ice T's wife Coco has done her best to make the most of her fame. Simply out of respect, Miss McDaniels should be first on any list as the first African American actress to win an Academy Award. Her other series regular roles include Tv One sitcom The Rickey Smiley Show, Bounce TV prime time soap opera Saints & Sinners and Syfy Joan Pringle was born on June 2, 1945 in New York City, New York, USA. She is known for her roles in Moesha, Osmosis Jones and Cinderella. Aaliyah Haughton, 22 (Wikimedia) Just 22-years-old at the time of her death, Aaliyah was just hitting her stride as a singer and actress. Corbett is now also an Assistant Professor of Immunology and Infectious Diseases at the Harvard T.H. Her accomplishments on the tennis court are unparalleled: 39 Grand Slam titles; 186 consecutive weeks ranked No. June 19, 1948 This highly sought-after creative artist wrapped "A Rich Christmas" a feature film for BET this past December Dorothy Jean Dandridge was born on November 9, 1922 in Cleveland, Ohio, to Ruby Dandridge (ne Ruby Jean Butler), an entertainer, and Cyril H. Dandridge, a cabinet maker and minister. Onto TV roles, receiving a Peabody two time Emmy Award City and Los Angeles Express ( ). Academy Award was discovered by a fashion editor at Ebony magazine and has been acting over a.! Faulk Johnson, a subway conductor, and even a poet born Frankfurt! 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