Here Are the 20 Best Black Actresses in the History of Cinema
Black actresses have left an unforgettable mark on the world of film and television, breaking barriers and delivering performances that resonate across generations. Their talent, strength, and determination have challenged stereotypes and opened doors for future artists, creating a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
From powerful dramatic roles to groundbreaking moments in comedy and music, these women have redefined what it means to be a star. Below, I explore 20 of the most iconic Black actresses, highlighting their standout roles and contributions to cinema history.
Hattie McDaniel
Hattie McDaniel became a trailblazer as the first Black person to win an Oscar for her role as Mammy in ‘Gone with the Wind’ (1939). Despite facing criticism for taking on a stereotypical role, her powerful performance showcased her undeniable talent in an era with limited opportunities for Black actors.
Her work extended beyond this iconic role, appearing in films like ‘Song of the South’ (1946) and various stage performances. McDaniel’s resilience paved the way for future Black actresses, proving that talent could shine even under adversity.
Ethel Waters
Ethel Waters broke ground as the first Black woman to star in her own TV show, ‘The Ethel Waters Show’ (1939). Her role as Petunia Jackson in ‘Cabin in the Sky’ (1943) highlighted her skills as both an actress and a singer, bringing emotional depth to the screen.
Waters also earned a Primetime Emmy nomination for ‘Route 66’ (1960-1964), a rare feat for Black actresses at the time. Her contributions to film, theater, and music, including Grammy Hall of Fame songs, cemented her as a versatile pioneer.
Josephine Baker
Josephine Baker, known as the ‘Black Venus,’ became the first Black woman to star in a major film with ‘Zouzou’ (1934). Her vibrant performances in films like ‘Siren of the Tropics’ (1927) blended comedy, dance, and charisma, captivating audiences worldwide.
Beyond acting, Baker’s activism during the Civil Rights Movement made her a global icon. Her ability to command the screen and stage while fighting for equality left an enduring legacy in cinema history.
Dorothy Dandridge
Dorothy Dandridge, often called the ‘Black Marilyn Monroe,’ earned a Best Actress Oscar nomination for ‘Carmen Jones’ (1954), a first for a Black woman. Her captivating performance in this all-Black cast film showcased her as a seductive and talented star.
She also won a Golden Globe for ‘Porgy and Bess’ (1959) and became the first Black woman on the cover of Life magazine. Dandridge’s elegance and skill opened doors for more diverse roles in Hollywood.
Lena Horne
Lena Horne dazzled audiences in ‘Stormy Weather’ (1943), where her singing and acting talents shone in an all-Black cast musical. Her role as Georgia Brown highlighted her grace and charisma, making her a standout in Hollywood’s Golden Age.
Despite facing racial barriers, Horne’s performances in films like ‘Cabin in the Sky’ (1943) and her civil rights activism made her a cultural icon. Her refusal to be typecast as a maid inspired countless artists.
Cicely Tyson
Cicely Tyson made history as the first Black actress to win an Emmy for ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman’ (1974). Her portrayal of a woman aging through decades of hardship was a masterclass in acting, earning widespread acclaim.
Tyson’s role as Binta in ‘Roots’ (1977) further showcased her ability to tackle complex characters. Her career, spanning theater and film, earned her an honorary Oscar in 2018 for her groundbreaking contributions.
Gail Fisher
Gail Fisher broke barriers as the first Black actress to win an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in ‘Mannix’ (1967-1975). Her role as Peggy Fair brought depth to a character that evolved from minor to central over the show’s run.
Fisher also made history with the first speaking role in a national TV commercial for a laundry detergent. Her grace and talent in television helped redefine Black representation in media.
Diana Ross
Diana Ross transitioned from Motown legend to actress with her powerful performance as Billie Holiday in ‘Lady Sings the Blues’ (1972). Her raw and passionate portrayal earned her a Best Actress Oscar nomination, a rare honor for a debut film role.
Ross also starred in ‘Mahogany’ (1975), showcasing her versatility as a singer and actress. Her ability to embody complex characters solidified her as a multifaceted star in cinema.
Whoopi Goldberg
Whoopi Goldberg’s role as Celie in ‘The Color Purple’ (1985) earned her an Oscar nomination and launched her into stardom. Her emotional performance captured the struggles and resilience of a woman facing unimaginable challenges.
Goldberg’s versatility shone in ‘Ghost’ (1990), where she won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar, along with a BAFTA and Golden Globe. Her comedic and dramatic range made her a household name.
Pam Grier
Pam Grier redefined strong female leads in the 1970s with iconic roles in ‘Coffy’ (1973) and ‘Foxy Brown’ (1974). Her performances in these Blaxploitation films blended action, charisma, and empowerment, making her a cultural icon.
Her role in ‘Jackie Brown’ (1997) showcased her dramatic depth, earning critical praise. Grier’s bold presence paved the way for future action heroines and diverse storytelling in film.
Angela Bassett
Angela Bassett’s portrayal of Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ (1993) earned her an Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe. Her powerful performance captured Turner’s strength and vulnerability, marking a career-defining moment.
Bassett’s roles in ‘Black Panther’ (2018) as Queen Ramonda and ‘9-1-1’ (2018-2025) showcase her versatility. Her commanding presence continues to inspire audiences and elevate Black representation.
Halle Berry
Halle Berry made history as the first Black woman to win a Best Actress Oscar for ‘Monster’s Ball’ (2001). Her raw and fearless performance showcased her ability to tackle challenging roles with depth and authenticity.
Berry’s work in ‘Introducing Dorothy Dandridge’ (1999) earned her an Emmy and Golden Globe, while roles in ‘X-Men’ (2000) and ‘Die Another Day’ (2002) solidified her as a versatile star.
Keke Palmer
Keke Palmer burst onto the scene as a spelling prodigy in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ (2006), earning an NAACP Image Award. Her heartfelt performance showcased her talent as a young actress with immense potential.
She made history as the first Black Cinderella on Broadway in 2014 and won an Emmy for ‘Turnt Up with the Taylors’ (2020-2021). Palmer’s range in drama, comedy, and music continues to captivate audiences.
Lupita Nyong’o
Lupita Nyong’o stunned the world with her debut in ‘12 Years a Slave’ (2013), winning an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress as Patsey. Her raw portrayal of a woman enduring slavery was both heartbreaking and unforgettable.
Her roles in ‘Black Panther’ (2018) as Nakia and ‘Us’ (2019) showcased her versatility across genres. Nyong’o’s elegance and power make her a leading figure in modern cinema.
Viola Davis
Viola Davis, the only Black actress to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting (Oscar, Emmy, Tony), delivered a career-defining performance in ‘Fences’ (2016), winning an Oscar. Her role in ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ (2014-2020) earned her an Emmy, making her the first Black woman to win in that category.
Davis’s nominations for ‘Doubt’ (2008) and ‘The Help’ (2011) highlight her ability to bring complex characters to life. Her commanding presence continues to redefine excellence in acting.
Regina Hall
Regina Hall brought sharp wit and charm to her breakout role as Candy in ‘The Best Man’ (1999), establishing herself as a standout in romantic comedies. Her comedic timing in ‘Scary Movie’ (2000) and its sequels made her a fan favorite, showcasing her ability to steal scenes.
Hall’s dramatic range shone in ‘The Hate U Give’ (2018) as Lisa Carter, a mother navigating racial tensions, and in ‘Girls Trip’ (2017), her role as Ryan Pierce balanced humor and heart. Her versatility across genres continues to solidify her as a dynamic force in Hollywood.
Zoe Saldaña
Zoe Saldaña captivated audiences as Neytiri in ‘Avatar’ (2009), a role that showcased her ability to bring depth to a CGI character, contributing to the film’s record-breaking success. Her performance in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014) as Gamora highlighted her action-star prowess.
Saldaña’s dramatic turn as Nina Simone in ‘Nina’ (2016), though controversial, displayed her willingness to tackle complex roles. Her work in science fiction and drama, including ‘Star Trek’ (2009), cements her as a versatile and commanding actress.
Regina King
Regina King earned an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her powerful role as Sharon Rivers in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ (2018), portraying a mother’s fierce love and resilience. Her work in ‘Ray’ (2004) as Margie Hendricks showcased her ability to blend music and drama.
King’s Emmy-winning performances in ‘American Crime’ (2015-2017) and ‘Watchmen’ (2019) as Angela Abar highlight her range across television and film. Her directorial debut, ‘One Night in Miami’ (2020), further proves her multifaceted talent.
Octavia Spencer
Octavia Spencer won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Minny Jackson in ‘The Help’ (2011), bringing humor and strength to a maid facing racial injustice. Her performance in ‘Hidden Figures’ (2016) as Dorothy Vaughan earned her another Oscar nomination.
Spencer’s roles in ‘The Shape of Water’ (2017) and ‘Fruitvale Station’ (2013) showcase her ability to elevate any story with emotional depth. Her consistent excellence across genres makes her a standout in modern cinema.
Taraji P. Henson
Taraji P. Henson earned an Oscar nomination for her role as Queenie in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ (2008), portraying a caretaker with warmth and depth. Her performance as Katherine Johnson in ‘Hidden Figures’ (2016) highlighted her ability to embody real-life heroes.
Henson’s iconic role as Cookie Lyon in ‘Empire’ (2015-2020) earned her a Golden Globe, showcasing her commanding presence in television. Her versatility in drama, comedy, and action, as seen in ‘Proud Mary’ (2018), solidifies her as a Hollywood powerhouse.
Which of these iconic actresses or roles resonates with you most, or is there another legend you’d add to the list? Share your thoughts in the comments!