Black Actresses Who Started in Small Roles and Ended Up Unforgettable

Success in Hollywood rarely happens overnight for even the most talented performers. Many celebrated Black actresses spent years grinding in the industry with background work and minor television appearances before landing a breakout role. These women honed their craft in thankless parts while waiting for the opportunity to showcase their full range. Their journeys from fleeting screen time to becoming household names serve as a testament to their persistence and skill.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis built a formidable reputation in theater long before she became a movie star. She accepted tiny one-scene roles in films like ‘Out of Sight’ and ‘Kate & Leopold’ to build her resume. Her brief but powerful performance in ‘Antwone Fisher’ finally caught the attention of critics and casting directors. Davis eventually transitioned to powerhouse leads in ‘The Help’ and ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. She is now a recipient of the coveted EGOT status for her work across various mediums.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer spent over a decade playing minor characters often named simply “Nurse” or “Waitress”. She appeared in fleeting scenes in blockbusters like ‘Spider-Man’ and comedies such as ‘Big Momma’s House’. Her tenacity paid off when she was cast as Minny Jackson in ‘The Help’ which utilized her specific talents. This role earned her an Academy Award and catapulted her to the A-list. Spencer now produces and stars in her own major film and television projects.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson began her career with guest spots on television shows like ‘Sister, Sister’ and ‘ER’. She worked consistently in small supporting roles while studying her craft and raising her son. Her breakthrough performance in ‘Baby Boy’ signaled her arrival as a serious dramatic talent. She later achieved global fame as the iconic Cookie Lyon in ‘Empire’. Henson continues to be a dominant force in both action films and dramas.

Regina King

Regina King started as a child actor on the sitcom ‘227’ where she played a supporting daughter role. Many child stars fade away but King transitioned seamlessly into adult roles in films like ‘Boyz n the Hood’. She worked steadily as a supporting actress for years before winning critical acclaim for ‘American Crime’. Her career reached new heights with an Academy Award win for ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. King has also established herself as a highly respected director.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett navigated the industry with small roles in television movies and action films like ‘F/X’. She paid her dues in the late eighties with brief appearances on shows such as ‘The Cosby Show’. Her intense dedication to her craft became undeniable when she landed the lead in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’. That portrayal of Tina Turner turned her into a cinematic icon. Bassett remains one of the most revered actresses working today.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry started her acting career with a role on the short-lived sitcom ‘Living Dolls’. She took on small parts in films like ‘Strictly Business’ and played a drug addict in ‘Jungle Fever’ to prove her range. Her persistence led to larger roles in ‘Boomerang’ and the ‘X-Men’ franchise. Berry made history as the first Black woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress for ‘Monster’s Ball’. She continues to direct and star in high-profile action thrillers.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington appeared in minor roles in teen movies like ‘Save the Last Dance’ early in her career. She worked consistently in supporting parts in films such as ‘Ray’ and ‘The Last King of Scotland’. Her career trajectory changed forever when she was cast as Olivia Pope in ‘Scandal’. The role made her the first Black woman to headline a network drama in nearly forty years. Washington is now a major producer and influential figure in Hollywood.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union began with small guest roles on teen sitcoms and played a supporting friend in ‘She’s All That’. She often appeared in ensemble casts without being the primary focus of the story. Her charismatic performance in ‘Bring It On’ proved she had the star power to carry a film. Union successfully transitioned into leading roles in romantic comedies and serious dramas like ‘Being Mary Jane’. She has since become a vocal advocate for diversity in the entertainment industry.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldana started as a dancer which helped her land a supporting role in ‘Center Stage’. She played minor characters in films like ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl’ early on. Her career exploded when she secured major roles in science fiction franchises like ‘Star Trek’ and ‘Avatar’. She is now the only actor to appear in multiple films that have grossed over two billion dollars. Saldana has cemented her legacy as a queen of the sci-fi genre.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton began with roles in smaller films like ‘Flirting’ and ‘Interview with the Vampire’. She worked steadily in the industry for decades often in supporting capacities. Her complex performance in ‘Crash’ brought her significant critical attention. She achieved a new level of fame and an Emmy award for her role in ‘Westworld’. Newton has reclaimed the original spelling of her name as she continues to take on challenging roles.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard has been a hardworking actor since the late seventies with minor roles in films like ‘Remember My Name’. She built a reputation for stealing scenes in supporting roles across film and television. Her extensive body of work includes standout performances in ‘Cross Creek’ and ‘Passion Fish’. Woodard holds the record for the most Primetime Emmy nominations for a Black actress. She remains a regal presence in every project she joins.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith started with guest appearances on shows like ‘True Colors’ and ‘Doogie Howser, M.D.’. She gained some traction with a regular role on the sitcom ‘A Different World’. Her film career took off with supporting roles in ‘The Nutty Professor’ and ‘Set It Off’. She became a global action star with her involvement in ‘The Matrix’ sequels. Pinkett Smith now hosts a popular talk show and produces major film content.

Nia Long

Nia Long began her career with a stint on the soap opera ‘Guiding Light’. She played a minor role in ‘Boyz n the Hood’ which helped introduce her to a wider audience. Long became a staple of nineties cinema with memorable roles in ‘Friday’ and ‘Love Jones’. She has maintained a steady career in both television and film for over three decades. Her work has made her a beloved figure in pop culture.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox started in soap operas like ‘Days of Our Lives’ and ‘The Young and the Restless’. She had a small role in ‘Born on the Fourth of July’ before finding her footing. Her breakout summer came in 1996 with leads in ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Set It Off’. Fox proved her versatility by starring in action films like ‘Kill Bill’. She continues to be a prolific producer and actress in the industry.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall made her film debut with a supporting role in ‘The Best Man’. She gained popularity as the recurring character Brenda in the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise. For years she was seen primarily as a comedic sidekick before displaying her dramatic range. Her lead performance in ‘Support the Girls’ earned her critical acclaim from major organizations. Hall is now a top-billed actress in major studio comedies and dramas.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan appeared in episodes of ‘Family Matters’ and ‘Moesha’ before hitting the big screen. She played a vampire in the opening scene of ‘Blade’ which was a small but memorable start. Her career momentum built until she landed the lead in the cult classic ‘Love & Basketball’. Lathan has since starred in major franchises including ‘Alien vs. Predator’. She continues to work as a director and lead actress.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson was discovered on a front porch and cast in the ensemble film ‘Kids’. She spent years balancing independent films with supporting roles in blockbusters like ‘Men in Black II’. Her versatility allowed her to move between gritty dramas and comic book adaptations. She eventually landed the lead role of Ahsoka Tano in the ‘Star Wars’ universe. Dawson remains a consistent and dynamic performer in Hollywood.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson started with guest spots on procedural shows like ‘Cold Case’ and ‘Life’. She gained attention for her role in the film ‘For Colored Girls’ but was not yet a household name. Her breakout came with the critical darling ‘Dear White People’ and the blockbuster ‘Creed’. She solidified her stardom by playing Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Thompson is now a major player who produces and stars in her own vehicles.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira had small roles in films like ‘The Visitor’ and ‘Ghost Town’ early in her career. She focused heavily on playwrighting while looking for substantial acting work. Her casting as Michonne in ‘The Walking Dead’ turned her into a global action icon. She further cemented her status as General Okoye in ‘Black Panther’. Gurira is now a celebrated writer and actress with immense industry influence.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris started as a child actor in television projects like ‘Simon and the Witch’. She played supporting roles in films like ’28 Days Later’ and the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ sequels. Her career reached a new peak when she was cast as Moneypenny in the James Bond franchise. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her raw performance in ‘Moonlight’. Harris consistently delivers powerful performances in diverse genres.

Rashida Jones

Rashida Jones began with small roles in the miniseries ‘The Last Don’ and ‘Freaks and Geeks’. She worked as a supporting actor on ‘The Office’ which helped raise her profile. Her role as Ann Perkins in ‘Parks and Recreation’ made her a comedy staple. Jones has since transitioned into writing and directing major documentaries and films. She remains a multi-talented force in the entertainment business.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross started her career hosting a magazine show and appearing in the film ‘Far Harbor’. She gained a following with the sitcom ‘Girlfriends’ after years of auditioning. Her role as Rainbow Johnson in ‘black-ish’ brought her mainstream success and critical awards. She utilized that platform to launch her own beauty brand and production company. Ross is now considered a television icon and fashion mogul.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba worked primarily in theater and had minor television credits before her big break. She auditioned for a small part in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and was cast as Suzanne Warren. The character was originally intended to be brief but Aduba made her indispensable. She went on to win two Emmy Awards for the same role in different categories. Aduba has since starred in major dramas like ‘Mrs. America’.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox appeared on a reality show and in independent films with very limited distribution. She faced significant barriers in the industry before landing a recurring role on ‘Orange Is the New Black’. That role catapulted her to fame and made her the first transgender person nominated for an acting Emmy. She has used her platform to advocate for human rights while continuing to act. Cox is now a prominent figure in media and fashion.

Kimberly Elise

Kimberly Elise made her film debut in ‘Set It Off’ after working in theater. She held her own against Oprah Winfrey in ‘Beloved’ which established her as a serious talent. Elise continued to work in dramas like ‘John Q’ and ‘For Colored Girls’. She found a new audience with her role in the hit series ‘Hit the Floor’. Her emotionally resonant performances have kept her employed for decades.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo began with small parts in films like ‘Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls’. She worked steadily in British television and theater often in supporting capacities. Her performance in ‘Dirty Pretty Things’ brought her international attention. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her powerful role in ‘Hotel Rwanda’. Okonedo continues to win awards for her work on both the stage and screen.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine originated the role of Lorrell in ‘Dreamgirls’ on Broadway but had to start over in Hollywood. She took small bit parts in films throughout the eighties and nineties. Her distinct voice and timing made her a favorite in movies like ‘Waiting to Exhale’. She won an Emmy for her role on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ after years of hard work. Devine is a legendary character actress who works constantly.

Jenifer Lewis

Jenifer Lewis started her career as a backup singer for Bette Midler before moving into acting. She played small roles in films like ‘Beaches’ and ‘Sister Act’. She became known as “The Mother of Black Hollywood” for playing matriarchs in numerous films. Her role in the sitcom ‘black-ish’ introduced her to a new generation of fans. Lewis is also a celebrated author and social commentator.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Gugu Mbatha-Raw acted in minor roles in British television series like ‘Doctor Who’ and ‘Spooks’. She worked her way up through theater and small film parts. Her lead performance in the period drama ‘Belle’ was a critical breakthrough. She has since starred in major projects like ‘Loki’ and ‘The Morning Show’. Mbatha-Raw is known for her elegance and versatility on screen.

Ruth Negga

Ruth Negga appeared in small roles in Irish and British films like ‘Breakfast on Pluto’. She worked consistently in television series such as ‘Misfits’ without global fame. Her casting in the show ‘Preacher’ helped introduce her to American audiences. She received an Academy Award nomination for her subtle and powerful performance in ‘Loving’. Negga continues to act in high-profile theater and film productions.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright started with minor roles in British television dramas like ‘Top Boy’ and ‘Doctor Who’. She nearly quit acting before landing a role in the show ‘Black Mirror’. Her career exploded when she was cast as Shuri in ‘Black Panther’. She carried the sequel ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ as the lead character. Wright has quickly become one of the most recognizable young stars in the world.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo built her career on the British stage before transferring to Broadway. She had very few screen credits before starring in the film ‘Harriet’. That role earned her two Academy Award nominations for acting and songwriting. She has since starred in major television series like ‘Genius: Aretha’. Erivo is a powerhouse vocalist and actress with a rapidly growing filmography.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer started as a child actor with a small role in ‘Barbershop 2: Back in Business’. She headlined the film ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ which proved her ability to carry a movie. She successfully transitioned from Nickelodeon star to adult roles in films like ‘Hustlers’. Her performance in Jordan Peele’s ‘Nope’ earned her significant critical acclaim. Palmer is a multi-media mogul who hosts, acts, and sings.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good started as an extra and had a small speaking line in the classic comedy ‘Friday’. She grew up on camera with roles in ‘Eve’s Bayou’ and ‘Cousin Skeeter’. She transitioned to adult sex symbol roles in ‘Think Like a Man’ and ‘Anchorman 2’. Good has sustained a long career in both film and television. She continues to take on lead roles in Amazon and Netflix series.

Tika Sumpter

Tika Sumpter began her career in daytime soap operas before landing a recurring role on ‘Gossip Girl’. She played supporting parts in films like ‘Sparkle’ and ‘Ride Along’. Her portrayal of Michelle Obama in ‘Southside with You’ garnered her critical praise. She also found success as the voice of Maddie in the ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ films. Sumpter produces much of her own content now.

Paula Patton

Paula Patton had a small role in the comedy ‘Hitch’ at the start of her career. She worked her way up to the female lead in ‘Deja Vu’ alongside Denzel Washington. Her role in ‘Precious’ showed a different side of her acting ability. She reached blockbuster status with a lead role in ‘Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol’. Patton continues to work in action and fantasy films.

Marianne Jean-Baptiste

Marianne Jean-Baptiste received an Academy Award nomination for her first major film role in ‘Secrets & Lies’. Despite this early success she often took supporting roles in American television. She became a familiar face as a lead on the series ‘Without a Trace’. She recently received acclaim for her role in ‘Hard Truths’. Jean-Baptiste is a respected veteran of both British and American cinema.

CCH Pounder

CCH Pounder has been a screen presence since her minor role in ‘All That Jazz’ in the late seventies. She is famous for bringing authority to small roles in police procedurals and dramas. Her work in ‘The Shield’ earning her multiple Emmy nominations. She became a key part of the ‘Avatar’ franchise as the voice of Mo’at. Pounder is one of the most consistent character actors in the business.

S. Epatha Merkerson

S. Epatha Merkerson started with bit parts in Spike Lee’s ‘She’s Gotta Have It’. She worked in theater and had a memorable small role in ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’. She became a television institution with her long-running role on ‘Law & Order’. She has won an Emmy, a Golden Globe, and a Screen Actors Guild Award. Merkerson remains a vital presence on network television.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch began with minor roles in British television shows like ‘Silent Witness’. She starred in the period drama ‘Still Star-Crossed’ which was cancelled quickly. Her big break came as Maria Rambeau in ‘Captain Marvel’. She made history as the first Black woman to hold the 007 title in ‘No Time to Die’. Lynch is now a major star in blockbuster cinema.

Wunmi Mosaku

Wunmi Mosaku started with guest spots on British TV shows and small film roles. She won a BAFTA TV Award for ‘Damilola, Our Loved Boy’ which raised her profile. She gained international fans with her role in ‘Lovecraft Country’. Her performance in the Marvel series ‘Loki’ introduced her to a massive audience. Mosaku is known for her incredible range and screen presence.

Sheila Atim

Sheila Atim started her career on the stage and with minor television appearances. She gained attention for her role in the miniseries ‘The Underground Railroad’. Her physical prowess was on display in the action epic ‘The Woman King’. She has quickly become a sought-after talent for complex dramatic roles. Atim is also a composer and playwright.

DeWanda Wise

DeWanda Wise started in short films and independent projects with small budgets. She appeared in episodes of ‘The Good Wife’ and ‘Boardwalk Empire’ early on. Her lead role in the series ‘She’s Gotta Have It’ was her major breakout. She transitioned to blockbusters with a starring role in ‘Jurassic World Dominion’. Wise is a rising star with a commanding screen presence.

Aja Naomi King

Aja Naomi King began with a guest role on the police drama ‘Blue Bloods’. She appeared in the indie film ‘Four’ before finding mainstream success. Her role as Michaela Pratt in ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ made her a star. She received critical acclaim for her performance in ‘The Birth of a Nation’. King continues to work in high-profile television series.

Yvonne Orji

Yvonne Orji started her career performing comedy and creating content for YouTube. She struggled to find roles before Issa Rae cast her in ‘Insecure’. Her portrayal of Molly Carter earned her an Emmy nomination. She has since released her own comedy specials and starred in films. Orji proves that creating your own lane can lead to massive success.

Tell us which of these actress’s transformations surprised you the most in the comments.