Black Actresses Who Are Taller Than You Think

The entertainment industry is filled with performers whose physical stature is often masked by camera angles and clever staging. Many prominent Black actresses stand significantly taller than the average height which often surprises fans when they see them in person or on the red carpet. These women have utilized their commanding presence to portray a wide variety of roles from action heroes to sophisticated leads. This list highlights several talented individuals whose height is a notable aspect of their professional profile.

Lisa Leslie

Lisa Leslie is a legendary professional basketball player and actress who stands at six feet five inches tall. She made a significant impact in the sports world before transitioning into various entertainment roles. Her film credits include the comedy ‘Uncle Drew’ where she played the character Betty Lou. She has also appeared as herself in numerous television shows such as ‘The Game’ and ‘Sister, Sister’. Her height often makes her one of the most visible performers in any production.

Candace Parker

Candace Parker is a versatile athlete and television personality who stands at six feet four inches tall. While primarily known for her historic career in the WNBA she has also pursued opportunities in acting and broadcasting. Parker appeared in the film ‘Thunderstruck’ and has made guest appearances on various scripted programs. She frequently provides expert analysis for major basketball broadcasts on television. Her stature and athleticism have made her a recognizable figure across multiple media platforms.

Tamara Dobson

Tamara Dobson was a statuesque actress and fashion model who stood at six feet two inches tall. She is best known for her portrayal of the title character in the blaxploitation film ‘Cleopatra Jones’ released in 1973. Her height and commanding presence helped redefine the image of female action stars during that era. Dobson appeared in several other films including ‘Come Back, Charleston Blue’ and ‘Norman… Is That You?’ before her career transitioned. She remained a prominent figure in the industry until her retirement from the screen.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is a celebrated actress and model who stands at six feet one inch tall. she gained widespread recognition for her role as Elektra Abundance on the television series ‘Pose’. Her height and elegant movement contributed to her success on international fashion runways before her acting career took off. Jackson has also appeared in series such as ‘American Gods’ and ‘Legendary’. She has written a memoir that details her personal journey and professional experiences in the industry.

Venus Williams

Venus Williams is a world renowned tennis champion and actress who stands at six feet one inch tall. Beyond her dominance on the court she has explored various roles in the entertainment sector. Williams has appeared in projects like ‘King Richard’ as an executive producer and made cameos in several television series. Her height is often a point of discussion during her public appearances and professional matches. She continues to balance her athletic legacy with successful ventures in fashion and media.

Aisha Tyler

Aisha Tyler is a prolific actress and director who stands at six feet tall. She is well known for her roles in series like ‘Criminal Minds’ and ‘Friends’ where her height was often part of her character dynamics. Tyler also provides the voice for Lana Kane in the long running animated series ‘Archer’. In addition to acting she has directed episodes of various television programs and hosted the improv show ‘Whose Line Is It Anyway?’. Her tall stature and comedic timing have made her a mainstay in Hollywood for over two decades.

Leslie Jones

Leslie Jones is a comedic actress and writer who stands at six feet tall. She rose to fame as a cast member and writer on ‘Saturday Night Live’ where her height was often highlighted in sketches. Jones also starred in the 2016 reboot of ‘Ghostbusters’ and the comedy ‘Coming 2 America’. She is known for her high energy performances and her work as a stand up comedian. Her presence on screen is often characterized by her physical comedy and sharp wit.

Janet Mock

Janet Mock is a talented writer, director, and actress who stands at six feet tall. She made history as a writer and director for the series ‘Pose’ while also making appearances on screen. Mock has been a prominent voice in media and has worked as a correspondent for various news outlets. Her height and fashion sense have made her a notable figure on red carpets and at industry events. She has published two best selling memoirs that explore her life and career.

Zawe Ashton

Zawe Ashton is a British actress and playwright who stands at five feet ten inches tall. She has appeared in a wide range of productions including the film ‘Velvet Buzzsaw’ and the series ‘Fresh Meat’. Ashton recently joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a role in the film ‘The Marvels’. Her height and striking features have also led to various opportunities in the fashion industry. She continues to be a respected figure in both the London and Los Angeles acting communities.

Sheila Atim

Sheila Atim is a multifaceted actress and singer who stands at five feet ten inches tall. She received critical acclaim for her role in the historical epic ‘The Woman King’. Atim has also appeared in major productions such as ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. Her background in theater includes several award winning performances on the London stage. Her tall frame and expressive acting style have made her a sought after talent in contemporary cinema.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah is an iconic actress and musician who stands at five feet ten inches tall. She began her career in music before transitioning into a highly successful acting career with films like ‘Chicago’ and ‘Set It Off’. Latifah currently stars in the television series ‘The Equalizer’ where she performs many of her own stunts. Her height contributes to her authoritative and powerful presence on screen. She has received numerous awards including a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination.

Zendaya

Zendaya is a globally recognized actress and singer who stands at five feet ten inches tall. She has headlined major projects such as the ‘Spider-Man’ franchise and the series ‘Euphoria’. Her height is frequently noted during her appearances at high profile fashion events and on red carpets. Zendaya also starred in the science fiction epic ‘Dune’ and its sequel. She has become one of the most influential young actresses of her generation through her diverse roles and public persona.

Tyra Banks

Tyra Banks is a former supermodel and actress who stands at five feet ten inches tall. She transitioned from a legendary career on the runway to acting in films like ‘Higher Learning’ and ‘Life-Size’. Banks is also the creator and long time host of the reality series ‘America’s Next Top Model’. Her height was a key factor in her success as one of the world’s first Black supermodels. She continues to be an active producer and entrepreneur in the entertainment industry.

Cynthia Bailey

Cynthia Bailey is a fashion model and actress who stands at five feet ten inches tall. She gained fame as a primary cast member on ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ for over a decade. Bailey has also appeared in films like ‘Without You I’m Nothing’ and television series such as ‘The Next 15’. Her career began in high fashion where she worked with many top designers around the world. She maintains a significant presence in the media through her acting and business ventures.

Kenya Moore

Kenya Moore is an actress and former Miss USA who stands at five feet ten inches tall. She has appeared in films such as ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘Deliver Us from Eva’. Moore is also widely known for her long tenure on the reality series ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’. Her height and pageant background helped launch her career in the early 1990s. She continues to produce and star in various television projects while managing her own hair care line.

Nene Leakes

Nene Leakes is an actress and television personality who stands at five feet ten inches tall. She became a household name through her role on ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’. Leakes successfully transitioned into scripted acting with recurring roles on ‘Glee’ and ‘The New Normal’. Her height and bold personality often made her a standout figure in ensemble casts. She has also appeared on Broadway in productions like ‘Cinderella’ and ‘Chicago’.

Naomi Campbell

Naomi Campbell is a legendary supermodel and actress who stands at five feet ten inches tall. While her primary fame comes from the fashion world she has an extensive list of acting credits including ‘Empire’ and ‘American Horror Story’. Campbell has appeared in numerous music videos and television specials throughout her long career. Her height and iconic walk made her one of the most recognizable faces in the world. She remains a powerful figure in both fashion and entertainment through her various philanthropic and creative projects.

Megan Thee Stallion

Megan Thee Stallion is a Grammy winning rapper and actress who stands at five feet ten inches tall. She has made several acting appearances including a guest role on ‘She-Hulk: Attorney at Law’ and the film ‘Dicks: The Musical’. Her height and athletic physique are often celebrated in her music and public image. She has become a major cultural figure known for her commanding stage presence and lyrical skill. Megan continues to expand her career into different facets of the entertainment industry.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson is an EGOT winning actress and singer who stands at five feet nine inches tall. She first rose to prominence on ‘American Idol’ before winning an Academy Award for her role in ‘Dreamgirls’. Hudson has since starred in films like ‘Respect’ and ‘The Secret Life of Bees’. She also hosts her own daytime talk show where her height is often visible when she greets guests. Her powerful voice and physical presence have made her a major star in film and television.

Michelle Williams

Michelle Williams is a singer and actress who stands at five feet nine inches tall. She is best known as a member of the record breaking group Destiny’s Child. Williams has also built a successful career in musical theater starring in Broadway productions like ‘Aida’ and ‘The Color Purple’. She has appeared on television in the series ‘Half & Half’ and as a contestant on ‘The Masked Singer’. Her height adds to her elegant presence during her many live performances.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae is a writer, producer, and actress who stands at five feet nine inches tall. She created and starred in the hit series ‘Insecure’ which ran for five seasons on HBO. Rae has also appeared in major films such as ‘The Photograph’ and ‘Barbie’. Her height is often noted when she appears alongside her co-stars on the red carpet. She continues to be a major force in the industry through her production company and various creative endeavors.

Garcelle Beauvais

Garcelle Beauvais is an actress and television host who stands at five feet nine inches tall. She is well known for her roles in ‘The Jamie Foxx Show’ and the film ‘Coming to America’. Beauvais has also been a cast member on ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ and a co-host on ‘The Real’. Her height and background as a fashion model helped her land early roles in the industry. She remains a consistent presence in Hollywood with numerous film and television credits.

Jodie Turner-Smith

Jodie Turner-Smith is an actress and model who stands at five feet nine inches tall. She rose to fame with her leading role in the film ‘Queen & Slim’. Turner-Smith has also starred as the title character in the miniseries ‘Anne Boleyn’. Her height and striking appearance have made her a favorite of high fashion brands and directors alike. She continues to take on diverse and challenging roles in both independent and mainstream cinema.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch is a British actress who stands at five feet nine inches tall. She gained international recognition for her role as Nomi in the James Bond film ‘No Time to Die’. Lynch also appeared as Maria Rambeau in ‘Captain Marvel’ and starred in ‘The Woman King’. Her height and physical capability allow her to excel in action heavy roles. She has become a prominent figure in major film franchises through her strong and athletic performances.

Mo’Nique

Mo’Nique is an Academy Award winning actress and comedian who stands at five feet nine inches tall. She won critical acclaim for her powerful performance in the film ‘Precious’. Mo’Nique also starred in the long running sitcom ‘The Parkers’ and hosted her own late night talk show. Her height and confident personality have been central to her brand as a comedian and actress. She remains a significant figure in the entertainment world with her recent return to stand up specials and film roles.

Lela Rochon

Lela Rochon is an actress and producer who stands at five feet nine inches tall. She is perhaps best known for her role as Robin Stokes in the classic film ‘Waiting to Exhale’. Rochon has appeared in other notable projects such as ‘Harlem Nights’ and ‘Why Do Fools Fall in Love’. Her height and screen presence made her one of the most popular leading ladies of the 1990s. She continues to work in the industry and frequently attends major film and television events.

Iman

Iman is a legendary fashion model and actress who stands at five feet nine inches tall. She has appeared in films such as ‘Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country’ and ‘Out of Africa’. As one of the most successful supermodels in history her height was essential to her career on the runway. Iman has also been a successful entrepreneur with her own cosmetics line. She remains an influential figure in the worlds of fashion and global philanthropy.

Beverly Johnson

Beverly Johnson is a pioneering model and actress who stands at five feet nine inches tall. She made history as the first Black woman to appear on the cover of American Vogue. Her acting credits include films like ‘Ashanti’ and ‘The Meteor Man’. Johnson’s height and grace helped her maintain a long and successful career in the fashion industry. She continues to be a respected voice in the media and an advocate for diversity in fashion.

Grace Jones

Grace Jones is a singer, model, and actress who stands at five feet nine inches tall. She is famous for her roles in action films like ‘A View to a Kill’ and ‘Conan the Destroyer’. Her height and unique androgynous look made her a global icon in the 1980s. Jones has also had a successful music career with numerous hits in the dance and new wave genres. She remains a highly influential figure in art and fashion through her avant garde style and performances.

Serena Williams

Serena Williams is a legendary athlete and actress who stands at five feet nine inches tall. While best known for her unparalleled tennis career she has also made various appearances in film and television. Williams had a notable cameo in the film ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ and has voiced characters in several animated series. Her height and powerful physique have been a defining part of her public image for decades. She continues to expand her business and media empire since retiring from professional sports.

Yolonda Ross

Yolonda Ross is an actress and writer who stands at five feet nine inches tall. She is well known for her role as Jada Washington in the series ‘The Chi’. Ross has appeared in numerous films including ‘Antwone Fisher’ and ‘Lila & Eve’. Her height and expressive features have made her a versatile performer in both independent and mainstream projects. She is also an accomplished filmmaker who has written and directed her own short films.

Ryan Michelle Bathe

Ryan Michelle Bathe is a talented actress who stands at five feet nine inches tall. She has appeared in popular television series such as ‘First Wives Club’ and ‘This Is Us’. Bathe also had recurring roles on ‘Empire’ and ‘Boston Legal’. Her height is often noted when she appears alongside her husband and fellow actor Sterling K. Brown. She continues to lead successful television projects and is a respected member of the acting community.

Amber Stevens West

Amber Stevens West is an actress who stands at five feet nine inches tall. She rose to fame for her role as Ashleigh Howard on the series ‘Greek’. West currently stars in the comedy series ‘Run the World’ and has appeared in films like ’22 Jump Street’. Her height and charismatic screen presence have made her a popular choice for romantic comedies and television dramas. She maintains a steady career with consistent roles across multiple networks.

Thalissa Teixeira

Thalissa Teixeira is a British actress who stands at five feet nine inches tall. She has gained recognition for her work in series such as ‘Too Close’ and ‘Anne Boleyn’. Teixeira has also performed extensively in theater with roles in various London stage productions. Her height and distinct look have helped her stand out in recent British television dramas. she continues to build a strong portfolio of work in both film and television.

Nicole Ari Parker

Nicole Ari Parker is an actress and model who stands at five feet eight inches tall. She is well known for her role as Teri Joseph in the series ‘Soul Food’. Parker has also appeared in the ‘Sex and the City’ revival ‘And Just Like That…’ as Lisa Todd Wexley. Her height and background in fashion helped her transition into a successful acting career. She remains a prominent figure in Hollywood with a long list of credits in film and television.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris is a British actress who stands at five feet eight inches tall. She received an Academy Award nomination for her powerful performance in ‘Moonlight’. Harris is also widely recognized for playing Eve Moneypenny in several James Bond films. Her height and athletic build have allowed her to take on both intense dramatic roles and physical action parts. She continues to be a highly sought after actress for major international productions.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph is an actress and singer who stands at five feet eight inches tall. She currently stars in the hit comedy ‘Abbott Elementary’ for which she won an Emmy Award. Ralph’s career spans decades and includes roles in ‘Moesha’ and the original Broadway production of ‘Dreamgirls’. Her height and commanding voice have made her a significant presence on both stage and screen. She is also a dedicated activist and advocate for various social causes.

Wunmi Mosaku

Wunmi Mosaku is a British actress who stands at five feet eight inches tall. she has starred in acclaimed series such as ‘Lovecraft Country’ and ‘Loki’. Mosaku won a BAFTA for her role in the television film ‘Damilola, Our Loved Boy’. Her height and strong screen presence have made her a favorite for intense and complex characters. she continues to work in major television and film projects on both sides of the Atlantic.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is an actress and model who stands at five feet eight inches tall. they gained international fame for their role as Angel Evangelista on the series ‘Pose’. Moore has also appeared in films such as ‘Escape Room: Tournament of Champions’. Their height and striking appearance led to a successful career in high fashion before they entered acting. They continue to be an influential figure in the industry as both a performer and an advocate for marginalized communities.

Jill Marie Jones

Jill Marie Jones is an actress who stands at five feet eight inches tall. She is best known for her portrayal of Toni Childs on the long running sitcom ‘Girlfriends’. Jones has also appeared in series like ‘Ash vs Evil Dead’ and ‘Sleepy Hollow’. Her height and comedic timing were central to her performance in many of her most popular roles. She remains a beloved figure among fans of classic television comedies and continues to take on new projects.

Persia White

Persia White is an actress and musician who stands at five feet eight inches tall. She is widely recognized for her role as Lynn Searcy on the sitcom ‘Girlfriends’. White also had a recurring role on ‘The Vampire Diaries’ as Abby Bennett Wilson. Her height and unique style have made her a recognizable figure in the entertainment industry. In addition to acting she is a passionate musician and an advocate for animal rights and environmental causes.

Kelly Rowland

Kelly Rowland is a singer and actress who stands at five feet eight inches tall. while primarily known for her music career as a member of Destiny’s Child she has an extensive acting resume. Rowland has appeared in films like ‘Freddy vs. Jason’ and ‘The Curse of Bridge Hollow’. She has also served as a judge on various singing competition shows like ‘The X Factor’. Her height and grace are often visible during her many television appearances and live performances.

Audra McDonald

Audra McDonald is a record breaking actress and singer who stands at five feet eight inches tall. she has won six Tony Awards and has a prolific career on both Broadway and television. McDonald is known for her roles in ‘Private Practice’ and ‘The Gilded Age’. Her height and powerful stage presence have made her one of the most respected performers in the history of American theater. She continues to balance her work on television with regular concert performances and stage roles.

Antoinette Robertson

Antoinette Robertson is an actress who stands at five feet eight inches tall. She gained recognition for her role as Coco Conners in the series ‘Dear White People’. Robertson also appeared in the series ‘The Haves and the Have Nots’ as Melissa Wilson. Her height and sharp acting style have made her a favorite for playing sophisticated and determined characters. She continues to work in various television and film projects as her career grows.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo is a British actress who stands at five feet eight inches tall. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in the film ‘Hotel Rwanda’. Okonedo has also appeared in major projects like ‘Death on the Nile’ and the series ‘The Wheel of Time’. Her height and versatility have allowed her to play a wide variety of roles in international cinema and theater. she remains a highly respected figure in the global acting community.

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