African-American Actresses Who Are Taller Than 5’9″

In the entertainment industry height can be a significant physical attribute that enhances a performer presence on screen and stage. Many African American actresses have broken traditional casting molds while standing five feet nine inches or taller. These women have utilized their stature and talent to portray powerful characters in film and television history. This list highlights several prominent figures who have made a lasting impact through their performances and unique physical profiles.

Lisa Leslie

Lisa Leslie is a basketball legend who successfully transitioned into the world of acting and entertainment. She stands six feet five inches tall and has appeared in various television shows and films throughout her career. Her credits include roles in ‘Think Like a Man’ and ‘Uncle Drew’ where she showcased her comedic abilities. She also provided her voice for characters in animated projects like ‘The Proud Family’ on the Disney Channel. Her commanding height and athletic background have made her a recognizable figure in both sports and media.

Aisha Tyler

Aisha Tyler is a versatile actress and director who stands six feet tall. She gained significant fame for her portrayal of Dr. Charlie Wheeler in the sitcom ‘Friends’. Her extensive voice work includes the character Lana Kane in the animated series ‘Archer’. She has also held prominent roles in dramatic series such as ‘Criminal Minds’ and ‘Ghost Whisperer’ over the years. Her career spans across hosting and acting making her one of the most visible tall actresses in Hollywood.

Leslie Jones

Leslie Jones is known for her boisterous comedic style and stands six feet tall. she rose to national prominence as a cast member and writer on ‘Saturday Night Live’. Her film career includes a leading role in the 2016 reboot of ‘Ghostbusters’ and a part in ‘Coming 2 America’. She often uses her physical presence to enhance her comedic performances and has become a beloved figure in modern comedy. Her work continues to span across film television and stand up comedy specials.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is an actress and model who stands six feet one inch tall. She is best known for her role as Elektra Abundance on the critically acclaimed series ‘Pose’. Her performance on the show earned her praise for portraying a powerful and complex matriarch in the ballroom scene. Beyond her work in ‘Pose’ she has appeared in ‘American Gods’ and various fashion related programs. Her striking height and regal presence have made her a standout star in contemporary television.

Kim Wayans

Kim Wayans is a member of the famous Wayans family and stands six feet tall. She first gained major fame for her work on the sketch comedy show ‘In Living Color’ where she played numerous memorable characters. She later transitioned into dramatic roles including a critically acclaimed performance in the film ‘Pariah’. Her career also includes work in television shows like ‘In the House’ and ‘New Girl’. She has maintained a steady presence in the industry as both a comedic and dramatic performer for decades.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox stands five feet eleven inches tall and is a pioneering figure in the acting world. She achieved massive success for her role as Sophia Burset on the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. This role made her the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. She has since appeared in films like ‘Promising Young Woman’ and the series ‘Inventing Anna’. Her height and advocacy work have contributed to her status as a major icon in modern entertainment.

Sydney Tamiia Poitier

Sydney Tamiia Poitier stands five feet eleven inches tall and is the daughter of acting legend Sidney Poitier. She has established her own career with roles in films like ‘Death Proof’ directed by Quentin Tarantino. Her television work includes appearances in ‘Knight Rider’ and the series ‘Carter’. She has also worked on various independent film projects throughout her years in the industry. Her stature and talent have helped her create a unique path in Hollywood following in her father footsteps.

Wendy Williams

Wendy Williams is primarily known as a talk show host but has also established herself as an actress standing five feet eleven inches tall. She has appeared in films such as ‘Think Like a Man’ and ‘Think Like a Man Too’ playing a character inspired by her media persona. Her acting credits also include a role in the television movie ‘The Santa Con’ and several guest appearances as herself. Her large personality and physical presence made her a dominant figure on daytime television for over a decade.

Tyra Banks

Tyra Banks is a global superstar who stands five feet ten inches tall and started her career as a fashion model. She successfully moved into acting with roles in films like ‘Higher Learning’ and ‘Coyote Ugly’. She also starred in the popular television movie ‘Life Size’ alongside Lindsay Lohan. Beyond acting she created and hosted ‘Americas Next Top Model’ which became a long running television phenomenon. Her height and striking features helped her become one of the most successful models turned actresses in the world.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah stands five feet ten inches tall and is a Grammy winning musician and Oscar nominated actress. She earned her Academy Award nomination for her role as Matron Mama Morton in the musical film ‘Chicago’. Her diverse career includes starring in the sitcom ‘Living Single’ and leading the action series ‘The Equalizer’. She has also appeared in hit films like ‘Bringing Down the House’ and ‘Girls Trip’. Her presence in the industry is defined by her versatility and consistent success across multiple genres.

Zendaya

Zendaya stands five feet ten inches tall and has become one of the most influential actresses of her generation. She gained early fame on the Disney Channel series ‘Shake It Up’ before moving into major film roles. She stars as MJ in the ‘Spider Man’ franchise and leads the acclaimed drama series ‘Euphoria’. Her work in ‘Dune’ and its sequel further solidified her status as a leading lady in Hollywood. Her height and fashion sense have also made her a prominent figure in the global style industry.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore stands five feet ten inches tall and rose to fame for their role as Angel Evangelista in ‘Pose’. Their performance helped bring attention to the experiences of the LGBTQ community during the height of the HIV crisis in New York. They have also appeared in films like ‘Queen and Slim’ and provided voice work for ‘Steven Universe Future’. Their work in ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’ expanded their reach into major blockbuster cinema. They are recognized for their striking looks and dedication to social justice through their art.

Natasha Rothwell

Natasha Rothwell is an actress and writer who stands five feet ten inches tall. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Kelli in the hit series ‘Insecure’. Her career also includes a major role in ‘The White Lotus’ which earned her significant critical praise. She has appeared in blockbuster films like ‘Wonder Woman 1984’ and provided voices for ‘Wonka’ and ‘Wish’. Her comedic timing and physical presence have made her a highly sought after talent in both television and film.

Bria Samoné Henderson

Bria Samoné Henderson stands five feet ten inches tall and is recognized for her work in television drama. She plays Dr. Jordan Allen on the popular medical series ‘The Good Doctor’. Her character is known for being strong and capable within the high stakes environment of a hospital. She also appeared in the miniseries ‘Mrs. America’ as the activist Margaret Sloan Hunter. Her stature helps her convey a sense of authority and confidence in her various television roles.

Damaris Lewis

Damaris Lewis is an actress and model who stands five feet ten inches tall. She made a significant transition into acting with a role in the film ‘BlacKkKlansman’ directed by Spike Lee. She is also well known for her portrayal of Blackfire in the superhero series ‘Titans’. Her career includes work on the film ‘Fatale’ and several appearances in music videos for high profile artists. Her height and athletic grace have allowed her to excel in roles that require a strong physical presence.

Heather Headley

Heather Headley is a Tony Award winning actress and singer who stands five feet ten inches tall. She is highly regarded for her stage work in ‘The Lion King’ and ‘Aida’ on Broadway. On television she is known for her role as Helen Decatur in the series ‘Sweet Magnolias’ on Netflix. She also appeared in the medical drama ‘Chicago Med’ as Gwen Garrett. Her tall frame and powerful voice have made her a formidable performer on both the stage and the small screen.

Julia Pace Mitchell

Julia Pace Mitchell stands five feet ten inches tall and is best known for her work in daytime television. She portrayed Sofia Dupre on the long running soap opera ‘The Young and the Restless’. Her film work includes a role in ‘Notorious’ where she played Janie Thompson. She has also guest starred in television shows like ‘Law and Order’ and ‘Cold Case’. Her stature and expressive acting style have made her a memorable face to television audiences for many years.

Kellita Smith

Kellita Smith stands five feet ten inches tall and is a veteran of the television industry. She is most famous for playing Wanda McCullough on the hit sitcom ‘The Bernie Mac Show’. She also starred as Warren in the action horror series ‘Z Nation’ for several seasons. Her career includes roles in ‘The Jamie Foxx Show’ and various independent film projects. She is praised for her ability to handle both intense action sequences and sharp comedic dialogue.

Nika King

Nika King is an actress and comedian who stands five feet ten inches tall. She gained major international recognition for her role as Leslie Bennett in the drama series ‘Euphoria’. Her performance as the mother of the lead character showcased her deep dramatic range. She has also worked on various comedy projects including ‘2 Broke Girls’ and ‘Greenleaf’. Her height and commanding screen presence help her bring a grounded reality to her dramatic performances.

Ethel Waters

Ethel Waters was a legendary performer who stood five feet nine and a half inches tall. She was a pioneer in the entertainment industry and became the second African American ever nominated for an Academy Award. Her performance in the film ‘Pinky’ earned her that historic nomination. She also starred in ‘Member of the Wedding’ on both Broadway and in the film adaptation. Her stature and incredible talent allowed her to break many racial barriers during her long and storied career.

Michael Michele

Michael Michele stands five feet nine inches tall and is known for her sophisticated roles in television dramas. She gained fame playing Dr. Cleo Finch on the medical series ‘ER’ during its peak years. Her other major roles include appearances in ‘Homicide Life on the Street’ and ‘Dynasty’. She also appeared on the big screen in films like ‘How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days’ and ‘Ali’. Her height and elegant presence have made her a staple in dramatic storytelling for decades.

Adepero Oduye

Adepero Oduye stands five feet nine inches tall and is a critically acclaimed actress. She received widespread praise for her breakout performance in the independent film ‘Pariah’. She also appeared in the Academy Award winning film ’12 Years a Slave’ and the drama ‘The Big Short’. Her television work includes a role in the series ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’ within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Her physical presence and intense acting style have made her a favorite among directors of prestige cinema.

Tamara Taylor

Tamara Taylor is a Canadian American actress who stands five feet nine inches tall. She is most famous for her long running role as Dr. Camille Saroyan on the forensic crime drama ‘Bones’. Her career also includes roles in ‘Altered Carbon’ and ‘Law and Order Organized Crime’. She appeared in the film ‘Serenity’ based on the series ‘Firefly’ and ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman’. Her height and professional demeanor have often seen her cast in roles as high ranking officials and scientists.

Iman

Iman stands five feet nine inches tall and is a world famous model and actress. While she is a fashion icon she has appeared in several notable films including ‘Out of Africa’ and ‘Star Trek VI The Undiscovered Country’. She also played a significant role in the film ‘No Way Out’ alongside Kevin Costner. Her television work includes hosting ‘Project Runway Canada’ and appearing in various documentaries about the fashion industry. Her height and legendary beauty have made her a permanent fixture in global pop culture.

Laura Harrier

Laura Harrier stands five feet nine inches tall and is a rising star in Hollywood. She gained major recognition for her role as Liz Allan in ‘Spider Man Homecoming’. She also starred in the film ‘BlacKkKlansman’ as the activist Patrice Dumas. Her television work includes a leading role in the Ryan Murphy series ‘Hollywood’ on Netflix. Her stature and classic looks have led to her becoming a prominent figure in both film and the high fashion world.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph stands five feet nine inches tall and has enjoyed a long and successful career in entertainment. She originated the role of Deena Jones in the Broadway musical ‘Dreamgirls’ for which she received a Tony nomination. Her television fame grew with her role as Dee Mitchell on the sitcom ‘Moesha’. More recently she won an Emmy Award for her role as Barbara Howard on the hit comedy ‘Abbott Elementary’. Her height and vibrant personality have made her a beloved figure across multiple generations of viewers.

Kim Coles

Kim Coles stands five feet nine inches tall and is a well known comedic actress. She is most famous for her role as Synclaire James Jones on the classic sitcom ‘Living Single’. Her career began with a role in the first season of ‘In Living Color’ where she showcased her sketch comedy talents. She has also appeared on various game shows and reality programs including ‘Celebrity Mole’. Her physical comedy and tall frame were essential parts of her endearing character on ‘Living Single’.

Mo’Nique

Mo’Nique stands five feet nine inches tall and is an Academy Award winning actress and comedian. She earned her Oscar for her harrowing performance as Mary Lee Johnston in the film ‘Precious’. Her career started in stand up comedy before she starred in the popular sitcom ‘The Parkers’. She has also appeared in films like ‘Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins’ and ‘Almost Christmas’. Her presence is marked by her powerful voice and her ability to master both comedy and heavy drama.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson stands five feet nine inches tall and is one of the few performers to achieve EGOT status. She rose to fame on ‘American Idol’ before winning an Academy Award for her role in ‘Dreamgirls’. Her filmography also includes ‘Sex and the City’ and the biopic ‘Respect’ where she played Aretha Franklin. She currently hosts ‘The Jennifer Hudson Show’ where her height and warm personality engage daily audiences. Her career is defined by her massive vocal talent and successful transition into a leading actress.

Coco Jones

Coco Jones stands five feet nine inches tall and is a singer and actress who started as a child star on the Disney Channel. She appeared in the film ‘Let It Shine’ and the series ‘Good Luck Charlie’ during her youth. More recently she has gained major acclaim for her role as Hilary Banks in the drama series ‘Bel Air’. Her performance in the reboot has been praised for bringing a modern and sophisticated depth to the character. Her height and glamorous image have made her a standout in the new generation of television stars.

Amber Stevens West

Amber Stevens West stands five feet nine inches tall and is known for her work in television comedies. She played Ashleigh Howard on the series ‘Greek’ for several seasons. Her other television credits include starring roles in ‘The Carmichael Show’ and ‘Run the World’. She has also appeared in films such as ’22 Jump Street’ and ‘The Amazing Spider Man’. Her stature and comedic timing have allowed her to maintain a consistent career in the sitcom genre.

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor stands five feet nine inches tall and is a highly respected dramatic actress. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Oracene Price in the film ‘King Richard’. Her extensive television work includes ‘Lovecraft Country’ and the miniseries ‘When They See Us’. She has also appeared in major films like ‘The Help’ and ‘Ray’ throughout her career. Her height and commanding performances have made her a staple in prestige television and cinema.

Gina Ravera

Gina Ravera stands five feet nine inches tall and is known for her dramatic roles in television crime series. She played Irene Daniels on the popular show ‘The Closer’ for several years. Her film work includes a role in ‘Soul Food’ and the biographical film ‘The Rat Pack’. She also appeared in the series ‘ER’ and ‘Time of Your Life’ during the late nineties. Her stature and professional screen presence have made her a reliable performer in procedural dramas.

Justine Skye

Justine Skye is a singer and actress who stands five feet nine inches tall. She has appeared in the television series ‘Grown ish’ as the character Annika. Her film credits include roles in ‘Already Gone’ and ‘Tales’. She is also a prominent figure in the fashion world and often appears in campaigns for major brands. Her height and modern style have made her a significant influencer and rising talent in the entertainment industry.

KiKi Layne

KiKi Layne stands five feet nine inches tall and rose to stardom with her breakout role in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. Her performance in the Barry Jenkins film earned her critical acclaim and several award nominations. She has since appeared in the action film ‘The Old Guard’ and the comedy ‘Coming 2 America’. She also starred in ‘Dont Worry Darling’ alongside a high profile ensemble cast. Her physical presence and emotive acting style have quickly made her a sought after talent in Hollywood.

Michelle Hurd

Michelle Hurd stands five feet nine inches tall and is a prolific television actress. She is well known for her roles in ‘Law and Order Special Victims Unit’ and the series ‘Blindspot’. More recently she has gained fame for playing Raffi Musiker in ‘Star Trek Picard’. Her career spans across many popular shows including ‘The Glades’ and ‘Daredevil’. Her athletic build and height have made her a popular choice for playing detectives and action oriented characters.

Ryan Michelle Bathe

Ryan Michelle Bathe stands five feet nine inches tall and is an actress known for her work in both comedy and drama. She has appeared in series such as ‘This Is Us’ and ‘Boston Legal’. She also stars in the television adaptation of ‘First Wives Club’ and the series ‘The Endgame’. Her film credits include ‘One for the Money’ and ‘Sylvies Love’. Her height and charismatic screen presence have made her a versatile and consistent performer in the industry.

Sydelle Noel

Sydelle Noel stands five feet nine inches tall and is an actress and former athlete. She is best known for her role as Cherry Bang in the Netflix series ‘GLOW’. Her background as a professional runner helped her bring a unique physicality to the role of a professional wrestler. She also appeared in the blockbuster film ‘Black Panther’ as a member of the Dora Milaje. Her stature and athletic ability have made her a standout in roles that require physical strength and presence.

Share your favorite performances from these talented actresses in the comments.