African-American Actresses Who Started As Backup Dancers

The transition from the dance floor to the silver screen is a well traveled path for many talented performers in Hollywood. These African American actresses began their professional journeys by providing background movement for major musical artists and television variety shows. Their early experiences as backup dancers helped them develop the discipline and presence necessary to succeed in competitive acting roles. By mastering the art of performance through dance they established a strong foundation for their award winning careers in film and television.

Kat Graham

Before landing her breakout role on ‘The Vampire Diaries’ she worked extensively as a professional backup dancer. She performed alongside artists like Missy Elliott and Pharrell Williams in various music videos and live performances. Her background in dance helped her transition into a successful career in both acting and music production. She has often credited her time on the dance floor for her discipline and stage presence in Hollywood.

Rosie Perez

She began her journey in the entertainment industry as a dancer on ‘Soul Train’ before becoming a choreographer for the Fly Girls on ‘In Living Color’. Her energetic dancing style caught the attention of director Spike Lee who cast her in ‘Do the Right Thing’. This pivotal role launched her career as a serious actress and advocate for representation in film. She has since balanced her work in acting with a continued passion for choreography and dance performance.

Vivica A. Fox

This actress started her career by showcasing her rhythm as a dancer on the iconic television program ‘Soul Train’. She used her visibility on the show to land roles in daytime soap operas like ‘Days of Our Lives’ and ‘Generations’. Eventually she became a household name after starring in blockbuster films such as ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Set It Off’. Her early years as a dancer provided a foundation for the physicality she brings to her diverse acting roles.

Zendaya

Long before she became a celebrated star in ‘Euphoria’ and ‘Spider Man Homecoming’ she worked as a backup dancer. One of her earliest professional jobs was dancing in a Sears commercial that featured Selena Gomez. She also appeared as a background dancer in various music videos during her time as a child performer. These early experiences in dance helped her secure her lead role on the Disney Channel series ‘Shake It Up’.

Teyana Taylor

She first gained recognition in the industry as a talented choreographer and professional dancer for major artists like Beyoncé. Her skills on the dance floor led to her appearing in ‘America’s Best Dance Crew’ and several high profile music videos. She eventually transitioned into acting with roles in films such as ‘Coming 2 America’ and ‘A Thousand and One’. Her ability to blend dance and acting has made her a unique force in the modern entertainment landscape.

Jennifer Freeman

Best known for her role on the sitcom ‘My Wife and Kids’ she actually started as a professional dancer. She appeared in the dance film ‘You Got Served’ and worked as a backup dancer for the boy band B2K. Her background in dance was often integrated into her television roles where she showcased her movements. She continues to work in the industry while maintaining her roots in the performing arts community.

Meagan Good

This actress began her career appearing as a background dancer in music videos for popular artists such as Will Smith and 50 Cent. Her early exposure to the camera through dance helped her land child acting roles on shows like ‘Cousin Skeeter’. She eventually became a leading lady in films such as ‘Eve’s Bayou’ and ‘Deliver Us from Eva’. Her long career in Hollywood is a testament to the versatility she developed starting as a young dancer.

Jasmine Guy

Before she became a star on ‘A Different World’ she was a trained dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. She performed in numerous stage productions and worked as a background dancer in various musical projects. Her extensive training in dance allowed her to perform her own movements and choreography in her acting roles. She has remained a prominent figure in both the television and theater worlds throughout her career.

Debbie Allen

She is a legendary figure who began her career as a professional dancer and choreographer for stage and screen. Her work as a dancer led to her iconic role in ‘Fame’ where she played a dance teacher and choreographed the series. She has since directed and produced numerous television shows while maintaining her own dance academy. Her contributions to the arts have earned her multiple awards and a lasting legacy in the entertainment world.

Naturi Naughton

She entered the spotlight as a member of the girl group 3LW where she performed as both a singer and a dancer. Her experience in music videos and live stage performances prepared her for a transition into a full time acting career. She received critical acclaim for her portrayal of Lil’ Kim in ‘Notorious’ and her leading role in the series ‘Power’. Her journey from the dance floor to the screen highlights her diverse talents as a performer.

Ryan Destiny

Known for her role in the television series ‘Star’ she began her professional journey as a dancer and member of a musical group. She spent years perfecting her choreography and performing as a backup dancer for various local and national events. Her ability to dance and sing simultaneously made her a perfect fit for musical drama projects. She has since expanded her acting portfolio while continuing to work on her solo music career.

Normani

Before focusing on her solo music and acting roles she was a standout performer in the group Fifth Harmony. Her background as a competitive dancer was a key element of the group’s high energy stage presence. She has recently moved into acting with appearances in various media projects and high budget music videos that function as short films. Her discipline as a dancer remains a central part of her identity as a multi talented entertainer.

Serayah

She rose to fame playing Tiana Brown on the hit show ‘Empire’ which required extensive singing and dancing. Before landing this role she worked as a professional dancer and model in various commercial campaigns. Her background in dance allowed her to handle the rigorous choreography required for her character’s stage performances. She continues to pursue roles that showcase her abilities as both a dramatic actress and a skilled dancer.

Mya

While she is primarily known as a Grammy winning singer she began her career as a professional tap dancer. She worked as a dance instructor and performed in various background roles before her music career took off. Her skills in dance helped her land roles in films like ‘Chicago’ and ‘Cursed’ where she often performed her own choreography. She remains an active performer who frequently incorporates complex dance routines into her acting and music.

Ashanti

This actress and singer started as a background dancer in music videos during the late nineties. Her early work as a dancer for various hip hop artists gave her the exposure needed to secure a recording contract. She transitioned into acting with roles in movies such as ‘Coach Carter’ and ‘John Tucker Must Die’. Her career serves as a prime example of how dance can provide a pathway to multiple areas of the entertainment industry.

Christina Milian

She began her career in the entertainment industry as a backup singer and dancer for various artists. Her early experience on stage and in front of the camera led to her hosting roles on the Disney Channel and a successful music career. She eventually pivoted to acting in films like ‘Love Don’t Cost a Thing’ and the series ‘Grandfathered’. Her background as a performer has allowed her to maintain a steady presence in Hollywood for decades.

Cassie Ventura

Initially starting as a model and background dancer she gained fame with her hit single in the mid two thousands. She appeared as a dancer in music videos for several major R&B and hip hop artists before pursuing acting. Her film credits include ‘Step Up 2 The Streets’ where her dance background was a significant asset. She continues to work in both the fashion and film industries while raising her family.

Janelle Monáe

This acclaimed actress and musician began her career in performance art and local theater groups that emphasized dance. Her unique style of movement became a hallmark of her early music videos and live performances. She successfully transitioned into acting with powerhouse performances in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Moonlight’. Her history as a physical performer informs the way she approaches the movement and presence of her cinematic characters.

Chloe Bailey

As one half of the duo Chloe x Halle she has spent years performing complex choreography on international stages. Her early training as a dancer and performer helped her land roles in films like ‘The Fighting Temptations’ and the series ‘Grownish’. She has since branched out into a solo career that continues to highlight her skills as a dancer and actress. Her ability to command a stage is a direct result of her lifelong dedication to the performing arts.

Halle Bailey

Before she was cast as Ariel in the live action ‘The Little Mermaid’ she was a professional performer known for her dance and vocal abilities. She grew up performing in music videos and on television shows where dance was a core component of her presentation. Her transition to a leading film actress was supported by years of experience in the spotlight as a dancer and singer. She continues to be a major force in Hollywood with a variety of upcoming cinematic projects.

Keke Palmer

She started her career as a child star who was frequently required to sing and dance in various roles. She appeared in numerous music videos and stage productions where her dance skills were prominently featured. This background helped her land the lead in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ and eventually her own talk show and various film roles. Her versatility as a performer has allowed her to excel in everything from Broadway to big budget action films.

Raven-Symoné

From a very young age she was involved in the world of entertainment as a dancer and singer on ‘The Cosby Show’. She continued to develop her dance skills throughout her childhood and appeared in many musical segments on the Disney Channel. Her experience as a performer helped her lead the hit series ‘That’s So Raven’ and several successful television movies. She remains a prominent figure in the industry with a career spanning over three decades.

Brandy Norwood

Known as the Vocal Bible she also began her journey as a performer who participated in various dance and talent competitions. Her early music videos featured intricate choreography that showcased her abilities as a backup dancer for her own brand. She successfully moved into acting with the hit sitcom ‘Moesha’ and the television film ‘Cinderella’. Her influence on both the music and television industries is widely recognized by fans and peers alike.

Kelly Rowland

As a founding member of one of the best selling girl groups of all time she spent years as a professional dancer. The rigorous rehearsal schedules and music video shoots provided her with a strong foundation for a career in acting. She has appeared in films like ‘Freddy vs Jason’ and several television series where her stage presence is a major draw. Her career continues to thrive as she balances music acting and television hosting.

Beyoncé

Before becoming a global superstar she spent her formative years as a dancer and performer in the group Girl’s Tyme. She participated in numerous dance competitions and performed as a background artist in various local showcases. Her work in film includes ‘Dreamgirls’ and ‘The Lion King’ where her history as a performer is clearly evident. She is widely considered one of the greatest entertainers of all time due to her mastery of both song and dance.

Jada Pinkett Smith

She attended the Baltimore School for the Arts where she majored in dance and choreography before moving to Los Angeles. Her early days in the industry involved dance performances and minor roles in television series like ‘True Colors’. She eventually rose to fame in ‘A Different World’ and starred in major films like ‘The Matrix’ sequels. Her background in the performing arts has contributed to the intense physicality she brings to her action roles.

Sanaa Lathan

This actress has a deep background in dance having studied at the Beverly Hills High School for the Performing Arts. She performed in various stage productions that required a high level of dance proficiency before focusing on film. Her breakout roles in ‘Love and Basketball’ and ‘The Best Man’ established her as a leading talent in Hollywood. She continues to take on complex roles that showcase her range and dedication to the craft of acting.

Logan Browning

Known for her starring role in ‘Dear White People’ she began her career as a dancer and child actress. She was featured in the dance themed film ‘Bratz’ and has frequently utilized her dance background in various television roles. Her ability to convey emotion through movement has made her a standout performer in both dramatic and comedic projects. She remains an active member of the Hollywood community while supporting various artistic initiatives.

Erika Alexander

Before she became a household name on ‘Living Single’ she was involved in various performing arts programs that included dance. Her early career saw her performing in theater productions where movement and rhythm were essential components. She has had a long and successful career in television and film including a memorable role in the movie ‘Get Out’. Her roots in the performing arts continue to influence her work as an actress and producer.

LisaRaye McCoy

She started her career appearing as a dancer in several music videos for prominent hip hop and R&B artists. These early appearances helped her gain the attention of casting directors and led to her breakout role in ‘The Players Club’. She has since enjoyed a successful career in television with long running roles in series like ‘All of Us’. Her background as a dancer provided her with the confidence and screen presence needed for a lasting career in entertainment.

Garcelle Beauvais

This actress and television personality began her career as a model and background dancer in music videos during the eighties. Her work in the fashion industry and dance world eventually led to roles on ‘The Jamie Foxx Show’ and ‘NYPD Blue’. She has transitioned into a successful career in reality television and film while also authoring children’s books. Her journey from the dance floor to the screen highlights her adaptability and longevity in a competitive industry.

Tichina Arnold

She began her career in the arts at a young age appearing in theater productions that required both singing and dancing. Her early experience as a performer helped her land roles in ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ and the sitcom ‘Martin’. She has maintained a consistent presence on television for decades starring in shows like ‘Everybody Hates Chris’. Her background in musical theater and dance remains a core part of her identity as an entertainer.

Karyn Parsons

Best known for playing Hilary Banks on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel Air’ she also has a background in dance. She studied various forms of dance during her youth and participated in regional performances before pursuing acting. Her comedic timing and physical presence on screen were honed through her early experiences in the performing arts. She has since moved into producing and writing while remaining a beloved figure in television history.

Kim Fields

She grew up in the entertainment industry and was often involved in dance and musical performances as a child star. Her early work on ‘The Facts of Life’ occasionally showcased her abilities as a dancer and singer. She has successfully transitioned into directing and producing while continuing to act in series like ‘The Upshaws’. Her long history in the industry has been marked by her ability to evolve and take on new challenges.

Salli Richardson-Whitfield

This actress and director started her career in the arts with a focus on dance and theater in her hometown of Chicago. She appeared in music videos and stage plays before landing her first major film roles in the nineties. Her career has seen her star in series like ‘Eureka’ and transition into a high demand television director. Her early training as a dancer helped her develop the focus and discipline required for her multifaceted career.

Robin Givens

She was a student of dance and the arts long before she became a famous actress on the series ‘Head of the Class’. Her early background in performance helped her navigate the complexities of the Hollywood landscape during the eighties and nineties. She has starred in numerous films and television shows including the cult classic ‘Boomerang’. Her career continues to flourish as she takes on roles in modern television dramas and stage productions.

Vanessa Williams

She made history as the first African American Miss America and has a deep background in musical theater and dance. Her early career involved numerous stage performances where she showcased her skills as a trained dancer. She has successfully balanced a legendary music career with iconic acting roles in ‘Ugly Betty’ and ‘Desperate Housewives’. Her talent and professionalism have made her one of the most respected figures in the entertainment world.

Janet Jackson

She began her legendary career performing as a backup dancer for her brothers during their live shows and television specials. Her early exposure to the stage led to acting roles on ‘Good Times’ and ‘Fame’ before she became a music icon. Her film work includes ‘Poetic Justice’ and the ‘Why Did I Get Married’ franchise where her screen presence is undeniable. She is celebrated for her revolutionary choreography and her significant impact on pop culture.

Paula Patton

Before she became a leading actress in films like ‘Mission Impossible Ghost Protocol’ she worked as a production assistant and appeared in music videos. She was a background dancer and performer in several projects during the early stages of her career in the film industry. Her transition to acting was marked by her breakout role in the film ‘Hitch’. She has since become a prominent figure in Hollywood starring in a wide range of action and dramatic films.

Please share which of these talented performers surprised you the most in the comments.