20 Black Actresses Who Only Date White to “Upgrade” Their Image

Interracial relationships in Hollywood have become increasingly common and visible in recent years as stars follow their hearts regardless of background. Many successful Black actresses have chosen partners from different backgrounds and sparked conversations about love and compatibility in the spotlight. These women have found happiness with white men who support their careers and personal growth in the competitive entertainment industry. The public often follows these unions closely as they challenge traditional expectations and showcase modern romance. Here is a look at twenty Black actresses who have notably dated or married white men.

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex

Meghan Markle became the center of global attention when she began dating Prince Harry and eventually married into the British royal family. Her relationship with the Duke of Sussex marked a significant departure from royal tradition and elevated her profile from a television actress to a global icon. The couple shares two children and has built a new life together in California after stepping back from official royal duties. Their union remains one of the most discussed interracial marriages in modern history.

Eve

The rapper and actress known for ‘Barbershop’ found lasting love with British entrepreneur Maximillion Cooper. They met at a Gumball 3000 rally and built a relationship that bridged their different worlds of hip-hop and international racing. Eve has spoken openly about how her husband creates a safe and supportive environment for her to thrive. The couple welcomed their first child together in 2022 and continue to share their life between the United Kingdom and the United States.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña married Italian artist Marco Perego in a private ceremony that surprised many of her fans. The ‘Avatar’ star and her husband have been vocal about their commitment to raising their three sons in a multilingual and culturally fluid household. Perego famously took Saldaña’s surname upon marriage to show his dedication to their partnership. Their relationship highlights a deep artistic connection that transcends cultural boundaries.

Tamera Mowry-Housley

Tamera Mowry-Housley has been a fierce defender of her marriage to journalist Adam Housley against online criticism. The ‘Sister, Sister’ star often shares glimpses of their family life and discusses the challenges and joys of raising biracial children. She credits her husband with providing stability and unconditional love throughout her evolving career in talk shows and acting. Their long-standing union has become a positive example of interracial commitment in the public eye.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton was married to British writer and director Ol Parker for more than two decades before their separation. The ‘Westworld’ actress and her husband raised three children together while navigating successful careers in the film industry. Their relationship was often cited as one of the most stable partnerships in British entertainment during their years together. Newton has frequently explored themes of identity and race in her work while maintaining a private personal life.

Jodie Turner-Smith

Jodie Turner-Smith and actor Joshua Jackson captivated the media with their stylish appearances and public declarations of affection. The ‘Queen & Slim’ actress spoke often about how Jackson supported her during her pregnancy and championed her career ambitions. Although they eventually separated, their relationship was a high-profile example of two actors from different backgrounds coming together. They share a daughter and continue to co-parent in the entertainment hub of Los Angeles.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard has enjoyed one of the most enduring marriages in Hollywood with her husband Roderick Spencer. The couple married in 1983 and have navigated the ups and downs of the entertainment industry side by side for decades. Spencer is a writer and producer who has collaborated with Woodard on various creative projects throughout their union. Their long-lasting marriage serves as a testament to their strong foundation and mutual professional respect.

Paula Patton

Paula Patton was famously married to singer Robin Thicke after the two met as teenagers and grew their careers together. The ‘Mission: Impossible’ actress appeared in several of his music videos and was his muse for many years before their divorce. Their relationship was a fixture in the tabloids as they ascended to A-list status in both the music and film worlds. Patton has since focused on her acting career and raising their son.

Aisha Tyler

Aisha Tyler was married to attorney Jeff Tietjens for over twenty years before they decided to part ways. The ‘Archer’ voice actress and talk show host often spoke about their bond as college sweethearts who grew up together. Tyler has been open about her preferences and dating experiences following her marriage. She continues to be a prominent figure in television and comedy with a diverse dating history.

Garcelle Beauvais

Garcelle Beauvais was married to talent agent Mike Nilon with whom she shares twin sons. The ‘Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ star has been candid about the challenges she faced during their public divorce and her subsequent dating life. She often discusses her experiences dating men of different races on her reality show and in interviews. Beauvais remains a highly visible figure who navigates romance with transparency and humor.

Stacey Dash

Stacey Dash has had a series of high-profile relationships with white men throughout her career in film and television. The ‘Clueless’ actress was married to Brian Lovell and later to Emmanuel Xuereb before those unions ended. She has never shied away from expressing her personal preferences and political views which often spark debate. Her romantic choices have consistently aligned with her public persona and social circles.

Maya Rudolph

Maya Rudolph has been in a long-term partnership with celebrated filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson since 2001. The ‘Bridesmaids’ comedian and the director have four children together and maintain a relatively private domestic life despite their immense fame. Anderson has affectionately referred to Rudolph as his wife in interviews even though they never formally married. Their creative partnership is considered one of the most talented power couplings in Hollywood.

Rashida Jones

Rashida Jones has been linked to several prominent white figures in the entertainment industry including musicians and actors. The ‘Parks and Recreation’ actress has cultivated a sophisticated image and often moves in elite social circles. She shares a child with musician Ezra Koenig and maintains a low-profile relationship. Her dating history reflects her background in the upper echelons of the music and film business.

Tika Sumpter

Tika Sumpter met her husband Nicholas James on the set of the television series ‘The Haves and the Have Nots’. The ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ actress kept their relationship private for some time before revealing their engagement and the birth of their daughter. Sumpter has spoken about the love and support she receives from James who is also an actor. Their on-set romance blossomed into a real-life marriage that defies industry odds.

Sharon Leal

Sharon Leal is married to director and producer Bev Land. The ‘Dreamgirls’ actress and her husband often share affectionate posts on social media celebrating their blended family. Land supports Leal’s acting endeavors and accompanies her to various red carpet events. Their relationship is characterized by mutual support for their respective careers in the arts.

Lesley-Ann Brandt

Lesley-Ann Brandt found love with actor Chris Payne Gilbert and the couple married in 2015. The ‘Lucifer’ star and her husband have a son and frequently document their family adventures online. Brandt has discussed how they navigate cultural differences given her South African roots and his American background. Their partnership is built on shared values and a deep connection to their craft.

Kylie Bunbury

Kylie Bunbury married Jon-Ryan Alan Riggins in a beautiful ceremony that she shared with her fans. The ‘Big Sky’ actress often expresses her gratitude for her husband’s unwavering support of her demanding filming schedule. They welcomed their first child in 2021 and balance parenthood with her lead roles in television. Their relationship appears grounded and focused on family life away from the paparazzi.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley was married to actor Jacob Fishel after they met while studying at Juilliard. The ‘True Blood’ star and Fishel were together for several years before eventually divorcing. She credited their shared training and background in theater as a strong initial bond. Wesley has continued to pursue diverse roles in television following the end of their marriage.

Kat Graham

Kat Graham announced her engagement to director and cinematographer Darren Genet after a private courtship. The ‘The Vampire Diaries’ actress and her partner have collaborated on professional projects which strengthened their personal bond. They kept their relationship largely out of the spotlight for years to focus on their connection. Graham values the privacy and stability that their partnership provides.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris has been in a long-term relationship with Peter Legler since 2012. The ‘Moonlight’ actress and her partner are frequently photographed together at high-profile events and award shows. Harris credits a stable home life with helping her manage the pressures of an international film career. Their relationship is known for being low-key and drama-free despite her A-list status.

We would love to know what you think about these couples and the conversations they start so please share your thoughts in the comments.