Black Actresses With The Highest Net Worth

The entertainment industry has seen many talented Black actresses rise to prominence while building substantial financial empires through their diverse careers. These women have excelled in film and television while often expanding their influence into production and entrepreneurship. Their success reflects decades of hard work and a commitment to excellence in a competitive field. This overview highlights the actresses who have amassed significant wealth through their dedication and diverse professional endeavors.

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey is a media mogul who gained international fame as the host of ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show’. She has delivered acclaimed performances in films such as ‘The Color Purple’ and ‘The Butler’. Her massive financial success stems from her production company and her own television network. She remains one of the most powerful and wealthiest figures in the global entertainment landscape. Her career has paved the way for countless individuals in media and acting.

Rihanna

Rihanna is a billionaire entrepreneur and actress who has appeared in several major motion pictures. Her film credits include roles in ‘Battleship’ and the heist movie ‘Ocean’s 8’. While she is primarily known for her music and beauty brand her acting roles have contributed to her high profile. Her diverse business interests have made her one of the most successful entertainers in history. She continues to expand her influence across multiple industries through innovative projects.

Beyoncé

Beyoncé has built a massive net worth through her music career and roles in various film projects. She starred in the musical drama ‘Dreamgirls’ and provided the voice for Nala in the remake of ‘The Lion King’. Her film work also includes the comedy ‘Austin Powers in Goldmember’ where she played the character Foxxy Cleopatra. Her creative vision and business acumen have solidified her position as a leading figure in the industry. She remains a global icon with significant influence in both music and cinema.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry is a highly successful actress who became the first Black woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress. She gained significant fame for her portrayal of Storm in the ‘X-Men’ film franchise. Her career includes leading roles in major projects such as ‘Monster’s Ball’ and ‘Die Another Day’. She has also ventured into directing and producing which has increased her overall wealth. Her steady work in Hollywood across multiple decades has made her one of the top earners.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah is a multitalented performer who transitioned from a music career to becoming a major film star. she earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in the musical ‘Chicago’. Her diverse filmography includes popular movies like ‘Set It Off’ and ‘Bring Down the House’. She also found great success as a producer and lead actress on the television series ‘The Equalizer’. Her longevity in the industry is a testament to her versatility and business sense.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg is one of the few entertainers to achieve EGOT status by winning an Emmy and Grammy and Oscar and Tony. She became a superstar following her breakout performance in ‘The Color Purple’ and her Oscar winning role in ‘Ghost’. She has also served as a moderator on the long running talk show ‘The View’ for many years. Her career spans film and television and Broadway making her a highly respected and wealthy figure. She continues to be a prominent voice in the entertainment world.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington achieved mainstream success through her starring role as Olivia Pope on the hit series ‘Scandal’. She has appeared in critically acclaimed films such as ‘Ray’ and ‘Django Unchained’. Beyond acting she has established herself as a successful producer through her company Simpson Street. Her brand partnerships and television work have contributed significantly to her high net worth. She is recognized for her talent as well as her activism and professional leadership.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith has enjoyed a long career as an actress and producer and talk show host. She gained early recognition in films like ‘The Nutty Professor’ and ‘Set It Off’. Her role in ‘The Matrix Reloaded’ and its sequels further established her as a major action star. She also created and hosted the popular digital talk show ‘Red Table Talk’. Her various business ventures and production deals have helped build her substantial wealth.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné began her career as a child actress on ‘The Cosby Show’ before starring in her own Disney Channel series ‘That’s So Raven’. Her work with Disney included the ‘Cheetah Girls’ movies and several successful albums. She has continued to work as an actress and television personality and producer throughout her adult life. Her early success and continued presence in the industry have led to a significant net worth. She recently returned to her famous role in the spin off series ‘Raven’s Home’.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union rose to fame with her roles in popular teen movies like ‘Bring It On’ and ’10 Things I Hate About You’. she starred in the successful television series ‘Being Mary Jane’ for several seasons. Union has also written multiple books and launched several business lines focused on beauty and fashion. Her work as a producer and brand ambassador has added to her financial success. She remains a prominent figure in Hollywood and a vocal advocate for equality.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldana has starred in some of the highest grossing films of all time including ‘Avatar’ and ‘Avengers: Endgame’. She is widely recognized for her role as Gamora in the ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ movies. Her work in the ‘Star Trek’ franchise also contributed to her global recognition and financial success. Saldana has consistently chosen major blockbuster projects that have performed exceptionally well at the box office. Her status as a leading actress in major franchises makes her one of the wealthiest women in film.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson first gained attention as a contestant on ‘American Idol’ before winning an Academy Award for her role in ‘Dreamgirls’. She has starred in various films including ‘Sex and the City’ and the biopic ‘Respect’ where she played Aretha Franklin. Hudson has also found success on Broadway and as a coach on ‘The Voice’. She currently hosts her own daytime talk show which has further boosted her visibility and earnings. Her powerful voice and acting talent have built a very successful career.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is known for her powerful portrayals of real life figures such as Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’. She has been a mainstay in the ‘American Horror Story’ series and stars in the popular drama ‘9-1-1’. Her role as Queen Ramonda in ‘Black Panther’ and its sequel brought her further critical acclaim and commercial success. Bassett has maintained a high level of respect and demand in Hollywood for decades. Her consistent work and production credits have led to her impressive financial status.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’. She became a cultural icon for her portrayal of Cookie Lyon on the hit musical drama ‘Empire’. Her film work includes leading roles in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Proud Mary’. She has also authored books and launched a hair care line inspired by her own experiences. Her success across television and film and business has made her a very wealthy actress.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is a highly decorated actress who has won an Oscar and an Emmy and a Tony Award. She gained widespread fame for her role as Annalise Keating in the legal thriller series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. Her film credits include powerful performances in ‘The Help’ and ‘Fences’ and ‘The Woman King’. Alongside her husband she runs a production company that focuses on diverse storytelling. Her immense talent and professional choices have resulted in significant career success and wealth.

Zendaya

Zendaya started her career on the Disney Channel before transitioning to major film and television roles. She has won multiple Emmy Awards for her performance in the drama series ‘Euphoria’. Her roles in the ‘Spider-Man’ franchise and ‘Dune’ have established her as a major movie star. She is also a prominent figure in the fashion industry and serves as a brand ambassador for several luxury labels. Her rapid rise and diverse projects have led to a substantial net worth at a young age.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer won an Academy Award for her breakout role in the period drama ‘The Help’. She has since starred in many successful films including ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘The Shape of Water’. Spencer has also worked as a producer on projects like ‘Green Book’ and ‘Self Made’. Her ability to consistently land roles in critically acclaimed and commercially successful movies has built her wealth. She is considered one of the most reliable and talented actresses working today.

Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams has had a diverse career spanning music and theater and television and film. She starred in the hit comedy series ‘Ugly Betty’ and the drama ‘Desperate Housewives’. Her film credits include ‘Eraser’ and the holiday movie ‘Soul Food’. She has also been successful on Broadway and has released several hit albums throughout her career. Her long history of success in multiple areas of entertainment has created a strong financial foundation.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross is best known for her leading roles in the sitcoms ‘Girlfriends’ and ‘black-ish’. She has won several awards for her comedic performances and has also worked as a director on her television projects. Beyond acting she is the founder of a successful hair care brand designed for curly hair. Her work as a fashion icon and television star has contributed to her significant net worth. She continues to produce and star in influential content for global audiences.

Regina King

Regina King began her career as a teenager on the sitcom ‘227’ before becoming a major film and television star. She won an Academy Award for her role in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and several Emmy Awards for her television work. King has also transitioned into a successful directing career with the film ‘One Night in Miami’. Her steady work in the industry for over three decades has resulted in a high net worth. She is recognized as one of the most versatile talents in Hollywood.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton has appeared in many notable films including ‘Beloved’ and ‘Crash’ and ‘Mission: Impossible 2’. She gained widespread acclaim and an Emmy Award for her role in the science fiction series ‘Westworld’. Her filmography also includes the ‘Star Wars’ universe and the drama ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’. She is known for her range and her involvement in both independent and blockbuster projects. Her long and successful career in international cinema has led to significant financial earnings.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard is a highly respected actress with a career spanning several decades in film and television. She has received numerous accolades including multiple Emmy Awards and an Academy Award nomination. Her credits include roles in ‘Cross Creek’ and ‘Passion Fish’ and the Marvel series ‘Luke Cage’. She has also appeared in major films such as ’12 Years a Slave’ and ‘The Lion King’. Her consistent work in high quality productions has established her as a wealthy and influential figure.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a celebrated musician and actress who has starred in several major award winning films. She had prominent roles in ‘Hidden Figures’ and the Academy Award winning movie ‘Moonlight’. Monáe also starred in the mystery sequel ‘Glass Onion’ and the horror film ‘Antebellum’. Her career as a recording artist and a film star allows her to reach a wide audience. Her unique style and artistic ventures have contributed to her growing financial success.

Paula Patton

Paula Patton gained fame with her role in the musical film ‘Idlewild’ before starring in the thriller ‘Deja Vu’. She reached a global audience with her role in ‘Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol’ and the fantasy movie ‘Warcraft’. She has also appeared in several romantic comedies and television dramas over the years. Her work in major action films and steady acting roles has helped her build a significant net worth. She remains an active and recognizable figure in the film industry.

S. Epatha Merkerson

S. Epatha Merkerson is best known for her long running role as Lieutenant Anita Van Buren on the series ‘Law & Order’. She has also starred in the medical drama ‘Chicago Med’ for several seasons. Her film work includes an acclaimed performance in the television movie ‘Lackawanna Blues’ for which she won an Emmy Award. Her decades of consistent work on major television franchises have led to a very stable and high net worth. She is one of the most familiar faces on television today.

Chandra Wilson

Chandra Wilson has been a central cast member of the hit medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ since its debut. Her portrayal of Dr. Miranda Bailey has earned her several award nominations and high earnings per episode. She has also directed numerous episodes of the series and other television shows. Her long tenure on one of the most successful shows in television history has significantly boosted her wealth. She also has a background in theater and has appeared on Broadway.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine has had an extensive career in film and television and theater starting with the original Broadway production of ‘Dreamgirls’. She is well known for her roles in films like ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘The Preacher’s Wife’. Devine won an Emmy Award for her guest role on the series ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and has starred in many sitcoms. Her constant presence in movies and television shows for many years has led to a high net worth. She is considered one of the most hardworking actresses in the business.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan has starred in many beloved films including ‘Love & Basketball’ and ‘The Best Man’. She has also appeared in major action movies like ‘Alien vs. Predator’ and ‘Contagion’. Lathan has worked on Broadway and received a Tony Award nomination for her performance in ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. Her recent work includes the series ‘Succession’ and the film ‘On the Come Up’ which she also directed. Her multifaceted career has allowed her to build substantial wealth.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o rose to international stardom after winning an Academy Award for her debut film role in ’12 Years a Slave’. She has since appeared in major franchises including the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy and ‘Black Panther’. She also starred in the acclaimed horror film ‘Us’ and provided voices for several animated projects. Her status as a fashion icon and highly sought after actress has led to major brand deals. Her quick ascent to the top of Hollywood has resulted in a significant net worth.

Lisa Bonet

Lisa Bonet became a household name playing Denise Huxtable on ‘The Cosby Show’ and its spin off ‘A Different World’. She has appeared in films such as ‘Angel Heart’ and ‘High Fidelity’ and ‘Enemy of the State’. While she has chosen to be selective with her roles her early fame and continued work in the industry have maintained her wealth. She remains an influential figure in pop culture and has worked on various television projects over the years. Her career legacy continues to contribute to her financial status.

Nia Long

Nia Long has enjoyed a successful career in film and television since the early nineties. She is well known for her roles in classic films like ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘Friday’ and ‘The Best Man’. Long has also starred in television series such as ‘Third Watch’ and ‘Empire’. Her consistent work in popular movies and long running shows has helped her amass a high net worth. She remains a popular and respected actress in the entertainment community.

Garcelle Beauvais

Garcelle Beauvais is an actress and television personality who first gained fame on ‘The Jamie Foxx Show’. She appeared in films like ‘Coming to America’ and ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’. She is also a main cast member on the reality series ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ and a co-host on talk shows. Her career includes modeling and writing children’s books and producing various projects. Her diverse income streams from acting and television appearances have built her substantial wealth.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae first gained attention for her popular web series before creating and starring in the hit show ‘Insecure’. She has since appeared in films like ‘The Photograph’ and ‘Barbie’ and ‘American Fiction’. Rae has also established her own media company and record label to support diverse artists. Her success as a writer and producer and actress has quickly made her one of the most influential women in Hollywood. Her business ventures and production deals are major contributors to her growing net worth.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson has a wide ranging career that includes roles in ‘Rent’ and ‘Sin City’ and ‘Top Five’. She has become a major part of the ‘Star Wars’ universe starring as Ahsoka Tano in her own series. Dawson has also appeared in various superhero projects and voiced characters in many animated films. Her involvement in major fan favorite franchises and her work as an activist and producer have boosted her earnings. She is recognized for her versatility and long history of film and television work.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer began her career as a child star in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ and the series ‘True Jackson, VP’. She has since transitioned into adult roles in films like ‘Hustlers’ and the horror movie ‘Nope’. Palmer is also a successful television host and singer and voice actress for major animated series. Her presence on social media and her various digital projects have added to her financial success. Her ability to work across multiple platforms has made her a very wealthy entertainer.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi gained fame as Zoey Johnson on the sitcom ‘black-ish’ which led to her own spin off series ‘grown-ish’. She has appeared in films such as ‘The Sun Is Also a Star’ and played Tinker Bell in ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’. Beyond acting she is a graduate of Harvard University and a prominent social activist. Her brand partnerships with major fashion and beauty labels have significantly contributed to her net worth. She is considered one of the leading voices of her generation in Hollywood.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall is best known for her comedic roles in the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise and ‘Girls Trip’. She has also appeared in critically acclaimed films like ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Support the Girls’. Hall has worked extensively in television on shows such as ‘Black Monday’ and ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’. Her ability to balance broad comedy with serious dramatic roles has kept her in high demand. Her long career and recent lead roles have established her as a wealthy actress.

Tiffany Haddish

Tiffany Haddish had a massive breakout role in the comedy ‘Girls Trip’ which catapulted her to superstardom. She has since starred in many films including ‘Night School’ and ‘The Kitchen’ and ‘The Haunted Mansion’. Haddish has also found success as an author and a stand up comedian with several specials. She has won an Emmy Award for her television work and continues to produce various projects. Her rapid rise to fame and multiple talent avenues have resulted in a significant net worth.

CCH Pounder

CCH Pounder is a veteran actress with a prolific career in television dramas and film. She is well known for her roles in ‘The Shield’ and ‘Avatar’ and ‘NCIS: New Orleans’. She has received several Emmy Award nominations for her work on various high profile series. Pounder is also an avid art collector and has been involved in several artistic endeavors outside of acting. Her decades of consistent work on popular television shows have led to a high financial standing.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good began her career as a child actress and appeared in the acclaimed film ‘Eve’s Bayou’. She has starred in many popular movies including ‘Think Like a Man’ and the ‘Shazam!’ franchise. Good has also had lead roles in television series such as ‘Deception’ and ‘Harlem’. Her work as a producer and director has further expanded her professional reach. Her long history in the industry and consistent roles in film and television have built her wealth.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba gained international fame and won two Emmy Awards for her role as Crazy Eyes in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She has also starred in the drama series ‘In Treatment’ and the miniseries ‘Mrs. America’. Aduba has a strong background in theater and has appeared in several Broadway productions. Her success on major streaming platforms and in prestige television has boosted her career and net worth. She continues to be recognized for her intense and versatile acting talent.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin became a star through her role on the sitcom ‘black-ish’ where she played Diane Johnson. At a very young age she became the youngest executive producer in Hollywood history with her film ‘Little’. She has since launched her own production company and continues to develop various projects. Her work as both an actress and a producer has led to a significant net worth early in her life. She is a prominent example of young entrepreneurship in the entertainment industry.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph originated the role of Deena Jones in the Broadway musical ‘Dreamgirls’ and received a Tony nomination. She has appeared in many films such as ‘Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit’ and ‘To Sleep with Anger’. More recently she won an Emmy Award for her role as Barbara Howard on the hit series ‘Abbott Elementary’. Her long career in theater and television and film has established her as a legendary figure. Her recent surge in popularity has further increased her professional opportunities and wealth.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright gained international stardom for her role as Shuri in the Marvel movie ‘Black Panther’. She reprised her role in several sequels and appeared in other films like ‘Sing 2’ and ‘Death on the Nile’. Her early career included work on television shows such as ‘Doctor Who’ and ‘Black Mirror’. She is recognized for her talent and has become one of the most promising actresses in the industry. Her growing filmography continues to contribute to her increasing financial success.

Tell us which of these incredible actresses is your favorite in the comments.