Most Famous Black Actresses of All Time

Black actresses have shaped the landscape of cinema through groundbreaking performances and cultural influence across multiple generations. From the pioneers of the Golden Age to the stars of modern blockbusters these women redefined representation in global media. Their contributions span various genres including theater and television and massive film franchises. This collection celebrates the most recognizable figures who have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

Hattie McDaniel

Hattie McDaniel was a legendary performer who achieved historical significance as the first African American to win an Academy Award. She earned this honor for her portrayal of Mammy in the 1939 film ‘Gone with the Wind’. Throughout her career she appeared in over 300 films and was a talented singer and songwriter. Her success provided a foundation for Black actors in the classical Hollywood era.

Dorothy Dandridge

Dorothy Dandridge became a major film star and was the first Black woman nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress. This historic nomination followed her performance in the 1954 musical film ‘Carmen Jones’. She also starred in ‘Island in the Sun’ and ‘Porgy and Bess’ while maintaining a successful nightclub singing career. Dandridge is remembered as a pioneer who challenged racial barriers in the entertainment industry.

Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson was known for her portrayals of strong Black women in film and television over a career spanning seven decades. She received critical acclaim for her roles in ‘Sounder’ and ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman’. Her work often focused on characters with great dignity and historical importance. She was the recipient of an honorary Academy Award and multiple Emmy Awards for her artistic excellence.

Ruby Dee

Ruby Dee was an accomplished actress and civil rights activist who starred in numerous landmark productions. She earned widespread recognition for her role as Ruth Younger in the 1961 film ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. Throughout her long career she received several awards including a Grammy and an Emmy and a Screen Actors Guild Award. Her commitment to both her craft and social justice made her a respected figure in American culture.

Lena Horne

Lena Horne was a captivating actress and singer who broke ground as one of the first Black performers signed to a long term studio contract. She appeared in notable films such as ‘Cabin in the Sky’ and ‘Stormy Weather’ during the 1940s. Beyond her film career she was a renowned jazz singer and a dedicated civil rights activist. Her presence on screen helped to challenge the stereotypical portrayals of Black women in Hollywood.

Eartha Kitt

Eartha Kitt was a versatile performer known for her distinctive voice and commanding stage presence. She starred as Catwoman in the 1960s television series ‘Batman’ and appeared in films like ‘Anna Lucasta’. Her career spanned across music and theater and film and television over many decades. She remained an influential figure in entertainment due to her unique style and outspoken nature.

Diahann Carroll

Diahann Carroll made history as the first Black woman to star in her own television series ‘Julia’ where she did not play a domestic worker. She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her performance in the 1974 film ‘Claudine’. Her career also included a prominent role in the prime time soap opera ‘Dynasty’ as Dominique Deveraux. She was a sophisticated performer who broke many racial stereotypes in the television industry.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard is regarded as one of the most versatile and honored actresses of her generation. She has received numerous accolades including four Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination. Her notable film roles include performances in ‘Cross Creek’ and ‘Passion Fish’ and ’12 Years a Slave’. She continues to be a powerful presence in both independent cinema and major studio productions.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg is one of the few entertainers to achieve EGOT status by winning an Emmy and a Grammy and an Oscar and a Tony. She rose to fame with her breakout role in the 1985 drama ‘The Color Purple’. Her career includes successful comedic and dramatic roles in films like ‘Ghost’ and the ‘Sister Act’ franchise. She is also a longtime moderator on the daytime talk show ‘The View’.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is famous for her powerful portrayals of real life historical figures and strong fictional characters. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’. Her extensive filmography includes major roles in ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘Black Panther’ and ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. She is widely recognized for her commanding screen presence and her contributions to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is the first Black actor to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting by winning an Oscar and an Emmy and two Tony Awards. She gained widespread acclaim for her roles in films such as ‘Doubt’ and ‘The Help’ and ‘Fences’. In television she starred as Annalise Keating in the popular legal thriller ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. She is considered one of the most talented and influential performers working today.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry made history as the first African American woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in ‘Monster’s Ball’. She has starred in numerous high profile films including the ‘X-Men’ series where she played Storm. Her career also features a leading role as a Bond girl in ‘Die Another Day’. She remains a prominent figure in the industry known for her versatility in action and drama and science fiction.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer became a household name after winning an Academy Award for her performance in ‘The Help’. She has since received multiple Oscar nominations for her work in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘The Shape of Water’. Her career is marked by a wide range of roles in both film and television. She is praised for her ability to bring warmth and depth to every character she portrays.

Regina King

Regina King has transitioned from a successful child actress to an Academy Award winning star and director. She won an Oscar for her role in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and multiple Emmy Awards for her television work. Her notable performances include roles in ‘Jerry Maguire’ and the limited series ‘Watchmen’. She has established herself as a significant creative force in both front of and behind the camera.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson gained massive popularity for her role as Cookie Lyon on the television drama ‘Empire’. She received an Academy Award nomination for her performance in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’. Her leading role in ‘Hidden Figures’ further solidified her status as a major Hollywood star. She is known for her energetic performances and her advocacy for mental health awareness.

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 starred in blockbuster hits like ‘Black Panther’ and the horror film ‘Us’. Her work also includes voice acting in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy and ‘The Jungle Book’. She is recognized as a fashion icon and a powerful advocate for representation in cinema.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington became a prominent figure in television for her role as Olivia Pope in the hit series ‘Scandal’. She has starred in several acclaimed films including ‘Ray’ and ‘The Last King of Scotland’ and ‘Django Unchained’. Her performance in the miniseries ‘Little Fires Everywhere’ further showcased her range as a dramatic actress. She is also a dedicated activist and producer in the entertainment industry.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah began her career as a pioneering hip hop artist before transitioning into a successful acting career. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in the musical film ‘Chicago’. Her diverse filmography includes leading roles in ‘Set It Off’ and ‘Bring Down the House’ and ‘Last Holiday’. She currently stars in the television series ‘The Equalizer’ and remains a versatile icon in the industry.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson first gained fame as a contestant on ‘American Idol’ before winning an Academy Award for her film debut in ‘Dreamgirls’. She has continued to showcase her powerful voice and acting talent in films such as ‘Sex and the City’ and ‘Respect’. Her career includes success on Broadway and multiple Grammy Awards for her music. She is one of the few performers to have achieved EGOT status.

Mo’Nique

Mo’Nique started her career as a stand up comedian before transitioning into television and film. She received widespread critical acclaim and an Academy Award for her intense performance in the 2009 film ‘Precious’. Her television work includes a starring role in the sitcom ‘The Parkers’ for several seasons. She is known for her bold personality and her contributions to comedy and dramatic acting.

Pam Grier

Pam Grier became a major star in the 1970s through a series of successful blaxploitation films. She is best known for her iconic roles in ‘Coffy’ and ‘Foxy Brown’ where she played strong female protagonists. Her career saw a major resurgence when she starred in the Quentin Tarantino film ‘Jackie Brown’. She is considered a pioneer for female action stars in American cinema.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton is a British actress known for her roles in both major Hollywood blockbusters and acclaimed independent films. She has appeared in ‘Mission: Impossible 2’ and ‘Crash’ and ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’. Her performance as Maeve Millay in the television series ‘Westworld’ earned her a Primetime Emmy Award. She is recognized for her compelling performances and her advocacy for human rights.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris is a talented British actress who gained international recognition for her role as Tia Dalma in the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ franchise. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her powerful performance in the 2016 film ‘Moonlight’. Her career also includes the role of Eve Moneypenny in several ‘James Bond’ films including ‘Skyfall’. She is known for her versatility and her ability to handle complex dramatic roles.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo is a highly respected actress who has worked extensively in film and television and theater. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Hotel Rwanda’ and a Tony Award for ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. Her television credits include ‘The Slap’ and ‘Ratched’ and ‘Slow Horses’. She is celebrated for her emotional range and her consistent delivery of high quality performances.

Ruth Negga

Ruth Negga is an Irish Ethiopian actress who has received critical acclaim for her work on stage and screen. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Mildred Loving in the 2016 film ‘Loving’. Her television roles include a starring part in the series ‘Preacher’ and appearances in ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’. She continues to be a sought after talent in both independent films and major productions.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo is a powerhouse performer who has achieved success in musical theater and film and television. She rose to fame in the Broadway revival of ‘The Color Purple’ for which she won a Tony Award. She received two Academy Award nominations for her performance in ‘Harriet’ and for the film’s original song. Her recent projects include starring roles in ‘Genius: Aretha’ and the film adaptation of ‘Wicked’.

Zendaya

Zendaya began her career as a child star on the Disney Channel before transitioning into major film and television roles. She became the youngest person to win two Emmy Awards for Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role in ‘Euphoria’. Her film credits include the ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy and ‘Dune’ and ‘The Greatest Showman’. She is recognized globally as a fashion icon and one of the most influential young stars in Hollywood.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae first gained attention for her popular YouTube series ‘Awkward Black Girl’ before creating the hit HBO show ‘Insecure’. She served as the creator and lead actress and writer for the series which earned her multiple Emmy nominations. Her film career includes roles in ‘The Photograph’ and ‘The Lovebirds’ and ‘Barbie’. She is a significant figure in modern entertainment for her work in promoting diverse storytelling.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross is a beloved actress known for her comedic timing and relatable characters. She starred as Joan Clayton in the long running series ‘Girlfriends’ and as Rainbow Johnson in ‘black-ish’. Her performance in ‘black-ish’ earned her a Golden Globe Award and several Emmy nominations. She is also recognized for her work as a producer and her influence in the fashion world.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira is an actress and playwright who achieved global fame for her role as Michonne on ‘The Walking Dead’. She also portrays the character Okoye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe appearing in ‘Black Panther’ and ‘Avengers: Infinity War’. As a playwright she received a Tony Award nomination for her play ‘Eclipsed’. She is known for portraying fierce and physically demanding characters on screen.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright gained international stardom for her role as Shuri in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She starred in the blockbuster ‘Black Panther’ and its sequel ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. Her other notable work includes an appearance in the series ‘Black Mirror’ and the film ‘Death on the Nile’. She is considered one of the most promising young talents in the film industry today.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has become a major Hollywood star with roles in both independent dramas and massive franchises. She is well known for her performances in ‘Creed’ and ‘Dear White People’ and the ‘Thor’ films within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Her work also includes a leading role in the science fiction series ‘Westworld’ and the film ‘Passing’. She is a versatile actress who frequently explores complex themes in her projects.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multi talented artist who has successfully balanced a music career with high profile acting roles. She made her film debut in the Academy Award winning films ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. Her other major film credits include the horror film ‘Antebellum’ and the mystery ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. She is known for her unique artistic vision and her ability to inhabit diverse characters.

Zoë Kravitz

Zoë Kravitz has established herself as a versatile actress in both major film franchises and acclaimed television series. She starred as Bonnie Carlson in ‘Big Little Lies’ and took on the role of Catwoman in ‘The Batman’. Her career also includes roles in the ‘Divergent’ series and the ‘Fantastic Beasts’ films. She is recognized for her distinct style and her talent in both dramatic and action oriented roles.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer rose to fame as a child actress in the film ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ and the television series ‘True Jackson, VP’. She has since transitioned into adult roles in films such as ‘Hustlers’ and the horror hit ‘Nope’. Her career spans across music and hosting and acting in various genres. She is celebrated for her charismatic personality and her wide range of talents in the entertainment world.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union became a prominent actress in the 1990s and 2000s through her roles in teen films like ‘Bring It On’. She later starred in the successful television drama ‘Being Mary Jane’ for which she received critical praise. Her extensive filmography includes ‘Bad Boys II’ and ‘Deliver Us from Eva’ and ‘Think Like a Man’. She is also a best selling author and a vocal advocate for social issues in Hollywood.

Nia Long

Nia Long is an actress known for her roles in several classic films and television shows of the 1990s. She starred in ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘The Best Man’ and ‘Love Jones’. Her television career includes notable parts in ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ and ‘Empire’. She remains a respected figure in the industry for her consistent work and her impact on Black cinema.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith began her career on the sitcom ‘A Different World’ before moving into major film roles. She is known for her performances in ‘The Nutty Professor’ and ‘Set It Off’ and ‘The Matrix’ sequels. Her career also includes the television series ‘Gotham’ and the popular Facebook Watch show ‘Red Table Talk’. She has been a significant presence in the entertainment industry for over three decades.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox gained national recognition for her roles in the blockbuster films ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Set It Off’. She also starred in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Kill Bill: Vol. 1’ as the character Vernita Green. Her career includes a wide variety of roles in television films and reality shows and syndicated series. She is recognized for her longevity in the business and her roles in major action and drama productions.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan is best known for her leading roles in romantic dramas such as ‘Love and Basketball’ and ‘The Best Man’. She has also appeared in action films like ‘Alien vs. Predator’ and provided the voice for Donna Tubbs in ‘The Cleveland Show’. Her performance in the play ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ earned her a Tony Award nomination. She is admired for her consistent delivery of compelling and grounded performances.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall rose to fame through her comedic role in the ‘Scary Movie’ film franchise. She has since starred in a variety of successful comedies including ‘The Best Man Holiday’ and ‘Girls Trip’. Her performance in the independent film ‘Support the Girls’ earned her critical acclaim and several awards. She is recognized as one of the most talented comedic and dramatic actresses of her era.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph originated the role of Deena Jones in the Broadway musical ‘Dreamgirls’ for which she received a Tony nomination. She has had a long and successful career in television with roles in ‘Moesha’ and ‘Instant Mom’. Her career saw a major resurgence with her Emmy winning performance in the hit comedy ‘Abbott Elementary’. She is a respected veteran of both the stage and the screen.

Debbie Allen

Debbie Allen is a multi talented actress and dancer and choreographer and director. She became famous for her role as Lydia Grant in the television series ‘Fame’ which she also choreographed. Her extensive career includes directing numerous episodes of ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ where she also has a recurring role. She has received multiple Emmy Awards and is a prominent figure in the performing arts.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine is a prolific actress who was one of the original cast members of the Broadway musical ‘Dreamgirls’. She has appeared in many beloved films including ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘The Preacher’s Wife’. Her television work includes an Emmy winning role on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and a starring part in ‘The Carmichael Show’. She is known for her distinctive voice and her ability to bring heart to her characters.

CCH Pounder

CCH Pounder is a character actress known for her powerful performances in a wide range of television series and films. She has had major roles in ‘The Shield’ and ‘Warehouse 13’ and ‘NCIS: New Orleans’. Her film credits include ‘Avatar’ and ‘Bagdad Cafe’ and ‘The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones’. She has received several Emmy Award nominations for her work in dramatic television.

Audra McDonald

Audra McDonald is a highly acclaimed actress and singer who has won a record breaking six Tony Awards. While primarily known for her work on Broadway she has also appeared in films like ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and ‘Respect’. Her television credits include starring roles in ‘Private Practice’ and ‘The Gilded Age’. She is considered one of the greatest performers in the history of American theater.

Erika Alexander

Erika Alexander became a household name for her role as the witty lawyer Maxine Shaw on the sitcom ‘Living Single’. She also appeared in the landmark 1980s show ‘The Cosby Show’ as Cousin Pam. Her recent film work includes a memorable role in the horror film ‘Get Out’ and the drama ‘American Fiction’. She is a talented actress and producer who continues to work across various media platforms.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin rose to fame as Diane Johnson on the hit sitcom ‘black-ish’ for which she received numerous accolades. At a young age she became the youngest executive producer in Hollywood history for her film ‘Little’. Her work has earned her several NAACP Image Awards and positions her as a rising mogul in the industry. She represents the new generation of multitalented Black women in entertainment.

Please share which of these incredible actresses has inspired you the most in the comments.