The Nicest Black Actresses Of All Time

The entertainment industry has been shaped by the presence of remarkable women who have paved the way for future generations. These actresses are celebrated not only for their immense talent on screen but also for their reputations for kindness and professionalism. This list highlights fifty individuals who have left an indelible mark on Hollywood through their performances and their character. Their contributions span decades of cinematic and television history across a wide variety of genres.

Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson was a legendary figure in American cinema and theater for seven decades. She consistently chose roles that portrayed Black women with dignity and strength throughout her long career. Her work in ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman’ earned her critical acclaim and multiple awards. Tyson was a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her significant contributions to the arts. She maintained a reputation for grace and mentorship within the creative community until her passing.

Ruby Dee

Ruby Dee was a pioneering actress and civil rights activist who influenced the industry for over sixty years. She is well remembered for her performance in the film version of ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ alongside Sidney Poitier. Dee received an Academy Award nomination for her role in the crime drama ‘American Gangster’ later in her life. She was frequently recognized for her humanitarian efforts and her dedication to social justice causes. Her colleagues often spoke of her warmth and her unwavering commitment to excellence in every project.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard is widely regarded as one of the most versatile and accomplished actresses of her generation. She has received numerous accolades including four Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe Award for her diverse work. Her performance in ‘Cross Creek’ earned her an Academy Award nomination early in her career. Woodard is also known for her extensive philanthropic work and her leadership within the film industry. She continues to be a respected mentor to younger actors while appearing in major projects like ‘Luke Cage’ and ‘Clemency’.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is the first Black actress to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting by winning an Oscar, an Emmy, and a Tony. She gained widespread recognition for her powerful role as Aibileen Clark in the film ‘The Help’. Her lead performance in the legal thriller series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ earned her a Primetime Emmy Award. Davis is frequently praised for her humility and her advocacy for equal opportunities in the arts. She founded a production company to create more diverse stories for underrepresented voices in Hollywood.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is famous for her portrayal of strong real life figures throughout her distinguished career. She received an Academy Award nomination for her transformation into Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’. Bassett also earned acclaim for her roles in ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and the Marvel Cinematic Universe film ‘Black Panther’. She is often cited by co-stars as a consummate professional who brings intense focus to every set. Her long standing career is a testament to her talent and her positive presence in the industry.

Regina King

Regina King began her career as a teenager on the sitcom ‘227’ before transitioning into a major film and television star. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her moving performance in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. King has also found significant success behind the camera as a director for various television episodes and the film ‘One Night in Miami’. She is known for her down to earth personality and her commitment to telling authentic stories. Her peers frequently celebrate her achievements and her collaborative spirit on various production sets.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer rose to international fame after winning an Academy Award for her role in ‘The Help’. She has since become a staple in Hollywood with acclaimed performances in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘The Shape of Water’. Spencer is often described by colleagues as one of the most supportive and friendly people in the film business. She has authored children’s books and remains active in various charitable organizations. Her consistent work across different genres has solidified her status as a beloved figure in modern cinema.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg is one of the few entertainers to have won an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony Award. She made her film debut in ‘The Color Purple’ which earned her an Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe. Goldberg later won an Oscar for her supporting role in the romantic fantasy film ‘Ghost’. She has been a moderator on the talk show ‘The View’ for many years where she shares her perspectives on current events. Her career is marked by a long history of activism and support for the vulnerable.

Diahann Carroll

Diahann Carroll broke major barriers as the first Black woman to star in her own television series ‘Julia’ without playing a domestic worker. She received a Tony Award for her performance in the musical ‘No Strings’ early in her career. Carroll also earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in the film ‘Claudine’. She was known for her elegance and her pioneering spirit during a challenging era for Black performers. Her legacy continues to inspire actresses who seek to portray sophisticated and complex characters.

Hattie McDaniel

Hattie McDaniel was the first Black person to win an Academy Award for her role in ‘Gone with the Wind’. Despite the limitations of the era she appeared in over three hundred films during her career. She was a talented singer and songwriter who also performed on the radio. McDaniel faced many challenges in the industry but remained a professional and respected figure among her peers. Her historic win paved the way for future generations of Black actors in Hollywood.

Dorothy Dandridge

Dorothy Dandridge was the first Black actress to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress for ‘Carmen Jones’. She was a gifted singer and performer who headlined at top nightclubs around the world. Dandridge starred in several notable films including ‘Island in the Sun’ and ‘Porgy and Bess’. She is remembered for her immense talent and the grace she maintained while navigating a segregated industry. Her life and career have been the subject of numerous tributes and biographical works.

Ethel Waters

Ethel Waters was a prominent singer and actress who achieved success on Broadway and in film. She was the second Black person to be nominated for an Academy Award for her role in ‘Pinky’. Waters also starred in the television series ‘Beulah’ which was a significant milestone at the time. She had a successful career in jazz and gospel music alongside her acting pursuits. Her contributions to American entertainment helped broaden the roles available to Black women.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross is best known for her leading roles in the hit television series ‘Girlfriends’ and ‘black-ish’. She has won multiple NAACP Image Awards and a Golden Globe for her work in television comedy. Ross is celebrated for her infectious energy and her advocacy for self acceptance and fashion. She often uses her platform to promote diversity and to empower women in various industries. Her reputation for being kind and approachable has made her a favorite among fans and colleagues alike.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o gained immediate international acclaim for her film debut in ’12 Years a Slave’ which won her an Academy Award. She has since starred in major franchises including the ‘Star Wars’ sequels and ‘Black Panther’. Nyong’o is also a talented stage actress and received a Tony nomination for her role in ‘Eclipsed’. She is known for her intellect and her advocacy for the preservation of African heritage. Her poise and professionalism have established her as a leading voice in contemporary cinema.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is a highly versatile actress known for her roles in both intense dramas and hit comedies. She received an Academy Award nomination for her performance in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’. Henson became a household name for her portrayal of Cookie Lyon in the musical drama series ‘Empire’. She is an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness through her foundation. Her vibrant personality and supportive nature are frequently highlighted by those who work with her.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Gugu Mbatha-Raw is a British actress known for her refined performances in film and television. She gained critical recognition for her leading role in the period drama ‘Belle’. She has since appeared in a variety of projects including ‘Beyond the Lights’ and the series ‘The Morning Show’. Mbatha-Raw is often praised for her humble demeanor and her dedication to her craft. She also serves as a global Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington rose to superstardom for her role as Olivia Pope in the political thriller series ‘Scandal’. She has received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her work on television and in films like ‘Django Unchained’. Washington is a dedicated activist who works with various organizations focusing on education and the arts. She is known for her leadership on set and her efforts to promote inclusion within the industry. Her professional reputation is built on a foundation of hard work and kindness toward others.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry made history as the first Black 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’ franchise and ‘Die Another Day’. Berry has also worked as a producer and a director to bring more stories to the screen. She is frequently cited as a gracious and hardworking professional by her peers. Her long career continues to flourish with a wide range of roles in both action and drama.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira is an actress and an award winning playwright known for her powerful performances. She gained worldwide fame for her role as Michonne in the television series ‘The Walking Dead’. Gurira also plays Okoye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe beginning with the film ‘Black Panther’. Her plays often explore African identity and have been performed on Broadway to critical acclaim. She is highly respected for her intelligence and her commitment to humanitarian work in Africa.

Zendaya

Zendaya began her career as a child star on the Disney Channel before becoming a major force in film and fashion. She became the youngest person to win two Emmy Awards for Lead Actress in a Drama Series for ‘Euphoria’. Zendaya has starred in blockbuster films like ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ and the epic science fiction movie ‘Dune’. She is consistently praised for her maturity and her kind interactions with her fans. Her professional approach to her career has made her one of the most influential young stars in Hollywood.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris is a British actress who has appeared in major film franchises and independent dramas. She received an Academy Award nomination for her raw performance in the film ‘Moonlight’. Harris is also well known for her role as Eve Moneypenny in the James Bond series. She is frequently described as a thoughtful and professional individual by her directors and co-stars. Her dedication to her roles is matched by her reputation for being easy to work with on set.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo is a highly respected British actress of stage and screen. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in the historical drama ‘Hotel Rwanda’. Okonedo has also won a Tony Award for her performance in the Broadway revival of ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. She is known for her deep commitment to her characters and her unassuming nature. Her extensive body of work continues to showcase her range and her artistic integrity.

Ruth Negga

Ruth Negga is an Irish-Ethiopian actress who has received critical acclaim for her work in theater and film. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Mildred Loving in the film ‘Loving’. Negga has also starred in the television series ‘Preacher’ and numerous Shakespearean stage productions. She is known for her quiet intensity and her humble approach to her growing fame. Her colleagues often praise her focus and her kindness during the production process.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo is a powerhouse performer who has found success on Broadway and in film. She won a Tony Award for her lead role in the musical ‘The Color Purple’. Erivo received two Academy Award nominations for her performance and songwriting in the biopic ‘Harriet’. She is known for her incredible work ethic and her supportive attitude toward her fellow performers. Her versatile talent allows her to excel in musical theater and dramatic cinema alike.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris first gained attention for her role in the acclaimed drama series ‘Mad Men’. She has since starred in films such as ‘Dear White People’ and ‘Chi-Raq’. Parris joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the series ‘WandaVision’ as Monica Rambeau. She is often noted for her bright personality and her dedication to representing Black women authentically on screen. Her professional reputation continues to grow as she takes on more prominent roles in the industry.

KiKi Layne

KiKi Layne had her breakout role in the critically acclaimed drama ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. She has since appeared in films like ‘The Old Guard’ and ‘Coming 2 America’. Layne is known for her striking presence and her thoughtful approach to her burgeoning career. She is frequently described as a kind and down to earth individual by those who have worked with her. Her selection of diverse and challenging roles shows a commitment to artistic growth.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright gained international recognition for her role as Shuri in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She won the BAFTA Rising Star Award for her performances in film and television. Wright has also appeared in the series ‘Black Mirror’ and the film ‘Small Axe’. She is known for her strong faith and her humble demeanor despite her global success. Her co-stars often speak of her positive energy and her dedication to her craft.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin rose to fame as Diane Johnson on the hit sitcom ‘black-ish’. She made history as the youngest person to executive produce a major Hollywood film with ‘Little’. Martin has won numerous NAACP Image Awards for her acting and her work as a producer. She is celebrated for her business acumen and her professional behavior at a young age. Her success serves as an inspiration for young Black girls looking to enter the entertainment industry.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi is an actress and activist known for her role in the series ‘black-ish’ and its spinoff ‘grown-ish’. She is a student at Harvard University and frequently speaks on social and political issues. Shahidi has been recognized for her advocacy work and her commitment to youth engagement. She is often described as one of the most polite and articulate young stars in Hollywood. Her focus on education and social change sets a positive example for her peers.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae first gained popularity with her YouTube series ‘Awkward Black Girl’. She went on to create and star in the hit HBO series ‘Insecure’ which earned her multiple award nominations. Rae is a successful producer and entrepreneur who focuses on creating opportunities for underrepresented creators. She is known for her relatable personality and her supportive nature within the creative community. Her influence extends beyond acting into the realms of music and business.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multi talented artist who has achieved success in both music and acting. She received critical acclaim for her roles in the films ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. Monáe is known for her unique style and her advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. She is frequently described as a kind and collaborative professional by her fellow actors and musicians. Her artistic vision and commitment to social causes have made her a respected figure in modern entertainment.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan has had a long and successful career in film and television. She is well known for her roles in ‘Love & Basketball’ and ‘The Best Man’ franchise. Lathan has also performed on Broadway and received a Tony Award nomination for ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. She is often praised for her grace and her consistent work across various genres. Her professional reputation is built on her talent and her positive interactions with her colleagues over the years.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall is a versatile actress who is equally adept at comedy and drama. She gained early fame for her role in the ‘Scary Movie’ film series. Hall received critical acclaim for her leading role in the comedy ‘Girls Trip’ and the drama ‘Support the Girls’. She is known for her quick wit and her friendly personality on and off the set. Her ability to transition between different types of roles has made her a highly sought after actress.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah is a pioneering figure who has found success as a rapper and an actress. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in the musical film ‘Chicago’. Latifah has starred in numerous hit films like ‘Bringing Down the House’ and ‘Last Holiday’. She is well known for her philanthropic work and her reputation as a supportive leader in the industry. Her long career is a testament to her talent and her positive influence on culture.

Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige is a music legend who has also established herself as a formidable actress. She made history by receiving two Academy Award nominations for acting and songwriting for the film ‘Mudbound’. Blige has also appeared in the series ‘Power Book II: Ghost’ and the musical ‘The Wiz Live!’. She is known for her authenticity and her resilience throughout her career. Her colleagues often highlight her professional demeanor and her dedication to every project.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson rose to fame on ‘American Idol’ before winning an Academy Award for her debut film ‘Dreamgirls’. She has since won a Grammy Award and a Daytime Emmy making her an EGOT winner. Hudson has starred in films like ‘Sex and the City’ and the Aretha Franklin biopic ‘Respect’. She is known for her powerful voice and her humble personality despite her massive success. Her philanthropic efforts through her foundation have also earned her widespread respect.

Chandra Wilson

Chandra Wilson is best known for her long running role as Dr. Miranda Bailey on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. She has received multiple Emmy nominations and a Screen Actors Guild Award for her performance. Wilson is also an accomplished director who has helmed many episodes of the series. She is frequently praised by her castmates for her kindness and her mentorship on set. Her commitment to her character and the show has made her a beloved figure in television history.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine is a veteran actress known for her distinctive voice and her warm screen presence. She originated the role of Lorrell Robinson in the Broadway musical ‘Dreamgirls’. Devine has won a Primetime Emmy Award for her guest role on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. She is a familiar face in many popular films including ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘The Preacher’s Wife’. Her long career is marked by her professionalism and her reputation for being a joy to work with.

CCH Pounder

CCH Pounder is a highly respected character actress with a career spanning over four decades. She is well known for her roles in television series like ‘The Shield’ and ‘NCIS: New Orleans’. Pounder has also appeared in major films such as ‘Avatar’ and ‘Bagdad Cafe’. She is an avid art collector and advocate for the arts in various communities. Her peers often speak of her intelligence and her gracious presence on production sets.

S. Epatha Merkerson

S. Epatha Merkerson is best known for her long tenure as Lieutenant Anita Van Buren on ‘Law & Order’. she won an Emmy and a Golden Globe for her performance in the television film ‘Lackawanna Blues’. Merkerson is also a decorated stage actress with multiple Tony Award nominations. She is highly respected for her discipline and her supportive nature toward younger actors. Her professional legacy is defined by her consistency and her dedication to the craft of acting.

Debbie Allen

Debbie Allen is a multi talented actress and a world renowned choreographer and director. She gained fame for her role in the film and television series ‘Fame’. Allen has directed and produced numerous television shows including ‘A Different World’ and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. She founded a dance academy to provide opportunities for young dancers in Los Angeles. Her boundless energy and her commitment to the arts have made her a legendary and respected figure.

Jasmine Guy

Jasmine Guy is best known for her iconic role as Whitley Gilbert on the sitcom ‘A Different World’. She is a trained dancer and singer who has appeared in numerous Broadway productions. Guy has also starred in films like ‘School Daze’ and ‘Harlem Nights’. She is known for her professionalism and her dedication to preserving the history of Black performance. Her work continues to influence new generations of actors and dancers.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith began her career on the sitcom ‘A Different World’ before starring in major films. She is well known for her roles in ‘The Matrix’ sequels and the ‘Madagascar’ film series. Smith is also the host of the popular talk show ‘Red Table Talk’ where she explores personal and social topics. She is frequently recognized for her philanthropic work and her advocacy for various social causes. Her career showcases her versatility as an actress and a media personality.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton is a British actress known for her work in both major blockbusters and independent films. She won a BAFTA Award for her role in ‘Crash’ and an Emmy for the series ‘Westworld’. Newton has been an outspoken advocate for women’s rights and social justice throughout her career. She is often praised for her intelligence and her professional approach to her diverse roles. Her dedication to her craft and her activism have earned her great respect globally.

Nia Long

Nia Long has been a prominent figure in film and television since the early 1990s. She is well known for her roles in classic films like ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘Love Jones’. Long has also starred in successful television series such as ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ and ‘Empire’. She is frequently cited as a gracious and supportive colleague by those she has worked with. Her enduring career is a result of her talent and her positive reputation in the industry.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union rose to fame in the late 1990s with roles in hit teen comedies like ‘Bring It On’. She has since starred in numerous films and the leading role in the series ‘Being Mary Jane’. Union is a vocal advocate for women’s health and survivors of sexual assault. she is known for her candid personality and her efforts to promote inclusivity in Hollywood. Her reputation as a hardworking and kind individual has made her a favorite among fans and peers.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox gained widespread recognition for her roles in the hit films ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Set It Off’. She has had a prolific career in television and film as both an actress and a producer. Fox is known for her energetic personality and her dedication to her professional commitments. She frequently mentors younger performers and is active in various charitable organizations. Her long standing career highlights her resilience and her positive presence in the entertainment world.

Pam Grier

Pam Grier became an icon in the 1970s for her roles in films like ‘Coffy’ and ‘Foxy Brown’. She experienced a major career resurgence with her leading role in Quentin Tarantino’s film ‘Jackie Brown’. Grier is often praised for her strength and her pioneering spirit as an action star. She is described by colleagues as a humble and incredibly kind person who values her fans. Her legacy as a trailblazer for women in film continues to be celebrated.

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 career in television with roles in ‘Moesha’ and the hit comedy ‘Abbott Elementary’. Ralph won a Primetime Emmy Award for her performance as Barbara Howard in ‘Abbott Elementary’. She is a dedicated activist for HIV/AIDS awareness and has been recognized for her humanitarian work. Her reputation for grace and longevity in the industry is highly respected by her peers.

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