Black Actresses Who’ve Been In Most Movies
Black actresses have contributed significantly to the film industry with diverse roles spanning various genres and decades. These prolific performers have built extensive filmographies that showcase their impressive range and enduring talent on the big screen. From dramatic performances to comedic roles they have captivated audiences worldwide and left a lasting impact on cinema history. This list highlights forty-five hardworking women who have appeared in numerous film projects throughout their careers.
Whoopi Goldberg
Whoopi Goldberg is one of the most recognizable figures in Hollywood with a career spanning decades. She gained massive popularity for her role in ‘The Color Purple’ which earned her widespread acclaim and an Academy Award nomination. Her comedic timing shone brightly in the box office hit ‘Sister Act’ where she played a lounge singer hiding as a nun. Goldberg made history by winning an Oscar for her supporting role in the romantic fantasy ‘Ghost’. She remains one of the few entertainers to achieve EGOT status through her extensive work in film and television.
Alfre Woodard
Alfre Woodard has established herself as one of the most versatile and honored actresses in the acting profession. Her filmography includes a powerful performance in ‘Cross Creek’ which secured her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She delivered a memorable portrayal of a nurse in the science fiction film ‘Star Trek: First Contact’. Woodard received critical praise for her leading role in the independent drama ‘Clemency’ where she played a prison warden. Her consistent work across film and television has earned her multiple Emmy Awards and a reputation for excellence.
Vivica A. Fox
Vivica A. Fox is known for her tireless work ethic and an incredibly long list of film credits. She burst onto the scene with a star-making performance in the blockbuster sci-fi movie ‘Independence Day’. Fox demonstrated her action capabilities as Vernita Green in the stylized martial arts film ‘Kill Bill: Vol. 1’. Her career includes numerous appearances in romantic comedies and dramas such as ‘Soul Food’. She continues to be a constant presence in both theatrical releases and television movies.
Loretta Devine
Loretta Devine is a character actress with a distinctive voice and a prolific body of work in Hollywood. She captured hearts as one of the leads in the beloved romance film ‘Waiting to Exhale’. Her talent was showcased in the drama ‘Crash’ where she played a pivotal supporting role in the ensemble cast. Devine originated the role of Lorrell Robinson in the stage production of ‘Dreamgirls’ and appeared in the film adaptation of ‘For Colored Girls’. She remains a highly sought-after actress for both comedic and dramatic projects.
Angela Bassett
Angela Bassett is renowned for portraying strong and resilient women throughout her illustrious film career. She delivered a powerhouse performance as Tina Turner in the biopic ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ earning an Oscar nomination. Her regal presence was undeniable when she played Queen Ramonda in the superhero phenomenon ‘Black Panther’. Bassett starred in the romantic drama ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back’ which became a cultural touchstone. She received an Honorary Academy Award in 2024 acknowledging her decades of impactful contributions to cinema.
Jenifer Lewis
Jenifer Lewis is often referred to as the mother of Black Hollywood due to her frequent matriarchal roles. She brought humor and warmth to the wedding comedy ‘The Brothers’ as a concerned parent. Her voice acting talents were utilized in the animated hit ‘The Princess and the Frog’ where she voiced Mama Odie. Lewis gave a memorable performance in the biopic ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ as the mother of Tina Turner. Her extensive credits span stage and screen making her a true industry veteran.
Rosario Dawson
Rosario Dawson has built a diverse resume with roles in independent films and major blockbusters. She made her film debut in the controversially acclaimed drama ‘Kids’ which launched her career. Dawson played a vital role in the comic book adaptation ‘Sin City’ as the fierce leader of the Old Town prostitutes. Her singing and acting abilities were displayed in the musical film ‘Rent’ where she played Mimi Marquez. She has remained a constant figure in geek culture franchises and dramatic cinema alike.
Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah successfully transitioned from a music career to become a major movie star and producer. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Matron Mama Morton in the musical ‘Chicago’. Her comedic skills were front and center in the hit film ‘Bringing Down the House’ alongside Steve Martin. Latifah showed her dramatic range in ‘The Secret Life of Bees’ playing a compassionate boatwright. She continues to headline films while championing diverse stories through her production company.
Thandiwe Newton
Thandiwe Newton is a British actress who has appeared in numerous acclaimed international films. She delivered a gripping performance in the ensemble drama ‘Crash’ which earned her a BAFTA Award. Her role in the science fiction epic ‘The Chronicles of Riddick’ showcased her ability to play commanding villains. Newton starred alongside Tom Cruise in the action blockbuster ‘Mission: Impossible 2’ as a skilled thief. Her career reflects a balance between high-concept blockbusters and intense character studies.
Viola Davis
Viola Davis is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of her generation with a dense filmography. She won an Academy Award for her heartbreaking performance in the film adaptation of ‘Fences’. Her commanding presence was essential to the success of the action thriller ‘Widows’. Davis played the ruthless government official Amanda Waller in the superhero film ‘Suicide Squad’. She holds the distinction of being the first black actress to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting.
Regina King
Regina King began her career as a child actor and evolved into a celebrated film star and director. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the drama ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. King showcased her action chops in the superhero film ‘Watchmen’ and the spy thriller ‘Enemy of the State’. Her performance in ‘Jerry Maguire’ as the loyal wife of a football player remains a fan favorite. She consistently delivers grounded and powerful performances in every project she undertakes.
Halle Berry
Halle Berry made history as the first Black woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress for ‘Monster’s Ball’. She played the weather-controlling mutant Storm in the popular ‘X-Men’ film franchise. Berry starred as a bond girl in ‘Die Another Day’ bringing action and glamour to the spy series. Her role in the thriller ‘The Call’ demonstrated her ability to carry a high-stakes suspense movie. She has remained a top-billed actress in Hollywood for over three decades.
Octavia Spencer
Octavia Spencer spent years as a character actress before achieving global stardom. She won an Academy Award for her role as Minny Jackson in the period drama ‘The Help’. Spencer played a brilliant mathematician in the biographical film ‘Hidden Figures’ which celebrated unsung heroes of NASA. Her performance in the fantasy drama ‘The Shape of Water’ earned her another Oscar nomination. She brings a unique blend of warmth and authority to her diverse array of film roles.
Taraji P. Henson
Taraji P. Henson is known for her electric energy and ability to play complex characters. She received an Academy Award nomination for her supporting role in the fantasy drama ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’. Henson portrayed the brilliant mathematician Katherine Johnson in the hit film ‘Hidden Figures’. Her comedic talents were highlighted in the remake ‘What Men Want’ where she played a sports agent. She consistently lights up the screen with her charismatic presence.
Gabrielle Union
Gabrielle Union became a teen icon with her breakout role as a cheerleader in ‘Bring It On’. She starred in the romantic comedy ‘Deliver Us from Eva’ which solidified her status as a leading lady. Union appeared in the action blockbuster ‘Bad Boys II’ as an undercover agent and love interest. Her dramatic skills were utilized in the film ‘The Birth of a Nation’ where she played a silent but powerful role. She has maintained a steady career in film while advocating for workplace equality.
Nia Long
Nia Long has been a staple in romantic comedies and dramas since the early nineties. She starred in the classic film ‘Boyz n the Hood’ which depicted life in South Central Los Angeles. Long played the love interest in the comedy franchise ‘Big Momma’s House’ opposite Martin Lawrence. Her performance in ‘The Best Man’ and its sequel endeared her to audiences as a sophisticated professional. She continues to be a beloved figure in cinema with a career spanning over thirty years.
Regina Hall
Regina Hall gained initial fame for her hilarious role as Brenda Meeks in the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise. She received critical acclaim for her leading performance in the comedy ‘Girls Trip’ which was a massive box office success. Hall showed her dramatic range in the film ‘The Hate U Give’ playing a mother protecting her family. She starred in the satire ‘Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul.’ showcasing her ability to blend humor with social commentary. Her versatility has made her one of the busiest actresses in the industry.
Sanaa Lathan
Sanaa Lathan is a talented actress known for her work in romance and action films. She played the lead role in the romantic drama ‘Love & Basketball’ which became a cult classic. Lathan starred as the heroine in the science fiction crossover film ‘Alien vs. Predator’. Her voice acting was featured in ‘The Cleveland Show’ but she remains best known for her screen presence in films like ‘The Best Man’. She consistently delivers compelling performances that resonate with audiences.
Meagan Good
Meagan Good began her career as a child actor and transitioned into adult roles with ease. She starred in the ensemble comedy ‘Think Like a Man’ based on the Steve Harvey book. Good played a lead role in the action film ‘Stomp the Yard’ which centered on collegiate stepping competitions. Her role in ‘Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues’ allowed her to showcase her comedic timing. She has appeared in numerous horror and action films throughout her steady career.
Pam Grier
Pam Grier is a legendary figure known for her starring roles in seventies blaxploitation cinema. She experienced a career resurgence with her titular role in Quentin Tarantino’s crime film ‘Jackie Brown’. Grier starred as the vigilante Coffy in the film ‘Coffy’ which defined an era of action heroines. Her commanding screen presence was utilized in ‘Ghosts of Mars’ and numerous other genre films. She remains an icon of strength and resilience in film history.
Lynn Whitfield
Lynn Whitfield is celebrated for her intense and sophisticated performances in film and television. She gained critical acclaim for her portrayal of Josephine Baker in ‘The Josephine Baker Story’. Whitfield played a memorable villain in the dark romance ‘A Thin Line Between Love and Hate’. Her role in ‘Eve’s Bayou’ demonstrated her ability to handle complex dramatic material. She continues to work steadily often playing matriarchal figures with a sharp edge.
CCH Pounder
CCH Pounder is a Guyanese-American actress known for her distinct voice and authoritative roles. She played the spiritual leader Moat in the massive blockbuster ‘Avatar’. Her film credits include the cult classic ‘Bagdad Cafe’ where she played a wary shop owner. Pounder appeared in the horror film ‘Orphan’ as a suspicious nun investigating a troubled child. She is a prolific character actress with hundreds of credits across film and television.
Zoe Saldaña
Zoe Saldana has appeared in some of the highest-grossing films of all time. She plays the warrior Gamora in the Marvel Cinematic Universe beginning with ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’. Saldana starred as Neytiri in James Cameron’s science fiction epic ‘Avatar’ and its sequels. Her role as Uhura in the rebooted ‘Star Trek’ film series solidified her status as a sci-fi icon. She combines physical prowess with emotional depth in her many blockbuster appearances.
Vanessa Williams
Vanessa Williams successfully transitioned from music and modeling to a fruitful acting career. She starred in the action film ‘Eraser’ alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger. Williams played a lead role in the family drama ‘Soul Food’ as the responsible eldest sister. Her performance in the film version of ‘Hannah Montana: The Movie’ introduced her to a new generation of fans. She continues to act in films while maintaining her career as a recording artist.
Jada Pinkett Smith
Jada Pinkett Smith has been a prominent actress since the nineties with roles in various genres. She played the human rebel Niobe in ‘The Matrix Reloaded’ and ‘The Matrix Revolutions’. Pinkett Smith starred in the comedy ‘The Nutty Professor’ as the love interest of Eddie Murphy’s character. Her voice work includes playing Gloria the hippo in the animated ‘Madagascar’ film franchise. She remains a powerful force in Hollywood through her acting and talk show hosting.
Cicely Tyson
Cicely Tyson was a pioneer for Black actresses and refused to take roles that were demeaning. She received an Academy Award nomination for her powerful performance in ‘Sounder’. Tyson starred in ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman’ for which she won two Emmy Awards. Her film appearances continued late into her life with roles in movies like ‘The Help’. She left an indelible mark on cinema through her commitment to dignity and excellence.
Ruby Dee
Ruby Dee was an actress and civil rights activist with a career that spanned seven decades. She delivered an Oscar-nominated performance in the crime drama ‘American Gangster’ at the age of eighty-three. Dee starred alongside her husband Ossie Davis in Spike Lee’s ‘Do the Right Thing’. Her role in ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ remains one of her most celebrated performances. She was a trailblazer who opened doors for future generations of artists.
Kimberly Elise
Kimberly Elise is known for her intense dramatic performances in film. She made her film debut in the crime thriller ‘Set It Off’ as one of the four leads. Elise starred in the adaptation of ‘Beloved’ playing the daughter of Oprah Winfrey’s character. Her role in ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman’ showcased her ability to carry a film as a protagonist. She continues to deliver strong performances in both independent and studio films.
Naomie Harris
Naomie Harris is a British actress who has achieved international fame in major franchises. She played the voodoo witch Tia Dalma in the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ sequels. Harris took on the iconic role of Moneypenny in the James Bond films ‘Skyfall’ and ‘Spectre’. She received an Academy Award nomination for her gritty performance in the Best Picture winner ‘Moonlight’. Her versatility allows her to move seamlessly between action blockbusters and intimate dramas.
Sophie Okonedo
Sophie Okonedo is an acclaimed actress known for her work in British and American cinema. She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for ‘Hotel Rwanda’. Okonedo played a significant role in the drama ‘The Secret Life of Bees’ alongside Queen Latifah. Her performance in the wild crime comedy ‘Flack’ demonstrated her range beyond serious drama. She continues to act in high-profile projects on stage and screen.
Tessa Thompson
Tessa Thompson has become a major star with roles in indie hits and superhero blockbusters. She played the warrior Valkyrie in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ and subsequent Marvel films. Thompson starred in the ‘Creed’ franchise as a singer and the partner of the protagonist. Her performance in the satire ‘Sorry to Bother You’ showcased her affinity for bold and experimental cinema. She is a consistent presence in modern Hollywood with a rapidly growing filmography.
Kerry Washington
Kerry Washington is best known for her television work but has a substantial film career. She played the wife of Ray Charles in the biopic ‘Ray’ alongside Jamie Foxx. Washington starred as Broomhilda von Shaft in Quentin Tarantino’s western ‘Django Unchained’. Her role in ‘The Last King of Scotland’ demonstrated her ability to hold her own in intense political dramas. She continues to produce and star in significant projects across all media.
Rashida Jones
Rashida Jones is a comedic actress and writer with a long list of film appearances. She played a key role in the social network drama ‘The Social Network’ as a junior lawyer. Jones starred in the comedy ‘I Love You, Man’ as the fiancée of Paul Rudd’s character. Her voice acting is featured in animations like ‘Spies in Disguise’ and ‘The Grinch’. She is also known for her writing and directing contributions to the industry.
Maya Rudolph
Maya Rudolph is a comedy powerhouse known for her scene-stealing performances. She played the bride in the hit ensemble comedy ‘Bridesmaids’ which was a critical and commercial success. Rudolph voiced characters in animated films like ‘Big Hero 6’ and ‘The Mitchells vs. the Machines’. Her role in the dramedy ‘Away We Go’ showed her ability to handle more grounded material. She remains one of the funniest and most employed actresses in comedy today.
Paula Patton
Paula Patton gained recognition for her roles in action and romantic films. She starred alongside Denzel Washington in the sci-fi thriller ‘Deja Vu’. Patton played a lead agent in ‘Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol’ performing many physical stunts. Her role in the comedy ‘Baggage Claim’ allowed her to lead a romantic ensemble cast. She continues to work in various genres ranging from fantasy to thrillers.
Robin Givens
Robin Givens has been acting in films and television since the mid-eighties. She starred in the romantic comedy ‘Boomerang’ as a high-powered executive. Givens played a lead role in the comedy ‘Head of State’ alongside Chris Rock. Her career includes numerous roles in television movies and independent productions. She remains a familiar face to audiences through her consistent work schedule.
Tichina Arnold
Tichina Arnold is a beloved comedic actress with a strong presence in film and TV. She played one of the chorus members in the film version of ‘Little Shop of Horrors’. Arnold starred in the comedy ‘Big Momma’s House’ as a friend of the main character. Her role in the sitcom ‘Martin’ made her a household name but she has appeared in many films like ‘Wild Hogs’. She brings immense energy and humor to every role she inhabits.
Elise Neal
Elise Neal has a diverse filmography that includes horror, drama, and comedy. She appeared in the slasher film ‘Scream 2’ as one of the college students. Neal played a supporting role in the acclaimed drama ‘Hustle & Flow’. Her work in the superhero spoof ‘Superhero Movie’ showcased her comedic abilities. She has maintained a steady presence in the industry for decades.
Garcelle Beauvais
Garcelle Beauvais is a Haitian-American actress who has appeared in many films and television shows. She played a role in the action thriller ‘White House Down’ as the First Lady. Beauvais appeared in the comedy ‘Coming to America’ and returned for its sequel decades later. Her role in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ brought her into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She is also a successful author and reality television personality.
Yvette Nicole Brown
Yvette Nicole Brown is a character actress known for her cheerful demeanor and comedic timing. She appeared in the Marvel film ‘Avengers: Endgame’ in a cameo role. Brown voiced a character in the animated film ‘DC League of Super-Pets’. Her role in the musical drama ‘Dreamgirls’ marked one of her earlier film appearances. She is a frequent guest on talk shows and a staple in family-friendly entertainment.
Aisha Tyler
Aisha Tyler is a versatile performer who acts, directs, and hosts. She voiced the character Lana Kane in the animated film and series ‘Archer’. Tyler appeared in the comedy ‘Balls of Fury’ as an underground ping-pong enthusiast. Her role in ‘The Santa Clause’ sequels introduced her to family audiences. She is known for her intelligence and quick wit in both scripted and unscripted formats.
Keke Palmer
Keke Palmer began her career as a child star and has grown into a prolific adult actress. She received critical acclaim for her leading role in the drama ‘Akeelah and the Bee’. Palmer starred in the horror film ‘Nope’ directed by Jordan Peele where she displayed immense charisma. Her voice work includes the role of Peaches in the ‘Ice Age’ franchise. She is a multi-talented entertainer with a rapidly expanding body of work.
Marianne Jean-Baptiste
Marianne Jean-Baptiste is an Academy Award-nominated actress for her role in ‘Secrets & Lies’. She appeared in the reboot of ‘RoboCop’ playing a police chief. Jean-Baptiste starred in the horror film ‘In Fabric’ about a cursed dress. Her career spans British and American productions in film and television. She is known for bringing emotional depth to every character she portrays.
Audra McDonald
Audra McDonald is primarily a theater legend but has a significant list of film credits. She played the wardrobe mistress in the live-action adaptation of ‘Beauty and the Beast’. McDonald starred in the Aretha Franklin biopic ‘Respect’ as the singer’s mother. Her television movie credits include ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ for which she received an Emmy nomination. She possesses a commanding voice and presence that translates well to the screen.
Tika Sumpter
Tika Sumpter has carved out a successful career in both independent and studio films. She played the female lead in the live-action adaptation of ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ and its sequel. Sumpter starred as Michelle Obama in the biographical romance ‘Southside with You’. Her role in the Tyler Perry franchise ‘A Madea Christmas’ introduced her to a wide audience. She continues to be a rising star with a mixture of producing and acting credits.
Please share which of these talented actresses is your favorite and recommend their best movies in the comments.
