Black Actresses with Right-Leaning Takes

The intersection of politics and entertainment often reveals surprising perspectives from public figures who challenge dominant industry narratives. While Hollywood is frequently associated with liberal ideologies, several Black actresses and media personalities have expressed conservative views or right-leaning opinions on specific issues. These figures range from registered Republicans and vocal Trump supporters to those who have challenged “woke” culture, vaccine mandates, or high taxes. Their stances highlight the diversity of thought within the Black community and the entertainment industry at large.

Stacey Dash

Best known for her role as Dionne in ‘Clueless’ (1995), Stacey Dash became one of the most prominent conservative voices in Hollywood during the 2010s. She served as a Fox News contributor, where she frequently criticized the Democratic Party and advocated for conservative policies. Dash faced significant backlash for her support of Mitt Romney in 2012 and her subsequent endorsement of Donald Trump. She has often argued against identity politics and called for the abolition of Black History Month, suggesting it promotes segregation rather than unity.

Candace Owens

While primarily known now as a political commentator, Candace Owens began her career in media and has acting credits in independent productions like ‘The Bleeding’ (2009). She experienced a widely publicized shift from liberal to conservative, eventually founding the “Blexit” movement to encourage Black Americans to leave the Democratic Party. Owens is a staunch supporter of Donald Trump and frequently critiques the Black Lives Matter movement and modern feminism. Her polarizing takes on systemic racism and cultural issues have made her a central figure in right-wing media.

Amber Rose

Model and actress Amber Rose, who appeared in ‘School Dance’ (2014), shocked many fans with her pivot toward right-wing politics in 2024. Known for her SlutWalk and feminist activism, Rose publicly endorsed Donald Trump, citing his economic policies and perceived strength as a leader. She appeared at the Republican National Convention, delivering a speech that framed the MAGA movement as inclusive and misunderstood. Her endorsement represented a significant departure from her previous alignment with progressive social causes.

Azealia Banks

Rapper and actress Azealia Banks, who starred in the musical drama ‘Love Beats Rhymes’ (2017), is known for her unpredictable and often contrarian political takes. She endorsed Donald Trump in 2016 and again in 2024, praising his personality and business acumen while criticizing the Democratic establishment. Banks has frequently taken aim at “woke” culture and censorship, aligning herself with right-wing grievances regarding free speech. Her commentary often blends economic populism with a rejection of mainstream liberal celebrity culture.

Sheryl Underwood

Comedian and actress Sheryl Underwood, a co-host on ‘The Talk’ and star of ‘Beauty Shop’ (2005), has openly identified as a Republican. During broadcast discussions, she has admitted to her political affiliation, noting that she often votes for GOP candidates. While her social views sometimes align with moderate perspectives, her party loyalty places her on the right side of the political aisle in Hollywood. Underwood brings a unique viewpoint to daytime television, often balancing her conservative background with the show’s broader liberal bent.

Pearl Bailey

The legendary entertainer Pearl Bailey, who starred in ‘Hello, Dolly!’ (1967) and ‘Porgy and Bess’ (1959), was a staunch Republican throughout her life. She was appointed by President Richard Nixon as America’s “Ambassador of Love” and served as a delegate to the United Nations under the Ford and Reagan administrations. Bailey actively campaigned for GOP candidates and maintained close personal friendships with several Republican presidents. Her political involvement was driven by her belief in individual responsibility and patriotism.

Ethel Waters

Ethel Waters, an Academy Award-nominated actress known for ‘Pinky’ (1949), was a vocal supporter of the Republican Party and evangelist Billy Graham. In her later years, she frequently performed at Graham’s crusades, aligning herself with conservative Christian values. Waters campaigned for Richard Nixon, even performing at the White House during his presidency. Her shift toward religious conservatism influenced her public persona and the causes she championed.

Hattie McDaniel

Hattie McDaniel, the first African American to win an Oscar for her role in ‘Gone with the Wind’ (1939), was a registered Republican. During the 1940s, she joined other conservative actors in Hollywood to oppose what they viewed as communist infiltration in the industry. McDaniel campaigned for Republican initiatives and supported the party’s platform during a segregated era. Her political alignment was consistent with many successful Black business owners and entertainers of her time who favored fiscal conservatism.

Kaya Jones

Former Pussycat Doll and actress Kaya Jones has emerged as a prominent conservative commentator and Trump supporter. She served on the National Diversity Coalition for Trump and has frequently appeared on right-wing media outlets to defend the former president. Jones argues that the entertainment industry exploits young women and has criticized the feminist movement for failing to protect them. Her views on national security and border control align strictly with the Republican platform.

Lil’ Kim

Hip-hop icon and actress Lil’ Kim, who appeared in ‘Zoolander’ (2001), expressed sympathy for Donald Trump during his presidency. In interviews, she described him as a “cool” person whom she had known socially before his political career, rejecting the narrative that he was racist. While not a hardline conservative, her refusal to disavow him challenged the uniform opposition expected from hip-hop culture. Her comments highlighted a disconnect between personal relationships with the elite and public political polarization.

Foxy Brown

Rapper and actress Foxy Brown, known for the film ‘Woo’ (1998), publicly declared her love for Donald Trump during the 2016 election. She praised his resilience and outsider status, stating that he was the shake-up the system needed. Brown faced criticism from fans but maintained her support, viewing Trump’s brash style as relatable. Her endorsement was one of the early examples of hip-hop figures breaking with the Democratic consensus.

Nicki Minaj

Superstar rapper and actress Nicki Minaj, who starred in ‘The Other Woman’ (2014), sparked a global controversy with her skepticism regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. She tweeted about a family friend’s alleged reaction to the shot, leading to a public feud with government health officials and the White House. Minaj subsequently expressed agreement with conservative pundit Tucker Carlson, who defended her right to ask questions. Her stance became a rallying point for those opposing vaccine mandates and government overreach.

Letitia Wright

‘Black Panther’ (2018) star Letitia Wright faced intense scrutiny for sharing a video on social media that questioned the safety of COVID-19 vaccines and expressed skepticism about climate change. The backlash led to calls for her to be recast in the Marvel franchise, pushing her into the center of the culture wars. Wright defended her post as an exercise in critical thinking and religious conviction, refusing to bow to pressure to apologize for her curiosity. Her stance resonated with conservatives concerned about cancel culture and medical autonomy.

Macy Gray

Singer and actress Macy Gray, who appeared in ‘Training Day’ (2001), generated controversy with her comments on gender identity during an interview with Piers Morgan. Gray argued that surgery does not make someone a woman, a stance that aligned her with “gender critical” feminists and social conservatives. She faced immediate backlash from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups but initially doubled down on her definition of womanhood. Her comments were embraced by right-leaning commentators who oppose the modern transgender rights movement.

Lil Mama

Rapper and actress Lil Mama, who played Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes in ‘CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story’ (2013), has sparked controversy with remarks that align with conservative views on gender and sexuality. She publicly announced her intention to start a “heterosexual rights movement,” arguing that straight people were being marginalized by the LGBTQ+ agenda. Her comments were widely criticized by progressives but found support among social conservatives. Lil Mama has frequently used her platform to advocate for traditional family structures.

Chilli

Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas, member of TLC and actress in ‘Marshall’ (2017), faced criticism for her comments regarding the Black Lives Matter movement. In an interview, she stated that “all lives matter,” a phrase frequently used by conservatives to counter the specific focus on Black police brutality. She argued that the community should focus on police brutality against all races, causing friction with racial justice activists. Her take reflected a more colorblind approach to social justice that appeals to moderate and right-leaning audiences.

LisaRaye McCoy

Actress LisaRaye McCoy, star of ‘The Players Club’ (1998), offered praise for Donald Trump’s performance during his term. She commented that he was “doing a good job” with the economy, prioritizing the financial well-being of the country over his controversial rhetoric. McCoy’s pragmatic approach to the presidency focused on business metrics rather than social issues. Her refusal to condemn Trump outright distinguished her from many of her peers in Black Hollywood.

Vivica A. Fox

‘Kill Bill’ (2003) star Vivica A. Fox, while generally a Democrat, defended Ivanka Trump against “bullying” from the media and the public. Fox, who worked with Donald Trump on ‘The Celebrity Apprentice’, described Ivanka as a “lovely woman” and criticized the harsh treatment she received due to her father’s politics. This defense of the Trump family on a personal level was seen as a breach of the Hollywood boycott against the administration. Fox’s comments highlighted a preference for civility over partisan warfare.

Raven-Symoné

Former child star and ‘The View’ co-host Raven-Symoné has frequently sparked debate with her rejection of identity labels. In a viral interview with Oprah Winfrey, she stated, “I’m not an African-American; I’m an American,” a sentiment that echoes conservative arguments against hyphenated identities and multiculturalism. She has also criticized the idea that her success is defined by her race, preferring a merit-based outlook. These views have often placed her at odds with progressive racial justice advocates.

Mo’Nique

Oscar-winning actress Mo’Nique, star of ‘Precious’ (2009), publicly defended Roseanne Barr after the sitcom star was fired for a racist tweet. Mo’Nique argued that Barr was her “sister” in comedy and refused to “throw her away” for a mistake, advocating for forgiveness over cancellation. This stance against the industry’s zero-tolerance policy resonated with critics of cancel culture. Mo’Nique has consistently positioned herself against the Hollywood establishment, often echoing populist anti-elite sentiments.

Erykah Badu

Singer and actress Erykah Badu, known for ‘The Cider House Rules’ (1999), is a self-described humanist whose views often veer into contrarian territory. She faced backlash for stating she saw “good” in everyone, including Adolf Hitler, during an interview intended to express universal empathy. While not politically conservative, her rejection of groupthink and refusal to condemn “cancelled” figures aligns with the anti-woke sensibilities of the cultural right. Badu frequently challenges the moral absolutes demanded by progressive activists.

Chrisette Michele

R&B singer and ‘R&B Divas: Los Angeles’ (2013) cast member Chrisette Michele accepted an invitation to perform at Donald Trump’s inauguration in 2017. She framed her decision as an opportunity to build a bridge and represent the Black community in a room where they were scarce. The decision led to immediate and severe consequences for her career, including being dropped by her label. Michele later expressed regret due to the backlash, but her initial willingness to engage with the Trump administration was a significant conservative-adjacent move.

Jennifer Holliday

Tony Award-winning actress and singer Jennifer Holliday, the original star of ‘Dreamgirls’ (1981), initially agreed to perform at Donald Trump’s inauguration. She defended the choice as a non-political act of singing for the nation, a stance often taken by conservatives regarding patriotic duties. However, following intense pressure from her fanbase and the LGBTQ+ community, she withdrew from the event. Her initial acceptance highlighted the conflict between traditional respect for the office and the polarized political climate.

Nene Leakes

‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star and actress Nene Leakes, who appeared in ‘Glee’ (2012), has maintained a complex relationship with Donald Trump since her time on ‘The Celebrity Apprentice’. While she has not always endorsed his policies, she has defended his authenticity, stating, “He is true to who he is.” Leakes has criticized the pressure placed on Black celebrities to conform to a specific political ideology. Her refusal to denounce him entirely has led to friction with more progressive peers.

Alveda King

Niece of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a former actress with small credits, Alveda King is a prominent pro-life activist and Fox News contributor. She acts as a spiritual advisor to conservative leaders and frequently argues that the Democratic Party has failed the Black community. King is a staunch opponent of abortion, viewing it as a civil rights issue, and supports school choice initiatives. Her political work is dedicated to steering Black voters toward the Republican Party.

Condoleezza Rice

Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is a classical pianist who made a memorable cameo as herself on the sitcom ’30 Rock’ (2011). As a high-ranking Republican official, her political views are firmly rooted in compassionate conservatism, strong national defense, and free markets. Rice has often spoken about the importance of meritocracy and has criticized Critical Race Theory in education. She remains one of the most respected conservative figures in the country.

Jill Scott

Grammy-winning singer and actress Jill Scott, star of ‘Why Did I Get Married?’ (2007), faced criticism for her defense of Bill Cosby during the early stages of his sexual assault allegations. Scott urged the public to wait for proof before condemning a man who had done so much for Black representation. Her stance mirrored the skepticism many conservatives hold toward trial-by-public-opinion and the #MeToo movement’s lack of due process. She later retracted her support after the court deposition was released.

Patti LaBelle

Music legend and actress Patti LaBelle, who appeared in ‘A Different World’ (1987–1993), also defended Bill Cosby, separating the artist from the allegations. She maintained a loyal stance toward her friend, reflecting a generational valuing of personal loyalty over political correctness. LaBelle has generally avoided partisan politics but maintains traditional views on respect and hierarchy. Her defense was seen as part of a broader resistance among older Black entertainers to “cancel” their own legends.

Stephanie Mills

Original star of ‘The Wiz’ on Broadway, Stephanie Mills has been a vocal defender of Michael Jackson and R. Kelly against what she perceives as a racially biased justice system. She has argued that Black men are targeted more aggressively than white artists with similar allegations. While this stems from a racial justice perspective, her attacks on the #MeToo movement’s uneven application align with anti-woke critiques. Mills consistently challenges the narratives pushed by mainstream liberal media.

Keke Wyatt

R&B singer and reality star Keke Wyatt, known for ‘R&B Divas: Atlanta’ (2012–2014), has expressed strong pro-life views rooted in her large family and faith. In interviews, she has stated she does not believe in abortion and views children as blessings regardless of the circumstances. Her unapologetic stance on motherhood and rejection of “career-first” feminism resonates with social conservatives. Wyatt prioritizes traditional family values in her public persona.

Gloria Gaynor

Disco legend Gloria Gaynor, who has appeared in various acting roles including ‘Ally McBeal’, is a devout Christian with conservative views. She has spoken openly about how her faith saved her from a lifestyle of excess and guides her political decisions. Gaynor advocates for religious freedom and moral responsibility, often aligning with the values of the Christian right. She continues to perform and speak in venues that celebrate traditional American values.

Zoe Saldaña

‘Avatar’ (2009) star Zoe Saldana faced backlash for criticizing the bullying of Donald Trump by the Hollywood elite. She argued that the constant negativity and insults directed at the President were counterproductive and disrespectful to the office. Saldana emphasized that she did not want to raise her children in an environment of hate, regardless of political disagreements. Her comments were embraced by conservatives as a rare call for civility from a mainstream A-list actress.

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