African-American Actresses Who Are National Treasures
The landscape of American entertainment has been shaped by the extraordinary contributions of African American actresses who have broken barriers and redefined the art of performance. From the early days of cinema to the modern era of diverse storytelling these women have left an indelible mark on culture and society. Their work across film and television and theater has earned them the status of national treasures. This list celebrates the iconic performers whose talent and perseverance have paved the way for future generations in the spotlight.
Cicely Tyson
Cicely Tyson spent more than seven decades portraying strong African American women on the screen and stage. She earned critical acclaim for her leading role in the film ‘Sounder’ and won multiple Emmy Awards for ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman’. Throughout her career she received an Honorary Academy Award and a Presidential Medal of Freedom. Her commitment to playing characters with dignity helped transform the representation of Black women in the industry.
Hattie McDaniel
Hattie McDaniel became the first African American person to win an Academy Award for her performance in ‘Gone with the Wind’. She was a versatile performer who appeared in over three hundred films and had a successful career as a radio performer and singer. Her victory at the Oscars in 1940 marked a historic milestone for the film industry. She remains a pioneering figure whose legacy continues to be studied and celebrated today.
Dorothy Dandridge
Dorothy Dandridge was the first African American woman to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in ‘Carmen Jones’. She was a renowned singer and actress who performed in famous venues around the world during the height of her career. Her talent and screen presence made her a major star in films such as ‘Porgy and Bess’ and ‘Island in the Sun’. She paved the way for future generations of Black leading ladies in Hollywood.
Ruby Dee
Ruby Dee was a celebrated actress and civil rights activist who maintained a long and distinguished career in film and theater. She is well known for her role in the original Broadway production and film version of ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. Throughout her life she received numerous accolades including an Emmy Award and a Grammy Award. She worked closely with her husband Ossie Davis to advocate for social justice while contributing to the arts.
Ethel Waters
Ethel Waters was a versatile performer who achieved success in jazz and blues singing as well as acting. She became the second African American ever nominated for an Academy Award for her role in ‘Pinky’. Her career included significant work on Broadway and in her own television variety show. She left a lasting impact on American music and film through her expressive voice and dramatic range.
Lena Horne
Lena Horne was a legendary singer and actress who broke through many racial barriers in the mid twentieth century. She signed a significant contract with MGM and appeared in numerous musical films such as ‘Cabin in the Sky’ and ‘Stormy Weather’. Beyond her entertainment career she was a dedicated civil rights activist who refused to perform for segregated audiences. Her grace and talent made her a symbol of elegance and resilience in the industry.
Eartha Kitt
Eartha Kitt was a multi talented artist known for her distinctive voice and captivating stage presence. She gained international fame as a singer and had a memorable role as Catwoman in the television series ‘Batman’. Her work in film and theater earned her multiple Tony Award and Emmy Award nominations over several decades. She was a courageous performer who never hesitated to speak her mind on important social issues.
Diahann Carroll
Diahann Carroll made history as the first African American woman to star in her own television series ‘Julia’ where she did not play a domestic worker. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in the film ‘Claudine’ and won a Tony Award for ‘No Strings’. Her career transitioned successfully into primetime soap operas like ‘Dynasty’ during the eighties. She remains a pioneer who expanded the types of roles available to Black women in television.
Whoopi Goldberg
Whoopi Goldberg is one of the few entertainers to achieve the prestigious status of winning an Emmy and a Grammy and an Oscar and a Tony. She rose to fame with her one woman show and her breakout film role in ‘The Color Purple’. Her comedic and dramatic range was further showcased in hits like ‘Ghost’ and ‘Sister Act’. She continues to be a prominent voice in American culture as a long time moderator on ‘The View’.
Angela Bassett
Angela Bassett is widely recognized for her powerful portrayals of real life figures and strong fictional characters. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Tina Turner in the film ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’. Her extensive body of work includes significant roles in ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘Black Panther’. She was honored with an Honorary Academy Award to celebrate her decades of excellence in the craft of acting.
Viola Davis
Viola Davis is the first African American actor to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting by winning an Oscar and an Emmy and a Tony. She gained widespread recognition for her performances in films like ‘Doubt’ and ‘The Help’ and ‘Fences’. Her starring role in the television series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ earned her historic accolades. She is celebrated for her intense emotional depth and her dedication to authentic storytelling.
Alfre Woodard
Alfre Woodard has built a reputation as one of the most versatile and accomplished actresses of her generation. She has won four Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe for her work across various television projects and films. Her filmography includes standout performances in ‘Passion Fish’ and ‘Cross Creek’ and ’12 Years a Slave’. She is frequently cited as a favorite among peers and critics for her understated and powerful acting style.
Regina King
Regina King began her career as a child actor on the series ‘227’ and evolved into an award winning actress and director. She won an Academy Award for her performance in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and multiple Emmy Awards for her television work. Her notable roles in ‘Watchmen’ and ‘The Leftovers’ have solidified her status as a major force in the industry. She has also gained acclaim for directing the feature film ‘One Night in Miami’.
Octavia Spencer
Octavia Spencer became a household name after her Academy Award winning performance in the film ‘The Help’. She has since received multiple Oscar nominations for her roles in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘The Shape of Water’. Her career is marked by a wide range of characters in both independent films and major studio productions. She is known for her warm screen presence and her ability to bring humanity to every role she plays.
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 blockbuster franchises including ‘X Men’ and ‘James Bond’ films. Her career spans decades and includes a diverse array of roles in dramas and thrillers and action movies. She remains an influential figure in Hollywood who has consistently challenged industry standards.
Taraji P. Henson
Taraji P. Henson gained critical notice for her performance in ‘Hustle & Flow’ before receiving an Oscar nomination for ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’. She became a massive television star through her iconic role as Cookie Lyon on the series ‘Empire’. Her work in the film ‘Hidden Figures’ highlighted her ability to lead a major historical drama. She is also a passionate advocate for mental health awareness within the Black community.
Kerry Washington
Kerry Washington became a global star for her portrayal of Olivia Pope on the hit television series ‘Scandal’. She earned several award nominations for her work in the show and the film ‘Confirmation’ where she played Anita Hill. Her film credits also include prominent roles in ‘Ray’ and ‘Django Unchained’. She is a significant producer and activist who uses her platform to promote political engagement and social change.
Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah began her career as a pioneering hip hop artist before transitioning into a successful actress and producer. She received an Academy Award nomination for her performance in the musical film ‘Chicago’. Her diverse career includes leading roles in the sitcom ‘Living Single’ and the action film ‘Set It Off’. She currently stars in the television series ‘The Equalizer’ while continuing to influence the entertainment industry.
Jennifer Hudson
Jennifer Hudson rose to fame on ‘American Idol’ and quickly became a powerhouse in both music and film. She won an Academy Award for her debut film role in ‘Dreamgirls’ and has since won Grammy and Tony and Emmy awards. Her talent has been showcased in films like ‘Respect’ where she portrayed the legendary Aretha Franklin. She now hosts her own daytime talk show and remains a beloved figure in American entertainment.
Debbie Allen
Debbie Allen is a multi talented actress and dancer and choreographer and director who has left a lasting mark on television. She is best known for her work on the series ‘Fame’ both in front of and behind the camera. Her contributions to the arts include directing numerous episodes of ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and founding her own dance academy. She has received multiple Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe for her extensive and varied career.
Sheryl Lee Ralph
Sheryl Lee Ralph first gained fame as an original cast member of the Broadway musical ‘Dreamgirls’. She has enjoyed a long career in television with roles in ‘Moesha’ and more recently the hit comedy ‘Abbott Elementary’. Her performance as Barbara Howard earned her a long awaited Emmy Award and widespread critical praise. She is also a dedicated activist for HIV and AIDS awareness and has used her platform for advocacy for decades.
Loretta Devine
Loretta Devine is a beloved actress known for her distinctive voice and warm screen presence. She originated the role of Lorrell Robinson in the Broadway production of ‘Dreamgirls’ and had a successful run on the series ‘Boston Public’. Her film career includes memorable roles in ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘The Preacher’s Wife’. She has won an Emmy Award for her guest role on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and continues to work extensively in film and television.
Jenifer Lewis
Jenifer Lewis is often called the Mother of Black Hollywood due to her frequent roles playing matriarchs in films and television. She starred as Ruby Johnson on the long running sitcom ‘Blackish’ and appeared in films like ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’. Her career began on Broadway where she performed as a backup singer for Bette Midler. She is also an author and a candid advocate for mental health awareness.
Lynn Whitfield
Lynn Whitfield is a celebrated actress whose career spans over four decades in film and television and theater. She won an Emmy Award for her lead role in ‘The Josephine Baker Story’ and starred in the hit series ‘Greenleaf’. Her film work includes memorable performances in ‘Eve’s Bayou’ and ‘A Thin Line Between Love and Hate’. She is known for her elegance and her ability to portray complex and sophisticated characters.
Pam Grier
Pam Grier became an icon of the 1970s as the star of several influential blaxploitation films like ‘Coffy’ and ‘Foxy Brown’. She experienced a major career resurgence when she starred in the title role of Quentin Tarantino’s film ‘Jackie Brown’. Her work has been credited with influencing the action genre and the portrayal of strong women in cinema. She also had a recurring role on the television series ‘The L Word’ and remains a cult film legend.
CCH Pounder
CCH Pounder is a versatile character actress known for her authoritative and deeply felt performances. She has earned multiple Emmy Award nominations for her work on series such as ‘The Shield’ and ‘ER’. Her film credits include significant roles in ‘Avatar’ and ‘Bagdad Cafe’ and ‘Face Off’. She is also an accomplished artist and a collector of African and African diaspora art who promotes cultural heritage.
S. Epatha Merkerson
S. Epatha Merkerson is best known for her long running role as Lieutenant Anita Van Buren on the television series ‘Law & Order’. She won an Emmy and a Golden Globe and a SAG Award for her performance in the film ‘Lackawanna Blues’. Her career includes extensive work on Broadway where she has received multiple Tony Award nominations. She currently stars in the medical drama ‘Chicago Med’ and remains a staple of American television.
Chandra Wilson
Chandra Wilson has become a television icon through her long standing role as Dr. Miranda Bailey on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. She has received multiple Emmy Award nominations and won a Screen Actors Guild Award for her performance. In addition to acting she is an accomplished director who has helmed numerous episodes of various television dramas. Her portrayal of the tough but caring chief of surgery has made her a fan favorite for over two decades.
Tracee Ellis Ross
Tracee Ellis Ross rose to fame as the lead in the popular sitcom ‘Girlfriends’ before starring in the acclaimed series ‘Blackish’. She has won a Golden Globe Award and received multiple Emmy nominations for her comedic performances. She is the daughter of legendary singer Diana Ross and has carved out her own unique path in the entertainment industry. She is also recognized as a fashion icon and an advocate for diversity and inclusion in Hollywood.
Issa Rae
Issa Rae first gained attention for her innovative web series ‘Awkward Black Girl’ before creating and starring in the HBO series ‘Insecure’. She has received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her work as an actress and writer. Her film career includes roles in ‘The Photograph’ and ‘American Fiction’ and the blockbuster ‘Barbie’. She is a significant producer who has focused on creating opportunities for underrepresented voices in the industry.
Quinta Brunson
Quinta Brunson made a major impact on the television landscape as the creator and star of the hit mockumentary ‘Abbott Elementary’. She has won multiple Emmy Awards for her writing and her performance as Janine Teagues. Her career began with viral internet content and work on ‘A Black Lady Sketch Show’ before her transition to network television. She is celebrated for her sharp comedic timing and her ability to tell relatable stories about public education.
Zendaya
Zendaya began her career as a child star on the Disney Channel before evolving into a critically acclaimed actress and global fashion icon. She became the youngest person to win two Emmy Awards for Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role in ‘Euphoria’. Her film work includes major roles in the ‘Spider Man’ franchise and the ‘Dune’ films. She is widely regarded as one of the most influential performers of her generation.
Janelle Monáe
Janelle Monáe is a multi talented artist who has achieved success as a singer and songwriter and actress. She made a significant film debut with roles in the Academy Award winning movies ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. Her acting career continued with a lead role in the film ‘Glass Onion’ which earned her further critical praise. She is known for her visionary approach to storytelling and her unique personal style.
Uzo Aduba
Uzo Aduba gained international fame for her portrayal of Suzanne Warren on the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She won two Emmy Awards for the same role in both the comedy and drama categories which is a rare feat. Her work on Broadway and in the miniseries ‘Mrs. America’ has further showcased her range and talent. She is respected for her ability to bring intense vulnerability and humanity to her characters.
Danielle Brooks
Danielle Brooks became a breakout star for her role as Tasha Jefferson in the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She received an Academy Award nomination and a Tony Award nomination for her portrayal of Sofia in ‘The Color Purple’. Her career includes diverse roles in television series like ‘Peacemaker’ and various Broadway productions. She is celebrated for her powerful voice and her commanding presence on screen and stage.
Audra McDonald
Audra McDonald is a legendary performer who holds the record for the most Tony Awards won by an actor with six victories. She has also achieved success in television with roles in ‘Private Practice’ and ‘The Good Fight’. Her film credits include the live action ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and the Aretha Franklin biopic ‘Respect’. She is an esteemed singer who performs regularly with major orchestras and remains a giant of the American theater.
Tichina Arnold
Tichina Arnold is a veteran actress known for her exceptional comedic timing and strong screen presence. She first gained fame as Pamela James on the hit sitcom ‘Martin’ and later starred as the matriarch on ‘Everybody Hates Chris’. Her long career includes roles in films like ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ and the television series ‘The Neighborhood’. She is a beloved figure in the Black community and is recognized for her versatility and enduring talent.
Tisha Campbell
Tisha Campbell is a versatile actress and singer who became a household name during the 1990s. She is best known for her leading roles in the sitcoms ‘Martin’ and ‘My Wife and Kids’. Her early film work includes the ‘House Party’ franchise and the musical ‘School Daze’. She has maintained a consistent presence in television for decades and continues to be celebrated for her comedic and musical abilities.
Vanessa Williams
Vanessa Williams is a multi faceted entertainer who has enjoyed successful careers in music and film and television and theater. She made history as the first African American woman to be crowned Miss America before becoming a chart topping recording artist. Her acting credits include iconic roles in ‘Ugly Betty’ and ‘Desperate Housewives’ and the film ‘Soul Food’. She is also a frequent performer on Broadway and has received multiple award nominations across different disciplines.
Jada Pinkett Smith
Jada Pinkett Smith began her career on the sitcom ‘A Different World’ before starring in major films like ‘The Nutty Professor’ and ‘Set It Off’. She appeared in ‘The Matrix’ sequels and the television series ‘Gotham’. She gained further prominence as the creator and host of the talk show ‘Red Table Talk’ where she engaged in candid conversations. Her long career in Hollywood includes work as a producer and director and businesswoman.
Nia Long
Nia Long is a celebrated actress known for her roles in several classic African American films of the 1990s and 2000s. She starred in ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘Friday’ and the ‘Best Man’ film series. Her television work includes roles in ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel Air’ and ‘Empire’ and ‘NCIS’. She is admired for her longevity in the industry and her status as a cultural icon in American cinema.
Regina Hall
Regina Hall rose to fame through her comedic performance in the ‘Scary Movie’ film franchise. She has since transitioned into a wide range of roles in films such as ‘Girls Trip’ and ‘The Hate U Give’. Her performance in the independent film ‘Support the Girls’ earned her significant critical acclaim and several awards. She continues to be a prominent leading lady in both comedies and dramas in Hollywood.
Gabrielle Union
Gabrielle Union became a star in the late 1990s with roles in teen films like ‘Bring It On’ and ’10 Things I Hate About You’. She led the successful television series ‘Being Mary Jane’ for several seasons and starred in numerous romantic comedies. Beyond acting she is a best selling author and a dedicated advocate for women’s rights and survivors of assault. She remains a powerful figure in the entertainment industry and a social media influencer.
Vivica A. Fox
Vivica A. Fox had her breakout year in 1996 with starring roles in the blockbuster ‘Independence Day’ and the action film ‘Set It Off’. Her career includes roles in ‘Soul Food’ and Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Kill Bill’. She has appeared in numerous television series and has become a prolific producer of television films. She is known for her strong work ethic and her enduring presence as a leading woman in Hollywood.
Niecy Nash-Betts
Niecy Nash Betts is a versatile actress and host who first gained fame for her comedic work on ‘Reno 911’ and the series ‘Claws’. She transitioned into more dramatic roles with acclaimed performances in ‘When They See Us’ and ‘Monster’. She won an Emmy Award for her role in the latter and has been praised for her emotional range. She continues to lead television projects and remains a celebrated figure in the industry.
Da’Vine Joy Randolph
Da’Vine Joy Randolph is a talented actress who began her career in theater and received a Tony Award nomination for ‘Ghost the Musical’. She gained widespread recognition for her film roles in ‘Dolemite Is My Name’ and ‘The Lost City’. Her performance in the film ‘The Holdovers’ earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She is known for her ability to bring humor and heart to every character she portrays.
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor
Aunjanue Ellis Taylor is a highly respected actress known for her powerful performances in film and television. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘King Richard’ and has starred in ‘The Help’ and ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. Her work in the miniseries ‘When They See Us’ and ‘Lovecraft Country’ earned her multiple Emmy Award nominations. She is celebrated for her dedication to her craft and her portrayal of complex women.
Leslie Jones
Leslie Jones became a breakout star on ‘Saturday Night Live’ where she served as a writer and cast member for several seasons. She starred in the 2016 reboot of ‘Ghostbusters’ and has appeared in films like ‘Coming 2 America’. Her energetic comedic style and personal storytelling have made her a favorite among audiences. She is also a prominent stand up comedian and has hosted major award shows and television specials.
Marsai Martin
Marsai Martin rose to fame as Diane Johnson on the hit sitcom ‘Blackish’ at a very young age. She made history as the youngest person to ever produce a studio film with the comedy ‘Little’ in which she also starred. Her work has earned her numerous NAACP Image Awards and recognition as an influential young leader in Hollywood. She continues to expand her career as an actress and producer while inspiring her generation.
Please share your own choices for the most iconic African American actresses in the comments.
