African-American Actresses You Might Not Know Have Passed Away

The history of film and television is filled with legendary performers who broke barriers and paved the way for future generations. While some names remain in the constant spotlight many talented African American actresses have passed away leaving behind incredible legacies that deserve recognition. These women often faced immense challenges in an industry that was slow to embrace diversity. Their contributions range from groundbreaking leading roles to memorable character work that defined popular culture for decades. Remembering their work ensures that their influence on the entertainment world continues to inspire and inform audiences today.

Hattie McDaniel

She was the first African American to win an Academy Award for her performance in ‘Gone with the Wind’. Her career spanned radio and film where she often portrayed domestic workers with sharp wit. She faced significant scrutiny from civil rights organizations regarding the types of roles she accepted. Throughout the nineteen thirties and forties she appeared in over three hundred films although many went uncredited. Her legacy remains a complex part of cinematic history.

Dorothy Dandridge

She was the first African American film star to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in ‘Carmen Jones’. Her talent and beauty made her a prominent figure in Hollywood during the nineteen fifties. Despite her success she struggled against the systemic racism of the era which limited the roles available to her. She delivered a powerful performance in ‘Porgy and Bess’ and remains an icon of early Black cinema. Her career was tragically cut short but her impact on the industry is still felt today.

Ethel Waters

She began her career as a blues singer before transitioning into a successful acting career on Broadway and in film. She was nominated for an Academy Award for her role in the film ‘Pinky’. Her performance in ‘Member of the Wedding’ received critical acclaim and showcased her dramatic range. She was also the first Black woman to be nominated for an Emmy Award in nineteen sixty two. Her contributions to both music and acting helped break down racial barriers in the arts.

Juanita Moore

She is best remembered for her heartbreaking performance as Annie Johnson in the film ‘Imitation of Life’. This role earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout her long career which began in the nineteen thirties. She was a member of the Cambridge Players and worked extensively in theater. Her work provided a poignant look at race relations and maternal sacrifice.

Beah Richards

She was a distinguished actress of stage and screen who received an Academy Award nomination for ‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’. Her career included significant roles in films like ‘In the Heat of the Night’ and ‘Beloved’. She was also a celebrated poet and playwright who used her voice to advocate for social change. In addition to her film work she won two Emmy Awards for her guest appearances on television. Her presence on screen was marked by a deep sense of dignity and strength.

Ruby Dee

She was a legendary actress and civil rights activist whose career spanned more than seven decades. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the film version of ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. Throughout her life she collaborated frequently with her husband Ossie Davis on numerous artistic and political projects. She received an Academy Award nomination later in her career for her performance in ‘American Gangster’. Her dedication to her craft and her community made her a revered figure in American culture.

Cicely Tyson

She was a trailblazing actress known for portraying strong and complex Black women throughout her long career. She received critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for her role in the film ‘Sounder’. Her performance in the television movie ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman’ won her two Emmy Awards. She was a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her contributions to the arts and civil rights. Her work remains a cornerstone of Black excellence in entertainment.

Diahann Carroll

She 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 was a versatile performer who found success on Broadway winning a Tony Award for ‘No Strings’. Her film career included an Academy Award nomination for her performance in ‘Claudine’. Later in her career she reached a new generation of fans with her role as Dominique Deveraux on ‘Dynasty’. She was a pioneer who redefined the image of Black women in mainstream media.

Nichelle Nichols

She gained international fame for her role as Lieutenant Uhura on the original ‘Star Trek’ series. Her presence on the show was a landmark moment for representation in science fiction and television. She was famously encouraged by Martin Luther King Junior to stay on the show because of the importance of her role. Beyond acting she worked with NASA to recruit women and minority astronauts for the space program. Her legacy as a pioneer in both entertainment and science is enduring.

Mary Alice

She was a highly respected stage and screen actress who won a Tony Award for her performance in ‘Fences’. She is widely known to film audiences for her role as The Oracle in ‘The Matrix Revolutions’. Her television work included a regular role on ‘A Different World’ and an Emmy winning performance in ‘I’ll Fly Away’. She was inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame in two thousand five. Her talent for bringing depth and humanity to her characters made her a favorite among critics and peers.

Eartha Kitt

She was a multi talented performer known for her distinctive voice and captivating stage presence. She rose to fame as a singer before taking on memorable acting roles such as Catwoman in the ‘Batman’ television series. Her career faced a temporary setback after she spoke out against the Vietnam War during a White House luncheon. She eventually made a triumphant return to the stage and screen earning several award nominations. Her unique style and fierce independence made her a true icon of the entertainment world.

Lena Horne

She was a celebrated singer and actress who broke through racial barriers in Hollywood during the nineteen forties. She signed a significant contract with MGM and appeared in films like ‘Cabin in the Sky’ and ‘Stormy Weather’. Despite her talent she often faced discrimination and was frequently edited out of films shown in certain regions. She was a dedicated civil rights activist who participated in the March on Washington. Her elegance and vocal talent left an indelible mark on American music and film.

Pearl Bailey

She was a vibrant singer and actress known for her warm personality and comedic timing. She won a Tony Award for her title role in the all Black production of ‘Hello Dolly!’. Her film credits include ‘Carmen Jones’ and ‘Porgy and Bess’ where she showcased her versatile talents. She also served as a special ambassador to the United Nations later in her life. Her contributions to the arts earned her the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Della Reese

She began her career as a gospel and jazz singer before becoming a household name as an actress. She is best known for her role as Tess on the long running television series ‘Touched by an Angel’. She was the first Black woman to guest host ‘The Tonight Show’ and later hosted her own talk show. Her career spanned several decades and included numerous film and television appearances. She was also an ordained minister who founded her own church in Los Angeles.

Isabel Sanford

She is most famous for her role as Louise Jefferson on the hit sitcom ‘The Jeffersons’. She made history as the first African American woman to win an Emmy Award for Best Actress in a Comedy Series. Before her success on television she appeared in the film ‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’. Her comedic timing and chemistry with co star Sherman Hemsley made her a beloved figure in television history. She continued to act and make guest appearances until her passing.

Esther Rolle

She was a powerful actress who gained fame for her role as Florida Evans on the television series ‘Maude’ and its spin off ‘Good Times’. She was a founding member of the Negro Ensemble Company and had a successful career in theater. She was known for her commitment to portraying positive and realistic images of Black families. In addition to her television work she appeared in films such as ‘Driving Miss Daisy’ and ‘Rosewood’. Her dedication to her craft earned her an Emmy Award for ‘Summer of My German Soldier’.

Ja’Net DuBois

She was a versatile actress and singer best known for her role as the vivacious Willona Woods on ‘Good Times’. She also co wrote and sang the iconic theme song for the television series ‘The Jeffersons’. Her career included work in theater and film as well as numerous guest roles on popular television shows. She won two Emmy Awards for her voiceover work on the animated series ‘The PJs’. Her energy and talent made her a standout performer in every project she joined.

Roxie Roker

She is well remembered for her role as Helen Willis on the long running sitcom ‘The Jeffersons’. Her character was part of the first interracial couple to be featured prominently on prime time television. Before her television career she was an accomplished stage actress and a member of the Negro Ensemble Company. She received a Tony Award nomination for her performance in the play ‘The River Niger’. Her work helped break social barriers and provided a sophisticated representation of Black women.

Helen Martin

She was a veteran actress of stage and screen whose career spanned over sixty years. She is perhaps best known for her role as the gossipy neighbor Pearl Shay on the sitcom ‘227’. She appeared in many significant films including ‘Cotton Comes to Harlem’ and ‘Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood’. She was an original member of the American Negro Theater and worked extensively on Broadway. Her long career was marked by her ability to bring humor and authenticity to every role.

Clarice Taylor

She was a talented actress known for her role as Anna Huxtable on the popular series ‘The Cosby Show’. Her performance as the beloved grandmother earned her an Emmy Award nomination. She was a founding member of the Negro Ensemble Company and had a prolific career in theater. She also appeared in films such as ‘Play Misty for Me’ and ‘Five on the Black Hand Side’. Her work on stage and television made her a familiar and comforting presence to audiences.

Nell Carter

She was a powerhouse singer and actress who achieved stardom on Broadway and television. She won a Tony Award for her performance in the musical ‘Ain’t Misbehavin’. She later starred in the popular sitcom ‘Gimme a Break!’ where she played the role of Nell Harper. Her career included numerous television specials and film roles where she showcased her incredible vocal range. She was a two time Emmy nominee and remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Shirley Hemphill

She rose to fame in the nineteen seventies as the star of the sitcom ‘What’s Happening!!’. Her character Shirley Wilson was known for her quick wit and signature catchphrases. She began her career as a stand up comedian and was a regular performer at The Comedy Store. After the success of her first series she starred in her own self titled sitcom ‘One in a Million’. Her comedic talent and unique personality made her a pioneer for Black women in stand up and television.

Mabel King

She was a talented actress and singer known for her role as Mama Thomas on ‘What’s Happening!!’. She also gained fame for her portrayal of Evillene the Wicked Witch of the West in the stage and film versions of ‘The Wiz’. Her powerful voice and commanding presence made her a standout performer in musical theater. She appeared in several films and television shows throughout the nineteen seventies and eighties. Her contributions to the arts were marked by her unique style and memorable performances.

Alaina Reed Hall

She was a versatile actress and singer best known for her long running role as Rose Lee Holloway on the sitcom ‘227’. She also spent many years on ‘Sesame Street’ where she played the character Olivia. Her career included appearances in films such as ‘Death Becomes Her’ and ‘Cruel Intentions’. She was an accomplished stage performer who appeared in several Broadway productions. Her warm screen presence and vocal talent made her a favorite among fans of all ages.

Michelle Thomas

She was a young actress who gained popularity for her roles on hit television sitcoms. She played Justine Phillips on ‘The Cosby Show’ and later Myra Monkhouse on ‘Family Matters’. She was also a regular cast member on the soap opera ‘The Young and the Restless’ before her untimely death. Her father was a member of the musical group Kool & the Gang and she grew up in the entertainment industry. Her talent and bright personality left a lasting impression on her co stars and audiences.

SuZZanne Douglas

She was an accomplished actress known for her work in film television and theater. She starred in the sitcom ‘The Parent ‘Hood’ and the film ‘Tap’ alongside Gregory Hines. Her performance in ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back’ and the miniseries ‘When They See Us’ showcased her dramatic range. She was a trained singer and dancer who appeared in numerous stage productions throughout her career. Her grace and dedication to her craft were evident in every role she played.

Erica Ash

She was a talented actress and comedian known for her roles in television and film. She gained recognition for her work on the sketch comedy series ‘Mad TV’ and ‘The Real Husbands of Hollywood’. She starred in the drama series ‘Survivor’s Remorse’ where she delivered a critically acclaimed performance. Her film credits include ‘Scary Movie 5’ and ‘Uncle Drew’ where she showcased her comedic skills. Her recent passing was a significant loss to the entertainment community.

Yvette Wilson

She was a comedian and actress best known for her role as Andell Wilkerson on the sitcom ‘Moesha’ and its spin off ‘The Parkers’. She appeared in several films including ‘House Party 3’ and ‘Friday’ where she showcased her comedic timing. Her career began in stand up comedy where she performed on ‘Def Comedy Jam’. She was a beloved member of the nineties television landscape and a frequent collaborator with other Black comedians. Her work continues to bring laughter to fans of her classic shows.

Gail Fisher

She was a pioneering actress who became one of the first Black women to have a regular role on prime time television. She starred as Peggy Fair in the detective series ‘Mannix’ which earned her an Emmy Award and two Golden Globes. Before her television success she worked as a model and appeared in numerous commercials. She was also a member of the Lincoln Center Repertory Theatre and appeared on Broadway. Her achievements paved the way for future generations of African American actresses in television.

Vonetta McGee

She was a prominent actress during the blaxploitation film era of the nineteen seventies. She starred in notable films such as ‘Blacula’ and ‘Hammer’ and ‘Shaft in Africa’. She also appeared in the Western ‘The Eiger Sanction’ alongside Clint Eastwood. Her career continued into the nineteen eighties and nineties with roles in television shows like ‘Cagney & Lacey’. She was known for her beauty and her ability to handle both action and dramatic roles with ease.

Tamara Dobson

She was a striking actress and model best known for her role as the title character in ‘Cleopatra Jones’. Standing six feet two inches tall she became an icon of the blaxploitation genre as a strong and stylish action hero. Before her acting career she was a successful fashion model appearing in magazines like Vogue. She appeared in several other films and television guest spots throughout the nineteen seventies and eighties. Her portrayal of a powerful female lead inspired many and remains a cult classic.

Teresa Graves

She was a talented actress and singer who became the first African American woman to star in her own hour long police drama ‘Get Christie Love!’. She began her career as a singer with the group The Doodletown Pipers before moving into acting. She was a regular cast member on the sketch comedy show ‘Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In’. After her success in the entertainment industry she retired from acting to focus on her faith. Her groundbreaking role as a lead detective remains a significant moment in television history.

Marlene Clark

She was a versatile actress known for her work in independent and genre films during the nineteen seventies. She delivered a memorable performance in the vampire film ‘Ganja & Hess’ which has since become a cult classic. She also appeared in films like ‘Night of the Blood Monster’ and ‘Slaughter’. On television she had a recurring role on the sitcom ‘Sanford and Son’ as Janet Lawson. Her unique screen presence and choice of bold roles made her a notable figure in cinema.

Carol Speed

She was an actress and singer who appeared in several prominent blaxploitation films in the nineteen seventies. She is best known for her role in the horror film ‘Abby’ where she played a woman possessed by a demon. Her other film credits include ‘The Mack’ and ‘Black Samson’. In addition to acting she was a talented songwriter and performer. She later wrote a book about her experiences in Hollywood and remained active in her community.

Zara Cully

She was a veteran actress best known for her role as Mother Jefferson on the sitcom ‘The Jeffersons’. Her character was famous for her sharp tongue and comedic rivalry with Isabel Sanford’s character. She had a long career in theater and was a teacher of acting and elocution before finding television fame. She appeared in films such as ‘The Liberation of L.B. Jones’ and ‘Darktown Strutters’. Her performance as the feisty family matriarch made her a highlight of nineteen seventies television.

Theresa Merritt

She was a talented actress of stage and screen who starred in the sitcom ‘That’s My Mama’. She received critical acclaim for her performance as Ma Rainey in the original Broadway production of ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’. Her film work included roles in ‘The Wiz’ and ‘Billy Madison’ and ‘The Goodbye Girl’. She was known for her powerful voice and her ability to portray maternal figures with both strength and humor. Her contributions to theater and television were widely respected.

Minnie Gentry

She was a distinguished actress who had a long career in theater and film. She appeared in films such as ‘Georgia Georgia’ and ‘Def by Temptation’ and ‘Jungle Fever’. Her stage work included several Broadway productions and she was a regular performer with the Negro Ensemble Company. On television she made guest appearances on shows like ‘The Cosby Show’ and ‘Law & Order’. She was a respected elder in the acting community who brought wisdom and grace to her roles.

Gloria Foster

She was a highly acclaimed stage and film actress best known for her role as The Oracle in the first two ‘Matrix’ movies. She won two Obie Awards for her work in off Broadway theater and was a leading figure in the New York stage scene. Her film debut in ‘The Cool World’ was followed by a powerful performance in ‘Nothing But a Man’. She was known for her commanding voice and intense screen presence. Her work in both classical theater and modern cinema left a lasting legacy.

Madge Sinclair

She was a celebrated actress born in Jamaica who found great success in American film and television. She is well known for her role as Queen Aoleon in ‘Coming to America’ and as the voice of Sarabi in ‘The Lion King’. She received five Emmy Award nominations for her work on series like ‘Roots’ and ‘Trapper John, M.D.’. She won an Emmy for her performance in the drama series ‘Gabriel’s Fire’. Her regal presence and immense talent made her a sought after performer for decades.

Rosalind Cash

She was a versatile and outspoken actress known for her roles in film and theater. She starred opposite Charlton Heston in the science fiction film ‘The Omega Man’. Her other notable film credits include ‘Uptown Saturday Night’ and ‘Tales from the Hood’. She was a founding member of the Negro Ensemble Company and appeared in many stage productions. She was known for her intelligence and her refusal to play stereotypical roles.

Butterfly McQueen

She is best remembered for her role as Prissy in the film ‘Gone with the Wind’. Despite the fame from this role she often struggled with being typecast in domestic worker roles. She had a successful career on Broadway and also worked in radio and television. Later in life she earned a college degree in political science and was active in community service. She received a Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame award for her contributions to the industry.

Louise Beavers

She was a prominent character actress who appeared in dozens of films during the nineteen thirties and forties. She is best known for her role in the original nineteen thirty four version of ‘Imitation of Life’. Her career was often limited to playing domestic roles but she brought a high level of dignity and warmth to her performances. She was also one of the three actresses to play the title role in the ‘Beulah’ television series. Her work was instrumental in the early representation of Black women in Hollywood.

Freddie Washington

She was a talented actress and activist who gained fame for her role in the nineteen thirty four film ‘Imitation of Life’. She was a founding member of the Negro Actors Guild of America and worked to improve opportunities for Black performers. Her career included significant roles on Broadway and in films like ‘The Emperor Jones’. She eventually left acting to pursue a career in journalism and civil rights activism. Her legacy as both an artist and an advocate remains highly influential.

Theresa Harris

She was a talented actress singer and dancer who appeared in many films during the Golden Age of Hollywood. She delivered memorable performances in movies such as ‘Baby Face’ and ‘Jezebel’ and ‘Out of the Past’. Although she was frequently cast as a maid she often stole scenes with her talent and screen presence. She worked alongside many of the biggest stars of the era and was highly respected by her peers. Her career highlights the challenges and triumphs of Black actresses in early cinema.

Virginia Capers

She was a versatile actress and singer who won a Tony Award for her role in the musical ‘Raisin’. She appeared in several significant films including ‘Lady Sings the Blues’ and ‘The Toy’ and ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’. On television she had a recurring role on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ as Hattie Banks. She was a co founder of the Lafayette Players and dedicated much of her life to the arts. Her warm personality and vocal talent made her a beloved figure in the industry.

Paula Kelly

She was an accomplished dancer and actress who appeared in film television and on Broadway. She had a memorable role in the film ‘Sweet Charity’ and also appeared in ‘The Spook Who Sat by the Door’. On television she received an Emmy nomination for her role as Liz Williams on ‘Night Court’. She was a regular performer on variety shows and was known for her exceptional dance talent. Her career showcased her versatility as both a dramatic and musical performer.

Natalie Cole

While primarily known as a legendary singer she also had a successful acting career in television and film. She appeared in movies like ‘Always Outnumbered’ and ‘Lily in Winter’ as well as guest spots on several series. She hosted her own variety show in the nineteen eighties and won multiple Grammy Awards throughout her music career. Her autobiographical television movie ‘Livin’ for Love’ featured her playing herself. Her artistry and resilience made her a beloved figure in global entertainment.

Whitney Houston

She was one of the most successful musical artists of all time and also achieved great success as an actress. Her film debut in ‘The Bodyguard’ was a massive commercial success and featured a record breaking soundtrack. She followed this with leading roles in ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘The Preacher’s Wife’. Her final film role was in the remake of ‘Sparkle’ which was released after her passing. Her incredible voice and screen presence made her a true icon of her generation.

Aaliyah

She was a rising superstar in both the music and film industries before her tragic death at a young age. She made her film debut in ‘Romeo Must Die’ where she also contributed to the soundtrack. She later starred as the lead character in the vampire film ‘Queen of the Damned’. She was known for her unique style and influential sound that redefined contemporary R&B. Her brief but impactful career continues to inspire artists and fans around the world.

Naya Rivera

She was a talented actress and singer best known for her role as Santana Lopez on the hit series ‘Glee’. Her performance was widely praised for its depth and its impact on LGBTQ representation in media. She began her career as a child actress appearing on shows like ‘The Royal Family’ and ‘Family Matters’. She also released music and appeared in several films including ‘At the Devil’s Door’. Her legacy is marked by her immense talent and the barriers she broke for diverse performers.

Please share your thoughts on these legendary actresses and their enduring impact on entertainment in the comments.