The Best African-American Actresses in History of TV

African American actresses have shaped the history of television through their groundbreaking performances and cultural impact. From early sitcoms to contemporary dramas these women have broken barriers and expanded the possibilities for representation on the small screen. Their contributions include iconic characters that have influenced millions of viewers across several generations. This list highlights the legendary talents who have paved the way for future performers in the television industry.

Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson was a legendary figure in television history known for her powerful portrayals of strong black women. She gained widespread acclaim for her performance in the television film ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman’. Her career spanned over seven decades and included significant roles in ‘Roots’ and ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. She received numerous accolades including multiple Emmy Awards for her contributions to the medium. Her legacy remains a cornerstone of excellence in the performing arts.

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. This role challenged stereotypes and depicted a professional woman raising her son as a single mother. Later she captivated audiences as the wealthy Dominique Deveraux on the prime time soap opera ‘Dynasty’ in the nineteen eighties. Her presence on television provided a sophisticated image that was rarely seen by viewers at that time. She continued to act in various television projects throughout her life leaving a lasting impact on the industry.

Isabel Sanford

Isabel Sanford became a household name for her role as Louise Jefferson on the long running sitcom ‘The Jeffersons’ which aired for eleven seasons. She was the first African American woman to win an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. Her character moved from a supporting role on ‘All in the Family’ to become the matriarch of one of the most successful black families on television. She brought a sense of wit and grounded realism to her performance that resonated with millions of viewers. Her success opened doors for many comedic actresses who followed in her footsteps.

Esther Rolle

Esther Rolle gained fame as the strong and compassionate Florida Evans on the hit sitcom ‘Good Times’ which explored life in a Chicago housing project. She originally played the character as a housekeeper on ‘Maude’ before starring in her own spin off series. Rolle was known for her insistence on positive portrayals of black families and advocated for the inclusion of a father figure in the show. Her performance earned her critical acclaim and established her as a central figure in television history. She also received an Emmy Award for her role in the television film ‘Summer of My German Soldier’.

Marla Gibbs

Marla Gibbs is best known for her role as Florence Johnston the wisecracking maid on the long running sitcom ‘The Jeffersons’. She later starred as the lead character in her own series titled ‘227’ which focused on the lives of women living in an apartment building in Washington DC. Her comedic timing and ability to deliver sharp dialogue made her a fan favorite for decades. In addition to her acting work she has been a significant figure in the Los Angeles arts community through her theater work. Her career continues to inspire many women in the entertainment industry today.

Debbie Allen

Debbie Allen is a multi talented performer who gained international recognition for her role as Lydia Grant in the series ‘Fame’. She not only acted in the show but also served as a principal choreographer and director for many episodes. Her work on the medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ as Dr. Catherine Fox has been a significant part of her television career in recent years. She has received multiple Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe for her contributions to television as an actress and producer. Her influence extends beyond acting into the realms of dance and television production.

Nell Carter

Nell Carter starred in the popular nineteen eighties sitcom ‘Gimme a Break!’ where she played the role of Nell Harper. Her performance as the housekeeper and maternal figure for a widowed police chief and his daughters showcased her comedic skills and powerful singing voice. She received two Emmy Award nominations and two Golden Globe nominations for her work on the show. Before her television success she won a Tony Award for her performance in the musical ‘Ain’t Misbehavin’. Her career highlighted her versatility as both a singer and a comedic actress on the small screen.

Della Reese

Della Reese is remembered for her starring role as the wise supervisor angel Tess on the long running drama ‘Touched by an Angel’. The series became a massive hit and ran for nine seasons during the nineteen nineties and early two thousands. Before her success in acting she was a renowned gospel and jazz singer who hosted her own talk show titled ‘Della’. She appeared in various other television projects including ‘Chico and the Man’ and ‘The Royal Family’ throughout her lengthy career. Her soulful presence and authoritative voice made her a comforting figure for millions of viewers.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett has built an extensive career in television with powerful performances in several anthology series and dramas. She became a central figure in the ‘American Horror Story’ franchise where she played multiple distinct characters over several seasons. Currently she stars as Athena Grant in the procedural drama ‘911’ where she also serves as an executive producer. Her work on television has earned her multiple Emmy Award nominations and a Golden Globe Award. She is widely recognized for her ability to bring gravity and intensity to every role she undertakes.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis achieved television history by becoming the first African American woman to win the Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. She earned this honor for her portrayal of the brilliant defense attorney Annalise Keating in ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. Her performance over six seasons was critically acclaimed for its raw emotional depth and complexity. In addition to her work on this series she has appeared in various television movies and guest roles throughout her career. Her success on television is a significant part of her status as an award winning performer.

Regina King

Regina King began her career as a child actress on the sitcom ‘227’ before transitioning into a powerhouse of dramatic television. She won multiple Emmy Awards for her diverse roles in the anthology series ‘American Crime’ and the limited series ‘Seven Seconds’. Her portrayal of Angela Abar in the series ‘Watchmen’ further solidified her status as one of the most versatile actresses of her generation. She has also found success behind the camera as a director for several popular television shows. Her career reflects a steady evolution from a young comedic talent to a respected dramatic lead.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington became a cultural icon for her role as Olivia Pope on the high stakes political drama ‘Scandal’. The series marked a turning point in television as she was the first African American woman to lead a network drama in nearly forty years. Her performance earned her multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations and made her a central figure in modern television. She has also starred in and executive produced limited series like ‘Little Fires Everywhere’ and ‘Confirmation’. Her work has been instrumental in changing the way black women are depicted in professional leadership roles on screen.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson captivated audiences with her portrayal of the indomitable Cookie Lyon on the musical drama series ‘Empire’. Her performance was a central element of the show and earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series Drama. Before this she played Detective Joss Carter on the procedural thriller ‘Person of Interest’ for several seasons. She has also appeared in numerous television films and guest roles that showcase her range from comedy to intense drama. Her career is defined by her ability to play bold and unforgettable characters.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross first gained fame for her role as Joan Clayton on the long running sitcom ‘Girlfriends’ which followed the lives of four professional women. She later won a Golden Globe Award for her performance as Dr. Rainbow Johnson on the hit comedy ‘Blackish’. Her work on television has been praised for its comedic timing and its exploration of modern motherhood and identity. She has become an influential voice in the industry through her work as a producer and an advocate for representation. Her career spans two iconic sitcoms that have left a lasting mark on television history.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae rose to prominence after creating and starring in the popular web series ‘Awkward Black Girl’. This success led to the creation of the HBO series ‘Insecure’ where she played the lead role of Issa Dee for five seasons. The show was widely praised for its authentic portrayal of modern black life and friendship in Los Angeles. She received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her work on the series as both an actress and a writer. Her transition from digital media to premium television has made her a pioneer for independent creators.

Zendaya

Zendaya began her television career as a child star on the Disney Channel series ‘Shake It Up’ and ‘KC Undercover’. She successfully transitioned to mature roles with her portrayal of Rue Bennett in the HBO drama ‘Euphoria’. This performance earned her two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series making her the youngest two time winner in that category. Her work on the show has been lauded for its honest and visceral depiction of addiction and teenage life. She continues to be a dominant force in the industry while balancing her work in television and film.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson gained early fame through her viral comedic videos on the internet before moving into television writing and acting. She is the creator executive producer and star of the hit mockumentary series ‘Abbott Elementary’ where she plays Janine Teagues. The show has received widespread critical acclaim and multiple Emmy Awards for its portrayal of an underfunded public school. Her work has been credited with revitalizing the network sitcom and providing a heartwarming yet realistic look at education. She has quickly become one of the most influential figures in contemporary television comedy.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash first gained widespread attention for her comedic roles on shows like ‘Reno 911!’ and ‘Clean House’. She later showcased her dramatic range in the series ‘Claws’ and the limited series ‘When They See Us’ which earned her an Emmy nomination. Her performance as Glenda Cleveland in ‘Dahmer Monster The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’ won her an Emmy Award for her portrayal of a woman seeking justice. She has maintained a consistent presence on television for over two decades across various genres. Her ability to balance humor with deep emotion has made her a standout performer.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba rose to international stardom for her role as Suzanne Crazy Eyes Warren on the Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She won two Emmy Awards for this role becoming one of the few actors to win in both the comedy and drama categories for the same character. She continued her success with a powerful performance as Shirley Chisholm in the limited series ‘Mrs. America’ which earned her another Emmy. Her work is characterized by intense preparation and a unique ability to disappear into her characters. She remains a prominent figure in prestige television dramas.

Audra McDonald

Audra McDonald is a legendary performer who has found significant success on television alongside her record breaking theater career. She starred as Dr. Naomi Bennett on the medical drama ‘Private Practice’ for several seasons before moving to ‘The Good Fight’. Her role as Liz Reddick on ‘The Good Fight’ allowed her to showcase her dramatic skills in a high stakes legal setting. She has received an Emmy Award for her television work and continues to be a frequent presence in televised events. Her immense talent and versatility make her one of the most respected figures in the performing arts.

Chandra Wilson

Chandra Wilson is best known for her long running role as Dr. Miranda Bailey on the medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. She has been a core cast member since the show premiered in two thousand five and has earned multiple Emmy nominations for her performance. In addition to her acting she has directed numerous episodes of the series and other television projects. Her character has become one of the most iconic and enduring figures in the history of medical procedurals. She continues to be a central part of the show success after nearly two decades on the air.

S. Epatha Merkerson

S. Epatha Merkerson held the record for the longest running cast member on ‘Law and Order’ where she played Lieutenant Anita Van Buren for seventeen seasons. Her steady and commanding presence on the series earned her widespread respect and multiple award nominations. Following her departure from the show she joined the cast of ‘Chicago Med’ as Sharon Goodwin where she continues to star. She also won an Emmy Award for her performance in the television film ‘Lackawanna Blues’. Her career is defined by her longevity and her consistent delivery of strong professional characters.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine has had a prolific career in television with memorable roles in both comedies and dramas. She won an Emmy Award for her guest role as Adele Webber on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and starred in the series ‘Boston Public’. She was a central part of the sitcom ‘The Carmichael Show’ and has appeared in ‘Family Reunion’ on Netflix. Her distinctive voice and warm screen presence have made her a beloved figure in the industry for many years. She continues to work frequently across various television platforms and genres.

Jenifer Lewis

Jenifer Lewis is often referred to as the mother of black Hollywood due to her frequent roles as a matriarch in television and film. She is perhaps best known for her role as Ruby Johnson on the hit sitcom ‘Blackish’ where she provided constant comedic relief. Her early television work includes roles on ‘A Different World’ and the lead in the series ‘Strong Medicine’. She is known for her high energy performances and her ability to dominate every scene she is in. Her long career has made her an essential figure in the history of African American television comedy.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph has enjoyed a resurgence in her television career with her Emmy winning role as Barbara Howard on ‘Abbott Elementary’. Before this success she was well known for playing Dee Mitchell on the nineteen nineties sitcom ‘Moesha’. She has a long history in the industry including roles in ‘Instant Mom’ and guest appearances on numerous dramas. Her career began on Broadway in the original production of ‘Dreamgirls’ before she transitioned to the small screen. She is recognized for her poise and her ability to bring depth to maternal characters.

Jackée Harry

Jackée Harry became a breakout star on the nineteen eighties sitcom ‘227’ where she played the flamboyant Sandra Clark. Her performance earned her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series making her the first black woman to win in that category. She later starred as Lisa Landry on the popular series ‘Sister Sister’ alongside Tia and Tamera Mowry. In recent years she has continued to act in various projects including the daytime soap opera ‘Days of Our Lives’. Her comedic style and distinctive personality have left a lasting impression on television audiences.

Tisha Campbell

Tisha Campbell is a staple of African American television comedy with starring roles in two iconic sitcoms. She played Gina Waters Payne on ‘Martin’ during the nineteen nineties and later starred as Jay Kyle on ‘My Wife and Kids’. Her chemistry with her co stars and her comedic timing made these shows major hits during their respective runs. She has also appeared in the series ‘Dr. Ken’ and the animated show ‘Harley Quinn’ as a voice actress. Her career spans several decades and she remains a recognized face in the world of television sitcoms.

Tichina Arnold

Tichina Arnold is celebrated for her roles in several successful television comedies over the past thirty years. She first gained major recognition as Pamela James on the hit series ‘Martin’ where she displayed her sharp wit and comedic talent. She later starred as the matriarch Rochelle in the semi autobiographical series ‘Everybody Hates Chris’. Currently she stars as Tina Butler in the sitcom ‘The Neighborhood’ where she continues to entertain audiences. Her ability to play strong and opinionated characters has made her a mainstay of network television.

Erika Alexander

Erika Alexander is best known for her role as the sharp tongued attorney Maxine Shaw on the classic sitcom ‘Living Single’. Her character became a symbol of professional success and independence for many young black women watching in the nineteen nineties. Before this she appeared as Cousin Pam on ‘The Cosby Show’ during the later seasons of the series. She has continued to work in television with roles in ‘Bosch’ and the limited series ‘Wu Tang An American Saga’. Her contribution to the depiction of professional black women on television is highly regarded.

Jasmine Guy

Jasmine Guy became a cultural phenomenon for her portrayal of Whitley Gilbert on the spin off ‘A Different World’. Her evolution from a spoiled socialite to a mature and compassionate woman was a central arc of the series. She won multiple NAACP Image Awards for her work on the show and became an icon of nineteen eighties and nineties television. In addition to her acting she is a talented singer and dancer who has appeared in numerous stage productions. She has recently appeared in recurring roles on ‘The Vampire Diaries’ and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah transitioned from a successful rap career to become a major force in television and film. She starred as Khadijah James on the influential sitcom ‘Living Single’ which focused on the lives of friends in New York City. Later she hosted her own talk show and appeared in several television movies including ‘Life Support’. Currently she stars as Robyn McCall in the action series ‘The Equalizer’ where she also serves as an executive producer. Her versatility as a performer has allowed her to excel in comedy drama and action roles alike.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union has had a steady career in television starting with guest roles on nineteen nineties sitcoms before moving to leading roles. She starred as Mary Jane Paul in the drama series ‘Being Mary Jane’ which explored the personal and professional life of a news anchor. She also starred in the action series ‘LAs Finest’ alongside Jessica Alba and served as an executive producer on the project. Her work on television has been praised for its authenticity and her ability to portray complex modern women. She continues to be a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion within the entertainment industry.

Lynn Whitfield

Lynn Whitfield is a veteran actress known for her powerful performances in television dramas and movies. She won an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Josephine Baker in the television film ‘The Josephine Baker Story’. More recently she captivated audiences with her role as the calculating matriarch Lady Mae Greenleaf on the drama series ‘Greenleaf’. Her career includes numerous television guest appearances and recurring roles in shows like ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. She is recognized for her elegance and her ability to play formidable characters with great depth.

Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams made a successful transition from the music industry to become a celebrated television actress. She gained critical acclaim for her role as the villainous Wilhelmina Slater on the comedy drama ‘Ugly Betty’. This performance earned her multiple Emmy nominations and showcased her talent for playing sophisticated and sharp tongued characters. She later joined the cast of ‘Desperate Housewives’ as Renee Perry and starred in the series ‘666 Park Avenue’. Her career on television is marked by her versatility and her commanding screen presence.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard is one of the most decorated actresses in television history with multiple Emmy Awards to her name. She has appeared in a wide range of television projects including the drama series ‘St. Elsewhere’ and the legal drama ‘Hill Street Blues’. Her role in the television movie ‘Miss Evers’ Boys’ is considered one of her finest performances on the small screen. In recent years she has appeared in the series ‘Luke Cage’ as Mariah Dillard and the fantasy drama ‘See’. Her extensive body of work demonstrates her incredible range and consistency as a performer.

Nichelle Nichols

Nichelle Nichols rose to prominence as Lieutenant Uhura on the original ‘Star Trek’ series during the late nineteen sixties. Her role was significant because it portrayed a black woman in a position of professional authority on a starship bridge. She famously considered leaving the show but was encouraged to stay by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr who recognized the importance of her representation. After the series ended she worked with NASA to recruit minority and female personnel for the space program. Her contribution to science fiction and television representation remains a landmark in media history.

Eartha Kitt

Eartha Kitt left an indelible mark on television history with her role as Catwoman in the nineteen sixties ‘Batman’ series. She took over the role from Julie Newmar and brought a unique feline grace and distinctive voice to the character. Her casting was a bold move at the time and provided a rare instance of a black woman playing a major comic book villain. Beyond this role she was a world renowned singer and actress who appeared in numerous variety shows and specials. Her iconic presence on screen continues to be celebrated by fans of classic television.

Beah Richards

Beah Richards was a distinguished actress and poet who made significant contributions to television throughout her long career. She won two Emmy Awards for her guest performances in the series ‘Frank’s Place’ and the legal drama ‘The Practice’. Her work often involved playing maternal figures with great wisdom and quiet strength. She was also recognized for her role in the film ‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’ which she later reprised in various forms for television. Her legacy is one of artistic excellence and a commitment to meaningful storytelling.

Kim Fields

Kim Fields became a childhood star for her role as Dorothy Tootie Ramsey on the long running sitcom ‘The Facts of Life’. She spent nine years on the show before successfully transitioning into adult roles on television. She later starred as Regine Hunter on the hit nineteen nineties sitcom ‘Living Single’ alongside Queen Latifah. In addition to acting she has become a prolific television director and has appeared on reality television. Her career demonstrates remarkable longevity in a highly competitive industry.

Keshia Knight Pulliam

Keshia Knight Pulliam rose to fame as a child actress playing Rudy Huxtable on ‘The Cosby Show’. At the age of six she became the youngest actress ever to be nominated for an Emmy Award. After the show ended she continued her education and eventually returned to television in the sitcom ‘Tyler Perrys House of Payne’. Her role as Miranda Lucas Payne earned her several NAACP Image Awards. She has remained a familiar face on television through various movies and reality competition shows.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer has balanced a highly successful film career with notable roles on television. She starred in the series ‘Red Band Society’ and led the cast of the drama ‘Truth Be Told’ for three seasons. She also received an Emmy nomination for her portrayal of Madame CJ Walker in the limited series ‘Self Made’. Her ability to bring warmth and authenticity to her characters has made her a sought after talent in both mediums. She continues to produce and star in television projects that highlight important historical and social themes.

Danielle Brooks

Danielle Brooks became a breakout star for her role as Tasha Taystee Jefferson on the hit series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Her performance was widely praised for its emotional range and comedic timing over the course of the seven season run. She has also appeared in the superhero series ‘Peacemaker’ as Leota Adebayo and the television movie ‘The Mahalia Jackson Story’. In addition to her screen work she is a celebrated stage actress. Her presence on television has established her as one of the most talented performers of her generation.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley gained international recognition for her role as Tara Thornton on the popular supernatural drama ‘True Blood’. Her character was a fan favorite known for her strength and vulnerability throughout the series run on HBO. She later took on the lead role of Nova Bordelon in the critically acclaimed drama ‘Queen Sugar’ which was produced by Ava DuVernay. Her performance in ‘Queen Sugar’ has been praised for its depth and its exploration of family dynamics and social issues. She continues to be a prominent figure in prestige television dramas.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira became a global television icon for her portrayal of the katana wielding survivor Michonne on ‘The Walking Dead’. Her performance over eight seasons was central to the success of the series and defined one of the most beloved characters in television history. She recently reprised this role in the limited series ‘The Walking Dead The Ones Who Live’ where she also served as a writer and executive producer. In addition to her acting she is an award winning playwright known for her powerful stage works. Her career showcases her ability to lead major franchises while maintaining high artistic standards.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph

Da’Vine Joy Randolph has quickly become a recognizable face on television with a series of scene stealing performances. She starred in the series ‘High Fidelity’ and has a recurring role in the hit comedy ‘Only Murders in the Building’ as Detective Williams. Her work on television is marked by a unique blend of humor and grounded realism that makes her characters memorable. She has also appeared in various television movies and guest roles that highlight her versatile acting skills. Her recent success in film has only heightened the visibility of her impressive television work.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo is a highly acclaimed performer who has brought her immense talent to several major television projects. She received Emmy nominations for her portrayal of Aretha Franklin in the anthology series ‘Genius Aretha’. She also starred in the HBO miniseries ‘The Outsider’ as the unique investigator Holly Gibney. Her work on television is characterized by her powerful vocal ability and her deep emotional commitment to her roles. She remains one of the few performers currently on the path to achieving prestigious award milestones across all entertainment mediums.

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