The Best Black Actresses In History Of TV

Television has been a powerful medium for showcasing the immense talent and range of Black actresses who have broken barriers and redefined storytelling. From the early pioneers who fought for visibility to the modern icons leading major franchises, these women have delivered some of the most memorable performances in history. Their work spans across genres from prestige dramas and sitcoms to groundbreaking miniseries and anthology shows. This list celebrates the legendary figures and contemporary stars who have made an indelible impact on the small screen through their artistry and dedication.

Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson was a monumental figure in television history who consistently chose roles that reflected the dignity and strength of Black women. She earned widespread acclaim for her performance in the 1974 television film ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman’ where she portrayed a woman living from the era of slavery to the civil rights movement. Her work in ‘Roots’ further cemented her legacy as a master of her craft capable of bringing historical struggles to life with grace. Throughout her long career she received multiple Emmy Awards and remained a constant presence in high quality television productions. Her contributions opened doors for future generations of actresses to pursue complex and meaningful characters.

Diahann Carroll

Diahann Carroll broke major social barriers when she starred as the lead character in the sitcom ‘Julia’ during the late sixties. She played a widowed nurse raising her young son and became the first Black woman to star in a non-stereotypical role on a major network. Later in her career she captivated audiences as the sophisticated Dominique Deveraux on the prime time soap opera ‘Dynasty’ during the eighties. Her elegance and poise made her a household name and a pioneer for Black leading ladies in television. She proved that audiences would embrace a Black woman as the center of a show across multiple genres.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis made history as the first Black woman to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. She played the formidable Annalise Keating in the legal thriller ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ for six successful seasons. Her performance showcased a character who was brilliant and deeply flawed while navigating a complex web of secrets. Davis also delivered a powerful performance in the miniseries ‘The First Lady’ where she portrayed Michelle Obama. Her presence on television has set a new standard for excellence and representation in leading dramatic roles.

Regina King

Regina King has built an extraordinary television career that spans from her childhood role on ‘227’ to her status as a prestige drama icon. She earned critical acclaim and multiple awards for her versatile performances in the anthology series ‘American Crime’ and the drama ‘Seven Seconds’. Her starring role as Angela Abar in ‘Watchmen’ showcased her ability to lead a high concept superhero series with emotional depth. King has also ventured behind the camera as a director for various television episodes while maintaining her status as a top tier performer. She is widely regarded as one of the most decorated and respected actresses working in the medium today.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett has brought her signature intensity and command to numerous television projects throughout her legendary career. She became a central figure in the ‘American Horror Story’ franchise where she played several distinct and memorable characters across different seasons. Her lead role as Athena Grant on the procedural drama ‘911’ demonstrates her ability to anchor a long running network hit. Bassett brings a sense of gravity and power to every character she inhabits on the small screen. Her television work has allowed her to showcase a range of skills from horror and suspense to grounded drama.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson became a cultural phenomenon for her portrayal of Cookie Lyon on the musical drama series ‘Empire’. Her electric performance turned the character into one of the most iconic figures in modern television history. Before her success on that series she gained recognition for her role as Detective Joss Carter on the crime drama ‘Person of Interest’. Henson has a unique ability to blend humor with high stakes drama in a way that resonates with large audiences. She has consistently proven herself as a leading lady capable of carrying a massive commercial success.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington rose to international stardom for her role as Olivia Pope on the political thriller ‘Scandal’. Her performance as a high stakes crisis manager made her the first Black woman to lead a network drama in nearly forty years. She received multiple award nominations for her work on the show and became a major fashion and cultural icon. Washington continued her success in television with the miniseries ‘Little Fires Everywhere’ where she served as both an actress and executive producer. Her career highlights the power of a strong female lead in driving the success of a major television franchise.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba gained widespread fame and critical respect for her transformative role as Suzanne Warren on ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She achieved the rare feat of winning Emmy Awards in both the comedy and drama categories for the same role. Her performance was noted for its incredible emotional range and the way it humanized a deeply misunderstood character. Aduba followed this success with a powerful portrayal of Shirley Chisholm in the miniseries ‘Mrs. America’ which earned her further accolades. She continues to be a sought after talent for complex roles in both limited and ongoing series.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross became a staple of television comedy through her long running roles on popular sitcoms. She first captured hearts as Joan Clayton on ‘Girlfriends’ where she explored the lives and friendships of four Black women. Later she took on the role of Rainbow Johnson on ‘Black-ish’ and earned several award nominations for her comedic timing and relatability. Ross has a gift for physical comedy and expressive acting that makes her characters stand out in any ensemble. Her work has significantly contributed to the evolution of the modern family sitcom and the representation of Black motherhood.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae transitioned from a successful web series to mainstream television with the creation and starring role in ‘Insecure’. She played Issa Dee and explored the complexities of friendship and career struggles for Black women in Los Angeles. The show was praised for its authentic dialogue and its unique visual style that highlighted the beauty of the city. Rae acted as a writer and producer while leading the cast through five acclaimed seasons. Her work has influenced a new generation of creators and demonstrated the demand for diverse stories told from a personal perspective.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard is a highly respected actress who has appeared in numerous high profile television projects over several decades. She has won multiple Emmy Awards for her roles in shows such as ‘Hill Street Blues’ and ‘L.A. Law’. Her performance as the villainous Mariah Dillard in ‘Luke Cage’ showed her ability to bring complexity to a comic book adaptation. Woodard also starred in the drama series ‘See’ where she portrayed a wise elder in a post apocalyptic world. She is known for her quiet intensity and the profound dignity she brings to every role she accepts.

Ruby Dee

Ruby Dee was a legendary actress and activist whose television career spanned more than fifty years. She appeared in the landmark miniseries ‘Roots’ and ‘Roots: The Next Generations’ which reached millions of viewers worldwide. Dee won an Emmy Award for her role in the television film ‘Decoration Day’ in 1991. She was often seen in guest roles and television movies that addressed important social and political issues. Her presence on screen was a testament to her longevity and her commitment to using art as a tool for change.

Debbie Allen

Debbie Allen is a multi-talented force who has made a significant impact on television as both an actress and a director. She is perhaps best known for her role as Lydia Grant in the television series ‘Fame’ where she famously told students that they pay for fame with sweat. Allen has since become a fixture on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ playing the role of Catherine Fox while also serving as an executive producer. She has directed countless episodes of television and has been a mentor to many young performers in the industry. Her career is a testament to the importance of Black women taking on leadership roles behind the scenes.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph has enjoyed a long and successful career that includes classic sitcoms and modern hits. She played the maternal figure Deidra Mitchell on ‘Moesha’ for several seasons during the nineties. Recently she earned her first Emmy Award for her portrayal of Barbara Howard on the hit mockumentary series ‘Abbott Elementary’. Ralph is known for her powerful voice and her ability to bring wisdom and humor to her characters. She has remained a consistent and vital presence in the television industry for over four decades.

Chandra Wilson

Chandra Wilson has been a cornerstone of the medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ since its first season in 2005. She portrays Dr. Miranda Bailey and has evolved the character from a tough mentor to a powerful hospital administrator. Wilson has received multiple award nominations for her performance and has also directed numerous episodes of the series. Her character is one of the longest running and most developed figures in medical drama history. She remains a fan favorite for her no-nonsense attitude and her deep compassion for her patients.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash has demonstrated remarkable versatility by moving seamlessly between broad comedy and intense drama. She first gained fame for her comedic work on ‘Reno 911’ before taking on more serious roles in projects like ‘Getting On’. Her performance in the miniseries ‘When They See Us’ was highly praised for its emotional weight and authenticity. She also led the cast of the crime dramedy ‘Claws’ as the ambitious Desna Simms for four seasons. Nash continues to be a major force in television with her ability to ground even the most eccentric characters in reality.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer has made significant contributions to television despite her massive success in film. She starred in the medical drama ‘Red Band Society’ and led the cast of the limited series ‘Self Made’ where she played Madam C.J. Walker. Her performance as the historic entrepreneur showcased her ability to portray real life figures with depth and charisma. Spencer also produced and starred in the mystery series ‘Truth Be Told’ which explores the world of true crime podcasting. She brings an unmistakable warmth and intelligence to every television role she takes on.

Audra McDonald

Audra McDonald is a powerhouse performer who has brought her immense talents to several major television series. She is a recurring figure in the ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ universe through her role as Dr. Naomi Bennett on ‘Private Practice’. McDonald also starred as Liz Reddick in the legal drama ‘The Good Fight’ where she portrayed a brilliant and principled attorney. She is an exceptionally decorated actress who has won multiple awards across different mediums including television. Her work is characterized by a high level of sophistication and vocal excellence.

S. Epatha Merkerson

S. Epatha Merkerson holds a record for one of the longest running roles in television history. She played Lieutenant Anita Van Buren on the original ‘Law and Order’ for seventeen consecutive seasons. Her portrayal of a steady and respected police leader made her a fixture of the procedural genre. After leaving that series she joined the cast of ‘Chicago Med’ as Sharon Goodwin where she continues to lead a hospital staff. Merkerson is known for her commanding presence and her ability to anchor long running ensemble casts.

Lynn Whitfield

Lynn Whitfield is a celebrated actress known for her elegance and her ability to play complex female characters. She won an Emmy Award for her title role in ‘The Josephine Baker Story’ which was a landmark television event. Whitfield gained a new generation of fans for her portrayal of the calculating Lady Mae Greenleaf on the drama series ‘Greenleaf’. Her performance as the matriarch of a megachurch was filled with fire and emotional complexity. She has a long history of delivering high quality performances in television movies and prestigious drama series.

Jenifer Lewis

Jenifer Lewis is often referred to as the mother of Black Hollywood due to her many roles as maternal figures in television. She delivered a standout performance as Ruby Johnson on the sitcom ‘Black-ish’ where her comedic timing was a highlight of the show. Lewis also appeared in the nineties sitcom ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ and the legal drama ‘Courtside’. Her high energy and distinctive voice have made her one of the most recognizable character actresses in the industry. She has written about her long career and her commitment to authentic representation in television comedy.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah transitioned from a music career to becoming a major television star and producer. She starred as Khadijah James on the influential nineties sitcom ‘Living Single’ which focused on the lives of friends in Brooklyn. Later she took on the role of detective Robyn McCall in the reboot of ‘The Equalizer’ where she performs her own stunts and leads a high stakes action series. Latifah has been nominated for several awards for her acting and has produced numerous successful television projects. Her career shows the longevity of a multi-talented performer who can lead both comedies and dramas.

Tichina Arnold

Tichina Arnold has been a beloved figure in television comedy since her breakout role as Pam James on the sitcom ‘Martin’. She followed that success with a long running role as Rochelle on ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ where she became famous for her hilarious parenting style. Currently she stars as Tina Butler on the sitcom ‘The Neighborhood’ where she continues to showcase her comedic brilliance. Arnold is known for her expressive face and her ability to deliver sharp lines with perfect timing. She remains one of the most consistent and reliable actresses in the sitcom genre.

Erika Alexander

Erika Alexander is best known for her role as the witty attorney Maxine Shaw on the classic sitcom ‘Living Single’. Her character was a fan favorite for her independence and her iconic catchphrases. Before that role she appeared as Cousin Pam on ‘The Cosby Show’ during the final seasons of the series. Alexander has continued to work in television with roles in shows like ‘Black Lightning’ and ‘Run the World’. She is also an advocate for creators of color and has worked to expand opportunities within the industry.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson has quickly become one of the most influential women in television as the creator and star of ‘Abbott Elementary’. She plays the optimistic teacher Janine Teagues and has revitalized the network sitcom with her mockumentary style show. The series has won multiple awards and has been praised for its heart and its depiction of the public school system. Brunson began her career in digital media before making the jump to network television where she now serves as a writer and executive producer. Her success represents a shift in how new talent can enter and dominate the television landscape.

Zendaya

Zendaya began her career as a child star on the Disney Channel before transitioning to one of the most acclaimed dramatic roles in television. She plays Rue Bennett in the gritty drama series ‘Euphoria’ which explores the struggles of addiction and teenage life. Her performance has earned her two Emmy Awards for Lead Actress in a Drama Series making her the youngest person to win twice in that category. Zendaya is praised for her vulnerability and her ability to carry a dark and complex narrative. She has become one of the biggest stars in the world while continuing to prioritize challenging television work.

Michaela Coel

Michaela Coel is a visionary talent who gained international acclaim for creating and starring in ‘I May Destroy You’. The series dealt with difficult themes of consent and trauma with incredible nuance and originality. Before that global success she wrote and starred in the comedy series ‘Chewing Gum’ which showcased her unique comedic voice. Coel is known for her bold storytelling and her refusal to follow traditional television tropes. Her work has earned her numerous awards and established her as one of the most important creators of her generation.

Danielle Brooks

Danielle Brooks became a standout star for her role as Tasha Jefferson on the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Her performance provided both the heart and the humor of the show while addressing serious social justice issues. Since then she has appeared in the superhero series ‘Peacemaker’ where she plays a high level operative. Brooks is also a celebrated stage actress who brings a theatrical depth to her television performances. She continues to choose roles that challenge expectations and showcase her wide range as a performer.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley gained fame for her role as Poussey Washington on ‘Orange Is the New Black’ where she became a core part of the ensemble. She followed that success with a powerful performance as Moira in the dystopian drama ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Her work in that series earned her an Emmy Award and highlighted her ability to play resilient and complex characters. Wiley has a natural screen presence that allows her to convey deep emotion with subtlety. She remains a prominent figure in prestige television and a respected voice in the industry.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox made history as the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. She achieved this milestone for her role as Sophia Burset on the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Since then she has appeared in numerous television projects including the legal drama ‘Doubt’ and the anthology series ‘Inventing Anna’. Cox is a trailblazer who has used her platform to advocate for greater representation of the transgender community in media. Her talent as an actress has opened doors and changed the landscape of modern television.

Adina Porter

Adina Porter is a prolific actress who has become a favorite of creators in the prestige television space. She is well known for her many roles in the ‘American Horror Story’ franchise where she often plays pivotal and mysterious characters. Porter also delivered a memorable performance as Indra on the science fiction series ‘The 100’. Her work is characterized by a quiet intensity and a command of the screen that draws viewers in. She has a long history of playing supporting roles that eventually become central to the success of a series.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira became a global icon for her portrayal of Michonne on the long running horror drama ‘The Walking Dead’. Her character was known for her strength and her iconic sword while also showing a deeply emotional and maternal side. Gurira stayed with the series for several years and became one of the most beloved characters in the franchise. She is also an accomplished playwright which brings a unique perspective to her approach to acting. Her work on television has paved the way for more physically demanding and complex roles for Black women in the action genre.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union has had a successful television career that includes leading roles in major drama series. She starred as the lead character in ‘Being Mary Jane’ where she played a successful news anchor balancing career and family struggles. Later she co-starred in the action series ‘L.A.’s Finest’ where she played a detective in an ensemble cast. Union is known for her charisma and her ability to lead a show with confidence and grace. She has also been an active producer on her projects and a vocal advocate for pay equity in the industry.

CCH Pounder

CCH Pounder is a veteran actress with an extensive resume in television dramas and procedurals. She is perhaps best known for her role as Claudette Wyms on the gritty police drama ‘The Shield’. She also starred as Dr. Loretta Wade on ‘NCIS New Orleans’ for seven seasons where she brought her signature authority to the role. Pounder has been nominated for several Emmy Awards throughout her career for her guest and series regular work. She is recognized for her powerful voice and the gravitas she brings to every scene she is in.

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