Millennials’ Favorite African-American Actresses

African-American actresses have shaped the landscape of modern entertainment, delivering performances that resonate across generations. For millennials, these women represent a bridge between the classic era of television and the current golden age of streaming and blockbuster cinema. From groundbreaking roles in 90s sitcoms to commanding leads in major film franchises, these actresses have earned critical acclaim and cultural significance. This list explores the talented women whose work has left an indelible mark on the industry and the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis achieved EGOT status, marking her as one of the most accomplished performers in history. She gained widespread recognition among millennials for her role as Annalise Keating in the legal drama ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. Her performance in the film ‘Fences’ earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Davis is known for her intense emotional range and her ability to anchor complex narratives. Her career continues to flourish with lead roles in historical epics like ‘The Woman King’.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett has enjoyed a career spanning decades, becoming a staple of both film and television. She is widely praised for her portrayal of Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ and her more recent role as Queen Ramonda in ‘Black Panther’. Millennials also recognize her frequent collaborations with Ryan Murphy on the anthology series ‘American Horror Story’. Bassett consistently brings a sense of regal authority and strength to her characters. She remains a symbol of longevity and excellence in the Hollywood industry.

Regina King

Regina King transitioned from a child star on the sitcom ‘227’ to a powerhouse director and Academy Award-winning actress. She received critical acclaim for her role in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and the superhero series ‘Watchmen’. Her work in the film ‘The Harder They Fall’ further solidified her status as a versatile talent in contemporary cinema. King has also successfully moved behind the camera, directing the acclaimed feature film ‘One Night in Miami…’. Her career represents a successful evolution from television comedy to dramatic prestige.

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’. Millennials grew up watching her portray the mutant Storm in the ‘X-Men’ film franchise. She also starred as a Bond girl in ‘Die Another Day’ and took on the titular role in ‘Catwoman’. Berry has maintained a steady presence in action and drama films for over thirty years. She recently ventured into directing with the sports drama film ‘Bruised’.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington became a household name for her portrayal of political fixer Olivia Pope in the hit series ‘Scandal’. Her performance earned her multiple award nominations and made her a fashion icon for the millennial generation. Before her television success, she starred in films such as ‘Ray’ and ‘The Last King of Scotland’. She also played a pivotal role in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Django Unchained’. Washington continues to produce and star in prestige projects like the miniseries ‘Little Fires Everywhere’.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is celebrated for her dynamic range, moving easily between intense drama and high-energy comedy. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’. Millennials famously know her as the formidable Cookie Lyon on the musical drama series ‘Empire’. She also starred as Katherine Johnson in the critically acclaimed biographical film ‘Hidden Figures’. Henson’s career is defined by her ability to portray resilient and outspoken female leads.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer rose to international fame with her Academy Award-winning performance in ‘The Help’. She has since become one of the most consistent actresses in Hollywood, appearing in hits like ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘The Shape of Water’. Spencer is frequently praised for her ability to bring warmth and authenticity to every character she plays. She also starred in and produced the Netflix limited series ‘Self Made’, depicting the life of Madam C.J. Walker. Her filmography includes a wide variety of genres, from sci-fi to psychological thrillers.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o made a stunning film debut in ’12 Years a Slave’, for which she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She became a central figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Nakia in the ‘Black Panther’ films. Nyong’o also showcased her versatility by playing dual roles in the horror film ‘Us’. Beyond her acting, she is recognized for her advocacy regarding colorism and her work as a children’s book author. Her presence in major franchises has made her a global icon for young audiences.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae first gained attention with her YouTube series ‘The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl’. She successfully transitioned to mainstream television as the creator and star of the HBO series ‘Insecure’. The show became a cultural touchstone for millennials by realistically depicting the lives of modern Black women. Rae has since starred in films like ‘The Photograph’ and ‘American Fiction’. She is also a prolific producer, dedicated to creating opportunities for underrepresented voices in the industry.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross became a millennial favorite through her starring role as Joan Clayton on the long-running sitcom ‘Girlfriends’. She later achieved further success playing Dr. Rainbow Johnson on the comedy series ‘black-ish’. Ross has won several awards for her comedic timing and relatable portrayals of modern motherhood and career life. In addition to her acting, she is a prominent figure in the fashion world and an advocate for natural hair care. Her career bridges the gap between classic 2000s television and contemporary hits.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union became a teen icon for her roles in millennial classics like ‘Bring It On’ and ’10 Things I Hate About You’. She maintained her stardom with lead roles in ‘Bad Boys II’ and the drama series ‘Being Mary Jane’. Union is known for her candidness regarding her personal life and her advocacy for social justice issues. She has also authored several books, including a memoir and children’s literature. Her enduring career spans across romantic comedies, action films, and television dramas.

Nia Long

Nia Long is often cited as one of the most influential actresses of the 1990s and 2000s. She starred in foundational millennial films such as ‘Boyz n the Hood’, ‘Friday’, and ‘The Best Man’. Long also had a significant role as Will Smith’s girlfriend, Beulah ‘Lisa’ Wilkes, on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. She has continued to work steadily in both film and television, recently appearing in the series ‘Fatal AF’. Her presence in Black cinema classics has cemented her status as a cultural icon.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith gained early fame on the sitcom ‘A Different World’ and went on to star in films like ‘Set It Off’. She reached global audiences through her role as Niobe in ‘The Matrix’ sequels and her voice work in the ‘Madagascar’ franchise. Millennials also recognize her as the host of the popular digital talk show ‘Red Table Talk’. Smith has been a prominent figure in Hollywood for over three decades as an actress, producer, and businesswoman. Her work often explores complex themes of family and personal growth.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall is a versatile actress best known for her comedic genius in the ‘Scary Movie’ film franchise. She gained further acclaim for her lead role in the hit comedy ‘Girls Trip’, which became a massive box office success. Hall has also demonstrated her dramatic range in projects like ‘Support the Girls’ and ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’. She often collaborates with other prominent Black actors and directors to produce influential urban comedies. Her ability to balance slapstick humor with grounded performances has made her a fan favorite.

Zendaya

Zendaya transitioned from a Disney Channel star on ‘Shake It Up’ to one of the most respected actresses of her generation. She won two Emmy Awards for her portrayal of Rue Bennett in the HBO drama ‘Euphoria’. Zendaya also stars in major film franchises, including the ‘Spider-Man’ series and the ‘Dune’ films. She is widely regarded as a fashion icon and a powerful voice for Gen Z and younger millennials. Her career choices emphasize complex, character-driven narratives in both independent and blockbuster projects.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin rose to fame as Diane Johnson on the popular sitcom ‘black-ish’. At the age of 14, she became the youngest executive producer in Hollywood history with her film ‘Little’. This achievement showcased her business acumen alongside her comedic acting talent. Martin has voiced characters in animated films like ‘PAW Patrol: The Movie’ and ‘Spirit Untamed’. She is considered a trailblazer for young entrepreneurs in the entertainment industry.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi gained prominence for her role as Zoey Johnson on ‘black-ish’, which led to her own spinoff series, ‘grown-ish’. The show follows her character’s journey through college, resonating with millennial and Gen Z viewers. Beyond acting, Shahidi is a Harvard University graduate and a vocal advocate for political engagement. She recently portrayed Tinker Bell in the live-action film ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’. Her career is marked by a blend of popular entertainment and social activism.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first caught the public’s eye as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. She has since starred in several book-to-film adaptations, including ‘Everything, Everything’ and ‘The Hate U Give’. Stenberg is known for choosing roles that address social issues and identity. She also joined the ‘Star Wars’ universe with a lead role in the series ‘The Acolyte’. Her work often focuses on the experiences of young people navigating complex societal challenges.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer began her career as a child star in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ and has since become a multi-hyphenate entertainer. She starred in the Nickelodeon series ‘True Jackson, VP’ and the horror-comedy ‘Scream Queens’. Palmer received critical praise for her performance in the Jordan Peele film ‘Nope’. She is also a successful singer, television host, and social media personality known for her vibrant personality. Her career longevity is a testament to her versatility across different entertainment mediums.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris first gained notice for her role in the acclaimed drama series ‘Mad Men’. She went on to star in ‘Dear White People’ and the ‘Candyman’ sequel. Parris reached a wider audience by joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Monica Rambeau in ‘WandaVision’ and ‘The Marvels’. She is also known for her role in the film ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. Her performances often highlight the strength and complexity of contemporary Black women.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has become a major figure in both independent cinema and big-budget blockbusters. She starred in the critically acclaimed film ‘Dear White People’ and the ‘Creed’ franchise. Thompson is well-known to millennials as Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ and its sequels. She also played a leading role in the science fiction series ‘Westworld’. Her career is characterized by a diverse range of roles, from period dramas to cosmic action.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe initially gained fame as a Grammy-nominated singer before making a successful transition into acting. She had standout roles in two Academy Award-nominated films in the same year, ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. Monáe also starred in the psychological thriller ‘Antebellum’ and the mystery film ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. Her artistic style often blends futuristic themes with social commentary. She is celebrated for her unique aesthetic and her ability to portray deeply empathetic characters.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira is widely recognized for her role as Michonne on the long-running series ‘The Walking Dead’. She further cemented her status as an action icon playing Okoye in ‘Black Panther’ and other Marvel Cinematic Universe films. Gurira is also an accomplished playwright, having written the Tony-nominated play ‘Eclipsed’. Her work often focuses on African identity and the empowerment of women. She balances a high-profile acting career with a commitment to storytelling in the theater.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch gained international recognition for her role as Maria Rambeau in ‘Captain Marvel’. She made history by playing a 007 agent in the James Bond film ‘No Time to Die’. Lynch also appeared in the historical epic ‘The Woman King’ and the musical ‘Matilda the Musical’. Her roles often emphasize physical prowess and emotional depth. She is considered one of the rising stars of the British and American film industries.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo is a powerhouse performer who achieved fame on Broadway in ‘The Color Purple’. She transitioned to film with starring roles in ‘Bad Times at the El Royale’ and ‘Widows’. Erivo received Academy Award nominations for her portrayal of Harriet Tubman in the biopic ‘Harriet’. She also played Aretha Franklin in the anthology series ‘Genius’. Erivo is set to star as Elphaba in the film adaptation of the musical ‘Wicked’.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson rose to fame as a finalist on ‘American Idol’ before winning an Academy Award for her film debut in ‘Dreamgirls’. She has since starred in numerous films, including ‘Sex and the City’ and the Winnie Mandela biopic ‘Winnie Mandela’. Hudson also portrayed Aretha Franklin in the biographical film ‘Respect’. She achieved EGOT status in 2022, becoming one of the few individuals to win all four major American entertainment awards. Currently, she hosts her own syndicated talk show, ‘The Jennifer Hudson Show’.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah began her career as a pioneering female rapper before becoming a major film and television star. She starred in the hit 90s sitcom ‘Living Single’, which remains a favorite among millennials. Her film credits include the musical ‘Chicago’, for which she received an Academy Award nomination, and the comedy ‘Last Holiday’. Latifah currently stars in the action-drama series ‘The Equalizer’. She is widely respected for her versatile career as a musician, actress, and producer.

Brandy Norwood

Brandy Norwood, known mononymously as Brandy, became a teen superstar with her self-titled sitcom ‘Moesha’. She made history as the first African-American actress to play Cinderella in the 1997 television movie ‘Cinderella’. Brandy has maintained a successful dual career in music and acting for over two decades. She recently reprised her role as Cinderella in ‘Descendants: The Rise of Red’. Her influence on millennial pop culture and R&B music is extensive.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox became a major star in the 1990s with roles in ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Set It Off’. She is also well-known for her portrayal of Vernita Green in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Kill Bill: Vol. 1’. Fox has appeared in a wide range of television shows, including ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and ‘Empire’. She has also become a prolific producer and star of television films for the Lifetime network. Her career spans action, comedy, and drama across several decades.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan is beloved for her lead roles in iconic millennial romance films like ‘Love & Basketball’ and ‘Brown Sugar’. She has also starred in major productions such as ‘Alien vs. Predator’ and ‘The Best Man’ franchise. Lathan received critical praise for her voice work in the animated series ‘The Cleveland Show’ and her role in ‘Succession’. She recently made her directorial debut with the film ‘On the come up’. Her work is often associated with the “Golden Age” of Black romantic cinema.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton has had a distinguished career in both British and American cinema. She starred in the Academy Award-winning film ‘Crash’ and the action blockbuster ‘Mission: Impossible 2’. Millennials widely recognize her for her Emmy-winning role as Maeve Millay in the HBO series ‘Westworld’. She also appeared in ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’ as Val. Newton is known for her ability to portray characters with great intelligence and resilience.

Zoë Kravitz

Zoë Kravitz has built a successful career in major film franchises and prestige television. She starred as Angel Salvadore in ‘X-Men: First Class’ and played Leta Lestrange in the ‘Fantastic Beasts’ series. Kravitz received widespread acclaim for her role in the HBO drama series ‘Big Little Lies’. She also took on the iconic role of Selina Kyle, also known as Catwoman, in ‘The Batman’. Recently, she made her directorial debut with the thriller film ‘Blink Twice’.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good began her career as a child actress, famously appearing in the film ‘Eve’s Bayou’. She became a prominent figure in 2000s cinema with roles in ‘Deliver Us from Eva’ and ‘Stomp the Yard’. Good has continued to work steadily in television, starring in series like ‘Deception’ and the comedy ‘Harlem’. She also appeared in the DC Extended Universe film ‘Shazam!’ as the adult Super Hero Darla. Her career has allowed her to grow from a child star into a versatile leading lady.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Gugu Mbatha-Raw gained international recognition for her lead role in the period drama ‘Belle’. She also starred in the romantic drama ‘Beyond the Lights’ and the acclaimed ‘Black Mirror’ episode ‘San Junipero’. Mbatha-Raw has appeared in major productions like ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and the series ‘The Morning Show’. She joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Judge Ravonna Renslayer in ‘Loki’. Her performances are often praised for their elegance and emotional depth.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris is a British actress who gained global fame for her role as Eve Moneypenny in the James Bond franchise. She received an Academy Award nomination for her powerful performance in ‘Moonlight’. Harris also appeared in the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ series as the goddess Calypso. Her filmography includes a variety of roles in action, drama, and science fiction. She is known for bringing a high level of intensity and precision to her characters.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard is one of the most respected actresses of her generation, with a career spanning over four decades. She has received numerous accolades, including four Emmy Awards and an Academy Award nomination for ‘Cross Creek’. Millennials recognize her from roles in ‘Star Trek: First Contact’ and the Marvel series ‘Luke Cage’. She also voiced Sarabi in the live-action remake of ‘The Lion King’. Woodard is celebrated for her gravitas and her ability to elevate every project she enters.

Phylicia Rashād

Phylicia Rashad is best known for her iconic role as Clair Huxtable on ‘The Cosby Show’, a character that redefined the portrayal of Black mothers on television. She later achieved success on Broadway, winning a Tony Award for ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. Millennials also know her as Mary Anne Creed in the ‘Creed’ film franchise. Rashad has continued to work in modern television, appearing in ‘Empire’ and ‘This Is Us’. She is often referred to as the “Mother of the Black Community” due to her nurturing and authoritative roles.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine is a veteran actress known for her distinctive voice and warm screen presence. She originated the role of Lorrell Robinson in the Broadway production of ‘Dreamgirls’. Millennials recognize her from her roles in ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and the long-running series ‘Grey’s Anatomy’, for which she won an Emmy. She also starred in the sitcom ‘The Carmichael Show’ and the Netflix series ‘Family Reunion’. Devine has appeared in over 100 films and television shows throughout her prolific career.

Jenifer Lewis

Jenifer Lewis is often called the “Mother of Black Hollywood” due to her frequent roles playing the mothers of lead characters. She starred in films like ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ and ‘The Preacher’s Wife’. Millennials widely recognize her as Ruby Johnson on the hit series ‘black-ish’. She also provided the voice for Mama Odie in the Disney film ‘The Princess and the Frog’. Lewis is known for her high energy, comedic timing, and candid discussions about mental health.

Tasha Smith

Tasha Smith is well-known for her comedic and dramatic roles in Tyler Perry productions, most notably ‘Why Did I Get Married?’. She also starred in the television series ‘For Better or Worse’. Beyond her acting, Smith is a highly sought-after acting coach and has moved into directing for shows like ‘Empire’ and ‘Bel-Air’. She recently appeared in the film ‘Bad Boys: Ride or Die’. Her career is defined by her bold personality and her transition from actor to industry mentor.

Erika Alexander

Erika Alexander became a cultural icon for her role as the witty lawyer Maxine Shaw on the sitcom ‘Living Single’. This role earned her several Image Awards and made her a symbol of professional independence for millennial women. She also appeared in the critically acclaimed horror film ‘Get Out’. Alexander is a co-founder of a multi-platform content company and is active in social and political advocacy. Her work continues to influence contemporary depictions of Black women in media.

Kim Fields

Kim Fields gained early fame as Tootie on the classic sitcom ‘The Facts of Life’. Millennials fondly remember her for her role as Regine Hunter on the 90s hit ‘Living Single’. In addition to acting, she has had a successful career as a director for various television series. Fields recently starred in the Netflix comedy series ‘The Upshaws’. Her career longevity makes her one of the most recognizable faces in the history of Black television comedy.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné began her career as a child star on ‘The Cosby Show’ before becoming a Disney Channel icon. She starred in the massive hit ‘That’s So Raven’, which was one of the network’s highest-rated shows. She also appeared in ‘The Cheetah Girls’ film franchise and later served as a co-host on ‘The View’. Recently, she returned to her most famous role in the spinoff series ‘Raven’s Home’. Her career has spanned acting, singing, and television hosting for over three decades.

Tia Mowry

Tia Mowry rose to fame alongside her twin sister in the popular 90s sitcom ‘Sister, Sister’. She later starred in the style-focused series ‘The Game’ and the family comedy ‘Instant Mom’. Mowry has also built a successful brand around cooking and lifestyle, hosting the show ‘Tia Mowry at Home’. She recently starred in the Netflix series ‘Family Reunion’. Her transition from teen star to lifestyle entrepreneur has kept her relevant to her original millennial audience.

Tamera Mowry-Housley

Tamera Mowry gained stardom with her twin sister on ‘Sister, Sister’ and later appeared in the film ‘Seventeen Again’. She spent several years as a co-host on the daytime talk show ‘The Real’, where she won a Daytime Emmy Award. Mowry has also starred in various television movies, particularly for the Hallmark Channel. She continues to be a prominent figure in family-oriented media and digital content. Her career highlights her versatility as both a scripted actress and a television personality.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash first gained fame for her comedic work on ‘Reno 911!’ and as the host of ‘Clean House’. She successfully transitioned into dramatic roles, receiving critical acclaim for ‘Getting On’ and ‘When They See Us’. Nash won an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Glenda Cleveland in ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She also leads the police procedural series ‘The Rookie: Feds’. Her ability to master both broad comedy and prestige drama has defined her recent career success.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph originated the role of Deena Jones in the Broadway musical ‘Dreamgirls’, for which she received a Tony nomination. Millennials recognize her from her role as Dee Mitchell on the sitcom ‘Moesha’. She recently experienced a career resurgence, winning an Emmy Award for her role as Barbara Howard on ‘Abbott Elementary’. Ralph is also known for her long-standing activism in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Her career spans theater, music, film, and television over several decades.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph

Da’Vine Joy Randolph gained initial recognition for her Tony-nominated performance in ‘Ghost: The Musical’. She transitioned to film with standout roles in ‘Dolemite Is My Name’ and ‘The United States vs. Billie Holiday’. Randolph received universal critical acclaim and an Academy Award for her role as Mary Lamb in ‘The Holdovers’. She also has a recurring role in the hit series ‘Only Murders in the Building’. Her rapid rise in Hollywood is marked by her powerful dramatic presence and comedic timing.

Danielle Brooks

Danielle Brooks became a breakout star for her role as Tasha ‘Taystee’ Jefferson in the Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She received a Tony nomination for her Broadway debut in ‘The Color Purple’. Brooks later reprised her role as Sofia in the film adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’, earning an Academy Award nomination. She also stars in the superhero series ‘Peacemaker’. Her career is noted for its strong emphasis on vocally demanding and emotionally complex characters.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson rose to prominence as a viral internet creator before transitioning to mainstream television success. She is the creator, writer, and star of the hit mockumentary series ‘Abbott Elementary’, where she plays Janine Teagues. Her work on the show has garnered multiple Emmy Awards and widespread praise for its portrayal of public education. Brunson’s career trajectory reflects the modern path of digital-first talent reaching industry-leading heights. She continues to be a leading voice in contemporary comedy and storytelling.

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