African-American Actresses You Didn’t Know Are Deeply Religious

The entertainment industry is often seen as a secular environment but many prominent stars maintain a deep connection to their faith. These women have navigated the complexities of Hollywood while keeping their spiritual beliefs at the center of their lives and careers. From seasoned veterans to rising stars their commitment to religion provides a foundation for their personal and professional journeys. This list explores the spiritual lives of several influential African-American actresses who prioritize their devotion.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is widely recognized for her powerful performances in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ and ‘Black Panther’. She has often credited her success to her strong Christian faith and her upbringing in the church. The actress attends a prominent church in Los Angeles and frequently speaks about the role of prayer in her daily life. She believes her talent is a gift from God that should be used to inspire others. Bassett has maintained her spiritual convictions throughout her many decades in the competitive entertainment industry.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is an acclaimed performer known for her award winning roles in ‘The Help’ and ‘Fences’. She has spoken openly about her relationship with God and how it helped her overcome a difficult childhood. The actress often uses her public platforms to share scriptures and expressions of gratitude for her blessings. She credits her spiritual foundation for providing the strength needed to navigate the pressures of high profile acting. Davis continues to prioritize her faith while achieving some of the highest honors in the history of the performing arts.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph has enjoyed a long career with highlights including ‘Dreamgirls’ and the hit series ‘Abbott Elementary’. She was raised in a religious household and has remained a devoted Christian throughout her time in the spotlight. Ralph often speaks about how her faith keeps her grounded and provides her with a sense of purpose. She has been known to incorporate prayer into her professional routine and encourages others to seek spiritual guidance. Her enduring career is something she often attributes to the grace and favor she finds in her religion.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good began her career as a child actress in ‘Eve’s Bayou’ and has since become a major star in films like ‘Harlem’. She has been very vocal about her Christian faith and previously shared her journey as the wife of a high profile minister. Good often discusses the importance of maintaining a personal relationship with God regardless of her environment. She has faced public scrutiny for her lifestyle choices but consistently maintains that her faith remains her top priority. The actress frequently shares spiritual insights with her fans to encourage them on their own paths.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright gained international fame for her role as Shuri in ‘Black Panther’ and ‘Avengers: Infinity War’. She has credited her Christian faith with saving her career and helping her overcome a period of deep depression. The actress is known for using her social media presence to share biblical messages and testify about her spiritual experiences. She even took a brief hiatus from acting to focus on her relationship with God before returning to Hollywood. Wright continues to be one of the most outspoken young actresses regarding the importance of religious devotion.

Tasha Smith

Tasha Smith is a versatile actress and director known for her roles in ‘Why Did I Get Married?’ and ‘Empire’. she identifies as a devout Christian and often shares how her faith transformed her life after a troubled youth. Smith has integrated her spiritual beliefs into her acting workshops where she teaches performers to tap into their God given talents. She frequently speaks at religious conferences and events to share her testimony of redemption and growth. Her commitment to her faith is a central part of her public identity and her professional work ethic.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson rose to fame on ‘American Idol’ before winning an Academy Award for her performance in ‘Dreamgirls’. She grew up singing in the gospel choir and has never shied away from her roots in the Black church. Hudson has often relied on her faith to navigate personal tragedies and the intense demands of her music and film careers. She continues to record gospel music and frequently expresses her gratitude to God during her many public appearances. Her spiritual life remains a cornerstone of her identity as she hosts her own talk show and performs on global stages.

Yvonne Orji

Yvonne Orji is best known for her role as Molly on the hit series ‘Insecure’ where she showcased her comedic and dramatic range. She is a committed Christian who has been very public about her decision to remain a virgin until marriage based on her religious beliefs. Orji has written a book that explores the intersection of her faith and her career in the entertainment world. She frequently uses her platform to discuss how her relationship with God influences her choices in roles and personal life. The actress continues to balance her success in Hollywood with a steadfast commitment to her spiritual values.

Tamera Mowry-Housley

Tamera Mowry-Housley became a household name on the sitcom ‘Sister, Sister’ alongside her twin sister. She is a devoted Christian who has often discussed how her faith guides her parenting and her marriage. During her time as a co-host on ‘The Real’ she frequently shared her spiritual perspective on various social issues. She credits her religious upbringing with helping her avoid many of the common pitfalls associated with child stardom. Mowry-Housley remains active in her church community and continues to promote faith based values through her lifestyle brand.

Tia Mowry

Tia Mowry gained fame alongside her sister in ‘Sister, Sister’ and later starred in the series ‘The Game’. Like her twin she was raised in a household where faith was a central component of daily life. She has spoken about the importance of prayer and spiritual reflection in maintaining her mental health and career longevity. Mowry often shares positive and faith filled messages with her followers on social media to promote a sense of peace. Her commitment to her religious foundation continues to influence how she approaches her work and family life.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is a celebrated actress known for her iconic roles in ‘Empire’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. She has often spoken about her deep reliance on God to help her navigate the challenges of being a single mother in the acting industry. Henson frequently acknowledges the power of prayer in her life and credits her success to divine intervention. She has been open about her mental health journey and how her spiritual beliefs provide her with the strength to keep moving forward. The actress remains a prominent figure who often attributes her resilience to her religious upbringing.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer is an Academy Award winner known for her work in ‘The Help’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. She was raised in a religious family in Alabama and has maintained her Christian faith throughout her successful career. Spencer often speaks about the importance of humility and gratitude which she attributes to her spiritual foundation. While she is relatively private about her personal life she has mentioned the role of faith in providing her with comfort and guidance. She continues to be a respected voice in Hollywood who values the moral lessons learned through her religion.

Sherri Shepherd

Sherri Shepherd is a comedian and actress known for her roles in ’30 Rock’ and her time on ‘The View’. She is a very vocal Christian who often incorporates her faith into her stand up comedy routines and public speaking engagements. Shepherd has been open about her spiritual journey and the ways in which her faith has helped her through personal and professional trials. She frequently shares her testimony to inspire others to seek a closer relationship with God. Her energetic personality is often fueled by her commitment to her religious beliefs and her desire to share joy.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts is a versatile actress known for ‘Claws’ and ‘Reno 911!’ who has always been open about her Christian faith. She often refers to herself as a child of God and credits her spiritual life with giving her the confidence to pursue her dreams. Nash-Betts frequently shares inspirational quotes and scriptures with her fans to encourage a positive outlook. She has navigated many changes in her life and career by relying on what she describes as divine guidance. Her faith remains a visible and vital part of her public persona as she continues to win acclaim for her acting.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall is a popular actress known for the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise and ‘Girls Trip’. She has revealed in interviews that she once considered becoming a nun because of her deep commitment to her Catholic faith. While she ultimately chose a career in acting she remains a very spiritual person who values her relationship with God. Hall often speaks about the importance of inner peace and how her religious background shaped her worldview. She continues to be one of the most successful women in comedy while maintaining a quiet but firm devotion to her faith.

Chandra Wilson

Chandra Wilson is best known for her long running role as Dr. Miranda Bailey on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. She has been active in her church for many years and often discusses the importance of community and service. Wilson credits her spiritual upbringing with providing her the discipline and focus necessary for a sustained career in television. She has used her platform to support various charitable causes that align with her religious values. Her steady presence on screen is matched by her consistent commitment to her faith and her family.

Kim Fields

Kim Fields became a star as a child on ‘The Facts of Life’ and later starred in ‘Living Single’. she is a devoted Christian who has often spoken about the challenges and rewards of living out her faith in the spotlight. Fields has directed numerous projects and frequently incorporates her spiritual perspective into her creative process. She has been involved in various ministry efforts and continues to be a positive role model for many. Her longevity in the entertainment industry is something she frequently attributes to her strong religious foundation.

Nicole Ari Parker

Nicole Ari Parker is known for her roles in ‘Soul Food’ and ‘And Just Like That…’. She has spoken about the importance of her Christian faith in maintaining a healthy marriage and family life in Hollywood. Parker and her husband often discuss their shared spiritual journey and how it keeps them grounded. She believes that her career path is directed by a higher power and strives to make choices that reflect her values. The actress remains a graceful presence in the industry who prioritizes her religious convictions.

Holly Robinson Peete

Holly Robinson Peete is a veteran actress known for ’21 Jump Street’ and her work on various Hallmark projects. She was raised in a household where faith was important and she has carried those values into her adult life. Peete often speaks about the power of prayer in dealing with the challenges of raising a child with autism. She and her family are active in their church and she frequently shares how her faith provides her with hope. Her career and advocacy work are deeply influenced by her spiritual beliefs and her commitment to helping others.

Erika Alexander

Erika Alexander is best known for her role as Maxine Shaw on ‘Living Single’ and her performance in ‘Get Out’. She has expressed her deep spiritual beliefs and the role they play in her creative and personal life. Alexander often discusses the importance of consciousness and faith in navigating the complexities of the modern world. She credits her religious background with giving her the strength to advocate for herself and others in the entertainment industry. Her work as an actress and producer is often informed by her commitment to her spiritual and moral values.

Wendy Raquel Robinson

Wendy Raquel Robinson is a talented actress known for ‘The Steve Harvey Show’ and ‘The Game’. She is a devout Christian who often shares her faith through her involvement in her performing arts school for youth. Robinson believes in using her success to give back to the community and to inspire the next generation of artists. She frequently mentions how her relationship with God provides her with the stamina needed for her demanding career. Her commitment to her faith is evident in her positive attitude and her dedication to her craft.

Pauletta Washington

Pauletta Washington is an accomplished actress and musician who has appeared in projects like ‘Bel-Air’. She is the wife of Denzel Washington and together they are known for their deep commitment to their Christian faith. She often speaks about the importance of spiritual unity within a family and how it has sustained her marriage for decades. Washington has been involved in many church activities and frequently uses her musical talents in religious settings. Her faith is a central part of her life and she remains a respected figure in both the religious and entertainment communities.

Essence Atkins

Essence Atkins is known for her roles in ‘Smart Guy’ and ‘Half & Half’. She has been very open about her Christian faith and how it has influenced her career choices over the years. Atkins often speaks at churches and religious events about the importance of staying true to one’s values in Hollywood. She credits her spiritual life with helping her find peace and contentment amidst the pressures of the acting world. The actress remains a vocal advocate for faith based living and continues to work on projects that reflect her beliefs.

Malinda Williams

Malinda Williams gained fame for her role in the television series ‘Soul Food’. She is a committed Christian who has often shared how her faith helps her maintain a positive outlook on life. Williams discusses the importance of meditation and prayer in her daily routine to stay focused and grounded. She believes that her career is a platform to share light and encouragement with others through her performances. Her spiritual foundation remains an essential part of her identity as she continues to work in film and television.

Terri J. Vaughn

Terri J. Vaughn is a recognizable face from ‘The Steve Harvey Show’ and ‘All of Us’. She has spoken about her strong religious upbringing and how those early lessons have stayed with her throughout her career. Vaughn is involved in various community service projects and often credits her faith as the motivation for her philanthropy. She frequently uses social media to post uplifting content and spiritual encouragement for her followers. Her commitment to her religion and her family remains at the forefront of her life as she balances acting and directing.

Tatyana Ali

Tatyana Ali is best known for her role as Ashley Banks on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. She has discussed her Christian faith and the role it played in keeping her grounded while growing up as a child star. Ali has been involved in various charitable organizations and often speaks about the importance of spiritual values in her life. She continues to pursue her acting and music careers while maintaining a strong connection to her religious roots. Her faith provides her with a sense of purpose and direction as she navigates her adult life and career.

Garcelle Beauvais

Garcelle Beauvais is a successful actress and television personality known for ‘The Jamie Foxx Show’ and ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’. She has spoken about her faith and the importance of prayer in her life as a mother and a professional. Beauvais often shares how she relies on her spiritual beliefs to help her make difficult decisions and stay resilient. She credits her upbringing with giving her the moral compass needed to thrive in the entertainment industry. Her faith is a quiet but consistent part of her journey as she continues to expand her career.

Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams is a multi talented star of stage and screen known for ‘Ugly Betty’ and ‘Desperate Housewives’. She was raised in the Catholic faith and has often spoken about the role of the church in her family life and traditions. Williams credits her spiritual foundation with helping her overcome public challenges and maintaining her longevity in show business. She has performed at various religious events and frequently expresses her gratitude for her many talents. Her faith remains a source of strength and inspiration as she continues to excel in multiple areas of entertainment.

Debbie Allen

Debbie Allen is a legendary actress dancer and director known for ‘Fame’ and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. She grew up in a religious household and has maintained a strong connection to her Christian faith throughout her storied career. Allen often speaks about how she views her artistic abilities as a gift from God that must be nurtured and shared. She is known for her tireless work ethic and her commitment to mentoring young artists through a lens of faith and discipline. Her spiritual beliefs continue to drive her passion for the arts and her dedication to her community.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer is a dynamic actress and singer who started as a child star in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’. She has often credited her faith with helping her handle the pressures of early fame and the complexities of the industry. Palmer frequently shares messages of hope and spiritual encouragement with her large social media following. She speaks about the power of prayer and the importance of having a strong moral foundation in a fast paced environment. Her faith remains a vital part of her identity as she transitions into more mature and diverse roles.

Jurnee Smollett

Jurnee Smollett began her career as a child actress in ‘Full House’ and ‘Eve’s Bayou’ before starring in ‘Lovecraft Country’. She was raised in a family where faith and social activism were closely intertwined. Smollett has spoken about how her spiritual beliefs inform her choices in roles and her commitment to justice. She often relies on her faith to find the emotional depth required for her intense performances. Her religious background remains a significant influence on her life and her work as an advocate for change.

Regina King

Regina King is an Academy Award winning actress and director known for ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and ‘Watchmen’. She has mentioned in interviews that her faith has been a steadying force throughout her long and successful career. King often discusses the importance of staying grounded and focused which she attributes to her spiritual upbringing. While she is private about the specifics of her religious practice she frequently expresses gratitude for her journey. Her success as both a performer and a filmmaker is built on a foundation of hard work and spiritual resilience.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union is a prominent actress known for ‘Bring It On’ and ‘Being Mary Jane’. She has discussed her Christian faith and how it has helped her navigate the highs and lows of her life and career. Union often speaks about the importance of grace and forgiveness which are central themes in her spiritual journey. She uses her platform to advocate for others while frequently acknowledging the role of a higher power in her own success. Her faith provides her with the strength to be an outspoken voice for equity and inclusion in Hollywood.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira is an actress and playwright known for her roles in ‘The Walking Dead’ and ‘Black Panther’. She was raised in a Christian household and has spoken about how her faith influences her storytelling and her activism. Gurira often discusses the spiritual dimensions of her characters and the importance of integrity in her professional life. She is involved in various humanitarian efforts that are driven by her religious convictions. her faith remains a central pillar of her life as she continues to create impactful work on screen and stage.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba is an Emmy winning actress known for ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and ‘In Treatment’. She grew up in a family where faith was a priority and she has remained a devoted Christian. Aduba often speaks about the importance of humility and service which she learned through her religious upbringing. She credits her spiritual life with giving her the perspective needed to handle fame and the challenges of the acting profession. Her commitment to her faith is evident in the thoughtful way she approaches her roles and her public life.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o is an Academy Award winner known for ’12 Years a Slave’ and ‘Us’. She has spoken about her religious upbringing and the role of faith in her family life in Kenya. Nyong’o often expresses her gratitude for the opportunities she has been given and credits her success to a combination of hard work and divine favor. While she is generally private about her spiritual practices she has acknowledged the importance of a spiritual foundation. Her career continues to be a source of inspiration for many around the world.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington is a celebrated actress known for ‘Scandal’ and ‘Little Fires Everywhere’. she has discussed her spiritual beliefs and the importance of having a sense of purpose beyond fame. Washington often utilizes prayer and meditation to stay centered during the demanding production schedules of her projects. She believes in using her platform to do good and credits her moral compass to her spiritual background. Her faith is an integral part of how she balances her professional achievements with her personal life.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin became a breakout star on the series ‘Black-ish’ and is also a successful producer. She has mentioned the importance of her faith and her family in keeping her grounded as she navigates Hollywood at a young age. Martin credits her spiritual upbringing with giving her the confidence to start her own production company and pursue her dreams. She often shares positive and encouraging messages that reflect her religious values. Her early success is rooted in a strong foundation of faith and support from her community.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid is a rising star known for ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ and ‘Euphoria’. She has been open about her Christian faith and the role it plays in her life as a young actress. Reid often discusses how she relies on prayer to help her choose the right projects and stay true to herself. She uses her social media to share uplifting content and to testify about the importance of her relationship with God. Her commitment to her religious beliefs is a central part of her public identity as she continues to grow in her career.

Skai Jackson

Skai Jackson is a former child star known for her roles on the Disney Channel and her work as an author. she has discussed her Christian faith and how it has helped her deal with the challenges of social media and public scrutiny. Jackson often speaks about the importance of staying positive and relying on spiritual strength to overcome obstacles. She credits her mother and her religious background for providing her with the tools to succeed in the entertainment industry. Her faith remains an important part of her life as she explores new opportunities in acting and beyond.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi is an actress and activist known for ‘Black-ish’ and ‘Grown-ish’. She has spoken about the intersection of her faith and her commitment to social justice and education. Shahidi credits her spiritual upbringing with instilling in her a sense of responsibility to her community and the world. She often discusses how her beliefs provide her with a moral framework for her work and her activism. Her faith is a guiding force as she balances her successful acting career with her studies and her efforts to create positive change.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan is a talented actress known for ‘Love & Basketball’ and ‘Succession’. She has expressed her spiritual beliefs and the importance of maintaining a connection to a higher power for her mental and emotional well being. Lathan often shares her journey of self discovery and how her faith has evolved over the years to provide her with more peace. She believes in the power of manifestation and prayer to help guide her career and personal life. Her spiritual life remains a quiet but essential part of her journey in the entertainment industry.

Nia Long

Nia Long is a well known actress with a career spanning decades in films like ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘The Best Man’. she has spoken about her faith and how it has sustained her through the ups and downs of life in Hollywood. Long often credits her spiritual foundation with helping her remain resilient and focused on what truly matters. She has discussed the importance of prayer in her daily routine and how it provides her with clarity. her faith continues to be a source of strength as she navigates her ongoing success in film and television.

Joy Bryant

Joy Bryant is an actress and former model known for her role in the series ‘Parenthood’. She has discussed her spiritual beliefs and how they have helped her find balance and contentment in her life. Bryant often speaks about the importance of gratitude and mindfulness which she connects to her spiritual practice. She credits her faith with helping her stay grounded and avoiding the superficiality that can often be found in the celebrity world. Her commitment to her spiritual well being is a central part of her lifestyle and her approach to her work.

LisaRaye McCoy

LisaRaye McCoy is an actress known for ‘The Players Club’ and ‘Single Ladies’. She has been very open about her Christian faith and her public journey of being baptized and rededicating her life to God. McCoy often shares her spiritual insights and experiences with her fans to encourage them in their own faith walks. She has discussed the challenges of being a religious woman in the entertainment industry and the importance of staying true to her convictions. Her faith is a prominent part of her public life and her personal identity.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox is a veteran actress known for ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Set It Off’. She has often spoken about the role of her Christian faith in providing her with the stamina for her long and varied career. Fox frequently expresses her gratitude to God for her success and the opportunities she has had to work in many different genres. She credits her spiritual upbringing with giving her the discipline and positive attitude necessary to thrive. Her faith remains a foundational part of her life as she continues to act and produce.

Vanessa Bell Calloway

Vanessa Bell Calloway is a respected actress known for ‘Coming to America’ and ‘Saints & Sinners’. she is a devoted Christian who often speaks about the importance of faith in her marriage and her career. Calloway has been involved in many church activities and frequently shares her spiritual journey during public appearances. She believes that her longevity in the industry is a result of her reliance on divine guidance and her commitment to her values. Her faith is a central pillar of her life and a source of inspiration for those who follow her work.

Jenifer Lewis

Jenifer Lewis is a beloved actress known for ‘Black-ish’ and her legendary stage performances. She has been very open about her mental health journey and how her faith has played a crucial role in her healing and stability. Lewis often incorporates spiritual themes into her storytelling and uses her platform to encourage others to seek help and lean on their faith. She credits her spiritual foundation with providing her the courage to be authentically herself in a competitive industry. Her faith remains a vibrant and essential part of her personality and her professional life.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine is a versatile actress known for ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. She was raised in a religious environment and has maintained her connection to her faith throughout her successful career. Devine often speaks about the importance of prayer and the role it plays in her creative process as an actress. She credits her spiritual upbringing with giving her the humility and focus needed to maintain a consistent presence in Hollywood. Her commitment to her religious beliefs is a quiet but powerful force in her life and her work.

Tell us which of these actresses and their stories of faith surprised you the most in the comments.