Black Actresses Who Missed Their Shot at A-List Stardom

The entertainment industry is filled with talented individuals who experience a sudden surge of popularity before their careers transition into supporting roles or steady television work. While many Black actresses have achieved critical acclaim and commercial success they often face systemic barriers that prevent them from reaching the absolute pinnacle of Hollywood stardom. These women displayed immense potential through breakout performances in iconic films and hit series during the peak of their visibility. Despite their undeniable skill and screen presence various factors including casting limitations and industry shifts contributed to their trajectory. This list examines several performers who possessed the talent for A list status but ultimately navigated different career paths.

Lisa Bonet

Lisa Bonet became a household name through her role as Denise Huxtable on ‘The Cosby Show’ and its spin off ‘A Different World’ during the eighties. She transitioned to film with a daring performance in ‘Angel Heart’ which signaled her intent to take on more mature and complex characters. Her career momentum slowed significantly after she left her primary television roles following creative differences and personal choices. While she remained a cultural icon she did not pursue the leading lady roles in blockbuster films that many expected. She eventually stepped away from the spotlight to focus on her family and more selective artistic projects.

Lela Rochon

Lela Rochon gained widespread recognition for her breakout performance in the hit drama ‘Waiting to Exhale’ alongside several established stars. This role earned her critical praise and suggested a future as a major romantic lead in Hollywood. She followed this success with parts in films like ‘The Chamber’ and ‘Gang Related’ while working with prominent directors. Her transition to consistent top tier leading roles was hindered by a lack of diverse opportunities for Black women in the late nineties. She eventually shifted her focus toward family and smaller independent productions.

Theresa Randle

Theresa Randle appeared in several major films during the nineties including ‘Bad Boys’ and ‘Malcolm X’ where she showcased her versatility. She secured a leading role in ‘Girl 6’ directed by Spike Lee which many believed would be her definitive star making turn. Her involvement in high profile projects like ‘Space Jam’ and ‘Spawn’ kept her in the public eye for a time. Despite her talent and presence in successful franchises she did not become a permanent fixture in big budget leading roles. Her appearances in major studio films became less frequent as the decade concluded.

Kimberly Elise

Kimberly Elise delivered a powerhouse performance in ‘Set It Off’ that established her as a formidable dramatic actress. She continued to garner critical acclaim for her work in ‘Beloved’ and ‘The Manchurian Candidate’ while acting alongside Hollywood legends. Many critics frequently cited her as one of the most underrated talents of her generation due to her emotional depth. While she has enjoyed a long and respected career she often missed out on the mainstream awards and blockbuster billing typical of A list stars. She remains a beloved figure in the industry known for her commitment to powerful storytelling.

Nia Long

Nia Long became a staple of Black cinema in the nineties through her roles in ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘Friday’ which established her as a screen favorite. She transitioned into romantic leads with ‘The Best Man’ and ‘Love Jones’ where she displayed remarkable charm and chemistry. Her consistent work in successful films made her a recognizable face but she rarely crossed over into massive global blockbusters. She has maintained a prolific career in both film and television while remaining a highly respected veteran of the industry. Her enduring popularity demonstrates her impact even without the traditional A list designation from major studios.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox experienced a meteoric rise in 1996 with standout roles in ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Set It Off’ which showcased her range in action and drama. She became one of the most visible Black actresses in Hollywood and followed up with ‘Soul Food’ and ‘Why Do Fools Fall in Love’ shortly after. Her performance in ‘Kill Bill Vol 1’ as Vernita Green reminded audiences of her physical screen presence and talent. Despite these high profile projects her career eventually moved toward television movies and independent productions. She has since built a successful brand through hosting and producing while remaining a fixture in popular culture.

Salli Richardson-Whitfield

Salli Richardson Whitfield first caught the attention of audiences in ‘A Low Down Dirty Shame’ and ‘The Great White Hype’ during the nineties. She demonstrated her talent for both comedy and drama before landing a long running lead role in the series ‘Eureka’ on television. While she had the look and ability of a major film star her career trajectory favored consistent television work over big screen blockbusters. She eventually transitioned into a highly successful career as a television director for major networks. Her work behind the camera has earned her immense respect in the industry today.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good began her career as a child actress before delivering a breakthrough performance in the critically acclaimed film ‘Eve’s Bayou’ in 1997. She successfully transitioned into adult roles with films like ‘Deliver Us from Eva’ and ‘Stomp the Yard’ which were hits with audiences. Her consistent presence in film and television throughout the early two thousands made her a prominent figure in the industry. While she has worked steadily and led several projects she has not quite reached the level of a global A list household name. She continues to be a leading figure in the industry with recent roles in major superhero franchises.

Paula Patton

Paula Patton had a significant breakout in the action thriller ‘Deja Vu’ alongside Denzel Washington which immediately put her on the map. She followed this with a major role in ‘Mission Impossible Ghost Protocol’ as an action lead which seemed to guarantee her future stardom. While she appeared in other big budget films like ‘Warcraft’ and ‘2 Guns’ her momentum as a solo leading lady slowed. The industry often struggled to find the right vehicles to capitalize on her early success. She has since moved into producing and starring in more niche dramatic projects.

Erika Alexander

Erika Alexander is best known for her iconic role as Maxine Shaw on the hit sitcom ‘Living Single’ where she won multiple awards. Her comedic timing and sharp wit made her one of the most popular characters on television during the nineties. She showed her dramatic range in films like ‘The Long Walk Home’ and later in the horror hit ‘Get Out’ as an officer. Despite her immense talent she did not see the same level of leading film roles that some of her peers experienced. She has focused much of her energy on writing and producing while continuing to act in diverse roles.

Robin Givens

Robin Givens rose to fame as Darlene Merriman on the sitcom ‘Head of the Class’ before transitioning into film roles. She starred in ‘Boomerang’ where she played a high powered executive and displayed great chemistry with her co stars. Her career was often overshadowed by high profile personal matters and media scrutiny during her peak years. While she continued to work in television and independent film she did not regain the momentum for A list movie stardom. She remains an active performer with a long list of credits across various genres.

Rae Dawn Chong

Rae Dawn Chong became a recognizable face in the eighties with roles in ‘Quest for Fire’ and ‘The Color Purple’ which highlighted her unique screen presence. She also starred in the action classic ‘Commando’ alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger which provided her with significant mainstream exposure. Despite her early success and ability to work across genres she struggled to find consistent leading roles in major studio films. Her career eventually transitioned into more frequent work in television and independent projects. She is still remembered for her contributions to some of the most influential films of that era.

Lonette McKee

Lonette McKee first gained attention for her role in the 1976 film ‘Sparkle’ where she showcased her singing and acting abilities. She worked with legendary directors like Francis Ford Coppola in ‘The Cotton Club’ and Spike Lee in several projects including ‘Jungle Fever’ and ‘Malcolm X’ during her career. Her sophisticated style and talent made her a standout in every scene she filmed. However she did not reach the level of global stardom that her early promise suggested. She has maintained a career in theater and music alongside her occasional film and television appearances.

Michael Michele

Michael Michele became known for her roles in ‘New Jack City’ and later in the long running medical drama ‘ER’ where she played Dr. Cleo Finch. She possessed a striking screen presence and elegance that made her a natural choice for sophisticated roles in films like ‘How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days’ and ‘Ali’ as well. Despite her beauty and talent she often found herself in supporting parts rather than being the primary lead of a major franchise. Her career has largely remained focused on television where she has found more consistent opportunities. She recently appeared in the revival of ‘Dynasty’ continuing her streak of stylish roles.

Karyn Parsons

Karyn Parsons won the hearts of audiences as the stylish and comedic Hilary Banks on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel Air’ for six seasons. She attempted to transition into a film career with roles in ‘Major Payne’ and ‘The Ladies Man’ which showcased her comedic skills. While she was a favorite on television she did not find the same level of sustained success on the big screen. She eventually moved away from full time acting to focus on her production company Sweet Blackberry which highlights Black history. Her legacy remains tied to one of the most influential sitcoms in television history.

Lark Voorhies

Lark Voorhies achieved fame as Lisa Turtle on the hit teen series ‘Saved by the Bell’ where she became a fashion icon for a generation. After the series ended she appeared in films like ‘How to Be a Player’ and had recurring roles on various soap operas. Her transition into adult stardom was complicated by personal challenges and a shifting focus within the industry. She did not reach the heights of A list film stardom that many of her fans had hoped for. She has occasionally returned to the screen but has mostly lived a more private life in recent years.

Jasmine Guy

Jasmine Guy became a cultural icon as Whitley Gilbert on ‘A Different World’ where her performance earned her several awards. She also demonstrated her range in films like ‘School Daze’ and ‘Harlem Nights’ where she played more dramatic and sultry characters. Her immense talent as a dancer and singer made her a triple threat in the entertainment world. Despite her popularity she primarily remained a star of the small screen rather than transitioning into a major movie star. She continues to work frequently in television and theater where she is highly respected.

Victoria Rowell

Victoria Rowell gained a massive following for her long running role as Drucilla Winters on the soap opera ‘The Young and the Restless’ and for her part in ‘Diagnosis Murder’ as well. She appeared in films like ‘Dumb and Dumber’ and ‘Eve’s Bayou’ where she showed her ability to handle both comedy and drama. Her advocacy for diversity in the industry sometimes put her at odds with network executives. While she is a powerhouse in the world of daytime television she did not cross over into A list status in mainstream Hollywood films. She remains an influential figure in the industry through her writing and advocacy work.

Cynda Williams

Cynda Williams had a stunning debut in Spike Lee’s ‘Mo’ Better Blues’ where her performance and singing voice left a lasting impression. She followed this with a critically acclaimed role in the crime thriller ‘One False Move’ which earned her an Independent Spirit Award nomination. Her early success suggested she was on the path to becoming a major dramatic star in the nineties. However her film career did not maintain its initial momentum and she appeared in fewer high profile projects over time. She has continued to act in independent films and perform as a jazz singer.

Margaret Avery

Margaret Avery received an Academy Award nomination for her unforgettable performance as Shug Avery in the 1985 classic ‘The Color Purple’ which should have propelled her to the top of Hollywood. Following this success she appeared in several films and television projects but struggled to find roles of equal caliber. The industry at the time offered few leading opportunities for Black actresses even those with Oscar nominations. She continued to work steadily in character roles and eventually starred in the hit series ‘Being Mary Jane’ later in her career. Her talent has always been recognized by her peers despite the lack of A list leading roles.

Debbi Morgan

Debbi Morgan is a legendary figure in the world of soap operas where she won a Daytime Emmy for her role on ‘All My Children’ as Angie Hubbard. She delivered a masterful performance in the independent film ‘Eve’s Bayou’ which won her several critics awards and widespread praise. This role was expected to be her bridge to major motion picture stardom given the critical reaction. Unfortunately the mainstream film industry did not provide many follow up opportunities that matched her immense talent. She remains one of the most respected actresses in the history of daytime television and continues to work in dramatic series.

Lynn Whitfield

Lynn Whitfield won an Emmy for her portrayal of Josephine Baker in the television movie ‘The Josephine Baker Story’ which remains a career highlight. She showcased her ability to play sophisticated and menacing characters in the hit film ‘A Thin Line Between Love and Hate’ opposite Martin Lawrence. Her elegance and commanding screen presence made her a standout in films like ‘Eve’s Bayou’ and ‘Stepmom’ as well. While she is a highly decorated actress she did not become a global A list movie star in the traditional sense. She has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years with a leading role in the series ‘Greenleaf’ where she received further acclaim.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph first rose to prominence on Broadway in the original production of ‘Dreamgirls’ for which she received a Tony nomination. She successfully moved into film and television with notable roles in ‘To Sleep with Anger’ and the hit sitcom ‘Moesha’ where she played the matriarch. Her career has been marked by consistent work and a strong presence in both musical theater and dramatic acting. Despite her talent and charisma she was often cast in supporting roles rather than as the primary lead in major films. She eventually achieved massive mainstream success again with her Emmy winning role in the series ‘Abbott Elementary’ in recent years.

Jackée Harry

Jackée Harry became a breakout star on the sitcom ‘227’ where she won an Emmy for her hilarious portrayal of Sandra Clark. Her unique voice and comedic timing made her one of the most recognizable faces on television during the late eighties. She attempted to lead her own projects and appeared in films like ‘The Women of Brewster Place’ where she showed her range. While she remained a beloved figure on television she did not find a permanent home as a leading lady in major Hollywood films. She has continued to have a thriving career on sitcoms and in daytime television for decades.

Holly Robinson Peete

Holly Robinson Peete gained national fame as Officer Judy Hoffs on the hit series ’21 Jump Street’ alongside Johnny Depp. She continued her television success with long running roles in ‘Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper’ and ‘For Your Love’ where she was a central figure. Her beauty and charm made her a favorite for magazine covers and talk show appearances throughout the nineties. Despite her constant presence on television she did not make the jump to A list movie stardom. She has since focused on her work as a talk show host and her advocacy for various charitable causes.

Tasha Smith

Tasha Smith became well known for her powerful and often comedic performances in Tyler Perry’s ‘Why Did I Get Married?’ franchise. She demonstrated her ability to steal scenes with her high energy and dramatic intensity in various film and television roles. While she has been a leading lady in projects targeted at Black audiences she has not crossed over into general A list stardom. Her career has evolved to include successful work as a director for major television series. She remains a highly influential figure in the industry who is known for her acting workshops and mentorship.

Wendy Raquel Robinson

Wendy Raquel Robinson is best known for her roles as Principal Regina Grier on ‘The Steve Harvey Show’ and Tasha Mack on ‘The Game’ as well. She has proven herself to be a versatile actress with a long career in both comedy and drama on the small screen. Her charisma and comedic timing have made her a staple of successful Black television for over two decades. While she has appeared in films like ‘Miss Congeniality’ she has not been given many opportunities to lead major studio movies. She continues to be a prominent figure in television and a dedicated advocate for the arts in her community.

Golden Brooks

Golden Brooks rose to fame as Maya Wilkes on the long running hit series ‘Girlfriends’ where she was a core part of the ensemble. She received critical praise for her work in the independent film ‘Motives’ and appeared in several other projects during the show’s run. Her talent for both comedy and heartfelt drama was evident throughout her eight seasons on television. After the series ended she struggled to find leading roles in major Hollywood films that matched her potential. She has continued to work in television and independent cinema while remaining a favorite among fans of the series.

Persia White

Persia White became a household name for her role as Lynn Searcy on the popular sitcom ‘Girlfriends’ which lasted for eight seasons. She also showcased her musical talents and her interest in alternative styles which set her apart from her peers. Following the end of the series she had a recurring role on ‘The Vampire Diaries’ where she reached a new audience. Despite her unique look and talent she did not transition into a major A list film career. She has since focused on independent projects and her music while staying active in animal rights advocacy.

Jill Marie Jones

Jill Marie Jones became a fan favorite for her role as Toni Childs on ‘Girlfriends’ where her comedic timing was a highlight of the show. She left the series to pursue film roles and appeared in projects like ‘The Perfect Holiday’ and ‘Major Movie Star’ shortly after. Her departure from television was seen as a move toward achieving mainstream movie stardom. However she did not secure the high profile leading roles necessary to reach the top tier level in Hollywood. She eventually returned to television in the horror series ‘Ash vs Evil Dead’ and continues to work in various genres.

Bianca Lawson

Bianca Lawson has had a remarkably long career in television appearing in iconic shows like ‘Saved by the Bell The New Class’ and ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ in the nineties. She became known for her youthful appearance which allowed her to play teenage roles for several decades in shows like ‘Pretty Little Liars’ and ‘Teen Wolf’ as well. Despite her consistent presence in popular culture and her undeniable talent she has mostly remained a supporting actress in television ensembles. She has not yet had a breakout leading role in a major studio film that would propel her to A list status. Her work in ‘Queen Sugar’ has recently earned her some of the best reviews of her career.

Malinda Williams

Malinda Williams gained recognition for her role in the film ‘The Wood’ before starring in the hit series ‘Soul Food’ for five seasons. Her performance on the show earned her multiple award nominations and established her as a talented dramatic actress. She has appeared in several other films like ‘Idlewild’ and ‘Daddy’s Little Girls’ where she continued to work with prominent directors. While she is a well known face in the industry she has not reached the level of global stardom seen by a few of her contemporaries. She remains active in television and has become a producer for various lifestyle and entertainment projects.

Tamara Taylor

Tamara Taylor is best known for her long running role as Dr. Camille Saroyan on the hit crime procedural ‘Bones’ which lasted for many seasons. Before her success on television she appeared in films like ‘Senseless’ and ‘Introducing Dorothy Dandridge’ where she showed her range. She has a sophisticated screen presence that has led to consistent work in both science fiction and dramatic series. Despite her long tenure on a successful show she has not made a significant impact as a leading lady in major motion pictures. She continues to be a reliable and talented performer in the television landscape.

Garcelle Beauvais

Garcelle Beauvais first rose to fame on ‘The Jamie Foxx Show’ before landing a major role in the crime drama ‘NYPD Blue’ as well. She has appeared in big budget films such as ‘Coming to America’ and ‘White House Down’ where she played supporting characters. Her beauty and professional longevity have made her a respected figure in the entertainment industry for decades. While she has worked steadily she has not transitioned into the type of A list movie stardom that her early career momentum hinted at. She has since expanded her career into reality television and talk shows where she has found a new level of fame.

Essence Atkins

Essence Atkins became a staple of Black television with roles in ‘Smart Guy’ and ‘Half & Half’ where she displayed her comedic talent. She also starred in the ‘Are We There Yet’ series and appeared in the ‘A Haunted House’ films which were commercial successes. Her ability to lead a sitcom has been proven multiple times over her long career in the industry. Despite her success on television she has not crossed over into major leading roles in prestige or blockbuster films. She remains a beloved figure in the world of comedy and continues to work frequently on various television projects.

Reagan Gomez-Preston

Reagan Gomez Preston gained fame as a teenager on the sitcom ‘The Parent ‘Hood’ before appearing in films like ‘Love Don’t Cost a Thing’ and ‘Beauty Shop’ as well. She has also had a successful career as a voice actress in animated series like ‘The Cleveland Show’ where she played Roberta Tubbs. Her early start in the industry gave her a lot of exposure and she developed a loyal fan base over the years. However she did not transition into the world of A list film stardom as an adult. She has since become a writer and director of her own independent projects while continuing to act.

Elise Neal

Elise Neal had a breakout role in the film ‘Rosewood’ and later starred in the hit sitcom ‘The Hughleys’ where she gained widespread recognition. She also appeared in the horror hit ‘Scream 2’ and the Oscar winning film ‘Hustle & Flow’ where she played a supporting role. Her talent for dancing and acting has allowed her to work across various genres during her career. Despite her high profile roles she did not become a consistent leading lady in major studio productions. She has remained active in the industry through television movies and independent film projects.

Angell Conwell

Angell Conwell began her career with roles in films like ‘Baby Boy’ and ‘The Wash’ which made her a recognizable face in the early two thousands. She later joined the cast of the soap opera ‘The Young and the Restless’ where she earned praise for her performance as Leslie Michaelson. Her beauty and talent helped her secure frequent work in both television and urban cinema during her career. While she has had a long and steady career she has not reached the level of a mainstream A list star. She continues to work in television and has built a strong following through her various roles.

Monica Calhoun

Monica Calhoun is best known for her role as Mia Morgan in ‘The Best Man’ and its sequel where she delivered an emotionally resonant performance. She has a long history in the industry appearing in projects like ‘The Players Club’ and ‘Bagdad Cafe’ as a younger actress. Her ability to handle intense drama has made her a favorite among fans and directors in the Black film community. Despite her talent and the success of her films she has not crossed over into major global A list stardom. She remains a highly respected actress who is often praised for her work in ensemble casts.

Melissa De Sousa

Melissa De Sousa gained fame for her role as Shelby in ‘The Best Man’ and the subsequent television series where she showcased her comedic skills. She also appeared in films like ‘Miss Congeniality’ and has had guest roles on numerous television shows throughout her career. Her performance as a high maintenance character became one of her most recognizable and enduring roles. While she has worked consistently she has not transitioned into the top tier of Hollywood stardom. She continues to be a part of the ‘Best Man’ franchise and works on various television projects.

Mari Morrow

Mari Morrow appeared in several popular films and television shows during the nineties including ‘How to Be a Player’ and ‘Virtuosity’ as well. She also had a recurring role on the soap opera ‘One Life to Live’ which helped her gain a broader audience. Her striking looks and talent made her a frequent choice for supporting roles in comedies and dramas alike. Despite her early momentum she did not land the major leading roles required to achieve A list status. She has largely moved away from the spotlight in recent years after a steady career in the industry.

LisaRaye McCoy

LisaRaye McCoy had a breakout role in the film ‘The Players Club’ directed by Ice Cube which made her an overnight sensation. She followed this success with a leading role in the sitcom ‘All of Us’ which ran for four seasons. Her public persona and career in the early two thousands made her a prominent figure in the entertainment world. While she has led several independent projects and starred in reality television she did not become a mainstay in major studio blockbusters. She remains a well known personality and actress who continues to work in television and film.

N’Bushe Wright

N’Bushe Wright gained critical acclaim for her role in the independent film ‘Zebrahead’ before appearing in the action hit ‘Blade’ as Dr. Karen Jenson. Her performance in ‘Blade’ alongside Wesley Snipes gave her significant mainstream exposure in a successful franchise. She also starred in ‘Dead Presidents’ which further demonstrated her dramatic range and talent. Despite these high profile roles she did not continue on a path to A list superstardom as many had predicted. She has appeared in fewer projects in recent years and has maintained a more private life.

Kellita Smith

Kellita Smith is best known for her role as Wanda McCullough on ‘The Bernie Mac Show’ where she was the perfect foil to the lead character. Her work on the sitcom earned her multiple award nominations and showcased her excellent comedic timing. She later transitioned into the action genre with a leading role in the series ‘Z Nation’ which ran for several seasons. While she is a veteran of the television industry she has not reached the level of a major A list movie star. She continues to work steadily in both television and film projects.

Vanessa Bell Calloway

Vanessa Bell Calloway had a memorable role as Princess Imani in the comedy classic ‘Coming to America’ which introduced her to a wide audience. She has had a long and distinguished career with roles in films like ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ and ‘Daylight’ as well. Her talent as a dancer and actress has kept her working consistently in Hollywood for several decades. Despite her skill and beauty she has often been cast in supporting roles rather than as the primary lead in major films. She is currently recognized for her work in hit series like ‘Saints & Sinners’ and remains a respected veteran.

Shari Headley

Shari Headley became an international star for her role as Lisa McDowell in ‘Coming to America’ which remains her most famous performance. She followed this with a long career in daytime television appearing in soap operas like ‘All My Children’ and ‘The Guiding Light’ as well. She also had roles in the series ‘The Haves and the Have Nots’ and returned for the sequel ‘Coming 2 America’ recently. Despite her early success in a massive blockbuster she did not transition into a career as a major film leading lady. She continues to be a beloved figure among fans of the films that made her famous.

Suzzanne Douglas

Suzzanne Douglas was a multi talented actress who won an NAACP Image Award for her performance in the film ‘Tap’ alongside Gregory Hines. She was widely known for her role as the matriarch on the sitcom ‘The Parent ‘Hood’ where she showcased her warmth and talent. She also appeared in the critically acclaimed miniseries ‘When They See Us’ later in her career. Her stage and screen work were always highly regarded by critics and her peers alike. Despite her immense talent she did not achieve the level of global A list stardom during her lifetime.

Anna Maria Horsford

Anna Maria Horsford is a veteran actress best known for her roles on ‘Amen’ and as Mrs. Jones in the ‘Friday’ film franchise. She has appeared in numerous movies including ‘Presumed Innocent’ and ‘Minority Report’ where she played supporting characters. Her career has spanned several decades and she has worked with many of the industry’s top directors. While she is a household name for her work in television and comedy she has not reached A list leading lady status. She remains a prolific actress who is frequently cast in both dramatic and comedic roles today.

Dawnn Lewis

Dawnn Lewis became famous as Jaleesa Vinson on ‘A Different World’ and also co wrote the show’s iconic theme song. She went on to star in ‘Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper’ and has had a very successful career as a voice actress in numerous animated series. Her talent as a singer and actress made her a prominent figure in the nineties television landscape. Despite her early success and versatility she did not become a major star in the world of motion pictures. She continues to work frequently in theater and television while maintaining a strong presence in the voice acting community.

Tell us which of these talented actresses you would have loved to see in more major film roles in the comments.