The Best Black Actresses in the History of Cinema

Black actresses have left an indelible mark on cinema, breaking barriers and delivering unforgettable performances. Their talent has shaped Hollywood, from silent films to modern blockbusters, often overcoming systemic challenges to shine.

This article honors remarkable women whose work has inspired generations. We dive into their iconic roles and lasting impact, celebrating their contributions to movie history.

Zendaya

Zendaya’s rise from teen standout to leading lady has been defined by poise, range, and a magnetic screen presence that belies her age. On film, she balances blockbuster charisma with a nuanced, interior style of acting—communicating volumes through stillness, micro-expressions, and a precise sense of timing. She’s quickly become a generational bellwether: an artist whose choices shape trends rather than chase them.

Her work in major franchises and prestige projects alike shows uncommon versatility. From portraying a sardonic, grounded foil in large-scale spectacles to anchoring moody, character-driven dramas, Zendaya brings freshness to familiar genres. She elevates partners, deepens the emotional texture of her scenes, and consistently finds the human heartbeat inside the epic.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan has long been a cornerstone of modern Black cinema, bringing intelligence, warmth, and quiet intensity to every role. Her performances often center Black women’s interior lives with a rare blend of vulnerability and self-possession, making her characters feel lived-in and emotionally precise.

She’s equally at home in romance, comedy, and action, shifting gears without losing authenticity. Whether charting a young woman’s coming-of-age on and off the court or commanding the frame in slick studio thrillers, Lathan’s control of tone and chemistry with scene partners have made her films enduring favorites—revisited as much for her layered character work as for their stories.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton brings a sculptor’s precision to performance, carving out space within complex narratives for truth, contradiction, and surprise. Her screen presence can be regal one moment and raw the next, reflecting a deep understanding of how small choices—a glance, a breath, a pause—reshape a scene’s emotional gravity.

In dramas and ensemble pieces, she often becomes the moral and thematic anchor, illuminating the fractures and fault lines beneath the plot. Newton’s filmography showcases her appetite for challenging material and her ability to interrogate power, identity, and desire, leaving indelible impressions long after the credits roll.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is one of cinema’s defining dramatic voices, renowned for performances that resound with lived experience and uncompromising truth. She approaches characters with a meticulous craft—honed on stage and translated to screen—so that every line lands with history and purpose.

On film, Davis embodies resilience, grief, and love with soul-stirring clarity. She can turn a single monologue into an earthquake, yet she’s just as devastating in silence. Her portrayals of working-class women, artists, and historical figures have expanded the canvas of Black womanhood on screen and set a modern standard for powerhouse acting.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg is a singular force whose film career bridges drama and comedy with fearless ease. A trailblazer with undeniable cultural impact, she arrived fully formed—witty, empathetic, and endlessly inventive—redefining what a leading actress could look and sound like in mainstream cinema.

Her range spans tender, spiritually charged dramas to joyous, crowd-pleasing comedies, often grounding the most fantastical premises with human warmth. Goldberg’s characters feel like people you know: imperfect, disarming, and deeply alive. Her films remain touchstones not only for their entertainment value but for how they opened doors and broadened horizons.

Regina King

Regina King’s evolution from standout performer to commanding cinematic presence—and acclaimed filmmaker—reflects an artist with vision and staying power. On screen, she radiates integrity and emotional intelligence, rendering relationships with the kind of specificity that makes them universal.

King’s roles often balance strength and tenderness, revealing new facets as stories unfold. She can be devastating in small, intimate moments and unforgettable in climactic ones, giving her characters an arc that lingers beyond the final scene. Her contributions behind the camera underscore her commitment to storytelling that is elegant, humane, and resonant.

Quevenzhané Wallis

At just five years old, Quevenzhané Wallis captivated audiences as Hushpuppy in ‘Beasts of the Southern Wild’ (2012). Her raw, emotional performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, making her the youngest nominee ever at age nine.

Wallis brought depth to a role that demanded resilience and vulnerability. Her later work in ‘Annie’ (2014) showcased her charm, proving she’s a talent to watch as she grows in the industry.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer burst onto the scene as a child star in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ (2006), portraying a spelling prodigy with heart. She made history as the first Black Cinderella on Broadway in 2014, showcasing her versatility.

From ‘Hustlers’ (2019) to her Emmy-winning role in ‘Turnt Up with the Taylors’ (2021), Palmer’s range spans drama, comedy, and music. Her vibrant energy continues to light up screens.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o stunned the world with her debut in ‘12 Years a Slave’ (2013), earning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress as Patsey. Her raw portrayal of a woman enduring unimaginable hardship was unforgettable.

She’s since starred in ‘Black Panther’ (2018) as Nakia and ‘Us’ (2019), proving her ability to tackle diverse genres. Nyong’o’s elegance and power make her a global icon.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson’s breakout role as Yvette in ‘Baby Boy’ (2001) hinted at her star potential. She earned an Oscar nomination for ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ (2008) and stole scenes in ‘Hidden Figures’ (2016) as Katherine Johnson.

Henson’s commanding presence in ‘Empire’ (2015-2020) as Cookie Lyon cemented her as a household name. Her ability to blend grit and glamour is unmatched.

Regina King

Regina King’s career began with ‘Boyz n the Hood’ (1991), but her role in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ (2018) won her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her portrayal of a devoted mother was heartrending.

King’s work in ‘Watchmen’ (2019) earned her an Emmy, showcasing her range. Her directorial debut, ‘One Night in Miami’ (2020), further proves her storytelling prowess.

Pam Grier

Pam Grier became a cultural icon in the 1970s with ‘Foxy Brown’ (1974) and ‘Coffy’ (1973). Her bold roles in Blaxploitation films redefined strong female leads, blending action and charisma.

Grier’s influence extends to ‘Jackie Brown’ (1997), where she showcased her dramatic depth. Her trailblazing career paved the way for future action heroines.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg’s role as Celie in ‘The Color Purple’ (1985) earned her an Oscar nomination. She later won Best Supporting Actress for her comedic turn in ‘Ghost’ (1990), proving her versatility.

An EGOT winner, Goldberg’s work in ‘Sister Act’ (1992) showcased her infectious humor. Her unique voice and presence make her a beloved legend.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett’s portrayal of Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ (1993) earned her an Oscar nomination. Her electric performance captured Turner’s strength and vulnerability.

From ‘Malcolm X’ (1992) to ‘Black Panther’ (2018) as Queen Ramonda, Bassett’s regal presence shines. Her commanding roles inspire audiences worldwide.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis made history as the first Black woman to win the Triple Crown of Acting (Oscar, Emmy, Tony). Her Oscar-winning role in ‘Fences’ (2016) showcased her emotional depth as Rose Maxson.

Davis’ work in ‘The Help’ (2011) and ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ (2014-2020) highlights her versatility. Her powerful performances redefine excellence.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry broke barriers as the first Black woman to win an Academy Award for Best Actress for ‘Monster’s Ball’ (2001). Her raw portrayal of a grieving widow was groundbreaking.

From ‘X-Men’ (2000) as Storm to ‘Die Another Day’ (2002), Berry’s charisma lights up blockbusters. Her trailblazing career continues to inspire.

Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson’s role in ‘Sounder’ (1972) earned her an Oscar nomination, but her Emmy-winning performance in ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman’ (1974) solidified her as a legend. She portrayed a woman’s life across decades with grace.

Tyson’s work in ‘Roots’ (1977) and ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ (2014-2020) showcased her enduring power. Her legacy is one of dignity and impact.

Dorothy Dandridge

Dorothy Dandridge dazzled as Carmen Jones (1954), earning the first Best Actress Oscar nomination for a Black woman. Her magnetic performance blended sensuality and tragedy.

Dandridge’s role in ‘Porgy and Bess’ (1959) further showcased her talent. Despite facing racism, her elegance left a lasting mark on Hollywood.

Lena Horne

Lena Horne’s radiant presence in ‘Stormy Weather’ (1943) made her a star. Her iconic song in the film became a cultural touchstone, showcasing her talent as a singer and actress.

Horne’s activism and roles in ‘Cabin in the Sky’ (1943) broke barriers. Her grace under pressure made her a trailblazer in a segregated industry.

Hattie McDaniel

Hattie McDaniel made history as the first Black person to win an Oscar for ‘Gone with the Wind’ (1939). Her role as Mammy, though controversial, showcased her talent in a limited era.

McDaniel’s work in ‘Song of the South’ (1946) and her stage career highlighted her resilience. She paved the way for future Black actors despite adversity.

Josephine Baker

Josephine Baker became the first Black woman to star in a major film with ‘Zouzou’ (1934). Her vibrant performance in the French film showcased her charisma and dance prowess.

Baker’s roles in ‘Siren of the Tropics’ (1927) and her activism during the Civil Rights Movement made her a global icon. Her legacy transcends cinema.

Which Black actress or iconic role resonates with you most? Share your thoughts in the comments!