African-American Actresses Nobody Hates

African-American actresses have shaped the landscape of film and television with undeniable talent and grace. These performers bring stories to life that resonate with audiences across the globe. Their contributions range from groundbreaking historical dramas to hilarious sitcoms that define generations. Viewers embrace these women not just for their skills but for the authenticity they bring to every project. This list celebrates forty talented women who have earned a permanent place in the hearts of fans everywhere.

Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson shattered barriers for Black actresses by refusing to take roles that demeaned her dignity. She delivered a searing performance in ‘Sounder’ that earned her an Academy Award nomination. Audiences remember her fondly for her powerful portrayal of the title character in ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman’. Her career spanned seven decades and garnered her countless accolades including an honorary Oscar. Tyson remains an enduring symbol of elegance and artistic integrity.

Ruby Dee

Ruby Dee combined her artistic pursuits with a lifelong commitment to civil rights activism. She starred alongside Sidney Poitier in the classic film ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ where she played a weary yet resilient wife. Her role in ‘American Gangster’ earned her an Academy Award nomination at the age of eighty-three. Dee often worked with her husband Ossie Davis to create socially conscious theater and film. She is revered as a matriarch of American acting.

Diahann Carroll

Diahann Carroll made history as the first African-American woman to star in her own television series in a non-stereotypical role. She captivated viewers as the title character in the sitcom ‘Julia’ during the late 1960s. Carroll later commanded the screen as the glamorous and villainous Dominique Deveraux in the soap opera ‘Dynasty’. Her performance in the film ‘Claudine’ showcased her ability to handle gritty dramatic material with ease. She paved the way for future generations of leading ladies.

Nichelle Nichols

Nichelle Nichols broke major ground in science fiction television with her role as Lieutenant Uhura in ‘Star Trek’. Her presence on the bridge of the Enterprise showed a future where Black women held positions of authority and respect. She participated in one of the first interracial kisses on television which marked a significant cultural moment. NASA later recruited her to help encourage women and minorities to join the space program. Nichols remains a beloved icon within pop culture history.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg is one of the few entertainers to achieve EGOT status by winning an Emmy and a Grammy and an Oscar and a Tony. She burst onto the scene with a deeply moving performance in ‘The Color Purple’ directed by Steven Spielberg. Audiences fell in love with her comedic timing in the massive hit ‘Sister Act’. Her role as a psychic in ‘Ghost’ earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Goldberg continues to influence the culture as a long-running moderator on daytime television.

Phylicia Rashād

Phylicia Rashād is widely considered the mother of the television century for her role as Clair Huxtable on ‘The Cosby Show’. She brought a mix of stern discipline and loving warmth that redefined the image of the television mom. Rashād has also enjoyed a distinguished career in the theater with acclaimed performances in plays by August Wilson. She became the first Black actress to win the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. Her authority and grace command respect in every medium she enters.

Debbie Allen

Debbie Allen is a multi-talented force who has conquered the worlds of acting and dancing and directing. She gained fame as the demanding dance teacher Lydia Grant in the television series ‘Fame’. Allen has directed countless episodes of popular television shows and serves as a mentor to young artists. Her role as Catherine Avery in ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ introduced her to a new generation of fans. She works tirelessly to expand arts education for underserved communities.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard is celebrated for her versatility and ability to convey deep emotion with subtle expressions. She has won four Primetime Emmy Awards for her work in various dramas and miniseries. Her performance in the film ‘Clemency’ received critical acclaim for its raw depiction of a prison warden. Woodard consistently chooses complex roles that challenge viewers to think deeply about social issues. She is often regarded by critics as one of the most talented actors of her generation.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett possesses a regal screen presence that allows her to play historical figures and superheroes alike. She delivered a legendary performance as Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ that earned her an Oscar nomination. Her portrayal of Queen Ramonda in ‘Black Panther’ showcased her power and dignity to a global audience. Bassett maintains a high level of physical fitness and intensity that she brings to action roles. She recently received an honorary Academy Award for her contributions to cinema.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is the first African-American to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting with competitive Oscar and Emmy and Tony wins. She stunned audiences with her brief but impactful role in ‘Doubt’ alongside Meryl Streep. Her lead performance in the series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ broke molds for female anti-heroes on network television. Davis brings a raw and unvarnished truth to every character she inhabits. She speaks openly about the need for pay equity and representation in Hollywood.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry made history as the first and only African-American woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress. She won the award for her emotionally naked performance in the drama ‘Monster’s Ball’. Berry also proved her box office draw by playing Storm in the ‘X-Men’ franchise. Her turn as Jinx in ‘Die Another Day’ cemented her status as a global style icon. She continues to direct and star in films that push her physical limits.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah transitioned seamlessly from a groundbreaking hip-hop artist to a beloved Hollywood actress. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her role as Matron Mama Morton in the musical ‘Chicago’. Her hit sitcom ‘Living Single’ remains a touchstone for comedy fans and influenced later ensemble shows. Latifah brings a natural charisma and coolness to every project she leads. She consistently produces content that uplifts diverse voices.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine is known for her distinctive soft voice and her scene-stealing capabilities. She originated the role of Lorrell Robinson in the legendary Broadway production of ‘Dreamgirls’. Audiences loved her as a mother figure in films like ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘This Christmas’. She won a Primetime Emmy Award for her dramatic work in ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. Devine remains one of the busiest and most reliable character actresses in the industry.

Jenifer Lewis

Jenifer Lewis has earned the title of The Mother of Black Hollywood due to her longevity and maternal roles. She is famous for playing immense personalities with humor and heart in shows like ‘Black-ish’. Her voice work in animated films such as ‘The Princess and the Frog’ is cherished by families. Lewis wrote a best-selling memoir that details her journey through fame and mental health struggles. She commands every room she enters with her booming voice and theatrical flair.

Regina King

Regina King grew up on screen starting with her role as Brenda Jenkins in the sitcom ‘227’. She transitioned into adult roles with powerful performances in films like ‘Jerry Maguire’ and ‘Ray’. King won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her work in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. She has also established herself as a highly respecting director for film and television. Her career trajectory serves as a blueprint for longevity in a fickle industry.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer worked for years in small parts before her breakout role in ‘The Help’ earned her an Academy Award. She brings a unique warmth and intelligence to roles ranging from mathematicians to thriller villains. Her performance in ‘Hidden Figures’ celebrated the unsung contributions of Black women at NASA. Spencer continues to produce projects that highlight underrepresented narratives. Audiences respond to her relatable demeanor and sharp comedic timing.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is a powerhouse performer who captivates viewers with her high energy and emotional range. She created an iconic television character with her portrayal of Cookie Lyon on ‘Empire’. Her role as a math genius in ‘Hidden Figures’ showed a different side of her dramatic capabilities. Henson garnered an Academy Award nomination for her tender performance in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’. She is also a vocal advocate for mental health awareness in the African-American community.

Kimberly Elise

Kimberly Elise is known for her intense dramatic ability in films that tackle difficult subjects. She held her own against Oprah Winfrey in the film adaptation of ‘Beloved’. Audiences recognize her from her memorable role in Tyler Perry’s ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman’. Her performance in ‘Set It Off’ displayed her ability to play vulnerable characters caught in tragic circumstances. Elise brings a grounding presence to every ensemble cast she joins.

Nia Long

Nia Long has been a crush for an entire generation thanks to her roles in classic 90s cinema. She starred in cultural touchstones like ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘Love Jones’. Her comedic chemistry with Will Smith on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ is fondly remembered by television fans. Long manages to balance appearing in blockbuster comedies with serious dramatic work. She maintains a timeless beauty and charm that keeps her in high demand.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan became a romantic lead superstar with her performance in ‘Love & Basketball’. She showed her range by voicing the title character on the animated series ‘The Cleveland Show’. Her work in the thriller ‘The Perfect Guy’ demonstrated her ability to carry a box office hit. Lathan also received acclaim for her Broadway performance in ‘Cat on a Hot Tin Roof’. She brings a sophisticated and intelligent energy to her characters.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union broke out as a cheerleader in the cult classic comedy ‘Bring It On’. She became a fixture in romantic comedies and dramas such as ‘Deliver Us from Eva’. Her leading role in the series ‘Being Mary Jane’ garnered critical praise for its complex depiction of a professional woman. Union is also an outspoken author who advocates for women in the workplace. Her honesty and humor have built her a massive following on social media.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross stepped out of the shadow of her famous mother Diana Ross to become a comedy legend. She anchored the long-running sitcom ‘Girlfriends’ as the neurotic but lovable Joan Clayton. Her role as Bow Johnson on ‘Black-ish’ earned her a Golden Globe Award. Ross is celebrated for her fashion sense and her joyful public persona. She successfully launched a hair care line while continuing to produce and star in television projects.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall gained initial fame for her hilarious role as Brenda Meeks in the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise. She proved her dramatic chops in the film ‘Support the Girls’ which won her several critics awards. Audiences love her ability to be completely uninhibited and funny in films like ‘Girls Trip’. Hall has a natural likability that allows her to play chaotic characters who are still endearing. She remains one of the most versatile actresses working in comedy today.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington changed the television landscape with her role as Olivia Pope in ‘Scandal’. She became the first African-American woman to headline a network drama in nearly forty years. Her performance in ‘Django Unchained’ showed her ability to handle grueling historical narratives. Washington produces socially conscious documentaries and series through her production company. She is known for her intelligence and political activism off screen.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson was discovered as a teenager and quickly made a name for herself in the indie film ‘Kids’. She has appeared in major franchises ranging from ‘Men in Black’ to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Dawson brought the character of Ahsoka Tano to live action in the ‘Star Wars’ universe. Her singing ability was showcased in the film adaptation of the musical ‘Rent’. She is a passionate activist who uses her platform to encourage voting.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña is the queen of sci-fi cinema appearing in the three highest-grossing films of all time. She plays Gamora in the Marvel movies and Neytiri in the ‘Avatar’ franchise. Her background in dance helps her master the physical requirements of action-heavy roles. Saldaña also starred as Lieutenant Uhura in the rebooted ‘Star Trek’ film series. She consistently delivers strong performances even when covered in motion capture technology or special effects makeup.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba won the hearts of viewers with her portrayal of Suzanne Crazy Eyes Warren in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She won two Emmy Awards for the same role in both comedy and drama categories. Aduba brought history to life as Shirley Chisholm in the miniseries ‘Mrs. America’. Her stage work includes acclaimed performances in ‘Godspell’ and ‘Clyde’s’. She brings a deep empathy to characters that society often overlooks.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae transitioned from a YouTube web series creator to a massive HBO star. She created and starred in ‘Insecure’ which explored the awkwardness of navigating adulthood as a Black woman. Her voice is distinct and offers a fresh perspective on Los Angeles culture. Rae has expanded her empire to include a record label and multiple production deals. She champions other independent creators and helps them find mainstream success.

Danielle Brooks

Danielle Brooks gained fame as the joyful and complex Taystee in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She earned a Tony nomination for her powerful work in the revival of ‘The Color Purple’ on Broadway. Brooks later reprised the role for the film adaptation and received an Academy Award nomination. She hosts television shows and advocates for body positivity in the fashion industry. Her infectious energy makes her a favorite among castmates and fans.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph

Da’Vine Joy Randolph swept the 2024 awards season with her role in ‘The Holdovers’. She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for playing a grieving mother and cafeteria manager. Her breakout performance in ‘Dolemite Is My Name’ showcased her ability to steal scenes from comedy legends. Randolph began her career in theater and brings that discipline to her screen work. She is praised for her emotional depth and impeccable timing.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson became a household name after her run on ‘American Idol’ and her Oscar-winning role in ‘Dreamgirls’. She delivered a powerhouse vocal performance as Effie White that remains legendary. Hudson recently achieved EGOT status after producing the Tony-winning musical ‘A Strange Loop’. She played Aretha Franklin in the biopic ‘Respect’ with the blessing of the Queen of Soul herself. She now connects with audiences daily through her own talk show.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is a chameleon who disappears into roles across independent films and blockbusters. She plays Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and brings a modern edge to the superhero genre. Her performance in ‘Creed’ added a strong emotional core to the boxing franchise. Thompson received acclaim for her work in the period romance ‘Sylvie’s Love’. She actively pushes for more diversity in film criticism and production.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe creates unique characters on screen just as she does in her music career. She impressed critics with her film debut in ‘Moonlight’ which won Best Picture. Her role as a brilliant engineer in ‘Hidden Figures’ solidified her status as a serious actress. Monáe starred in the mystery hit ‘Glass Onion’ where she played dual roles with complexity. She continues to blur the lines between performance art and traditional acting.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer has been in the spotlight since she was a child starring in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’. She made history as the youngest talk show host in television history. Her performance in Jordan Peele’s ‘Nope’ was praised for its charisma and energy. Palmer is known for her viral internet moments and her candid sense of humor. She is a true multi-hyphenate who sings and acts and hosts with equal skill.

Zendaya

Zendaya transitioned from a Disney Channel child star to one of the most acclaimed actresses of her generation. She became the youngest two-time winner of the Emmy for Best Actress for her role in ‘Euphoria’. Her performance as Rue Bennett is raw and unflinching in its depiction of addiction. She also stars in massive film franchises like ‘Dune’ and ‘Spider-Man’. Zendaya is a fashion icon whose red carpet appearances are global events.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson created the smash hit mockumentary ‘Abbott Elementary’. She writes and produces and stars in the show which champions the importance of teachers. Her work has earned her history-making Emmy Awards in comedy categories. Brunson began her career making viral videos on Instagram and BuzzFeed. She is celebrated for bringing wholesome yet sharp humor back to network television.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri captured the cultural zeitgeist with her role as Sydney Adamu in ‘The Bear’. She swept the major television awards for her anxious yet ambitious character. Edebiri is also a talented writer who has worked on shows like ‘Big Mouth’. Her humble and humorous acceptance speeches have endeared her to fans worldwide. She represents a new wave of talent that excels in both comedy and drama.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin became a star through her role as the witty Diane Johnson on ‘Black-ish’. She made history as the youngest person to executive produce a major studio film with ‘Little’. Her production company focuses on creating content that empowers young people. Martin has won numerous NAACP Image Awards for her acting work. She continues to break barriers for young creatives in Hollywood.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi grew up on screen as Zoey Johnson in ‘Black-ish’ before leading her own spinoff ‘Grown-ish’. She balances her acting career with serious academic pursuits at Harvard University. Shahidi is a prominent activist who focuses on youth engagement in politics. She played Tinker Bell in the live-action ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’. Her intellect and grace make her a role model for Generation Z.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid held the screen with poise as the lead in ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ directed by Ava DuVernay. She delivered a heartbreaking performance in the hit series ‘The Last of Us’. Reid also plays the younger sister of Zendaya’s character in ‘Euphoria’. She manages to balance a busy acting schedule with her college studies. Her choices in roles reflect a maturity well beyond her years.

Tell us which actress you admire the most in the comments.