African-American Actresses Who Passed Away in 2025

The entertainment industry felt a significant loss as several talented African-American actresses passed away throughout the year of 2025. These women contributed to the cultural landscape through their groundbreaking roles on television and in cinema. Their work spanned various genres including sitcoms and dramatic stage productions and major motion pictures. Each individual featured on this list left behind a legacy of artistry and excellence that defined their respective eras. Their deaths represent the conclusion of remarkable careers that paved the way for future generations of performers.

Angie Stone

Angie Stone passed away on March 1 at the age of 63. She gained widespread recognition as a neo-soul singer before expanding her career into film and television. Her acting credits include a notable performance in the musical comedy ‘The Fighting Temptations’ as well as roles in ‘Pastor Brown’ and ‘Girlfriends’. She was celebrated for her powerful voice and her ability to bring depth to both her music and her screen characters. This multifaceted artist left a lasting impression on the entertainment industry through her diverse creative contributions.

Marlene Warfield

Marlene Warfield died on April 6 at the age of 83. She was a prolific stage and screen actress best known for her role as Laureen Hobbs in the satirical film ‘Network’. Her career included significant television work on programs such as ‘Maude’ and ‘The Richard Pryor Show’. She began her journey in the theater and was a member of the Negro Ensemble Company during its formative years. Throughout her decades in the industry she remained a respected figure for her strong character portrayals.

Lynn Hamilton

Lynn Hamilton passed away on June 19 at the age of 95. She earned a place in television history for her recurring role as Donna Harris on the classic sitcom ‘Sanford and Son’. Beyond comedy she showcased her range with a long-running role as Verdie Grant on the drama series ‘The Waltons’. Her extensive filmography also includes appearances in ‘Lady Sings the Blues’ and ‘The Learning Tree’. She spent over fifty years as a professional actress and was admired for her consistent and graceful performances.

Kimberly Hébert Gregory

Kimberly Hébert Gregory died on October 3 at the age of 52. She was widely recognized for her standout performance as Dr. Belinda Brown in the dark comedy series ‘Vice Principals’. Her television career featured regular roles in ‘Kevin (Probably) Saves the World’ and guest appearances on shows like ‘The Chi’ and ‘Better Call Saul’. She was also a highly accomplished stage actress who received a Drama Desk Award nomination for her work in the play ‘By the Way, Meet Vera Stark’. Her sudden passing marked the end of a vibrant and versatile career in the performing arts.

Please share your favorite memories of these incredible women in the comments.