African-American Actresses Who Reinvented Themselves

The landscape of Hollywood has seen a remarkable transformation through the diverse careers of African American actresses who have navigated the complexities of the industry. Many of these women have successfully pivoted from their initial roles in sitcoms or music to become powerhouses in dramatic cinema and production. This evolution often involves a strategic shift in public image and the selection of increasingly challenging projects. By reinventing themselves they have broken barriers and expanded the types of stories told on screen.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson transitioned from her breakout role in ‘Baby Boy’ to becoming a staple of dramatic cinema and television. She achieved critical acclaim for her performance in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ which earned her an Academy Award nomination. Her career took a significant turn when she played Cookie Lyon in the television series ‘Empire’ and became a cultural icon. She later took on leadership roles in films like ‘Hidden Figures’ to showcase her versatility. This shift from character actress to leading lady solidified her position in the entertainment industry.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis began her career on the stage and earned multiple Tony Awards before making a major impact in film. Her brief but powerful role in ‘Doubt’ served as a turning point that brought her mainstream recognition. She further reinvented her screen presence by leading the hit television drama ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. Davis became the first African American actress to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting by winning an Oscar an Emmy and a Tony. She continues to transform her image through intense physical roles in films such as ‘The Woman King’.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah first rose to prominence as a pioneering female rapper in the hip hop industry during the late eighties. She successfully transitioned to television with the sitcom ‘Living Single’ which showcased her comedic timing. Her film career reached a high point when she received an Academy Award nomination for her role in the musical ‘Chicago’. She has since expanded her brand to include talk show hosting and production through her company Flavor Unit Entertainment. Her ability to move between music and film has made her a versatile figure in entertainment.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry began her career as a model and beauty pageant contestant before transitioning into dramatic acting roles. She gained significant attention for her performance in ‘Jungle Fever’ and later made history by winning an Academy Award for ‘Monster’s Ball’. After establishing herself as a leading dramatic actress she moved into the superhero genre with roles in ‘X-Men’ and ‘Catwoman’. Recently she has reinvented herself again by stepping behind the camera to direct the film ‘Bruised’. Her career trajectory shows a continuous effort to challenge herself across different facets of the industry.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett established her reputation by portraying iconic real life figures in films such as ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’. She became known for her powerful dramatic presence and physical transformation into the characters she played. In recent years she has reinvented her career by joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Queen Ramonda in ‘Black Panther’. She also found success on television by starring in and executive producing the procedural drama ‘9-1-1’. Her longevity in the industry is a result of her ability to adapt to changing audience interests.

Regina King

Regina King started as a child actress on the sitcom ‘227’ and spent years as a dependable supporting player in various films. She experienced a massive career reinvention in her forties with acclaimed roles in ‘Southland’ and ‘American Crime’. This resurgence led to her winning an Academy Award for her performance in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. King has since transitioned into a highly respected director with the film ‘One Night in Miami’. Her journey from child star to Oscar winning director is considered one of the most successful reinventions in Hollywood.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldana began her career in the dance film ‘Center Stage’ before moving into more traditional acting roles. She reinvented herself as the queen of science fiction by taking on major roles in ‘Avatar’ and ‘Star Trek’. Her portrayal of Gamora in the ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ franchise further cemented her status as a global box office force. She has balanced these blockbuster roles with more intimate dramatic work in projects like ‘From Scratch’. Her career is defined by her dominance in high concept genre filmmaking.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith first gained fame through her roles in the sitcom ‘A Different World’ and films like ‘Menace II Society’. She transitioned into action cinema with her role as Niobe in ‘The Matrix’ sequels during the early two thousands. Later she pivoted her career toward digital media by creating and hosting the talk show ‘Red Table Talk’. This move allowed her to reinvent herself as a candid media personality and producer. She remains an influential figure by using her platform to discuss social and personal issues.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross became a household name through her portrayal of Joan Clayton on the long running sitcom ‘Girlfriends’. After the show ended she successfully reinvented her image by starring in the critically acclaimed series ‘Black-ish’. This role earned her multiple awards and established her as a leading comedic voice of her generation. She has also expanded into the business world by launching a successful hair care line for textured hair. Her ability to build a multifaceted brand has kept her relevant in both entertainment and entrepreneurship.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington spent years working in independent films and supporting roles in movies like ‘Ray’ and ‘The Last King of Scotland’. She experienced a career defining reinvention when she was cast as Olivia Pope in the television series ‘Scandal’. The show made her a global star and one of the highest paid actresses on television at the time. Since the conclusion of the series she has focused on producing through her company Simpson Street. Her work on ‘Little Fires Everywhere’ demonstrates her continued commitment to complex female driven narratives.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer worked for many years in small uncredited roles and bit parts across television and film. Her career was completely reinvented after her breakout performance in ‘The Help’ for which she won an Academy Award. Following this success she moved from being a character actress to a sought after lead in films like ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Ma’. She has also ventured into executive producing to have more control over the projects she joins. Her rise to stardom serves as an example of persistence leading to late career success.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson first appeared in the public eye as a contestant on the reality competition ‘American Idol’. Although she did not win the competition she reinvented herself as a powerhouse actress by winning an Academy Award for her film debut in ‘Dreamgirls’. She has since navigated a career that balances high profile musical roles with dramatic turns in films like ‘The Color Purple’. Hudson also achieved EGOT status after winning a Tony Award as a producer. Her transformation from reality contestant to industry titan is widely admired.

Mo’Nique

Mo’Nique began her journey in the entertainment industry as a stand up comedian and sitcom star on ‘The Parkers’. She surprised audiences and critics alike when she took a dramatic turn in the film ‘Precious’. Her performance earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and changed the perception of her acting range. Despite her success she faced challenges in the industry that led to a period of professional transition. She recently returned to the spotlight with a successful comedy special and a role in the series ‘BMF’.

Nia Long

Nia Long became a prominent figure in the nineties through her roles in classic films like ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘Love Jones’. She was often cast as the romantic lead in urban dramas and comedies during the height of her early career. As the industry evolved she reinvented herself by taking on more mature and authoritative roles in television shows like ‘Empire’ and ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’. She continues to be a respected veteran who maintains a consistent presence across various media platforms. Her ability to age gracefully within the industry has allowed her to keep a loyal fan base.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union rose to fame in the late nineties through popular teen movies such as ‘Bring It On’. She successfully transitioned into more serious roles as she matured and eventually starred in the hit series ‘Being Mary Jane’. This project allowed her to showcase a wider emotional range and established her as a leading lady in television drama. Union has also become a vocal advocate for inclusion and has authored several books about her life experiences. Her reinvention as an activist and producer has expanded her influence beyond acting.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox became a major star in the mid nineties after appearing in blockbusters like ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Set It Off’. She was a staple of high budget action and drama films for several years. As the film industry shifted she reinvented her career by becoming a prolific star and producer of television movies for the Lifetime network. She also appeared in several reality television programs which introduced her to a new generation of viewers. Her work ethic has allowed her to remain a visible and active figure in the entertainment business.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good started her career as a child actress and gained critical acclaim for her performance in ‘Eve’s Bayou’. She transitioned into teen stardom and later became a frequent lead in various horror and romantic comedy films. In recent years she has reinvented her image by taking on roles in faith based projects and television series like ‘Harlem’. She has also explored directing and producing to gain more creative autonomy over her work. Her evolution reflects her desire to move beyond the roles of her youth into more complex characters.

Tiffany Haddish

Tiffany Haddish worked for many years as a struggling stand up comedian before her massive breakout in ‘Girls Trip’. The film propelled her to A list status and led to a series of leading roles in both comedies and dramas. She reinvented her career by hosting ‘Saturday Night Live’ and winning an Emmy for her performance. Haddish has also ventured into writing and producing to develop projects that highlight her unique comedic voice. Her rapid ascent from foster care to Hollywood stardom is a testament to her resilience.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae first gained attention through her innovative web series ‘The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl’. She successfully reinvented the path to stardom by parlaying her internet success into the hit HBO series ‘Insecure’. This project established her as a major creator and actress with a distinct perspective on modern life. She has since expanded her empire to include music management and a production company called Hoorae Media. Her career demonstrates the power of digital platforms in launching traditional media careers.

Zendaya

Zendaya began her professional life as a child star on the Disney Channel series ‘Shake It Up’. She undertook a major career reinvention by taking on the lead role in the gritty drama series ‘Euphoria’. This performance earned her two Emmy Awards and changed the public perception of her as a dramatic actress. She further solidified her A list status with major roles in the ‘Spider-Man’ franchise and the ‘Dune’ films. Her strategic move from child star to serious dramatic actor is considered a blueprint for modern career longevity.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o made a stunning film debut in ’12 Years a Slave’ which won her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She avoided being typecast by taking on diverse roles in voice acting and performance capture for ‘Star Wars’ and ‘The Jungle Book’. Her reinvention continued as she moved into the horror genre with a dual role in the film ‘Us’. She also became a prominent figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe through her role in ‘Black Panther’. Her career is characterized by a deliberate selection of roles that showcase her extensive range.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo achieved massive success on Broadway in the musical ‘The Color Purple’ before moving into the film industry. She reinvented herself as a dramatic screen actress with her portrayal of Harriet Tubman in the biopic ‘Harriet’. This role earned her multiple award nominations and established her as a powerful presence in cinema. She has continued to take on challenging roles in projects like ‘Genius: Aretha’ and the film adaptation of ‘Wicked’. Her transition from stage to screen has been marked by critical acclaim and commercial success.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe was primarily known as a conceptually driven musical artist before she began her transition into acting. She made a significant impact with her roles in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Moonlight’ during the same award season. These performances reinvented her as a serious dramatic actress capable of holding her own alongside industry veterans. She has since taken on leading roles in films like ‘Antebellum’ and the sequel ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. Her ability to maintain high level careers in both music and film is a rare achievement.

Teyana Taylor

Teyana Taylor started her career as a choreographer and singer with a strong focus on the music industry. She reinvented herself as a dramatic lead actress with her performance in the film ‘A Thousand and One’. Her portrayal of a mother struggling in New York City received widespread critical praise and several awards. This shift showed her depth as a performer and opened new doors in the acting world. She continues to balance her creative pursuits while being recognized as a rising star in independent cinema.

Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige established herself as the Queen of Hip Hop Soul with a legendary career in the music industry. She successfully reinvented her public image by pursuing serious acting roles in television and film. Her performance in the period drama ‘Mudbound’ earned her two Academy Award nominations for both acting and songwriting. She also took on a leading role in the series ‘Power Book II: Ghost’ where she plays a formidable matriarch. Her transition into acting has been defined by her vulnerability and raw emotional power.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer gained early fame as a child star in the film ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ and on the series ‘True Jackson, VP’. She reinvented her career as an adult by embracing her personality through social media and talk show hosting. Her performance in the science fiction film ‘Nope’ showcased her growth as a dramatic and comedic actress. She has also found success as an entrepreneur and digital creator with her own media platform. Her ability to remain relevant across multiple decades and formats is a significant accomplishment.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné became a household name as a child on ‘The Cosby Show’ and later as the lead of ‘That’s So Raven’. She reinvented her image by joining the talk show ‘The View’ where she shared her opinions on a wide range of social topics. She eventually returned to her roots by producing and starring in the revival series ‘Raven’s Home’. Throughout her career she has transitioned from a child star to a multi-hyphenate producer and director. Her longevity is a result of her deep understanding of the television industry.

Brandy Norwood

Brandy Norwood was a teenage superstar with a successful music career and her own hit sitcom ‘Moesha’. She took a break from the spotlight before reinventing herself through roles on Broadway and in television dramas like ‘Star’. Her return to the horror genre in projects like ‘The Front Room’ shows her willingness to explore darker themes as an actress. She has also continued to release music while maintaining a steady presence in the acting world. Her ability to pivot between different areas of entertainment has sustained her career for over thirty years.

Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams faced significant public challenges early in her career after resigning as Miss America. She successfully reinvented herself as a recording artist with several hit songs before moving into acting. Her role as Wilhelmina Slater on the series ‘Ugly Betty’ earned her critical acclaim and established her as a premier television villain. She has also enjoyed success on the Broadway stage and in various television projects like ‘Desperate Housewives’. Her career is a notable example of overcoming adversity through talent and reinvention.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall first gained recognition for her comedic roles in the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise during the early two thousands. She reinvented her career by taking on more grounded and dramatic roles in independent films like ‘Support the Girls’. This transition earned her several critics awards and changed the way the industry perceived her capabilities. She has since balanced major studio comedies like ‘Girls Trip’ with prestige television projects such as ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’. Her versatility has made her one of the most respected actresses working today.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton began her career in British and American dramas such as ‘Beloved’ and ‘Mission: Impossible II’. She experienced a significant career reinvention when she was cast as Maeve Millay in the series ‘Westworld’. The role allowed her to explore complex themes of consciousness and power which earned her an Emmy Award. She has also used her platform to advocate for social change and has been open about her experiences in the industry. Her career continues to evolve as she takes on diverse roles in both film and television.

Paula Patton

Paula Patton had her breakout role in the musical film ‘Idlewild’ and later starred opposite Denzel Washington in ‘Déjà Vu’. She reinvented her image by becoming an action star in the blockbuster ‘Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol’. This shift showcased her physical capabilities and led to more roles in high stakes thrillers and fantasies like ‘Warcraft’. In recent years she has explored production and lead roles in television series like ‘Sacrifice’. Her career path highlights her ability to move between romantic leads and action heroes.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira was primarily known as an accomplished playwright before she achieved mainstream fame as an actress. She reinvented her career by taking on the role of Michonne in the television series ‘The Walking Dead’. This role made her a fan favorite and led to her casting as Okoye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She continues to balance her work as a writer with her roles in major film franchises. Her success has allowed her to bring unique stories from the African diaspora to a global audience.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson first appeared in television shows like ‘Veronica Mars’ before transitioning into independent cinema. She reinvented her career with standout performances in films like ‘Dear White People’ and ‘Creed’. Her entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Valkyrie established her as a major star in the action genre. She has also taken on experimental roles in projects like ‘Sorry to Bother You’ and the series ‘Westworld’. Her career is defined by her willingness to take risks and her support for innovative storytelling.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson first rose to fame as a viral content creator on social media and through her work at Buzzfeed. She successfully reinvented her career by moving into traditional television as a writer and actress. Her creation of the mockumentary series ‘Abbott Elementary’ became a massive critical and commercial hit. This success earned her multiple Emmy Awards and made her one of the most powerful figures in modern television. Her journey from the internet to the Emmys represents a new path for creators in the industry.

Danielle Brooks

Danielle Brooks gained widespread recognition for her role as Taystee in the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She reinvented her career by taking on challenging roles on the Broadway stage in ‘The Color Purple’ and ‘The Piano Lesson’. Her performance in the film adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’ earned her an Academy Award nomination. She has also explored the superhero genre with a role in the series ‘Peacemaker’. Her transition from television to stage and film has showcased her immense vocal and acting talent.

Andra Day

Andra Day was a successful Grammy nominated singer before she made the transition into professional acting. She reinvented herself by portraying Billie Holiday in the film ‘The United States vs. Billie Holiday’. Her performance was highly acclaimed and earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. This role established her as a serious dramatic talent and opened new opportunities in the film industry. She continues to balance her music career with increasingly high profile acting projects.

Lisa Bonet

Lisa Bonet became a cultural icon as Denise Huxtable on ‘The Cosby Show’ during the nineteen eighties. She sought to reinvent her image by taking a controversial role in the film ‘Angel Heart’ which showcased her desire for more mature work. Throughout her career she has maintained an enigmatic presence by choosing eclectic and independent projects. She has also been recognized for her unique fashion sense and influence on alternative style. Her selective approach to acting has made her a respected figure among fans of independent cinema.

Lynn Whitfield

Lynn Whitfield began her career in the late seventies and achieved major success with her portrayal of Josephine Baker. This role earned her an Emmy Award and established her as a premier dramatic actress in television movies. She reinvented her image for a new generation by playing the formidable Lady Mae Greenleaf in the series ‘Greenleaf’. Her performance as a powerful church matriarch brought her renewed critical acclaim and a new fan base. She remains a consistent and influential presence in the world of dramatic television.

Robin Givens

Robin Givens became a star in the eighties as a lead in the sitcom ‘Head of the Class’ and through her film roles. She reinvented her career by moving into directing and producing her own projects in the independent film space. She also found success by taking on recurring roles in popular television shows like ‘Riverdale’ and ‘Batwoman’. Her transition from a young starlet to a veteran actress and director shows her adaptability. She continues to be a visible figure in the industry through her work on both sides of the camera.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Gugu Mbatha-Raw gained critical attention for her performance in the period drama ‘Belle’ which showcased her dramatic range. She reinvented her career by moving into science fiction and superhero projects such as ‘Black Mirror’ and ‘Loki’. Her ability to handle both classical dramatic roles and high concept genre fiction has made her a versatile talent. She has also taken on leadership roles in projects like ‘The Morning Show’ where she plays complex modern characters. Her career is marked by a global appeal and a commitment to diverse storytelling.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright started her career in British television dramas before achieving international fame in the film ‘Black Panther’. She reinvented her career by taking on the lead role in the sequel after the passing of her co star. Her performance showed her ability to carry a major franchise and explore themes of grief and leadership. She has also continued to work in independent films and theatrical productions to maintain her artistic roots. Her rise to stardom has made her one of the most prominent young actresses in Hollywood.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin rose to fame as a child actress on the hit sitcom ‘Black-ish’ where she displayed sharp comedic timing. She made history by reinventing herself as the youngest executive producer in Hollywood with the film ‘Little’. This move allowed her to create opportunities for herself and other young actors in the industry. She has since launched her own production company and continues to develop a wide range of projects. Her business acumen at a young age has set a new standard for actors seeking creative control.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi first gained popularity as a child actress and later became a star on the series ‘Black-ish’. She reinvented her career by becoming a prominent social activist and a leading voice for her generation. Her success led to her own spin off series ‘Grown-ish’ which followed her character to college. She has also graduated from Harvard University while maintaining her acting career and production company. Her ability to balance education activism and acting has made her a role model for many.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first broke through as a young actress in the blockbuster ‘The Hunger Games’. She reinvented her career by choosing roles in socially conscious films like ‘The Hate U Give’. Her performances often explore themes of identity and justice which has made her a significant figure in modern cinema. She has also ventured into big franchises with a leading role in the series ‘The Acolyte’. Her career is defined by her vocal advocacy for diversity and her thoughtful approach to choosing projects.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid gained early recognition for her lead role in the fantasy film ‘A Wrinkle in Time’. She reinvented her image by taking on more mature and intense roles in the series ‘Euphoria’ and the film ‘The Invisible Man’. Her performance in the thriller ‘Missing’ showcased her ability to lead a contemporary suspense film. She has also balanced her acting career with her studies at the University of Southern California. Her growth from a child actor to a dramatic lead has been marked by a series of strategic and successful choices.

Tichina Arnold

Tichina Arnold became a sitcom icon through her role as Pamela James on the hit show ‘Martin’. She reinvented her career by taking on another long running lead role in the series ‘Everybody Hates Chris’. Her ability to play strong comedic matriarchs has made her a staple of the sitcom genre for several decades. She currently stars in the series ‘The Neighborhood’ where she continues to showcase her comedic talent. Her consistent success in television has solidified her status as a reliable and beloved performer.

Tisha Campbell

Tisha Campbell rose to fame in the nineties as the lead in ‘Martin’ and later in the series ‘My Wife and Kids’. She reinvented her career by taking on dramatic roles and guest appearances in a variety of modern television shows. She has also explored her passion for music and has been active in hosting several award shows. Her ability to transition from a legendary sitcom lead to a versatile character actress has kept her career active. She remains a prominent figure in the entertainment community through her diverse work.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine was one of the original stars of the Broadway musical ‘Dreamgirls’ before transitioning to film. She reinvented her career as a prolific character actress in films like ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘The Preacher’s Wife’. Her distinctive voice has also led to a successful career in animation and voice over work for various projects. She won an Emmy Award for her recurring role on the medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. Her long and varied career has made her one of the most recognizable and respected faces in the industry.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard established herself as one of the most talented dramatic actresses of her generation with an early Oscar nomination. She has reinvented her career multiple times by moving seamlessly between prestige dramas and genre films like ‘Star Trek: First Contact’. Her performance in the independent film ‘Clemency’ brought her renewed critical acclaim and several award nominations. She has also taken on powerful roles in television series such as ‘Luke Cage’ and ‘See’. Her commitment to her craft has allowed her to maintain a high level of respect throughout her long career.

Tell us which of these career transformations surprised you the most in the comments.