African-American Actresses Who Should Receive Way More Praise

Anika Noni Rose is an accomplished performer known for her work on stage and screen. She voiced the first African-American Disney princess in the animated film ‘The Princess and the Frog’. Her stage credits include a Tony Award winning performance in ‘Caroline, or Change’. She also appeared in the film adaptation of ‘Dreamgirls’ and the television series ‘Power’. Her extensive career includes voice acting and dramatic roles in various theatrical productions.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall gained widespread recognition for her role as Brenda Meeks in the ‘Scary Movie’ film series. She transitioned into more dramatic and leading roles in films like ‘Support the Girls’ and ‘Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul.’ Hall has also appeared in several television projects including ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’ and ‘Black-ish’. She has been active in the industry since the late 1990s and continues to earn critical acclaim. Her work demonstrates a wide range of comedic and dramatic abilities across various genres.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris first gained major attention for her role as Dawn Chambers in the television series ‘Mad Men’. She went on to star in the film ‘Chi-Raq’ and the acclaimed drama ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. Parris joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Monica Rambeau in the series ‘Wandavision’ and the film ‘The Marvels’. She also played a pivotal role in the horror film ‘Candyman’. Her performances often highlight her ability to lead complex and high profile projects.

Nicole Beharie

Nicole Beharie is recognized for her lead role as Abbie Mills in the supernatural television series ‘Sleepy Hollow’. She starred in the independent film ‘Miss Juneteenth’ for which she received significant critical praise. Her filmography includes roles in ‘Shame’ and the historical drama ’42’. Beharie has appeared in several anthology series such as ‘Black Mirror’ and ‘Solos’. She continues to take on diverse roles that showcase her depth as a dramatic actress.

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor has built a long career with powerful performances in film and television. She received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Oracene Price in ‘King Richard’. Her notable work includes roles in ‘When They See Us’ and ‘Lovecraft Country’. She also starred as the lead in the film ‘Origin’ which explored complex sociological themes. Her presence in the industry is marked by a consistent commitment to historical and social narratives.

Adepero Oduye

Adepero Oduye earned critical acclaim for her breakout role in the independent film ‘Pariah’. She appeared in the Academy Award winning film ’12 Years a Slave’ as Eliza. Oduye has also been featured in television series such as ‘When They See Us’ and ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’. Her work often focuses on nuanced and emotionally resonant character studies. She remains a respected figure in the independent cinema landscape for her understated performances.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira is widely known for her role as Michonne on the long running series ‘The Walking Dead’. She also portrays Okoye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films including ‘Black Panther’ and its sequel. In addition to acting, she is an award winning playwright who wrote the play ‘Eclipsed’. Gurira has appeared in films like ‘All Eyez on Me’ and ‘Mother of George’. Her career bridges the gap between major blockbuster action and serious theatrical writing.

Emayatzy Corinealdi

Emayatzy Corinealdi rose to prominence with her performance in the film ‘Middle of Nowhere’ directed by Ava DuVernay. She starred in the television series ‘Reasonable Doubt’ as a high powered defense attorney. Her other credits include the miniseries ‘Roots’ and the show ‘Ballers’. Corinealdi has been recognized with nominations from several independent film organizations. She consistently chooses roles that explore the complexities of modern womanhood and professional life.

Kimberly Elise

Kimberly Elise made her film debut in ‘Set It Off’ and quickly became a sought after dramatic actress. She delivered a powerful performance in the adaptation of ‘Beloved’ alongside Oprah Winfrey. Her filmography includes leading roles in ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman’ and ‘For Colored Girls’. Elise also starred in the television series ‘Hit the Floor’ and ‘Close to Home’. She is known for her ability to portray intense emotional vulnerability in her characters.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine is a veteran actress with a career spanning several decades in theater and film. She originated the role of Lorrell Robinson in the Broadway production of ‘Dreamgirls’. On television, she won a Primetime Emmy Award for her guest role on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. She is also well known for her roles in films like ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘The Preacher’s Wife’. Devine continues to be a prolific figure in both comedic and dramatic projects.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard is one of the most decorated actresses of her generation with numerous awards for her work. She has appeared in a wide range of films including ‘Cross Creek’ and ‘Clemency’. Her television work includes notable roles in ‘St. Elsewhere’ and ‘Luke Cage’. Woodard has received multiple Emmy Awards and an Academy Award nomination. She is frequently cited by peers as a versatile performer capable of handling any genre.

CCH Pounder

CCH Pounder has a distinguished career characterized by her strong presence in television dramas. She is widely recognized for her role as Claudette Wyms in ‘The Shield’. Pounder has also appeared in major films such as ‘Avatar’ and ‘Orphan’. Her work in ‘ER’ and ‘NCIS New Orleans’ further established her as a television staple. She has earned multiple Emmy nominations for her consistently high quality performances.

Lynn Whitfield

Lynn Whitfield became a household name for her portrayal of Josephine Baker in ‘The Josephine Baker Story’. She won a Primetime Emmy Award for that performance and continued to star in major films like ‘Eve’s Bayou’. Whitfield gained a new generation of fans for her role as Lady Mae Greenleaf in the series ‘Greenleaf’. Her career includes numerous roles in both television movies and theatrical releases. She is often praised for her commanding and elegant screen presence.

Nia Long

Nia Long is a prominent figure in African-American cinema with classic roles in ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘Friday’. She starred in the successful ‘The Best Man’ franchise and the romantic drama ‘Love Jones’. Long has also had recurring roles on television series like ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ and ‘Empire’. Her work spans romantic comedies and intense dramas over several decades. She remains an influential actress in the entertainment industry today.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan is well known for her leading roles in romantic dramas such as ‘Love and Basketball’. She provided the voice for Donna Tubbs on ‘The Cleveland Show’ and ‘Family Guy’. Lathan starred in the action film ‘Alien vs. Predator’ and the thriller ‘The Perfect Guy’. She received critical acclaim for her performance in ‘Succession’ and the film ‘Nappily Ever After’. Her versatility allows her to move easily between stage work and mainstream film.

Tichina Arnold

Tichina Arnold became a comedic icon for her role as Pamela James on the sitcom ‘Martin’. She followed this success with a long running role as Rochelle on ‘Everybody Hates Chris’. Arnold currently stars in the CBS comedy ‘The Neighborhood’. Her early career includes a memorable role in the film ‘Little Shop of Horrors’. She is frequently recognized for her sharp comedic timing and vocal talents.

Tasha Smith

Tasha Smith is known for her bold and energetic performances in films like ‘Why Did I Get Married?’. She has appeared in numerous television series including ‘Empire’ and ‘For Better or Worse’. In addition to acting, Smith has established herself as a successful director for various television projects. She also operates an acting school where she mentors new talent in the industry. Her career reflects a dedication to both performing and the craft of directing.

Wendy Raquel Robinson

Wendy Raquel Robinson is best known for her role as Regina Grier on ‘The Steve Harvey Show’. She gained further popularity playing Tasha Mack on the long running series ‘The Game’. Robinson has appeared in films like ‘Two Can Play That Game’ and ‘Miss Congeniality’. She is the co-founder of a performing arts center that serves youth in Los Angeles. Her work in sitcoms has made her a familiar face to television audiences for years.

Erika Alexander

Erika Alexander is famous for her role as Maxine Shaw on the hit sitcom ‘Living Single’. She began her career with a role on ‘The Cosby Show’ as Cousin Pam. Alexander appeared in the critically acclaimed horror film ‘Get Out’ and the series ‘Wu-Tang An American Saga’. She is also a writer and producer who co-founded a multi-platform media company. Her career has evolved from beloved sitcom star to a versatile actress and creator.

DeWanda Wise

DeWanda Wise rose to prominence as Nola Darling in the television adaptation of ‘She’s Gotta Have It’. She starred in the blockbuster film ‘Jurassic World Dominion’ as a heroic pilot. Wise has appeared in independent projects like ‘The Weekend’ and ‘Fatherhood’. Her work often features strong and independent characters with a modern sensibility. She continues to be a rising star in both independent and studio productions.

Dominique Fishback

Dominique Fishback earned a BAFTA nomination for her role in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. She starred in the Amazon series ‘Swarm’ where she received widespread critical acclaim. Her filmography also includes a lead role in ‘Transformers Rise of the Beasts’. Fishback first gained attention for her work in the television series ‘The Deuce’. She is noted for her intense and transformative acting style.

KiKi Layne

KiKi Layne had a breakout role as Tish Rivers in the film ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. She appeared alongside Charlize Theron in the action film ‘The Old Guard’. Layne also starred in the comedy sequel ‘Coming 2 America’ and the psychological thriller ‘Don’t Worry Darling’. Her early career shows a talent for picking diverse and high quality projects. She is quickly becoming a recognizable name in major Hollywood productions.

Moses Ingram

Moses Ingram gained international recognition for her role as Jolene in ‘The Queen’s Gambit’. She received an Emmy nomination for this performance and later joined the ‘Star Wars’ universe. In the series ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ she played the formidable Reva Sevander. Ingram also appeared in the film ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth’ directed by Joel Coen. Her rapid rise in the industry is a result of her commanding screen presence and talent.

Adina Porter

Adina Porter is a prolific actress frequently seen in the works of Ryan Murphy such as ‘American Horror Story’. She had a long running role as Indra on the science fiction series ‘The 100’. Porter also appeared in ‘True Blood’ as Lettie Mae Thornton. Her career includes a wide variety of guest and recurring roles in major television dramas. She is known for her ability to bring complexity to supporting characters.

Susan Kelechi Watson

Susan Kelechi Watson is best known for her role as Beth Pearson on the hit drama ‘This Is Us’. She appeared in the film ‘A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood’ alongside Tom Hanks. Watson has also been featured in television series such as ‘Louie’ and ‘The Blacklist’. She is a graduate of Howard University and has a strong foundation in theatrical acting. Her portrayal of family dynamics on screen has resonated with a large audience.

Patina Miller

Patina Miller is a Tony Award winning actress known for her roles in ‘Pippin’ and ‘Sister Act’. She starred as Commander Paylor in ‘The Hunger Games Mockingjay’ films. On television she had a lead role in the drama ‘Madam Secretary’. Miller currently stars as Raquel Thomas in the series ‘Power Book III Raising Kanan’. Her career successfully spans the worlds of Broadway and television drama.

Retta

Retta gained fame for her role as Donna Meagle on the comedy series ‘Parks and Recreation’. She went on to star as Ruby Hill in the drama series ‘Good Girls’. Retta has appeared in films such as ‘Other People’ and ’80 for Brady’. She began her career as a stand up comedian before transitioning into full time acting. Her ability to blend humor with dramatic stakes has made her a fan favorite.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts is a versatile actress known for her comedic work in ‘Reno 911!’. She received critical acclaim for her dramatic roles in ‘When They See Us’ and ‘Dahmer Monster The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. Nash-Betts won an Emmy Award for her performance in the latter series. She also starred in the show ‘Claws’ and the film ‘Selma’. Her career is marked by a successful transition from broad comedy to intense drama.

Danielle Deadwyler

Danielle Deadwyler received widespread critical acclaim for her lead role in the film ‘Till’. She also appeared in the Netflix western ‘The Harder They Fall’. Her television credits include roles in ‘Station Eleven’ and ‘Watchmen’. Deadwyler is known for her deeply emotional and physically expressive performances. She has quickly become one of the most respected actresses in contemporary cinema.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph

Da’Vine Joy Randolph won an Academy Award for her performance in the film ‘The Holdovers’. She first gained attention for her role in the Broadway musical ‘Ghost’. Her other film credits include ‘Dolemite Is My Name’ and ‘The Lost City’. On television she has appeared in ‘Only Murders in the Building’ and ‘High Fidelity’. Her career showcases a remarkable range in both comedy and heavy drama.

Jasmine Cephas Jones

Jasmine Cephas Jones is best known for originating the roles of Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds in ‘Hamilton’. She won an Emmy Award for her work in the short form series ‘FreeRayshawn’. Jones starred in the television series ‘Blindspotting’ which expanded on the film of the same name. Her work often highlights her talents in both acting and singing. She is a rising star with a strong presence in independent media.

Adrienne Warren

Adrienne Warren earned a Tony Award for her powerhouse portrayal of Tina Turner in ‘Tina The Tina Turner Musical’. She appeared in the historical epic ‘The Woman King’ as Ode. Her television work includes roles in ‘Women of the Movement’ and ‘Black Box’. Warren is recognized for her incredible athletic and vocal abilities on stage. She continues to take on demanding roles that highlight her versatile skill set.

Amber Riley

Amber Riley became a household name for her role as Mercedes Jones on the series ‘Glee’. She won an Olivier Award for her performance in the West End production of ‘Dreamgirls’. Riley has also appeared in television movies like ‘The Wiz Live!’ and ‘The Amber Ruffin Show’. She is an accomplished singer who has released several musical projects. Her career focuses on showcasing her massive vocal talent through various acting roles.

Naturi Naughton

Naturi Naughton is widely known for her role as Tasha St. Patrick on the hit series ‘Power’. She portrayed Lil’ Kim in the biographical film ‘Notorious’. Naughton was a member of the girl group 3LW before pursuing a full time acting career. She also appeared in the television series ‘The Playboy Club’ and ‘Queens’. Her performances often depict strong women navigating complex personal and professional lives.

Lela Rochon

Lela Rochon had a breakthrough role as Robin Stokes in the film ‘Waiting to Exhale’. She appeared in other major 1990s films such as ‘The Chamber’ and ‘Gang Related’. Her television work includes roles in ‘The Wayans Bros’ and ‘Insecure’. Rochon has maintained a presence in the industry for decades through various film and television appearances. She is often remembered for her roles in iconic African-American cinema.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox became a major star with roles in ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Set It Off’. She starred in the ‘Kill Bill’ series as the formidable Vernita Green. Fox has also been a regular on television in shows like ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and ‘Empire’. In addition to acting she has produced several films and hosted television programs. Her long career spans action and comedy and drama across multiple decades.

Dawn-Lyen Gardner

Dawn-Lyen Gardner is best known for her leading role as Charley Bordelon West in ‘Queen Sugar’. She has appeared in television series such as ‘Luke Cage’ and ‘God Friended Me’. Gardner is a graduate of the Juilliard School and has extensive experience in theatrical performances. Her work on ‘Queen Sugar’ earned her praise for her nuanced portrayal of a complex business woman. She continues to be a respected voice in dramatic television.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley gained fame for her role as Tara Thornton on the HBO series ‘True Blood’. She starred as Nova Bordelon in the acclaimed drama ‘Queen Sugar’. Wesley also appeared in the television series ‘The Last of Us’ and ‘Hannibal’. Her performances are often noted for their intensity and emotional depth. She has built a solid career in television by playing fierce and memorable characters.

Merle Dandridge

Merle Dandridge is known for her leading role in the series ‘Greenleaf’ as Grace Greenleaf. She has a prolific career in musical theater including roles in ‘Spamalot’ and ‘Once on This Island’. Dandridge also appeared in ‘The Flight Attendant’ and the television adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’. She is a versatile performer who works across television and Broadway and video game voice acting. Her career demonstrates a wide range of artistic talents.

Brandee Evans

Brandee Evans rose to prominence for her lead role as Mercedes in the series ‘P-Valley’. Before acting she had a successful career as a professional dancer and choreographer for major artists. She has appeared in various television projects including ‘The Family Business’ and ‘Games People Play’. Evans has been praised for her athletic and emotionally grounded performance in her breakout series. She is a rising talent in the world of dramatic television.

Gail Bean

Gail Bean is recognized for her roles in the series ‘Snowfall’ and ‘P-Valley’. She has appeared in films such as ‘Unexpected’ and ‘The Belko Experiment’. Her television credits also include guest roles in ‘Atlanta’ and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. Bean is known for her ability to play gritty and realistic characters with authenticity. She continues to build a strong resume in popular and critically acclaimed television dramas.

Jurnee Smollett

Jurnee Smollett began her career as a child actress in ‘Full House’ and ‘Eve’s Bayou’. She gained adult fame for her roles in ‘The Great Debaters’ and the series ‘Friday Night Lights’. Smollett starred as Black Canary in the film ‘Birds of Prey’ and led the series ‘Lovecraft Country’. Her work has earned her several award nominations and critical recognition. She is known for her powerful and socially conscious role choices.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good has been active in the industry since childhood with a breakout role in ‘Eve’s Bayou’. She has starred in numerous films including ‘Think Like a Man’ and ‘Shazam!’. Her television work includes lead roles in ‘Minority Report’ and ‘Harlem’. Good has also directed independent film projects and produced various media content. She remains a consistent and popular figure in both film and television.

Paula Patton

Paula Patton gained major recognition for her role in the film ‘Deja Vu’ alongside Denzel Washington. She starred in the critically acclaimed drama ‘Precious’ and the action film ‘Mission Impossible Ghost Protocol’. Patton has also appeared in the romantic comedy ‘Jumping the Broom’ and the series ‘Sacrifice’. Her career includes a mix of big budget action movies and smaller dramatic projects. She is known for her versatile screen presence and leading lady status.

Joy Bryant

Joy Bryant is well known for her role as Jasmine Braverman on the long running series ‘Parenthood’. She has appeared in films such as ‘Antwone Fisher’ and ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin’. Bryant also starred in the television series ‘For Life’ and ‘The Girls on the Bus’. Before acting she had a successful career as a fashion model for major international brands. She is praised for her naturalistic acting style and consistent television performances.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union became a star with her role in the teen comedy ‘Bring It On’. She has led numerous successful films including ‘Bad Boys II’ and ‘Deliver Us from Eva’. Union starred in the long running drama series ‘Being Mary Jane’ and the action show ‘L.A.’s Finest’. She is also an author and an activist who uses her platform to discuss industry equity. Her career spans decades of successful leading roles in multiple entertainment genres.

Please share your thoughts on which other talented actresses you believe deserve more recognition in the comments.