African-American Actresses Who Were Everywhere in the 2000s

The 2000s represented a pivotal era for African-American actresses in Hollywood as they transitioned from supporting roles to leading ladies across major blockbusters and critically acclaimed television series. This decade saw a surge in visibility for Black women in genres ranging from romantic comedies and musical dramas to superhero franchises and psychological thrillers. From historic Academy Award wins to the dominance of Black-led sitcoms, these performers shaped the cultural landscape of the new millennium. Their contributions during this period paved the way for the diverse storytelling seen in contemporary entertainment today.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry made cinematic history in 2002 by becoming the first African-American woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in ‘Monster’s Ball’. Throughout the 2000s, she maintained a massive presence in major franchises, most notably playing Storm in the ‘X-Men’ film series. She also appeared as Jinx Johnson in the James Bond film ‘Die Another Day’ and took on the titular role in the 2004 action movie ‘Catwoman’. Her career during this decade solidified her status as a global box-office draw and a versatile leading performer.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union became a staple of 2000s cinema after her breakout role in the 2000 cheerleading hit ‘Bring It On’. She followed this success with leading parts in romantic comedies such as ‘Deliver Us from Eva’ and ‘The Brothers’. Union also crossed over into big-budget action, starring alongside Will Smith and Martin Lawrence in the 2003 sequel ‘Bad Boys II’. On television, she made frequent appearances in series like ‘City of Angels’ and ‘Night Stalker’.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson gained widespread recognition early in the decade for her performance as Yvette in the 2001 film ‘Baby Boy’. She continued to build her reputation with a critically acclaimed turn in ‘Hustle & Flow’, where she also provided vocals for the Academy Award-winning song featured in the movie. In 2008, she received an Oscar nomination for her role as Queenie in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’. Henson also appeared as a series regular on the legal drama ‘Boston Legal’ during this period.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall became a household name during the 2000s primarily through her role as Brenda Meeks in the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise. Her comedic timing helped the series become a commercial juggernaut, with Hall appearing in the first four installments released between 2000 and 2006. Beyond parody films, she starred in popular titles such as ‘Love & Basketball’ and ‘Paid in Full’. Hall also joined the cast of the legal comedy-drama ‘Ally McBeal’ for its final season.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good transitioned from a child star to a prominent leading lady throughout the 2000s. She appeared in several high-profile films including ‘Biker Boyz’, ‘Deliver Us from Eva’, and the 2004 dance movie ‘You Got Served’. Her work in the horror genre was also notable, with roles in ‘Venom’ and ‘One Missed Call’. Good finished the decade with a significant role in the 2009 supernatural thriller ‘The Unborn’.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah successfully balanced a music career with a prolific acting run in the 2000s. She received an Academy Award nomination for her performance as Matron Mama Morton in the 2002 musical ‘Chicago’. She went on to star in box-office hits like ‘Bringing Down the House’ and ‘Last Holiday’, often serving as an executive producer as well. Latifah also provided the voice for Ellie the mammoth in the ‘Ice Age’ animated franchise starting in 2006.

Beyoncé

While primarily known as a musician, Beyoncé Knowles established a major film presence during the 2000s. She made her theatrical debut as Foxxy Cleopatra in the 2002 comedy ‘Austin Powers in Goldmember’. Her most significant acting achievement of the decade came in 2006 with the musical drama ‘Dreamgirls’, for which she received two Golden Globe nominations. She later portrayed Etta James in ‘Cadillac Records’ and starred in the thriller ‘Obsessed’.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan began the decade with the iconic sports drama ‘Love & Basketball’, which earned her an Independent Spirit Award nomination. She continued her streak of successful films with the romantic comedy ‘Brown Sugar’ and the thriller ‘Out of Time’ opposite Denzel Washington. Lathan also ventured into science fiction as the lead protagonist in the 2004 blockbuster ‘Alien vs. Predator’. Her stage work during this time was equally recognized, earning her a Tony Award nomination for ‘A Raisin in the Sun’.

Nia Long

Nia Long was a constant presence in 2000s cinema, often appearing in popular ensemble casts. She starred in the hit comedy ‘Big Momma’s House’ in 2000 and reprised her role for the 2006 sequel. Long also appeared in ‘Alfie’ and the family comedy ‘Are We There Yet?’ alongside Ice Cube. On the small screen, she held a recurring role as Officer Sasha Monroe on the long-running crime drama ‘Third Watch’.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox remained a major figure in the 2000s, starring in a variety of commercial films and independent projects. She played the formidable Vernita Green in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Kill Bill: Vol. 1’ in 2003. Fox also led the cast of the romantic comedy ‘Two Can Play That Game’ and appeared in ‘Boat Trip’ and ‘Ella Enchanted’. Additionally, she produced and starred in the Lifetime drama series ‘Missing’.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith took on several iconic roles during the 2000s, most notably playing Niobe in ‘The Matrix Reloaded’ and ‘The Matrix Revolutions’. She provided the voice for Gloria the hippo in the ‘Madagascar’ animated franchise, which began in 2005. Smith also starred in the 2004 thriller ‘Collateral’ and directed the 2008 film ‘The Human Contract’. Her production company, Overbrook Entertainment, was also highly active in developing projects throughout this time.

Regina King

Regina King demonstrated her versatility in the 2000s by moving between film, television, and voice acting. She provided the voices for brothers Huey and Riley Freeman on the animated series ‘The Boondocks’. In film, she appeared in ‘Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous’ and portrayed Margie Hendricks in the 2004 biopic ‘Ray’. King ended the decade with a starring role on the critically acclaimed police drama series ‘Southland’.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington emerged as a major talent in the 2000s with a wide range of roles in both independent and studio films. She played Chenille in the 2001 teen drama ‘Save the Last Dance’ and Alicia Masters in the ‘Fantastic Four’ series. Her performance as Della Bea Robinson in ‘Ray’ earned her significant critical praise and several award nominations. Washington also starred in the 2006 historical drama ‘The Last King of Scotland’.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis spent the 2000s building a reputation as one of the most powerful character actresses in the industry. She appeared in ‘Antwone Fisher’ and ‘Solaris’ early in the decade, directed by Denzel Washington and Steven Soderbergh respectively. Her breakthrough came in 2008 with the film ‘Doubt’, where her brief but intense performance earned her an Academy Award nomination. She also had a recurring role on the television series ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett continued her legacy of strong performances throughout the 2000s in various genres. she starred in the 2002 film ‘Sunshine State’ and played the role of Katherine Jackson in ‘The Jacksons: An American Dream’. In 2006, she appeared in the inspirational drama ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ as the protagonist’s mother. Bassett also joined the cast of the medical drama ‘ER’ for its final season in 2008.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldana’s career trajectory skyrocketed in the 2000s through her roles in major blockbuster films. After appearing in ‘Center Stage’ and ‘Drumline’, she landed a role in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl’. The end of the decade saw her star in two of the biggest films of 2009, ‘Star Trek’ and ‘Avatar’. These roles established her as a prominent figure in science fiction and action cinema.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson was highly active in the 2000s, appearing in numerous cult classics and mainstream hits. She starred in ‘Josie and the Pussycats’ and ‘Men in Black II’ before taking on the role of Mimi in the film adaptation of the musical ‘Rent’. Dawson also worked with director Robert Rodriguez in ‘Sin City’ and ‘Grindhouse’. Her work during this decade spanned from independent dramas to large-scale action movies.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton played several high-profile roles in the 2000s, starting with her lead performance in ‘Mission: Impossible 2’. She was part of the ensemble cast of the 2004 film ‘Crash’, which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Newton also appeared in ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ as the wife of Will Smith’s character. In 2009, she starred in the disaster film ‘2012’ as the daughter of the President of the United States.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson had one of the most rapid rises in Hollywood history during the 2000s. After gaining fame on ‘American Idol’, she was cast as Effie White in the 2006 film ‘Dreamgirls’. Her performance earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making her one of the few debut actresses to win the honor. She followed this success with roles in ‘Sex and the City’ and ‘The Secret Life of Bees’.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné became a dominant force in television and teen culture during the 2000s. She starred in the Disney Channel hit ‘That’s So Raven’, which ran from 2003 to 2007 and became one of the network’s highest-rated shows. She also led ‘The Cheetah Girls’ film franchise, which spawned successful soundtracks and merchandise. Her influence extended to film with roles in ‘Dr. Dolittle 2’ and ‘College Road Trip’.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer emerged as a talented young actress during the mid-2000s. Her breakout performance came in the 2006 film ‘Akeelah and the Bee’, where she played a young girl competing in a national spelling bee. She later starred in the Disney Channel Original Movie ‘Jump In!’ and the Nickelodeon series ‘True Jackson, VP’. Palmer’s work during this decade earned her multiple NAACP Image Awards.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross became a television icon in the 2000s as the star of the sitcom ‘Girlfriends’. Playing the role of Joan Clayton from 2000 to 2008, she helped the show become a cultural touchstone for Black women. Her performance earned her multiple nominations and wins at the NAACP Image Awards. Ross also appeared in films like ‘Hanging Up’ and ‘Daddy’s Little Girls’ during the show’s hiatuses.

Golden Brooks

Golden Brooks rose to fame in the 2000s as a lead cast member of the long-running series ‘Girlfriends’. Her portrayal of the character Maya Wilkes provided much of the show’s humor and heart over its eight-season run. During this time, she also appeared in films such as ‘Motives’ and ‘Beauty Shop’. Brooks remained a consistent presence in Black media throughout the decade.

Persia White

Persia White was a central figure on television during the 2000s through her role as Lynn Searcy on ‘Girlfriends’. Her character was known for her bohemian lifestyle and academic pursuits, making her a fan favorite. In addition to her work on the sitcom, White appeared in various independent films and television guest spots. She also used her platform during this time to advocate for animal rights and environmental causes.

Jill Marie Jones

Jill Marie Jones starred as Toni Childs on the first six seasons of ‘Girlfriends’ during the 2000s. Her character was famous for her vanity and comedic delivery, becoming one of the most discussed figures on the show. After leaving the series in 2006, Jones appeared in films such as ‘The Perfect Holiday’ and ‘Major Movie Star’. She remained a prominent figure in the entertainment industry throughout the latter half of the decade.

Tichina Arnold

Tichina Arnold saw a resurgence in her career during the 2000s with several high-profile roles. She starred as the matriarch Rochelle in the sitcom ‘Everybody Hates Chris’, which premiered in 2005. Her performance on the show was widely praised for its comedic timing and relatable parenting style. Arnold also appeared in the film ‘Big Momma’s House’ and the 2007 comedy ‘Wild Hogs’.

Tisha Campbell

Tisha Campbell-Martin followed her 90s success with a leading role in the sitcom ‘My Wife and Kids’ starting in 2001. Playing Janet ‘Jay’ Kyle, she won several awards for her comedic performance alongside Damon Wayans. She also had a recurring role on ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ later in the decade. Her presence on television made her one of the most recognizable faces in Black comedy during the 2000s.

Monique

Monique, often credited as Mo’Nique, dominated both television and film in the 2000s. She starred in the popular sitcom ‘The Parkers’ and hosted her own late-night talk show. In 2009, she delivered a harrowing performance as Mary Lee Johnston in the film ‘Precious’. This role earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, cementing her legacy in dramatic acting.

Eve

The rapper Eve successfully transitioned into acting during the early 2000s. She starred in the hit comedy ‘Barbershop’ and its 2004 sequel ‘Barbershop 2: Back in Business’. From 2003 to 2006, she also headlined her own self-titled sitcom, ‘Eve’, on the UPN network. She continued to appear in films like ‘The Cookout’ and ‘Whip It’ throughout the decade.

Garcelle Beauvais

Garcelle Beauvais maintained a steady presence on television and in film throughout the 2000s. After finishing her run on ‘The Jamie Foxx Show’, she joined the cast of ‘NYPD Blue’ as A.D.A. Valerie Heywood. In film, she appeared in the 2002 action movie ‘Bad Company’ and the 2005 thriller ‘American Gun’. Beauvais was also a frequent guest on various television dramas and talk shows during this era.

Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams continued her storied career in the 2000s with major roles in television and theater. She starred in the ‘Soul Food’ television series and later played the villainous Wilhelmina Slater on ‘Ugly Betty’. Her performance on ‘Ugly Betty’ earned her several Emmy Award nominations and widespread critical acclaim. Williams also appeared in the 2009 film ‘Hannah Montana: The Movie’.

Nicole Ari Parker

Nicole Ari Parker was a prominent figure in both film and television during the 2000s. She starred as Teri Joseph in the ‘Soul Food’ television series, which ran for five seasons. In film, she appeared in the sports drama ‘Remember the Titans’ and the romantic comedy ‘Brown Sugar’. Parker also took on several roles in stage productions and independent films throughout the decade.

Malinda Williams

Malinda Williams gained significant popularity for her role as Bird on the ‘Soul Food’ television series. Her performance helped the show become the longest-running drama with a predominantly Black cast at the time. She also appeared in films such as ‘The Wood’ and ‘Idlewild’ during this period. Williams remained a consistent face in Black cinema and television throughout the mid-2000s.

Kimberly Elise

Kimberly Elise was known for her intense dramatic performances throughout the 2000s. She starred in the 2004 remake of ‘The Manchurian Candidate’ and played the lead role in ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman’. Her performance in ‘The Great Debaters’ in 2007, directed by Denzel Washington, was also highly regarded. Elise consistently chose roles that showcased her range in both independent and studio productions.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine was one of the most active actresses of the 2000s, appearing in dozens of projects. She had a long-running role as Marla Hendricks on the drama ‘Boston Public’ from 2000 to 2004. In film, she was part of the Academy Award-winning ensemble of ‘Crash’ and starred in the holiday comedy ‘This Christmas’. Devine also provided voice work for the animated series ‘The PJs’.

Joy Bryant

Joy Bryant emerged as a sought-after actress in the early 2000s after starting her career as a model. She had a breakthrough role in the 2002 film ‘Antwone Fisher’, directed by Denzel Washington. She went on to appear in ‘The Skeleton Key’, ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin”, and ‘Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins’. By the end of the decade, she was cast in the television drama ‘Parenthood’.

Lauren London

Lauren London became a breakout star in 2006 after starring in the coming-of-age film ‘ATL’. Her role as New-New made her a popular figure in urban cinema and led to further opportunities. She appeared in the holiday film ‘This Christmas’ and the 2009 comedy ‘Next Day Air’. London also made guest appearances on several television series, including ‘Entourage’ and ‘90210’.

Keshia Knight Pulliam

Keshia Knight Pulliam transitioned into adult roles during the 2000s after her childhood fame on ‘The Cosby Show’. She appeared in the 2005 film ‘Beauty Shop’ and starred in the 2009 Tyler Perry hit ‘Madea Goes to Jail’. On television, she joined the cast of the sitcom ‘Tyler Perry’s House of Payne’ in 2007. Pulliam’s work in this decade helped her re-establish herself as a leading comedic actress.

Paula Patton

Paula Patton’s acting career took off in the mid-2000s with several high-profile roles. She made her film debut in the 2005 comedy ‘Hitch’ and landed a lead role in the musical ‘Idlewild’. Her breakthrough came in 2006 when she starred opposite Denzel Washington in the sci-fi thriller ‘Déjà Vu’. Patton finished the decade with a critically acclaimed performance in the 2009 drama ‘Precious’.

Anika Noni Rose

Anika Noni Rose achieved significant success on both the stage and screen during the 2000s. She won a Tony Award in 2004 for her role in ‘Caroline, or Change’ before moving into major film roles. She starred as Lorrell Robinson in the 2006 film ‘Dreamgirls’ alongside Jennifer Hudson and Beyoncé. In 2009, she made history as the voice of Tiana in the Disney animated film ‘The Princess and the Frog’.

Tatyana Ali

Tatyana Ali continued to build her career in the 2000s with roles in various independent films and television shows. She appeared in the 2001 romantic comedy ‘The Brothers’ and the 2006 sports drama ‘Glory Road’. Ali also had a recurring role as Roxanne on the soap opera ‘The Young and the Restless’ starting in 2007. During this time, she also balanced her acting career with her education at Harvard University.

Elise Neal

Elise Neal remained a consistent presence on television throughout the 2000s. She starred in the sitcom ‘The Hughleys’ until 2002 and later appeared in the series ‘All of Us’. In film, she had a memorable role as Yevette in the 2005 drama ‘Hustle & Flow’. Neal also appeared in several music videos and independent films during the decade.

LisaRaye McCoy

LisaRaye McCoy was a prominent figure in 2000s entertainment, often appearing in popular sitcoms and films. She starred as Neesee James in the series ‘All of Us’, which ran from 2003 to 2007. Her film work during this time included ‘Civil Brand’ and ‘Beauty Shop’. McCoy also remained a fixture in urban fashion and media throughout the decade.

Bianca Lawson

Bianca Lawson was ubiquitous on television during the 2000s, often playing teenage characters well into her twenties. She appeared in the 2001 film ‘Save the Last Dance’ as Nikki. Her television credits during the decade include ‘Dawson’s Creek’, ‘The Secret Life of the American Teenager’, and ‘Bones’. Lawson’s ability to maintain a youthful appearance allowed her to stay active in popular teen dramas.

Erika Alexander

Erika Alexander continued her career in the 2000s with various guest roles and film appearances. She appeared in the 2006 science fiction thriller ‘Déjà Vu’ and the drama ‘La Mission’. On television, she had guest arcs on series such as ‘Judging Amy’, ‘7th Heaven’, and ‘ER’. Alexander also focused on writing and producing during this period of her career.

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor

Aunjanue Ellis built a strong resume of dramatic roles throughout the 2000s. She appeared in the 2000 film ‘Men of Honor’ and portrayed Mary Ann Fisher in the 2004 biopic ‘Ray’. Her work also included roles in ‘The Express’ and the 2009 film ‘The Taking of Pelham 123’. Ellis was frequently praised for her ability to bring depth to supporting characters in historical dramas.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo gained international acclaim in the 2000s for her powerful dramatic performances. She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the 2004 film ‘Hotel Rwanda’. She also appeared in ‘Æon Flux’ and ‘The Secret Life of Bees’ during the latter half of the decade. Her work on television in the UK and the US made her a respected figure in international cinema.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris became a breakout star in the early 2000s after her role in the horror film ’28 Days Later’. She reached global audiences playing Tia Dalma in the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ franchise during the mid-2000s. Harris also appeared in the 2006 film ‘Miami Vice’ and the 2009 action movie ‘Ninja Assassin’. Her versatility across genres made her a consistent presence in high-budget productions.

Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson experienced a career resurgence in the 2000s through her work with filmmaker Tyler Perry. She appeared in ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman’ in 2005 and ‘Madea’s Family Reunion’ in 2006. She also played a significant role in the 2007 drama ‘Why Did I Get Married?’. Tyson’s presence in these films introduced her legendary acting skills to a new generation of viewers.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph remained a fixture in the 2000s through her work on television and the stage. She completed her long-running role as Dee Mitchell on ‘Moesha’ in 2001. She later appeared in series such as ‘The District’ and ‘ER’, while also producing her own stage shows. Ralph’s veteran status in the industry allowed her to mentor younger actresses throughout the decade.

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