African-American Actresses Who Were Everywhere in the 2010s

The 2010s marked a significant era for African-American actresses, as they broke barriers and dominated both the box office and prestige television. From history-making Emmy wins to leading roles in major superhero franchises, these performers redefined Hollywood’s landscape. The decade saw a surge in diverse storytelling, allowing these women to showcase their versatility in dramas, comedies, and action films. Many transitioned from rising stars to household names, securing their places as industry icons. This list highlights the actresses who were omnipresent throughout this transformative decade.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis achieved widespread acclaim during the 2010s for her powerful performances on both television and the big screen. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the 2016 film ‘Fences’, reprising her Tony-winning stage performance. In 2014, she began starring as Annalise Keating in the legal drama ‘How to Get Away with Murder’, becoming the first Black woman to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. Her decade also included a notable performance in the 2011 period drama ‘The Help’. Davis consistently chose complex roles that highlighted her range and emotional depth.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson became a cultural phenomenon in the 2010s, largely due to her portrayal of Cookie Lyon on the musical drama series ‘Empire’. This role earned her a Golden Globe Award and solidified her status as a leading television actress. On the big screen, she starred as real-life mathematician Katherine Johnson in the 2016 biographical drama ‘Hidden Figures’. She also led films like ‘The Best Man Holiday’ and the 2019 comedy ‘What Men Want’. Throughout the decade, Henson was recognized for her ability to command the screen in both comedic and dramatic capacities.

Regina King

Regina King experienced a career renaissance in the 2010s, earning multiple accolades for her work in television and film. She won three Primetime Emmy Awards during the decade for her roles in ‘American Crime’ and ‘Seven Seconds’. In 2018, she received the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. King also starred in the critically acclaimed series ‘The Leftovers’ and ‘Watchmen’. By the end of the decade, she had established herself as one of the most decorated actresses in the industry.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer became one of the most sought-after actresses of the 2010s following her breakout role in ‘The Help’. Her performance as Minny Jackson earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2012. She followed this success with Academy Award-nominated performances in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘The Shape of Water’. Spencer also ventured into television, starring in the drama series ‘Red Band Society’ and the limited series ‘Self Made’. Her consistent presence in high-profile films made her a staple of the decade’s awards seasons.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington became a household name when she began starring as Olivia Pope in the ABC drama series ‘Scandal’ in 2012. The show was a massive hit and made her the first Black woman to lead a network drama in nearly 40 years. During the 2010s, she also appeared in major films such as Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Django Unchained’. In 2016, she portrayed Anita Hill in the television film ‘Confirmation’, which earned her further award nominations. Washington’s influence extended beyond acting as she became a prominent figure in fashion and political activism during this period.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett remained a powerhouse in the entertainment industry throughout the 2010s. She joined the anthology series ‘American Horror Story’ in 2013, portraying several iconic characters over multiple seasons. In 2018, she played Queen Ramonda in the Marvel Cinematic Universe blockbuster ‘Black Panther’, which became a global phenomenon. She also began starring as Athena Grant in the procedural drama ‘9-1-1’ in 2018. Bassett’s enduring career and commanding screen presence continued to inspire audiences and fellow actors alike.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross became a leading figure in television comedy during the 2010s. In 2014, she began starring as Dr. Rainbow Johnson on the hit sitcom ‘Black-ish’. Her performance earned her several NAACP Image Awards and a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series Musical or Comedy. Beyond the sitcom, Ross was celebrated for her style and her advocacy for diversity in Hollywood. She also provided the voice for the lead character in the animated series ‘Mixed-ish’ toward the end of the decade.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union was a constant presence in television and film during the 2010s. From 2013 to 2019, she starred as the lead character in the popular BET drama series ‘Being Mary Jane’. She also appeared in successful ensemble films like ‘Think Like a Man’ and its sequel ‘Think Like a Man Too’. In 2019, she took on a lead role in the action series ‘L.A.’s Finest’ alongside Jessica Alba. Union’s consistent work across genres solidified her status as a versatile and reliable leading lady.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae rose to prominence in the 2010s as a creator and actress who revolutionized digital and traditional media. After the success of her web series ‘Awkward Black Girl’, she co-created and starred in the HBO series ‘Insecure’ starting in 2016. The show received critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of modern Black womanhood and earned Rae multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. She also appeared in films such as ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Little’. Rae’s influence helped pave the way for other independent creators to transition to major networks.

Tiffany Haddish

Tiffany Haddish had a historic breakout in the 2010s, particularly following her role in the 2017 comedy ‘Girls Trip’. Her performance was widely regarded as a star-making turn, leading to numerous awards and hosting opportunities. In 2017, she became the first Black female stand-up comedian to host ‘Saturday Night Live’, winning an Emmy for her guest appearance. She went on to star in the sitcom ‘The Last O.G.’ and several films including ‘Night School’. Haddish quickly became one of the most recognizable and successful comedians in the industry.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson emerged as a major star in the 2010s with a diverse array of roles in independent and blockbuster films. She gained critical attention for her performance in the 2014 satire ‘Dear White People’. Shortly after, she starred in the sports drama ‘Creed’ and joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Valkyrie in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’. Thompson also played a significant role in the science fiction series ‘Westworld’ starting in 2016. Her ability to navigate different genres made her one of the most ubiquitous faces of the decade.

Janelle Monáe

While already a successful musician, Janelle Monáe transitioned into a highly acclaimed actress during the late 2010s. She made her film debut in the 2016 Best Picture winner ‘Moonlight’, delivering a poignant performance. In the same year, she starred in ‘Hidden Figures’ as Mary Jackson, further establishing her acting credentials. She continued her film career with roles in ‘Welcome to Marwen’ and the lead in the 2020 film ‘Antebellum’. Monáe’s transition into acting was met with widespread praise for her natural screen presence.

Zendaya

Zendaya successfully transitioned from a Disney Channel star to a serious dramatic actress during the 2010s. After starring in ‘Shake It Up’, she joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as MJ in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ in 2017. She also appeared in the musical ‘The Greatest Showman’ that same year. In 2019, she began starring in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’, a role that would eventually make her the youngest winner of the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. Zendaya became a major fashion icon and a significant voice for her generation throughout the decade.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall continued her long-standing career with a series of major hits during the 2010s. She starred in the successful ‘Think Like a Man’ franchise and the 2013 comedy-drama ‘The Best Man Holiday’. In 2017, she led the blockbuster comedy ‘Girls Trip’, which was both a critical and financial success. Hall made history in 2018 when she became the first Black woman to win the New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Actress for ‘Support the Girls’. She also starred in the Showtime series ‘Black Monday’ starting in 2019.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba gained international fame for her portrayal of Suzanne “Crazy Eyes” Warren on the Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Her performance was highly acclaimed, earning her two Primetime Emmy Awards and two Screen Actors Guild Awards. Aduba was one of the few actors to win Emmys in both the comedy and drama categories for the same role. Throughout the decade, she also appeared in theatrical productions and films like ‘Miss Virginia’. Her work on the hit Netflix series made her one of the most recognizable television actresses of the era.

Danielle Brooks

Danielle Brooks became a breakout star in the 2010s through her role as Tasha “Taystee” Jefferson in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Her performance was central to the series’ emotional core and earned her widespread recognition. In addition to her television work, she received a Tony Award nomination for her role in the 2015 Broadway revival of ‘The Color Purple’. Brooks also voiced characters in ‘The Angry Birds Movie’ and appeared in the series ‘Master of None’. Her career during the decade was marked by her success in both television and musical theater.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox made history in the 2010s as a prominent actress and advocate for the transgender community. She rose to fame playing Sophia Burset on ‘Orange Is the New Black’, becoming the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. Beyond her television work, she appeared in films like ‘Grandma’ and the television musical ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show: Let’s Do the Time Warp Again’. Cox used her platform throughout the decade to increase visibility for transgender individuals in the entertainment industry. She also starred in the legal drama series ‘Doubt’.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash expanded her career from comedy to heavy drama during the 2010s with great success. She starred in the HBO comedy ‘Getting On’ and the Fox horror-comedy ‘Scream Queens’. In 2017, she began leading the cast of the TNT series ‘Claws’, playing the complex character Desna Simms. Her dramatic turn in the 2019 limited series ‘When They See Us’ earned her a Primetime Emmy nomination. Nash’s versatility allowed her to remain a constant presence across various television networks throughout the decade.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira became a global star in the 2010s through her roles in massive television and film franchises. She gained widespread recognition playing Michonne on the hit AMC series ‘The Walking Dead’, a role she held for several seasons. In 2018, she joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Okoye in ‘Black Panther’, reprising the role in ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ and ‘Avengers: Endgame’. Gurira is also an accomplished playwright, with her play ‘Eclipsed’ appearing on Broadway in 2016. Her work in action-oriented roles made her one of the most prominent Black women in the genre.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris began the 2010s with a recurring role on the acclaimed drama ‘Mad Men’. She went on to star in the 2014 independent film ‘Dear White People’, which helped launch her into more prominent roles. Parris headlined the Spike Lee film ‘Chi-Raq’ in 2015 and starred in the drama series ‘Survivor’s Remorse’. She also appeared in the 2018 film ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’, directed by Barry Jenkins. By the end of the decade, she was cast in major upcoming projects within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi grew up on screen during the 2010s, primarily through her role as Zoey Johnson on ‘Black-ish’. The character was so popular that it led to a spin-off series, ‘Grown-ish’, which followed her character’s journey through college. Shahidi became a significant cultural influencer, known for her activism and focus on education. In 2019, she starred in the film ‘The Sun Is Also a Star’. Throughout the decade, she balanced her acting career with public speaking and social justice initiatives.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin became one of the youngest successful actresses and producers in Hollywood during the 2010s. She rose to fame playing Diane Johnson on ‘Black-ish’, earning several NAACP Image Awards for her performance. In 2019, she starred in the comedy film ‘Little’, which she also executive produced. This achievement made her the youngest person ever to produce a major Hollywood film. Martin’s business acumen and comedic timing established her as a major rising talent of the decade.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained major attention for her role as Rue in the 2012 blockbuster ‘The Hunger Games’. As the decade progressed, she took on lead roles in films such as ‘Everything, Everything’ and ‘The Hate U Give’. Her performance in ‘The Hate U Give’ was particularly praised for its emotional depth and social relevance. Stenberg also became a prominent voice for her generation, often speaking on topics of identity and representation. She rounded out the decade with a role in the miniseries ‘The Eddy’.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer remained a consistent figure in entertainment throughout the 2010s, transitioning from child star to adult actress. She starred in the horror-comedy series ‘Scream Queens’ and joined the cast of the drama ‘Berlin Station’. In 2019, she received critical acclaim for her role in the film ‘Hustlers’ alongside Jennifer Lopez. Palmer also made history as the youngest talk show host in television history with her show ‘Just Keke’. Her career was characterized by her ability to work across music, television, and film.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith maintained a strong presence in the 2010s with roles in both television and high-profile films. She starred as Fish Mooney in the DC Comics-based series ‘Gotham’ from 2014 to 2017. In 2017, she was part of the ensemble cast of the massive comedy hit ‘Girls Trip’. She also launched the popular Facebook Watch talk show ‘Red Table Talk’ in 2018, which became a significant cultural touchstone. Throughout the decade, she balanced her acting career with her work as a producer and digital creator.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry continued to be a major star in the 2010s, appearing in several high-concept projects. She starred in the science fiction film ‘Cloud Atlas’ in 2012 and the thriller ‘The Call’ in 2013. In 2014, she transitioned to television with a lead role in the series ‘Extant’. She also joined the ‘John Wick’ franchise in 2019’s ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum’. Berry’s presence in the industry remained strong as she explored both independent cinema and major action franchises.

Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige successfully expanded her legendary music career into a serious acting career during the 2010s. In 2017, she received critical acclaim for her performance in the period drama ‘Mudbound’. This role earned her Academy Award nominations for both Best Supporting Actress and Best Original Song. She also appeared in the Netflix series ‘The Umbrella Academy’ as the assassin Cha-Cha. Blige’s transition into acting was marked by her choice of gritty, dramatic roles that showcased her range.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson remained a fixture in the entertainment world throughout the 2010s. She appeared in multiple episodes of the hit musical drama ‘Empire’ and starred in the 2015 film ‘Chi-Raq’. In 2016, she provided her voice for the animated film ‘Sing’ and appeared in the television special ‘Hairspray Live!’. She also joined the cast of the film adaptation of the musical ‘Cats’ in 2019. Hudson’s powerful voice and acting talent kept her in high demand for musical and dramatic projects alike.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard continued her illustrious career in the 2010s with notable roles in film and television. She appeared in the Academy Award-winning film ’12 Years a Slave’ and the horror film ‘Annabelle’. On television, she played a major role as Mariah Dillard in the Marvel series ‘Luke Cage’ from 2016 to 2018. She also voiced Sarabi in the 2019 photorealistic remake of ‘The Lion King’. Woodard’s consistent excellence made her a respected veteran presence throughout the decade.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah remained a versatile entertainer during the 2010s, starring in films, television series, and specials. She starred in the 2017 hit comedy ‘Girls Trip’ and portrayed Bessie Smith in the 2015 HBO film ‘Bessie’. From 2016 to 2019, she played a lead role in the musical drama series ‘Star’. She also hosted her own daytime talk show, ‘The Queen Latifah Show’, for two seasons. Her work during the decade highlighted her ability to excel in music-themed projects and mainstream comedies.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan appeared in several major projects during the 2010s, particularly in the realm of ensemble dramas. She reprised her role as Robyn in the 2013 hit sequel ‘The Best Man Holiday’. Lathan also starred in the 2015 thriller ‘The Perfect Guy’ and the 2017 drama series ‘Shots Fired’. In 2018, she starred in and produced the Netflix film ‘Nappily Ever After’. She also provided the voice for Donna Tubbs on ‘The Cleveland Show’ and ‘Family Guy’ throughout the decade.

Nia Long

Nia Long was a frequent presence on both the small and large screens during the 2010s. She starred in ‘The Best Man Holiday’ in 2013 and had recurring roles on popular shows like ‘Empire’ and ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’. Long also appeared in the 2014 film ‘The Single Moms Club’ and the 2017 remake of ‘Beaches’. She maintained a consistent career in television dramas and comedies throughout the decade. Her enduring popularity made her a staple of Black cinema and network television.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good appeared in a variety of films and television shows throughout the 2010s. She starred in the hit comedy ‘Think Like a Man’ and its sequel, as well as the 2013 comedy ‘Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues’. On television, she led the series ‘Deception’ and the television adaptation of ‘Minority Report’. She also appeared in the 2019 DC superhero film ‘Shazam!’. Good remained one of the most visible actresses in the industry, working steadily across different genres.

Paula Patton

Paula Patton starred in several major studio films during the first half of the 2010s. She played a lead role alongside Tom Cruise in the 2011 blockbuster ‘Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol’. She also appeared in the 2013 action-comedy ‘2 Guns’ and the 2016 fantasy film ‘Warcraft’. In 2017, she starred in the television drama series ‘Somewhere Between’. Patton’s career during the decade was defined by her roles in high-stakes action and drama films.

Nicole Beharie

Nicole Beharie became a fan favorite in the 2010s for her lead role in the supernatural drama series ‘Sleepy Hollow’. She played Abbie Mills from 2013 to 2016, earning a dedicated following. Earlier in the decade, she delivered a powerful performance in the 2011 film ‘Shame’ and the Jackie Robinson biopic ’42’. In 2019, she starred in the critically acclaimed independent film ‘Miss Juneteenth’. Beharie’s work across television and film showcased her talent for grounded, emotional performances.

Aja Naomi King

Aja Naomi King rose to fame in 2014 as part of the ensemble cast of ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. She played Michaela Pratt throughout the series’ successful run during the decade. King also received critical praise for her role as Cherry Turner in the 2016 film ‘The Birth of a Nation’. She appeared in the 2019 film ‘The Upside’ alongside Kevin Hart and Bryan Cranston. Her presence on a hit network drama made her a well-known face to television audiences.

Candice Patton

Candice Patton became a prominent figure in the superhero genre during the 2010s. She was cast as Iris West in ‘The Flash’ on The CW in 2014, a role she played throughout the rest of the decade. Her portrayal was significant for providing a diverse representation of a classic comic book character. Patton participated in numerous crossover events within the ‘Arrowverse’ television franchise. Her consistent work on the long-running series made her a fixture of prime-time television.

Kat Graham

Kat Graham spent most of the 2010s starring in the popular supernatural drama ‘The Vampire Diaries’. She played Bonnie Bennett from the series’ start until its conclusion in 2017. Following the show, she appeared in films such as ‘All Eyez on Me’, where she portrayed Jada Pinkett Smith. She also starred in several Netflix holiday films and voiced April O’Neil in the animated series ‘Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’. Graham was also recognized for her work in the music industry during this time.

Logan Browning

Logan Browning gained a significant following in the 2010s for her leading roles in television. She starred in the VH1 series ‘Hit the Floor’ before landing the lead role of Samantha White in the Netflix series ‘Dear White People’ in 2017. Her performance in the satirical drama was highly praised for its complexity. In 2018, she starred in the Netflix horror film ‘The Perfection’. Browning’s work on streaming platforms made her a recognizable talent for a new generation of viewers.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley had a breakout role in the 2010s as Poussey Washington on ‘Orange Is the New Black’. After leaving the series, she joined the cast of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ in 2017, playing Moira. This role earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series. Wiley also appeared in films like ‘Nerve’ and ‘Detroit’. Her work in two of the decade’s most culturally significant television shows established her as a major talent.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley was a constant presence in television drama throughout the 2010s. She concluded her long-running role as Tara Thornton on ‘True Blood’ in 2014. Shortly after, she was cast as the lead character Nova Bordelon in the OWN series ‘Queen Sugar’, produced by Ava DuVernay. Her performance in ‘Queen Sugar’ received critical acclaim for its depth and nuance. Wesley also had a recurring role on the series ‘Arrow’ during the decade.

Sonequa Martin-Green

Sonequa Martin-Green became a major figure in science fiction and horror during the 2010s. She played Sasha Williams on ‘The Walking Dead’ for several seasons, becoming a key member of the cast. In 2017, she made history as the first Black woman to lead a ‘Star Trek’ series, starring as Michael Burnham in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. She also appeared in the sitcom ‘New Girl’ in a recurring role. Her transition from a popular cable drama to a major franchise lead was a career highlight of the decade.

Aisha Tyler

Aisha Tyler maintained a diverse career in the 2010s, working as an actress, host, and director. She voiced the character Lana Kane on the long-running animated series ‘Archer’ throughout the decade. From 2015 to 2020, she starred as Dr. Tara Lewis on the procedural drama ‘Criminal Minds’. Tyler also became the host of the improv show ‘Whose Line Is It Anyway?’ in 2013. Her presence was felt across multiple networks and mediums during the era.

Yvette Nicole Brown

Yvette Nicole Brown was a beloved figure in television comedy during the 2010s. She is best known for her role as Shirley Bennett on the cult hit series ‘Community’, which aired for most of the decade. She also appeared in the 2015 revival of ‘The Odd Couple’ and the sitcom ‘The Mayor’. Brown was a frequent guest star on various shows and a regular host on ‘Talking Dead’. Her comedic timing and warm screen presence made her a frequent sight on television.

Retta

Retta became a household name in the 2010s through her work in popular television comedies and dramas. She gained a following for her role as Donna Meagle on ‘Parks and Recreation’, where her character’s “Treat Yo Self” catchphrase became a cultural phenomenon. In 2018, she moved into a lead dramatic role in the series ‘Good Girls’. She also appeared in films like ‘Other People’ and ‘The Lego Ninjago Movie’. Retta’s career growth during the decade showcased her ability to transition from supporting comedy roles to leading lady status.

Maya Rudolph

Maya Rudolph was a frequent presence in film and television comedy throughout the 2010s. She starred in the 2011 blockbuster ‘Bridesmaids’ and provided voices for numerous animated films, including ‘The Emoji Movie’ and ‘Big Hero 6’. Rudolph made frequent return appearances to ‘Saturday Night Live’, notably portraying Kamala Harris toward the end of the decade. She also starred in the sitcom ‘Up All Night’ and the acclaimed series ‘The Good Place’. Her versatility as a character actress and comedian kept her at the forefront of the industry.

Leslie Jones

Leslie Jones experienced a major career surge in the 2010s when she joined the cast of ‘Saturday Night Live’. Her appearances on the show led to her being cast in the 2016 reboot of ‘Ghostbusters’. She also became a popular figure on social media for her enthusiastic coverage of the Olympics. Jones appeared in films like ‘Masterminds’ and provided a voice for ‘The Angry Birds Movie 2’. Her bold comedic style and late-career breakout were notable highlights of the decade.

Tika Sumpter

Tika Sumpter was a regular presence in film and television during the 2010s. She starred in the musical ‘Sparkle’ and the ‘Ride Along’ film franchise alongside Kevin Hart. On television, she led the soap opera ‘The Haves and the Have Nots’ and played a younger Michelle Obama in the 2016 film ‘Southside with You’. In 2019, she began starring in the sitcom ‘Mixed-ish’. Sumpter’s steady work in both independent films and mainstream television solidified her career during this period.

Susan Kelechi Watson

Susan Kelechi Watson rose to fame in the late 2010s for her role as Beth Pearson on the hit drama ‘This Is Us’. The show became a massive success, and her performance was widely praised as a vital part of the series’ appeal. Before this breakout, she appeared in recurring roles on shows like ‘Louie’ and ‘The Following’. In 2019, she starred in the film ‘A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood’ opposite Tom Hanks. Her work during the decade earned her multiple Screen Actors Guild Awards as part of an ensemble.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons emerged as a rising star in the 2010s after her breakout role in the 2015 independent film ‘Dope’. She followed this success with roles in ‘Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising’ and the 2017 remake of ‘Flatliners’. Clemons also appeared in the series ‘Transparent’ and provided voices for animated projects. She was cast as Iris West in the DC Extended Universe, appearing in ‘Zack Snyder’s Justice League’. Her work in the 2019 film ‘Sweetheart’ further showcased her ability to lead a film.

Tell us which of these actresses had your favorite performance of the decade in the comments.