Black Actresses Who Don’t Believe In God

The entertainment industry is home to a diverse array of individuals with varying personal beliefs and worldviews. While many public figures draw inspiration from religious traditions others find their guidance through secular humanism or atheism or agnosticism. This list highlights several prominent Black actresses who have shared their perspectives on living without a belief in a deity. These women continue to shape the cultural landscape through their powerful performances and dedication to their craft. Their journeys reflect a broad spectrum of thought regarding the human experience in the modern world.

Aisha Tyler

Aisha Tyler has openly discussed her journey toward atheism in various public interviews and her personal podcast. She gained significant fame for her role as Dr. Charlie Wheeler in the sitcom ‘Friends’ and her long tenure on ‘Criminal Minds’. Tyler often emphasizes the importance of logic and scientific reasoning in her approach to understanding the world. Her career spans acting and directing and hosting popular shows like ‘Whose Line Is It Anyway?’. She maintains a secular worldview while advocating for diverse representation within the entertainment industry.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton is a highly acclaimed performer known for her roles in ‘Westworld’ and ‘Crash’. She has frequently shared her perspective on being an atheist and her reliance on personal ethics rather than religious doctrine. Newton explains that her sense of morality comes from a deep connection to humanity and the natural world. Her work often involves complex characters who grapple with identity and societal structures. She remains a vocal advocate for the rights of women and environmental causes throughout her global career.

Butterfly McQueen

Butterfly McQueen became famous for her performance as Prissy in ‘Gone with the Wind’. She was a lifelong atheist who often spoke about her lack of belief in any deity or supernatural power. McQueen was recognized by various humanist organizations for her commitment to secular values during her later years. She chose to focus her energy on community service and education after stepping away from the traditional Hollywood spotlight. Her legacy remains tied to both her early cinematic achievements and her firm stance on religious independence.

Michaela Coel

Michaela Coel created and starred in the groundbreaking series ‘I May Destroy You’ and ‘Chewing Gum’. She has discussed her transition from being a devout Christian to embracing a secular lifestyle focused on storytelling and personal truth. Coel often explores themes of consent and trauma and healing through a lens that does not rely on religious intervention. Her work has received numerous awards for its honesty and innovative approach to television production. She continues to be a major influence in the industry by prioritizing authentic human experiences.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg rose to prominence after appearing in ‘The Hunger Games’ and ‘The Hate U Give’. She has identified as someone who does not follow a specific religious path and prefers to focus on social justice and intersectionality. Stenberg uses her platform to discuss issues such as gender identity and racial equality from a secular perspective. Her performances are often praised for their depth and emotional resonance in modern cinema. She remains a leading voice for her generation by challenging traditional norms in Hollywood and beyond.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg is one of the few performers to achieve EGOT status with wins in Emmy and Grammy and Oscar and Tony categories. She has described herself as having an agnostic or secular worldview rather than following organized religion. Goldberg is a longtime moderator on ‘The View’ where she frequently shares her opinions on social and political issues. Her career includes iconic roles in ‘The Color Purple’ and ‘Sister Act’. She emphasizes the importance of personal accountability and kindness over adherence to specific religious tenets.

Amber Rose

Amber Rose is a model and actress known for her appearances in ‘School Dance’ and ‘Sister Code’. She has been very public about her atheism and her rejection of the religious upbringing she experienced as a child. Rose often advocates for women empowerment and sexual liberation through her activism. She uses her social media presence to challenge societal double standards and promote personal acceptance. Her career continues to expand into various business ventures and media appearances.

Alice Walker

Alice Walker is a renowned author and actress who appeared in the documentary ‘Alice Walker Beauty in Truth’. She identifies as a secular humanist and has written extensively about her views on spirituality and nature. Walker is best known for her Pulitzer Prize winning novel ‘The Color Purple’ which was later adapted into several films. Her activism focuses on civil rights and feminism and environmental protection. She believes that human compassion is the most important force for positive change in the world.

Rashida Jones

Rashida Jones is a versatile actress and writer famous for her roles in ‘Parks and Recreation’ and ‘The Office’. She has spoken about her agnostic beliefs and her upbringing in a multi faith but largely secular household. Jones often takes on projects that highlight the complexities of modern relationships and professional life. She is also a successful producer and documentary filmmaker who explores various social phenomena. Her career is marked by a blend of comedic timing and intellectual curiosity.

Lorraine Hansberry

Lorraine Hansberry was a pioneering playwright and actress who wrote the classic play ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. She was a committed atheist who viewed religion as a tool that could sometimes hinder social progress. Hansberry was the first Black woman to have a play performed on Broadway and she used her success to advocate for civil rights. Her writing often focused on the struggles of the working class and the fight against systemic racism. She remains an influential figure in American literature and theater history.

Jodie Turner-Smith

Jodie Turner Smith has starred in major productions such as ‘Queen & Slim’ and ‘Anne Boleyn’. She has expressed a secular outlook on life and focuses on the physical and emotional realities of the human condition. Turner Smith often talks about the importance of self discovery and breaking away from traditional expectations. Her work is characterized by powerful performances that challenge historical and contemporary narratives. She continues to be a prominent figure in the fashion and film industries.

Erika Alexander

Erika Alexander is best known for her role as Maxine Shaw in the sitcom ‘Living Single’. She has identified as secular and often discusses the importance of intellectual freedom and community building. Alexander is also a writer and producer who works to create more opportunities for underrepresented voices in media. Her career spans decades and includes roles in ‘Get Out’ and ‘Run the World’. She remains an active participant in political and social discourse within the entertainment community.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo is a British actress known for her roles in ‘Hotel Rwanda’ and ‘The Secret Life of Bees’. She has described her worldview as secular and does not subscribe to any particular religious faith. Okonedo has received numerous accolades for her work on both stage and screen. She often chooses roles that explore deep human emotions and social issues. Her career continues to thrive across international film and theater productions.

Zawe Ashton

Zawe Ashton is an actress and playwright who starred in ‘Fresh Meat’ and ‘Velvet Buzzsaw’. She has indicated a secular approach to her life and career while focusing on the creative arts. Ashton is known for her versatile performances and her work as a published author. She frequently explores themes of identity and modern culture in her writing. Her presence in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has brought her even greater international recognition.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris is an acclaimed actress who played Eve Moneypenny in the ‘James Bond’ franchise. She has mentioned in interviews that she follows a secular lifestyle and values meditation and personal reflection over religious rituals. Harris received an Academy Award nomination for her powerful performance in ‘Moonlight’. Her career includes a wide range of roles in both independent films and major blockbusters. She remains committed to portraying strong and diverse characters on screen.

Ruth Negga

Ruth Negga is a celebrated actress known for her role in the film ‘Loving’ and the series ‘Preacher’. She maintains a private life but has described a secular upbringing and a focus on the tangible aspects of human connection. Negga has worked extensively in theater and television and film across the globe. Her performances are often noted for their subtlety and emotional depth. She continues to be a respected figure in the international acting community.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Gugu Mbatha Raw has starred in ‘Belle’ and ‘Beyond the Lights’ and the series ‘Loki’. She has expressed a secular worldview and focuses on the importance of empathy and storytelling in her work. Mbatha Raw is known for her graceful performances and her ability to tackle complex historical and fictional characters. She is an active supporter of various charitable causes including refugee rights. Her career continues to grow with a variety of high profile projects in Hollywood.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is a major star known for ‘Creed’ and ‘Thor Ragnarok’ and ‘Westworld’. She has spoken about her secular perspective and her interest in exploring human nature through art and activism. Thompson is a co-founder of the Time’s Up movement and an advocate for equity in the film industry. Her roles often challenge traditional gender and racial stereotypes. She remains one of the most influential actresses of her generation.

CCH Pounder

CCH Pounder is a veteran actress famous for her roles in ‘The Shield’ and ‘Avatar’. She has described herself as a secular person who finds meaning in art and culture and community service. Pounder is an avid art collector and has founded galleries to promote African and Caribbean artists. Her career in television and film has spanned over four decades. She is widely respected for her commanding screen presence and her dedication to her craft.

Khandi Alexander

Khandi Alexander is known for her powerful performances in ‘The Wire’ and ‘CSI Miami’ and ‘Scandal’. She has indicated a secular outlook on life and focuses on the discipline of her acting profession. Alexander began her career as a dancer and choreographer before transitioning into major television roles. She has received critical acclaim for her ability to portray intense and complex characters. Her work continues to inspire new generations of performers in the industry.

S. Epatha Merkerson

S. Epatha Merkerson is best known for her long running role as Anita Van Buren in ‘Law & Order’. She has discussed her secular views and her commitment to health advocacy and public service. Merkerson has won multiple awards including an Emmy and a Golden Globe for her work in ‘Lackawanna Blues’. She is a prominent figure in the New York theater scene as well as on national television. Her career is marked by longevity and a reputation for excellence.

Adepero Oduye

Adepero Oduye gained critical acclaim for her breakout role in the film ‘Pariah’. She has expressed a secular worldview and focuses on the importance of authentic representation for Black women in cinema. Oduye has appeared in major projects like ’12 Years a Slave’ and ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’. She is also a writer and director who seeks to tell stories that reflect her personal observations of the world. Her work is celebrated for its honesty and emotional clarity.

Jenifer Lewis

Jenifer Lewis is a legendary actress known as the Mother of Black Hollywood for her many maternal roles. She has spoken openly about her secular lifestyle and her journey with mental health in her published memoir. Lewis provided the voice for Mama Odie in ‘The Princess and the Frog’ and has a long history on Broadway. She uses her platform to advocate for bipolar disorder awareness and social justice. Her career is characterized by her vibrant personality and immense comedic and dramatic talent.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo is a powerhouse performer who has won a Tony and an Emmy and a Grammy. She has described a secular approach to her life and focuses on the spiritual power of music and performance rather than organized religion. Erivo starred in the film ‘Harriet’ and the Broadway production of ‘The Color Purple’. She is known for her incredible vocal range and her dedication to physically demanding roles. Her career continues to soar with major roles in upcoming film adaptations.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multi talented artist known for her music and her roles in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Moonlight’. She has expressed a secular and fluid worldview that prioritizes love and science fiction and human rights. Monáe often incorporates themes of afrofuturism into her creative work to envision a more inclusive future. She is a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and racial equality. Her unique style and artistic vision have made her a global icon.

Cree Summer

Cree Summer is a prolific actress and voice actress known for ‘A Different World’ and her extensive work in animation. She has identified as secular and often shares her unique and free spirited perspective on life. Summer has voiced iconic characters in shows like ‘Rugrats’ and ‘Inspector Gadget’. She is also a talented singer and songwriter who explores personal themes in her music. Her career has made her one of the most recognizable voices in the entertainment industry.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith is a prominent actress and host of the talk show ‘Red Table Talk’. She has discussed her journey through various belief systems and her current secular and self reflective approach to life. Smith has starred in films like ‘Set It Off’ and ‘The Matrix’ sequels. She uses her platform to have open conversations about mental health and family dynamics and personal growth. Her work continues to influence modern discussions on relationships and wellness.

Marianne Jean-Baptiste

Marianne Jean Baptiste is an Academy Award nominated actress known for ‘Secrets & Lies’ and ‘Without a Trace’. She has indicated a secular worldview and focuses on the technical and emotional aspects of her acting craft. Jean Baptiste has worked extensively in both British and American film and television. She is also a talented musician and composer who has written music for various film projects. Her career is marked by a series of high quality and critically acclaimed performances.

Regina King

Regina King is an Academy Award and Emmy winning actress and director known for ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and ‘Watchmen’. While she grew up in a religious household she has described a more secular and personal approach to her adult life. King has transitioned successfully into directing with projects like ‘One Night in Miami’. She is widely considered one of the most talented and influential women in Hollywood today. Her work consistently highlights important social issues and diverse human experiences.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley is best known for her role as Tara Thornton in the series ‘True Blood’. She has described herself as a person who values personal strength and secular philosophy over traditional religious beliefs. Wesley trained at the Juilliard School and has a strong background in theater and dance. Her career includes a lead role in the acclaimed drama series ‘Queen Sugar’. She continues to be a powerful presence in the television industry through her intense and emotional performances.

Sonja Sohn

Sonja Sohn gained widespread recognition for her role as Detective Kima Greggs in ‘The Wire’. She has discussed her secular worldview and her focus on social activism and community healing in Baltimore. Sohn is the founder of a non profit organization that helps at risk youth through the arts. Her acting career includes roles in ‘The Chi’ and ‘Body of Proof’. She remains an influential figure both as a performer and as a leader in community development.

Please share your own thoughts on these talented performers and their unique perspectives in the comments.