Black Actresses Who Were Everywhere in the 2000s

The 2000s represented a transformative era for Black actresses in Hollywood, characterized by historic award wins and a significant increase in leading roles across various genres. From the rise of teen icons on television to the emergence of Academy Award winners on the big screen, these performers shaped the cultural landscape of the decade. This period saw the crossover of musical stars into acclaimed dramatic roles and the establishment of long-running sitcom ensembles that became household staples. The following list highlights the actresses whose work defined the entertainment industry between 2000 and 2009.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry made history in the 2000s by becoming the first African American woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in ‘Monster’s Ball’ (2001). She maintained a significant presence in blockbuster cinema as Storm in the ‘X-Men’ (2000) franchise and as Jinx in the James Bond film ‘Die Another Day’ (2002). Her versatility was further displayed in the psychological thriller ‘Gothika’ (2003) and the action film ‘Catwoman’ (2004). Throughout the decade, she remained one of the most recognizable and highest-paid stars in Hollywood.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett continued her streak of powerful performances throughout the decade in both film and television. She earned critical praise for her portrayal of the titular character in the television movie ‘The Rosa Parks Story’ (2002). Her film work during this era included roles in the drama ‘Sunshine State’ (2002) and the inspirational ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ (2006). Bassett also took on the role of Voletta Wallace in the Notorious B.I.G. biopic ‘Notorious’ (2009).

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah successfully transitioned from a music career to a leading film actress during the 2000s. She received an Academy Award nomination for her performance as Matron Mama Morton in the musical ‘Chicago’ (2002). Latifah went on to star in high-grossing comedies such as ‘Bringing Down the House’ (2003) and ‘Beauty Shop’ (2005). She also contributed a notable performance to the musical remake of ‘Hairspray’ (2007) as Motormouth Maybelle.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union became a prominent face of the decade following her breakout role in the cheerleading comedy ‘Bring It On’ (2000). She followed this success with leading roles in ‘Deliver Us from Eva’ (2003) and the action sequel ‘Bad Boys II’ (2003). Union also appeared in the ensemble romantic comedy ‘Two Can Play That Game’ (2001) and the drama ‘Daddy’s Little Girls’ (2007). Her consistent work in commercial cinema made her a staple of 2000s popular culture.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall gained widespread recognition for her role as Brenda Meeks in the ‘Scary Movie’ (2000) franchise. She appeared in the first four installments of the series, which were released between 2000 and 2006. Hall also secured roles in films like ‘Love & Basketball’ (2000) and the crime drama ‘Paid in Full’ (2002). By the end of the decade, she had established herself as a versatile comedic and dramatic talent in ‘Law Abiding Citizen’ (2009).

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan began the decade with a starring role in the critically acclaimed sports drama ‘Love & Basketball’ (2000). She continued to find success in the romantic comedy ‘Brown Sugar’ (2002) alongside Taye Diggs. Lathan then moved into the action genre as the lead protagonist in ‘Alien vs. Predator’ (2004). She also received a Tony Award nomination for her performance in the Broadway revival of ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ (2004), a role she reprised for the 2008 television movie.

Nia Long

Nia Long remained a consistent leading lady throughout the 2000s in various film genres. She starred in the hit comedy ‘Big Momma’s House’ (2000) and its sequel ‘Big Momma’s House 2’ (2006). Long also played the female lead in ‘Are We There Yet?’ (2005) and the follow-up ‘Are We Done Yet?’ (2007). On the small screen, she held a recurring role as Officer Sasha Monroe in the drama series ‘Third Watch’ (1999–2005).

Regina King

Regina King expanded her filmography during the 2000s with a mix of high-profile supporting and leading roles. She appeared as Margie Hendricks in the Academy Award-winning biopic ‘Ray’ (2004). King also joined the cast of ‘Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous’ (2005) and provided the voices for Riley and Huey Freeman in the animated series ‘The Boondocks’ (2005–2014). Toward the end of the decade, she began a starring role in the police procedural ‘Southland’ (2009–2013).

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox was a prolific actress in the 2000s, appearing in several major studio releases. She portrayed the assassin Vernita Green in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Kill Bill: Vol. 1’ (2003). Fox also produced and starred in the romantic comedy ‘Two Can Play That Game’ (2001). Additionally, she appeared in ‘Juwanna Mann’ (2002) and had a recurring role on the television series ‘Missing’ (2003–2006).

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson experienced significant career growth during the 2000s, moving from supporting roles to lead characters. She gained major attention for her performance in the independent drama ‘Hustle & Flow’ (2005). In 2008, she received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Queenie in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ (2008). Henson also appeared in ‘Baby Boy’ (2001) and ‘I Can Do Bad All by Myself’ (2009).

Viola Davis

Viola Davis established herself as a powerhouse performer with several impactful roles throughout the decade. She appeared in ‘Antwone Fisher’ (2002) and ‘Solaris’ (2002), directed by Steven Soderbergh. Her career reached a new peak with her brief but powerful performance in ‘Doubt’ (2008), which earned her an Academy Award nomination. This role solidified her reputation as one of the most respected dramatic actresses in the industry.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington had a breakout decade, appearing in a wide range of film projects. She starred in the teen drama ‘Save the Last Dance’ (2001) and the biopic ‘Ray’ (2004) as Della Bea Robinson. Washington also portrayed Alicia Masters in ‘Fantastic Four’ (2005) and its 2007 sequel. Her performance in ‘The Last King of Scotland’ (2006) further demonstrated her ability to handle intense dramatic material.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldana began the 2000s with a role in the dance film ‘Center Stage’ (2000) before appearing in ‘Crossroads’ (2002). She secured a role in the major blockbuster ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl’ (2003). By 2009, she became a global star by playing Nyota Uhura in ‘Star Trek’ (2009) and Neytiri in ‘Avatar’ (2009). These roles positioned her as a leading figure in the science fiction and action genres.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith took on iconic roles in several major film franchises during the 2000s. She played Niobe in ‘The Matrix Reloaded’ (2003) and ‘The Matrix Revolutions’ (2003). Smith also voiced Gloria the hippo in the animated hit ‘Madagascar’ (2005) and its 2008 sequel. In 2009, she began starring as the lead character in the medical drama series ‘Hawthorne’ (2009–2011).

Thandiwe Newton

Thandie Newton starred in several critically and commercially successful films during the 2000s. She played Nyah Nordoff-Hall in the action blockbuster ‘Mission: Impossible 2’ (2000). Newton was part of the ensemble cast of ‘Crash’ (2004), a film that won the Academy Award for Best Picture. She also starred in ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ (2006) and ‘Run Fatboy Run’ (2007).

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson transitioned from a contestant on ‘American Idol’ (2002–Present) to an Academy Award-winning actress. She won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her film debut as Effie White in ‘Dreamgirls’ (2006). Hudson continued her film career with roles in ‘Sex and the City’ (2008) and ‘The Secret Life of Bees’ (2008). Her rapid ascent made her one of the most discussed stars of the mid-to-late 2000s.

Beyoncé

Beyoncé maintained a heavy film presence alongside her music career throughout the decade. She appeared as Foxxy Cleopatra in ‘Austin Powers in Goldmember’ (2002) and starred in ‘The Fighting Temptations’ (2003). Her performance as Deena Jones in ‘Dreamgirls’ (2006) earned her significant critical praise. She concluded the decade by playing Etta James in ‘Cadillac Records’ (2008) and starring in the thriller ‘Obsessed’ (2009).

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson appeared in numerous high-profile films throughout the 2000s across various genres. She had a role in the science fiction comedy ‘Men in Black II’ (2002) and the epic ‘Alexander’ (2004). Dawson also starred in the film adaptation of the musical ‘Rent’ (2005) as Mimi Marquez. Her work in ‘Sin City’ (2005) and ‘Seven Pounds’ (2008) showcased her versatility as a lead performer.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris gained international recognition early in the decade with her role in the horror film ’28 Days Later’ (2002). She went on to play the character Tia Dalma in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest’ (2006) and ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End’ (2007). Harris also appeared in the action thriller ‘Miami Vice’ (2006). Her work during this period established her as a prominent British actress in Hollywood.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo earned widespread acclaim for her performance in the historical drama ‘Hotel Rwanda’ (2004). This role garnered her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She also appeared in the science fiction film ‘Aeon Flux’ (2005) and the drama ‘The Secret Life of Bees’ (2008). Okonedo’s work throughout the decade was noted for its depth and emotional resonance.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good was a frequent presence in 2000s cinema, often appearing in popular teen and young adult films. She had roles in ‘Deliver Us from Eva’ (2003) and the action movie ‘D.E.B.S.’ (2004). Good also starred in the high-energy dance film ‘Stomp the Yard’ (2007). Her constant work in film and guest spots on television series like ‘My Wife and Kids’ (2001–2005) made her a recognizable face of the era.

Paula Patton

Paula Patton emerged as a leading actress in the mid-2000s with several significant film credits. She had a breakout role in the musical film ‘Idlewild’ (2006) and starred opposite Denzel Washington in ‘Déjà Vu’ (2006). Patton also appeared in the comedy ‘Swing Vote’ (2008) and the drama ‘Precious’ (2009). Her performance in ‘Precious’ as Ms. Blu Rain was particularly noted for its sensitivity.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné became a household name through her work on the Disney Channel during the 2000s. She starred in the titular role of the sitcom ‘That’s So Raven’ (2003–2007). She also led ‘The Cheetah Girls’ (2003) and its 2006 sequel, which were massive commercial successes. Her work during this time made her one of the most successful young actresses of the decade.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer rose to fame as a child star in the mid-2000s with her lead role in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ (2006). She followed this success with a role in ‘Madea’s Family Reunion’ (2006) and the television film ‘Jump In!’ (2007). In 2008, she began starring in her own Nickelodeon series, ‘True Jackson, VP’ (2008–2011). Palmer’s transition from film to a lead television role established her as a major young talent.

Mo’Nique

Mo’Nique transitioned from a stand-up comedian to a highly respected actress during the 2000s. She starred in the sitcom ‘The Parkers’ (1999–2004) for several years of the decade. Her film roles included ‘Two Can Play That Game’ (2001) and ‘Phat Girlz’ (2006). In 2009, she delivered a critically acclaimed performance in ‘Precious’ (2009), which would later earn her an Academy Award.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross became a television icon in the 2000s as the lead character Joan Clayton in ‘Girlfriends’ (2000–2008). The series was a staple of the UPN and later The CW networks for eight seasons. Ross won multiple NAACP Image Awards for her work on the show. She also appeared in the film ‘Daddy’s Little Girls’ (2007) during this period.

Tisha Campbell

Tisha Campbell maintained a strong television presence throughout the early and mid-2000s. She starred as Janet “Jay” Kyle in the popular sitcom ‘My Wife and Kids’ (2001–2005). Following the end of that series, she took on a role in the sitcom ‘All of Us’ (2003–2007). Campbell also made guest appearances in several other television projects during the decade.

Tichina Arnold

Tichina Arnold was a constant figure on television during the 2000s through two major sitcom roles. She appeared as Nicole Barnes in ‘One on One’ (2001–2006) before landing a lead role in ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ (2005–2009). Her portrayal of Rochelle Rock earned her significant critical praise and multiple award nominations. She also appeared in the film ‘Wild Hogs’ (2007).

Kimberly Elise

Kimberly Elise was known for her intense dramatic performances throughout the decade. She starred in ‘John Q’ (2002) and played the lead role in ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman’ (2005). Elise also appeared in ‘The Manchurian Candidate’ (2004) and ‘The Great Debaters’ (2007). Her work often focused on strong, resilient characters in high-stakes dramatic settings.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine had a prolific career in the 2000s, appearing in numerous television shows and films. She was a regular on the drama series ‘Boston Public’ (2000–2004) and later had a recurring role on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (2005–Present). Her film credits for the decade include ‘Crash’ (2004) and ‘This Christmas’ (2007). Devine’s distinctive voice and presence made her one of the most active character actresses of the era.

Golden Brooks

Golden Brooks spent the majority of the 2000s starring as Maya Wilkes on the sitcom ‘Girlfriends’ (2000–2008). Her character was known for her sharp wit and evolving career aspirations over the show’s eight-year run. Brooks also appeared in films such as ‘Motives’ (2004) and ‘Beauty Shop’ (2005). She remained a central figure in Black television culture throughout the decade.

Persia White

Persia White was a main cast member on ‘Girlfriends’ (2000–2008), playing the character Lynn Searcy. Her performance as the bohemian and perennial student Lynn was a key component of the show’s ensemble success. Outside of the series, she appeared in several independent films and television guest spots. White also focused on environmental and animal rights activism during this time.

Jill Marie Jones

Jill Marie Jones starred as Toni Childs on ‘Girlfriends’ (2000–2008) for the first six seasons of the series. Her portrayal of the vain and fashion-conscious Toni became one of the show’s most discussed characters. After leaving the series in 2006, she appeared in films like ‘The Perfect Holiday’ (2007) and ‘Major Movie Star’ (2008). She was frequently cited as a standout performer within the sitcom’s core cast.

Anika Noni Rose

Anika Noni Rose had a highly successful 2000s across theater, film, and animation. She won a Tony Award in 2004 for her role in ‘Caroline, or Change’ on Broadway. She then starred as Lorrell Robinson in the hit film ‘Dreamgirls’ (2006). In 2009, she made history as the voice of Tiana in the Disney animated film ‘The Princess and the Frog’ (2009).

Joy Bryant

Joy Bryant transitioned from modeling to a successful acting career in the 2000s. She had an early role in ‘Antwone Fisher’ (2002) and went on to star in ‘Honey’ (2003). Bryant also appeared in the horror film ‘The Skeleton Key’ (2005) and the drama ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin” (2005). Her career continued to grow with a role in the ensemble drama ‘Bobby’ (2006).

Nicole Ari Parker

Nicole Ari Parker was a lead actress in the television drama ‘Soul Food’ (2000–2004), based on the film of the same name. She played Teri Joseph, a successful attorney, throughout the show’s five-season run. Parker also appeared in films such as ‘Remember the Titans’ (2000) and ‘Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins’ (2008). Her work on ‘Soul Food’ earned her several NAACP Image Award nominations.

Vanessa Williams

Vanessa L. Williams maintained a high profile in the 2000s through her work on ‘Ugly Betty’ (2006–2010). Her performance as the manipulative Wilhelmina Slater became one of the most celebrated roles on television. Earlier in the decade, she appeared in the film ‘Johnson Family Vacation’ (2004). She also starred in several Broadway productions and television movies during this period.

Malinda Williams

Malinda Williams was a core cast member of the television series ‘Soul Food’ (2000–2004). She played the character Bird, the youngest of the three sisters at the center of the show. Outside of the series, Williams appeared in the films ‘The Wood’ (1999) which saw continued popularity in the early 2000s, and ‘Daddy’s Little Girls’ (2007). She was a frequent guest on various sitcoms and talk shows throughout the decade.

Tia Mowry

Tia Mowry transitioned from her childhood success into adult roles during the 2000s. She starred in the Disney Channel movie ‘Twitches’ (2005) and its 2007 sequel. In 2006, she landed the lead role of Melanie Barnett on the comedy-drama series ‘The Game’ (2006–2015). This role marked her successful transition into more mature television programming.

Tamera Mowry-Housley

Tamera Mowry also evolved her career in the 2000s through a mix of television movies and series. She starred alongside her sister in ‘Twitches’ (2005) and ‘Twitches Too’ (2007). Mowry also had a lead role as Dr. Kayla Thornton in the medical drama ‘Strong Medicine’ (2000–2006). Her work on ‘Strong Medicine’ allowed her to explore dramatic themes away from her earlier comedic work.

Lauren London

Lauren London became a prominent figure in the mid-2000s following her breakout role in ‘ATL’ (2006). She played New New, a character that resonated strongly with the film’s audience. London followed this with a role in the holiday film ‘This Christmas’ (2007) and ‘Next Day Air’ (2009). She also appeared in several high-profile music videos and television guest roles during this era.

Wendy Raquel Robinson

Wendy Raquel Robinson finished a long run on ‘The Steve Harvey Show’ in 2002 before moving to other projects. She eventually landed the role of Tasha Mack on the series ‘The Game’ (2006–2015). Her performance as the ambitious sports agent became one of the show’s most popular elements. She also appeared in the film ‘Miss Congeniality’ (2000) and ‘Something New’ (2006).

Sharon Leal

Sharon Leal was a frequent presence in both television and film during the 2000s. she had a long-running role on the drama series ‘Boston Public’ (2000–2004). Leal went on to star in the blockbuster musical ‘Dreamgirls’ (2006) as Michelle Morris. She also had leading roles in the Tyler Perry films ‘Why Did I Get Married?’ (2007) and its 2010 sequel.

LisaRaye McCoy

LisaRaye McCoy starred in the sitcom ‘All of Us’ (2003–2007), which was loosely based on the lives of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith. She played the character Neesee James for the show’s entire run. Earlier in the decade, she appeared in the film ‘The Price of Air’ (2000) and the action movie ‘Civil Brand’ (2002). Her consistent television presence made her a well-known figure throughout the mid-2000s.

Garcelle Beauvais

Garcelle Beauvais continued her successful television career with a starring role in the police drama ‘NYPD Blue’ (2001–2004). She played Assistant District Attorney Valerie Haywood for several seasons. Beauvais also appeared in the film ‘Bad Company’ (2002) and had a role in the series ‘The Jamie Foxx Show’ (1996–2001) as the decade began. Her work spanned across both comedy and heavy drama.

Erika Alexander

Erika Alexander appeared in several film and television projects throughout the 2000s. She had a role in the science fiction thriller ‘Déjà Vu’ (2006) alongside Denzel Washington. On television, she made guest appearances on series such as ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’ (1999–Present) and ‘7th Heaven’ (1996–2007). She also remained active in the theater and independent film circles during this decade.

Kellita Smith

Kellita Smith was a central figure on television from 2001 to 2006 as Wanda McCullough on ‘The Bernie Mac Show’ (2001–2006). Her role as the supportive yet firm wife of the titular character earned her several award nominations. Smith also appeared in films such as ‘Kingdom Come’ (2001) and ‘Roll Bounce’ (2005). Her comedic timing and chemistry with Bernie Mac were highlights of the series.

Penny Johnson Jerald

Penny Johnson Jerald had a prominent role in the 2000s as Sherry Palmer on the thriller series ’24’ (2001–2010). Her character was the ambitious and often manipulative wife of the president, making her a key antagonist. Jerald also appeared in the television movie ‘The Color of Friendship’ (2000). She maintained a steady career with guest roles on various procedural dramas throughout the decade.

Aisha Tyler

Aisha Tyler held several high-profile roles in television during the 2000s across multiple genres. She had a recurring role as Charlie Wheeler on the hit sitcom ‘Friends’ (1994–2004) in 2003. Tyler also starred in the first season of ‘Ghost Whisperer’ (2005–2010) and began voicing Lana Kane in ‘Archer’ (2009–2023). Her career during this time showcased her range in both live-action and voice acting.

Chandra Wilson

Chandra Wilson became a television mainstay starting in 2005 with her role as Dr. Miranda Bailey on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (2005–Present). Her performance as the tough but caring mentor earned her multiple Emmy Award nominations and a Screen Actors Guild Award. Before her breakout on the medical drama, she appeared in various television guest roles and theater productions. By the end of the decade, her character was one of the most recognizable on television.

Tell us which of these iconic 2000s performances was your favorite in the comments.