Black Actresses With Practically No Haters

The landscape of modern entertainment is shaped by the remarkable contributions of Black actresses who consistently deliver powerful and memorable performances. These women have cultivated loyal fanbases through their dedication to their craft and their positive public images. Many have broken barriers in major film franchises and critically acclaimed television series while maintaining a high level of respect from critics and audiences alike. Their careers serve as a testament to the impact of talent and grace in a demanding industry. This list highlights those who are widely admired for their work and their contributions to the art of storytelling.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis has earned international acclaim for her powerful performances on stage and screen. She is one of the few performers to achieve the EGOT by winning an Emmy and a Grammy and an Oscar and a Tony. Her work in the film ‘The Help’ and the series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ made her a household name. She recently produced and starred in the historical epic ‘The Woman King’ which further showcased her range. Her dedication to her craft has made her one of the most respected figures in the industry.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is widely recognized for her ability to bring complex and historical characters to life. She delivered a legendary performance as Tina Turner in the film ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’. Her role as Queen Ramonda in ‘Black Panther’ earned her significant praise and several award nominations. She continues to lead the popular television series ‘9-1-1’ where she plays a determined first responder. Her long career is marked by a reputation for professionalism and excellence.

Regina King

Regina King began her career as a teenager on the television show ‘227’ and evolved into a celebrated actress and director. She won an Academy Award for her performance in the film ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. Her work in the series ‘Watchmen’ and ‘American Crime’ earned her multiple Emmy Awards. She transitioned to directing with the critically acclaimed film ‘One Night in Miami’. Audiences admire her for her versatility and her commitment to meaningful storytelling.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer gained worldwide fame for her Academy Award winning role in ‘The Help’. She has since become a staple in Hollywood with standout performances in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘The Shape of Water’. Her ability to blend humor and deep emotion has made her a favorite among film fans. She has also successfully ventured into television with projects like ‘Truth Be Told’ and ‘Self Made’. Her consistent screen presence is often associated with warmth and reliability.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o made a stunning film debut in ’12 Years a Slave’ for which she won an Academy Award. She has since starred in major blockbusters including the ‘Black Panther’ series and the horror film ‘Us’. Beyond her acting talent she is recognized as a global fashion icon and a champion for cultural representation. She has also contributed her voice to the ‘Star Wars’ franchise as the character Maz Kanata. Her poise and intellect have made her a highly respected figure in the global community.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson first captured audience attention with her performance in the film ‘Hustle and Flow’. she received an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’. Her portrayal of Cookie Lyon in the television drama ‘Empire’ became a cultural phenomenon and earned her a Golden Globe. She recently appeared in the musical adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’ which highlighted her vocal abilities. She is widely loved for her vibrant energy and her advocacy for mental health awareness.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross is best known for her leading roles in the hit television series ‘Girlfriends’ and ‘Black-ish’. She has won several awards for her comedic timing and her ability to portray relatable modern women. In addition to acting she has found success as a producer and an entrepreneur in the beauty industry. She is frequently celebrated for her sense of style and her positive social media presence. Her work continues to inspire audiences who appreciate her authentic and joyful approach to life.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae rose to prominence through her web series ‘Awkward Black Girl’ before creating and starring in the HBO series ‘Insecure’. Her work as a writer and actress has been instrumental in bringing diverse narratives to the forefront of television. She has expanded her career into film with roles in ‘The Photograph’ and ‘Barbie’. She also manages several business ventures including a record label and a production company. Her entrepreneurial spirit and creative vision have earned her widespread admiration.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira is a talented actress and playwright who gained international fame for her role as Michonne in ‘The Walking Dead’. She joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Okoye in ‘Black Panther’ and several ‘Avengers’ films. Her plays including ‘Eclipsed’ have been staged on Broadway and received critical acclaim. She is known for her physical dedication to action roles and her intellectual approach to character development. Her work often highlights the strength and complexity of African women.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington became a household name for her portrayal of Olivia Pope in the political thriller series ‘Scandal’. She has starred in notable films such as ‘Ray’ and ‘Django Unchained’. Her production company Simpson Street focuses on creating inclusive content for film and television. She is also recognized for her activism and her influence in the world of fashion and beauty. Her professional achievements and philanthropic efforts have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment world.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union has been a prominent figure in film and television since the late 1990s with roles in ‘Bring It On’ and ‘Bad Boys II’. She starred in the successful series ‘Being Mary Jane’ which showcased her dramatic range. In recent years she has become an advocate for workplace equality and a best selling author. She frequently shares her life as a mother and wife on social media which has built a strong connection with her fans. Her transparency and resilience have earned her deep respect from the public.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph is a veteran of stage and screen who originated the role of Deena Jones in the Broadway musical ‘Dreamgirls’. She has enjoyed a long career in television with roles in ‘Moesha’ and more recently ‘Abbott Elementary’. Her performance in ‘Abbott Elementary’ earned her an Emmy Award and sparked a career resurgence. She is also a dedicated activist for health awareness and has spent decades supporting the arts. Her recent success is seen by many as a well deserved celebration of her enduring talent.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson gained early fame through her viral internet videos before transitioning to mainstream television. She is the creator and writer and star of the hit mockumentary series ‘Abbott Elementary’. Her work on the show has earned multiple Emmy Awards and has been credited with revitalizing the network sitcom. She is praised for her sharp humor and her ability to tell stories that resonate with a wide audience. Her rapid rise to stardom is built on a foundation of hard work and creative integrity.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard is a highly decorated actress with a career spanning over four decades in film and television. She has won four Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe and has been nominated for an Academy Award. Her roles in ‘Clemency’ and ‘Passion Fish’ are cited as masterclasses in dramatic acting. She has also appeared in popular projects like ‘Luke Cage’ and ‘The Lion King’. She is widely regarded as one of the most consistent and talented actors in the industry.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall first became known for her comedic roles in the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise. She has since transitioned into more diverse projects including the hit film ‘Girls Trip’ and the series ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’. Her performance in ‘Support the Girls’ earned her significant critical acclaim and several critics circle awards. She is frequently noted for her infectious personality and her ability to excel in both comedy and drama. Audiences appreciate her relatability and her sharp wit.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan is well known for her leading roles in beloved films like ‘Love and Basketball’ and ‘Brown Sugar’. She has a successful career on Broadway and received a Tony Award nomination for her performance in ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. Recently she has ventured into directing with the film ‘On the Come Up’. She also appeared in the television series ‘Succession’ and ‘The Best Man: The Final Chapters’. Her longevity in the industry is a result of her steady talent and professional reputation.

Nia Long

Nia Long has been a staple of Black cinema since her breakout roles in ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘The Best Man’. She has appeared in numerous successful films including ‘Big Momma’s House’ and ‘Soul Food’. Her television work includes long running roles in ‘Third Watch’ and ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’. She is often celebrated for her timeless beauty and her ability to bring depth to every character she plays. Her career is marked by a consistent presence and a loyal following.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Gugu Mbatha-Raw is a British actress who gained critical acclaim for her role in the period drama ‘Belle’. She has appeared in a wide range of projects including ‘Beyond the Lights’ and the ‘Black Mirror’ episode ‘San Junipero’. She is part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe through her role in the series ‘Loki’. She also stars in the television drama ‘The Morning Show’. Her refined acting style and choice of unique roles have made her a respected figure globally.

Ruth Negga

Ruth Negga is an Irish-Ethiopian actress who received an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Loving’. She is known for her intense performances in the series ‘Preacher’ and the film ‘Passing’. Her work on stage has also been highly praised including her portrayal of Hamlet. She has a reputation for being a private and dedicated artist who chooses challenging and thought provoking material. Critics and fans alike admire her for her quiet strength and immense range.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo is a powerhouse performer who won a Tony Award for her role in the Broadway musical ‘The Color Purple’. She transitioned to film with impressive performances in ‘Widows’ and ‘Bad Times at the El Royale’. She received two Academy Award nominations for her portrayal of Harriet Tubman in ‘Harriet’. She is set to star as Elphaba in the film adaptation of the musical ‘Wicked’. Her incredible vocal range and dramatic commitment have earned her international stardom.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris first gained attention for her role in the acclaimed series ‘Mad Men’. She has since starred in independent films like ‘Dear White People’ and the commercial success ‘Chi-Raq’. She joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Monica Rambeau in ‘WandaVision’ and ‘The Marvels’. Her work in the horror film ‘Candyman’ further established her as a versatile leading lady. She is praised for her charisma and her ability to lead major ensemble casts.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch is a British actress who made history as the first female 007 in the James Bond film ‘No Time to Die’. She has appeared in other major projects like ‘Captain Marvel’ and ‘The Woman King’. Her performance as Miss Honey in the musical film ‘Matilda’ showed her versatility and softer side. She is recognized for her athletic ability in action roles and her strong screen presence. Her career is on a rapid upward trajectory with significant international support.

Danielle Brooks

Danielle Brooks became a fan favorite for her role as Taystee in the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. she earned a Tony Award nomination for her performance in the Broadway revival of ‘The Color Purple’. She reprised her role as Sofia in the film adaptation of the musical which earned her an Academy Award nomination. She also stars in the superhero series ‘Peacemaker’ alongside John Cena. Her authentic personality and immense talent have made her a beloved figure in entertainment.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph

Da’Vine Joy Randolph is a classically trained actress who won an Academy Award for her performance in ‘The Holdovers’. She first gained attention on Broadway in the musical ‘Ghost’ and later appeared in the film ‘Dolemite Is My Name’. Her television work includes recurring roles in ‘Only Murders in the Building’ and ‘High Fidelity’. She is known for her ability to steal scenes with her natural timing and emotional honesty. Her recent awards season success has made her one of the most celebrated actresses of the year.

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor is a highly respected actress known for her work in ‘The Help’ and ‘King Richard’. Her performance in ‘King Richard’ earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She has also starred in the acclaimed miniseries ‘When They See Us’ and ‘Lovecraft Country’. Her work is characterized by a deep sense of dignity and emotional complexity. She is widely regarded as a performer who brings gravity and truth to every project she joins.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba won two Emmy Awards for her iconic portrayal of Suzanne Warren in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She has successfully transitioned into other major roles including the series ‘In Treatment’ and the miniseries ‘Mrs. America’. Her performance as Shirley Chisholm earned her further critical acclaim and awards. She is also an accomplished stage actress with a strong background in musical theater. Her ability to transform completely into her characters has earned her a reputation for being a true artist.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley is best known for her roles in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. She won an Emmy Award for her performance as Moira in the latter series. Her work is often praised for its vulnerability and its representation of the LGBTQ+ community. She has also lent her voice to animated projects and appeared in various independent films. Her positive public image and consistent work in high quality dramas have made her very popular.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multi talented artist who successfully moved from a music career to a prominent acting career. She starred in the Academy Award winning films ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. Her performance in ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ showcased her comedic and dramatic range. She continues to release innovative music while taking on challenging lead roles in projects like ‘Antebellum’. Her unique style and artistic fearlessness have earned her a dedicated global following.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris is a British actress who received an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Moonlight’. She is well known for playing Eve Moneypenny in several James Bond films. Her career includes roles in major franchises like ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ and independent films like ’28 Days Later’. She was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for her services to drama. Her professional demeanor and consistent talent have made her a respected figure in Hollywood.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton has enjoyed a diverse career with roles in films such as ‘Crash’ and ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’. She gained widespread acclaim for her performance as Maeve Millay in the series ‘Westworld’ for which she won an Emmy Award. She has also appeared in the ‘Star Wars’ franchise and ‘Mission: Impossible II’. She is known for her intelligence and her outspoken advocacy for human rights. Her longevity in the industry is a testament to her skill and her professional integrity.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo is a British actress who received an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Hotel Rwanda’. she has had a distinguished career on both the London and New York stages winning a Tony Award for ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. Her film and television work includes roles in ‘The Secret Life of Bees’ and the series ‘Ratched’. She is frequently praised for her ability to bring nuance to complex and often tragic characters. Her peers and critics alike regard her as one of the finest actresses working today.

Marianne Jean-Baptiste

Marianne Jean-Baptiste gained international recognition for her role in the film ‘Secrets and Lies’ which earned her an Academy Award nomination. She was a series regular on the long running drama ‘Without a Trace’ for seven seasons. Her work on stage and in films like ‘In Fabric’ continues to demonstrate her incredible range. She is also a talented musician and composer who has written music for film. Her low key public profile and high quality work have made her a respected figure in the industry.

CCH Pounder

CCH Pounder is a veteran actress with a career spanning several decades across film and television. She is well known for her roles in ‘The Shield’ and ‘Avatar’ and ‘NCIS: New Orleans’. She has received multiple Emmy Award nominations for her dramatic performances. In addition to acting she is an avid art collector and a champion for various charitable causes. Her distinctive voice and commanding presence make her one of the most recognizable and respected character actresses in Hollywood.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine is a beloved actress who was part of the original Broadway cast of ‘Dreamgirls’. She has had a prolific career in film and television with standout roles in ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. She won an Emmy Award for her guest role on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and has appeared in many successful family comedies. Her warm personality and distinctive voice have made her a favorite among audiences of all ages. She is widely considered a treasure of the American entertainment industry.

Jenifer Lewis

Jenifer Lewis is often referred to as the Mother of Black Hollywood due to her many roles playing matriarchs. She is a veteran of Broadway and starred in the hit television series ‘Black-ish’ for eight seasons. Her memoir ‘The Mother of Black Hollywood’ was a best seller and detailed her long career and personal journey. She is known for her incredible energy and her advocacy for mental health awareness. Her fans admire her for her honesty and her immense comedic and vocal talent.

Erika Alexander

Erika Alexander is best known for her iconic role as Maxine Shaw on the sitcom ‘Living Single’. She has continued to work steadily in projects like ‘Get Out’ and the series ‘Run the World’. Beyond acting she is an activist and a creator who cofounded a multiplatform content company. She is also known for her work in the comic book industry as a writer. Her enduring popularity is rooted in her sharp wit and her contributions to Black television history.

Kim Fields

Kim Fields gained early fame as a child star on the series ‘The Facts of Life’ and later starred in the hit sitcom ‘Living Single’. She has maintained a consistent career as an actress and a director and a producer. Recently she returned to the spotlight with the sitcom ‘The Upshaws’ on Netflix. She is also a published author who has shared her experiences growing up in the spotlight. Her professional longevity and positive image have earned her a loyal following across generations.

Jasmine Guy

Jasmine Guy became a cultural icon for her role as Whitley Gilbert on the series ‘A Different World’. She is a multi talented performer who has released music and appeared in numerous Broadway productions. Her television work includes roles in ‘Dead Like Me’ and ‘The Vampire Diaries’. She is also an author and has been involved in directing for the stage. Her legacy as a television pioneer and her continued dedication to the arts are highly respected.

Cree Summer

Cree Summer is a prolific voice actress who has provided the voices for hundreds of animated characters. She is well known for her live action role as Freddie Brooks on ‘A Different World’. Her voice can be heard in classics like ‘Rugrats’ and ‘Inspector Gadget’ and ‘Danny Phantom’. She is also a talented musician who has released several albums. Her unique voice and creative spirit have made her a legendary figure in both the animation and television worlds.

Anika Noni Rose

Anika Noni Rose is a Tony Award winning actress who made history as the voice of Tiana in ‘The Princess and the Frog’. She starred in the film adaptation of ‘Dreamgirls’ alongside Beyoncé and Jennifer Hudson. Her television work includes notable roles in ‘The Good Wife’ and ‘Power’. She is also a regular performer on the New York stage in both plays and musicals. Her versatility and her status as a Disney Legend have made her a beloved figure worldwide.

Patina Miller

Patina Miller is a Tony Award winning actress who gained fame for her roles in the musicals ‘Sister Act’ and ‘Pippin’. She transitioned to television with a lead role in the series ‘Madam Secretary’. She currently stars in the drama ‘Power Book III: Raising Kanan’ where she plays a complex matriarch. Her film work includes roles in ‘The Hunger Games’ franchise. Her powerful voice and commanding screen presence have made her a standout star in every medium.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer began her career as a child star in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ and has grown into a multifaceted entertainer. She has starred in numerous films and television shows including ‘Scream Queens’ and the blockbuster ‘Nope’. She is also a singer and a television host who became the youngest person to host her own talk show. Her charismatic personality and her savvy use of social media have made her a favorite among younger audiences. She is widely praised for her work ethic and her ability to excel in any role.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin rose to fame as Diane Johnson on the hit series ‘Black-ish’. At the age of fourteen she became the youngest executive producer in Hollywood history with the film ‘Little’. She has won several NAACP Image Awards for her acting and her work behind the scenes. She continues to expand her production company with new projects for various networks. Her ambition and talent at such a young age have made her an inspiration and a highly respected young star.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi gained recognition for her role as Zoey Johnson on ‘Black-ish’ which led to her own spin off series ‘Grown-ish’. She is known for her activism and her commitment to education and social justice. She graduated from Harvard University while maintaining her successful acting career. She recently played Tinker Bell in the live action film ‘Peter Pan and Wendy’. Her intelligence and her positive influence on her peers have earned her widespread admiration.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid had her breakout role in the film ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ directed by Ava DuVernay. She has since appeared in the hit series ‘Euphoria’ and the film ‘The Invisible Man’. Her performance in ‘The Last of Us’ earned her critical praise and an Emmy Award nomination. She is also a producer who aims to create content that empowers young people. Her maturity and her selection of high quality projects have made her one of the most promising young actresses in Hollywood.

Zendaya

Zendaya transitioned from a Disney Channel star to one of the most acclaimed actresses of her generation. She won two Emmy Awards for her lead role in the drama series ‘Euphoria’. Her film career includes major roles in the ‘Spider-Man’ franchise and the ‘Dune’ series. She is also a significant figure in the fashion world and a global brand ambassador for several luxury labels. Her professionalism and her ability to navigate fame with grace have earned her immense respect globally.

Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey first gained fame as one half of the musical duo Chloe x Halle before transitioning into acting. She was cast as Ariel in the live action adaptation of ‘The Little Mermaid’ which became a global box office success. She also appeared in the musical film ‘The Color Purple’ alongside a prestigious ensemble cast. Her vocal talent and her historic role as a Disney princess have made her a source of inspiration. She is widely admired for her poise and her dedication to her artistic growth.

Dominique Fishback

Dominique Fishback is an actress and playwright who gained critical acclaim for her role in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. Her performance earned her a BAFTA nomination and established her as a rising star. she starred in the series ‘Swarm’ for which she received an Emmy Award nomination. Her work in ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’ showed her ability to lead a major action franchise. She is known for her poetic approach to acting and her commitment to telling authentic stories.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri is an actress and comedian who rose to prominence for her role as Sydney Adamu in the series ‘The Bear’. She won an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe for her performance in the acclaimed drama. She is also a talented writer and voice actress who has worked on series like ‘Big Mouth’. Her recent film roles in ‘Bottoms’ and ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem’ have further showcased her comedic range. Her rapid rise and her genuine personality have made her one of the most liked figures in modern entertainment.

Please share your own favorites among these talented women in the comments.