Hollywood Actresses Who Were Target Of Racism

The entertainment industry has a long history regarding the treatment of performers from diverse backgrounds. Many talented women have faced significant hurdles including prejudice and systemic exclusion throughout their careers. These experiences often involve being overlooked for roles or facing public backlash based on their identity. By sharing their stories these actresses bring awareness to the ongoing need for inclusivity and fairness in cinema. This list highlights several prominent figures who have navigated these challenges while making a lasting impact on Hollywood.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry became the first Black woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in ‘Monster’s Ball’. Despite this historic achievement she has spoken frequently about the lack of opportunities that followed for women of color. She encountered significant resistance from studios early in her career due to her race. Berry has used her platform to highlight the systemic barriers that persist in Hollywood. Her journey reflects both the progress made and the work that remains for equality.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis has been vocal about the pay disparity and lack of complex roles available to Black actresses. She famously compared her career trajectory and compensation to white peers with similar accolades. The actress has detailed how colorism affects casting decisions within the industry. Davis continues to advocate for better representation through her production company. Her transparency has sparked important conversations about equity in the film world.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o has shared her experiences with colorism and the pressure to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards. She wrote a children’s book titled ‘Sulwe’ to address these issues and inspire young girls. The actress faced skepticism about her marketability before starring in ’12 Years a Slave’. She has consistently advocated for the celebration of dark skin in global media. Nyong’o remains a powerful voice for diversity and self acceptance.

Zendaya

Zendaya faced a wave of racist commentary after being cast as MJ in the ‘Spider Man’ franchise. She also addressed insensitive remarks made about her choice to wear locs on a red carpet. The actress uses these moments to educate the public on cultural sensitivity and respect. She has been careful to choose roles that break away from stereotypes often associated with young Black women. Her career serves as a model for navigating fame while maintaining personal integrity.

Kelly Marie Tran

Kelly Marie Tran experienced intense online harassment following her appearance in ‘The Last Jedi’. The targeted abuse became so severe that she deleted her social media presence to protect her mental health. She later wrote an essay about how the harassment reinforced the feeling of being an outsider. Tran has since returned to the spotlight with a focus on projects that celebrate her heritage. Her resilience has made her a hero to many fans facing similar digital hostility.

Sandra Oh

Sandra Oh has spoken about the systemic racism she encountered while working in both the United Kingdom and the United States. She noted that she was often the only person of color on set during the early years of her career. The actress has been open about the psychological toll of being marginalized in a competitive industry. She made history with her lead role in ‘Killing Eve’ after decades of supporting performances. Oh remains dedicated to opening doors for the next generation of Asian performers.

Lucy Liu

Lucy Liu has addressed the “othering” she felt as one of the few prominent Asian American actresses in the late nineties. She noted that she was often cast in roles that played into exotic or dragon lady tropes. The actress has discussed the difficulty of finding characters that were not defined solely by her ethnicity. Liu has transitioned into directing and producing to have more control over the narratives being told. Her longevity in the industry is a testament to her talent and persistence.

Michelle Yeoh

Michelle Yeoh spent years in Hollywood before receiving the recognition she deserved for ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’. She has discussed the barriers that exist for Asian women who are often aged out of the industry sooner than their peers. The actress faced typecasting in action roles despite her range as a dramatic performer. She has been a vocal advocate for the importance of seeing Asian faces in leading roles. Yeoh has described her recent success as a win for the entire community.

Constance Wu

Constance Wu faced significant backlash and harassment after expressing frustration over her filming schedule. She later revealed that some of the criticism was rooted in racial expectations of how she should behave. The actress has spoken about the pressure of representing an entire community in films like ‘Crazy Rich Asians’. She took a break from the public eye to focus on her well being following the intense scrutiny. Wu has since returned to acting and continues to share her story to help others.

Mindy Kaling

Mindy Kaling has discussed the unique challenges of being a woman of color in writers rooms and as a showrunner. She has faced criticism regarding the diversity of the casts in her various television projects. The actress and producer has spoken about being told she was not thin or fair enough for certain roles. Kaling has created several successful series that center the experiences of South Asian women. Her work has paved the way for more diverse storytelling in the comedy genre.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas

Priyanka Chopra has shared stories of being bullied and facing racial bias during her time in high school in America. When she transitioned to Hollywood she faced similar obstacles regarding her accent and ethnic background. The actress has been vocal about the need for South Asian performers to be seen as more than just a stereotype. She has successfully crossed over from Bollywood to become a global star. Chopra continues to use her influence to promote global diversity in entertainment.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union has been a leading voice against workplace toxicity and racial bias in the entertainment industry. She spoke out about her experiences as a judge on ‘America’s Got Talent’ which led to a formal investigation. The actress has detailed the lack of support for Black hair and makeup needs on various sets. She remains a staunch advocate for Black women in Hollywood and beyond. Union often uses her social media to highlight issues of social justice and equity.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington has discussed the importance of representation and the impact of her role in ‘Scandal’. She was the first Black woman to lead a network drama in decades which brought its own set of pressures. The actress has faced subtle and overt forms of prejudice throughout her time in the industry. She has used her production company to champion stories that center underrepresented voices. Washington remains a highly respected figure for her activism and artistry.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer has been open about the pay gap that exists for Black women even after winning an Academy Award. She famously collaborated with Jessica Chastain to negotiate higher salaries for their joint projects. The actress has discussed being overlooked for leading roles early in her career. She has since built a diverse filmography that showcases her immense range. Spencer continues to push for better treatment of all performers on set.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett has faced typecasting and limited opportunities despite her legendary talent and status. She has spoken about the difficulty of finding roles that are worthy of her skills as a dramatic actress. The performer has navigated a career spanning decades while maintaining a high standard for the characters she portrays. She remains a symbol of excellence and resilience for many aspiring actors. Bassett has frequently advocated for more inclusive casting in major franchises.

Regina King

Regina King has discussed the struggle of getting diverse stories greenlit by major studios. She has transitioned into directing to ensure that Black perspectives are represented behind the camera. The actress has faced the challenges of being a child star while navigating a changing industry. She has won multiple awards for her work in both television and film. King is known for her dedication to authentic and powerful storytelling.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson faced a significant amount of online vitriol after being cast as Valkyrie in the ‘Thor’ films. Some fans complained about the change in the character’s appearance from the original comic books. Thompson has used these experiences to speak out about the necessity of diverse casting in blockbusters. She has been a key figure in the Time’s Up movement and other advocacy groups. The actress continues to choose roles that challenge traditional gender and racial norms.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldana has spoken about the unique pressures faced by Afro Latina actresses in Hollywood. She has addressed the criticism she received regarding her casting in the Nina Simone biopic. The actress has navigated being part of several massive franchises while staying vocal about her identity. She has expressed the importance of recognizing the diversity within the Latino community. Saldana continues to be one of the most bankable stars in the world.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo faced a backlash when she was cast to play Harriet Tubman in the film ‘Harriet’. Some critics questioned her casting because she is a Black British actress playing an American icon. Erivo has spoken about the prejudice she has encountered in both the United Kingdom and the United States. She has achieved great success on Broadway and in film while advocating for better representation. The actress remains a powerful force in the industry.

Salma Hayek Pinault

Salma Hayek has detailed the many times she was told she would never be a leading lady because of her accent. She faced significant hurdles while trying to produce ‘Frida’ because studios did not believe a film about a Mexican artist would succeed. The actress has spoken about the overt racism she encountered during the early years of her career. She has since become a successful producer and an advocate for women in film. Hayek remains a trailblazer for Latina actresses in Hollywood.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez has shared stories about being stereotyped as a maid or a girlfriend early in her career. She has discussed the challenges of breaking out of the boxes that Hollywood tried to place her in. The actress and singer has faced intense media scrutiny that often had racial undertones. She has used her success to build a business empire and create opportunities for others. Lopez continues to be a dominant figure in pop culture across multiple decades.

America Ferrera

America Ferrera has spoken about being told to act “more Latina” during auditions. She has been a vocal critic of the narrow roles often available to Hispanic performers. The actress has used her platform to encourage civic engagement and political activism. She has produced content that focuses on the diverse experiences of immigrant families. Ferrera remains a key figure in the fight for better representation on screen.

Eva Longoria

Eva Longoria has discussed being told she was either too brown or not brown enough for various roles. She has been a leading advocate for the Latino community in Hollywood for many years. The actress has transitioned into directing and producing to help change the industry from the inside. She has founded organizations that support Latina entrepreneurs and students. Longoria continues to work toward a more inclusive entertainment landscape.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson has faced targeted harassment online and has spoken about the prejudice she encountered as a young actress. She has been active in political causes and social justice movements throughout her career. The actress has often been cast in roles that require her to navigate complex racial dynamics. She has been a consistent voice for the importance of voting and community organizing. Dawson remains a versatile and respected performer in film and television.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris has spoken about the prejudice she experienced in the British film industry before finding success in America. She has discussed the lack of roles for Black women that are not centered on trauma or struggle. The actress has achieved international fame through her work in the ‘James Bond’ franchise and ‘Moonlight’. She continues to advocate for more diverse stories that celebrate the Black experience. Harris remains a dedicated and thoughtful artist.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton has been very open about the racism and sexual harassment she faced early in her career. She has discussed being passed over for roles because of her skin tone and hair texture. The actress has used her voice to support the Me Too movement and other social causes. She has built a career playing strong and complex characters in both film and television. Newton remains a brave and outspoken advocate for change in Hollywood.

Ruth Negga

Ruth Negga has discussed the limited opportunities for Black performers in Ireland and the United Kingdom. She moved to the United States to find more varied roles and ultimately received an Oscar nomination for ‘Loving’. The actress has spoken about the importance of telling stories that highlight the history of racial struggle. She has been a vocal supporter of theatre and independent film as spaces for diversity. Negga continues to be recognized for her intense and moving performances.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Gugu Mbatha-Raw has shared her experiences with hair politics on film sets and the lack of prepared stylists. she has spoken about the subtle ways racism manifests in casting and production environments. The actress has sought out roles that challenge historical narratives about women of color. She has worked on projects that span various genres from period dramas to science fiction. Mbatha-Raw remains an elegant and powerful presence in the industry.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright faced a significant amount of online abuse and public scrutiny during the production of ‘Black Panther Wakanda Forever’. Some of the criticism she received was tied to her personal beliefs and her identity. The actress has spoken about the importance of faith and mental health in navigating the pressures of fame. She has become a role model for many young people around the world. Wright continues to focus on impactful storytelling and character driven roles.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira has been a fierce advocate for authentic African representation in global media. She has discussed the importance of seeing African women as warriors and leaders on screen. The actress and playwright has used her work to highlight the stories of women affected by conflict. She has been a key figure in the success of the ‘Black Panther’ franchise. Gurira remains a dedicated activist for women’s rights and education.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith was a leading figure in the movement to boycott the Academy Awards due to a lack of diversity. She has spoken about the systemic issues that prevent Black creators from being recognized for their work. The actress has used her talk show to have open and honest conversations about race and identity. She has been a consistent voice for the empowerment of Black families in Hollywood. Smith continues to produce content that challenges societal norms.

Nia Long

Nia Long has discussed being passed over for roles in favor of lighter skinned actresses throughout her career. she has been vocal about the impact of colorism on the careers of Black women in entertainment. The actress has built a loyal fan base through her work in classic films and television series. She has advocated for better pay and more respectful treatment of veteran performers. Long remains a beloved and influential figure in the industry.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall has discussed the pay gap that exists for Black women specifically within the comedy genre. She has spoken about the difficulty of being taken seriously as a dramatic actress after finding success in humor. The actress has been a consistent presence in film for over two decades. She has used her platform to support various charitable causes and social initiatives. Hall remains one of the most versatile and hardworking actresses in Hollywood.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae created the series ‘Insecure’ to provide a more relatable and authentic look at the lives of Black women. She has spoken about the lack of interest from major networks during the early stages of her career. The actress and producer has built her own media empire to champion underrepresented creators. She has been a vocal advocate for investing in Black communities and businesses. Rae continues to redefine what success looks like for independent artists.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson has addressed racial criticism and skepticism regarding the success of her show ‘Abbott Elementary’. She has spoken about the importance of representation in educational settings and on television. The actress and writer has navigated a rapid rise to fame while staying true to her roots. She has been a vocal supporter of public schools and teachers across the country. Brunson remains a pioneer for Black women in the world of network comedy.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer has been a professional actress since childhood and has spoken extensively about colorism. She has shared her experiences of being compared to other performers based on her skin tone. The actress has used her social media presence to educate her followers on history and social issues. She has successfully transitioned from a child star to a multifaceted mogul. Palmer continues to be a vibrant and necessary voice in the entertainment world.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris has discussed the importance of natural hair representation in major film and television projects. She has spoken about the challenges of being a Black woman in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The actress has been a vocal advocate for the inclusion of more diverse voices in the writers rooms of major franchises. She has worked on projects that highlight the history and resilience of Black families. Parris remains a rising star with a commitment to authentic storytelling.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch faced an intense wave of racist and sexist harassment after being cast as a 007 agent. She spoke about the need to protect her mental health during the release of ‘No Time to Die’. The actress has used her platform to discuss the importance of diversity in iconic film roles. She has been a vocal supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement and other social causes. Lynch continues to take on roles that break barriers for Black women in film.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose has spoken about the unique challenges of navigating Hollywood as a queer Afro Latina woman. She faced comments and questions about her identity following her Oscar win for ‘West Side Story’. The actress has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and racial equity in the arts. She has used her background in musical theatre to bring a unique energy to her film roles. DeBose remains a trailblazing figure for many intersectional communities.

Rita Moreno

Rita Moreno has detailed the extreme racism and typecasting she faced during the Golden Age of Hollywood. She was often forced to wear dark makeup to play various ethnic stereotypes in film. The actress has spoken about the limited opportunities available to Latina performers for many decades. She is one of the few performers to achieve EGOT status despite these significant barriers. Moreno remains an active and legendary figure in the entertainment industry.

Hattie McDaniel

Hattie McDaniel was the first Black person to win an Academy Award but faced extreme segregation during the ceremony. She was forced to sit at a small table at the back of the room away from her co stars. The actress was often limited to playing domestic servant roles due to the racial restrictions of the era. She faced criticism from both the white establishment and the Black community for the roles she took. McDaniel remains a complex and foundational figure in film history.

Dorothy Dandridge

Dorothy Dandridge was the first Black woman to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress. Despite her immense talent she faced severe segregation and was often denied entry to the very venues where she performed. The actress struggled to find roles that were not defined by her race or sexuality. Her career was tragically cut short by the systemic barriers of 1950s Hollywood. Dandridge remains a symbol of the struggle for equality in the arts.

Anna May Wong

Anna May Wong was the first Chinese American movie star but faced constant discrimination. She was often passed over for leading roles in favor of white actresses who performed in yellowface. The actress moved to Europe for a period to find more respectful and varied work. She spoke out against the harmful stereotypes that Hollywood perpetuated about Asian people. Wong remains a pioneer who paved the way for future generations of Asian performers.

Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson famously refused to take roles that were demeaning or stereotypical toward Black women. This commitment often meant she went long periods without working in a competitive industry. The actress used her career to portray strong and dignified characters that challenged racial norms. She was a leading figure in the civil rights movement and a mentor to many young actors. Tyson remained a respected and active performer until her passing.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg has discussed the lack of roles for Black women in the science fiction and fantasy genres. She has spoken about the prejudice she faced while trying to establish herself as a leading lady in the eighties. The actress has been a vocal advocate for social justice and human rights throughout her career. She is one of the few people to achieve EGOT status in the entertainment industry. Goldberg remains a prominent and influential voice in American culture.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard has spoken about the difficulty of getting prestige films made that feature predominately Black casts. She has been a vocal advocate for the importance of independent film in telling diverse stories. The actress has received numerous awards for her work in television and cinema. She has used her platform to support various political and social causes around the world. Woodard remains one of the most respected and accomplished actresses of her generation.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson has recently spoken out about the massive pay gap that persists for veteran Black actresses. She detailed the lack of support and resources provided to her on various film sets. The actress has been a leading voice in the conversation about mental health in the Black community. She has successfully led several major film and television projects throughout her career. Henson continues to fight for equity and respect for all performers of color.

Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey faced a significant amount of racist backlash after being cast as Ariel in ‘The Little Mermaid’. Many critics targeted her online because she did not resemble the original animated character. The actress and singer handled the situation with grace and focused on the positive impact for young fans. She has spoken about the importance of seeing Black princesses in mainstream media. Bailey continues to be a rising star in both the music and film industries.

Rachel Zegler

Rachel Zegler faced racist commentary and harassment after being cast as Snow White in the upcoming live action adaptation. Some internet users expressed anger over a Latina actress playing the iconic character. Zegler has used her social media to push back against the hate and support other diverse performers. She has quickly become a prominent figure in Hollywood following her debut in ‘West Side Story’. The actress remains dedicated to representing her heritage in her work.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore has spoken about the intersectional challenges of being a trans woman of color in Hollywood. She has faced harassment and prejudice both on and off film sets throughout her career. The actress and model has been a vocal advocate for the rights of marginalized communities. She has used her role in ‘Pose’ to bring awareness to the history of the LGBTQ+ community. Moore continues to be a powerful and necessary voice for change in the industry.

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