The Most Handsome Black Actresses of All Time

The history of cinema has been profoundly shaped by the talent and resilience of Black actresses who have broken barriers and redefined performance. From the trailblazers of the Golden Age to the contemporary stars dominating modern franchises, these women have delivered some of the most memorable performances in film and television history. Their contributions extend beyond the screen, often influencing fashion, culture, and social progress. This list honors those who have achieved critical acclaim, commercial success, and lasting cultural impact.

Dorothy Dandridge

Dorothy Dandridge was a pioneering figure in Hollywood and the first African American woman to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress. She rose to international stardom following her magnetic performance in the 1954 film ‘Carmen Jones’. Throughout the 1950s, she challenged racial prejudices while starring in projects like ‘Island in the Sun’ and ‘Porgy and Bess’. Before her film career, she was an accomplished singer who performed at venues such as the Cotton Club. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of performers who followed in her footsteps.

Lena Horne

Lena Horne was a legendary actress, singer, and civil rights activist whose career spanned over seven decades. She signed a significant contract with MGM in the 1940s, appearing in iconic musicals such as ‘Cabin in the Sky’ and ‘Stormy Weather’. Due to the racial climate of the time, her scenes were often filmed so they could be easily edited out for Southern audiences, a practice she fought against. Horne eventually left Hollywood to focus on her singing career and advocacy work, though she returned for ‘The Wiz’ in 1978. She remains a symbol of elegance and unwavering principle in the face of industry adversity.

Diahann Carroll

Diahann Carroll was a trailblazer who broke significant television barriers in the 1960s. She became the first African American woman to star in her own television series, ‘Julia’, where she played a non-stereotypical role as a nurse and widowed mother. Her performance in the 1974 film ‘Claudine’ earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Later in her career, she captivated audiences as the sophisticated Dominique Deveraux on the prime-time soap opera ‘Dynasty’. Carroll’s work consistently challenged the limited roles previously available to Black women in media.

Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson was known for her dedication to portraying strong, dignified Black women throughout her long and storied career. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the 1972 film ‘Sounder’, which earned her an Oscar nomination. Tyson also delivered an Emmy-winning performance in the television movie ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman’. She was a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and an Honorary Academy Award for her contributions to the arts. Her career spanned more than 70 years, leaving an indelible mark on American theater and cinema.

Ruby Dee

Ruby Dee was an acclaimed actress, playwright, and activist who was a central figure in the American civil rights movement alongside her husband, Ossie Davis. She originated the role of Ruth Younger in the stage play and 1961 film version of ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. In 2007, she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in ‘American Gangster’. Dee was also a Grammy and Emmy winner, recognized for her versatility across stage, screen, and radio. Her life was characterized by a deep commitment to both her craft and social justice.

Eartha Kitt

Eartha Kitt was a versatile performer known for her distinctive voice and commanding stage presence. She gained fame as a singer before transitioning into acting, notably playing Catwoman in the 1960s ‘Batman’ television series. Kitt appeared in various films including ‘St. Louis Blues’ and later voiced the iconic villain Yzma in ‘The Emperor’s New Groove’. Throughout her career, she was recognized with multiple Emmy nominations and Tony Award nods. Her outspoken nature and unique talent made her a singular figure in the entertainment world.

Pam Grier

Pam Grier became the face of the blaxploitation genre in the 1970s, starring in high-octane films like ‘Coffy’ and ‘Foxy Brown’. She was one of the first female action stars, often portraying characters who sought justice on their own terms. In 1997, she experienced a major career resurgence when Quentin Tarantino cast her in the title role of ‘Jackie Brown’. This performance earned her a Golden Globe nomination and renewed critical interest in her extensive filmography. Grier’s influence on the action genre and female representation in film remains significant.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is celebrated for her powerful and emotionally resonant portrayals of real-life women and fictional icons. She received an Academy Award nomination for her transformation into Tina Turner in the biopic ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’. Bassett has also starred in culturally significant films such as ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back’. In recent years, she has reached a new generation of fans as Queen Ramonda in the ‘Black Panther’ franchise. She is a recipient of an Honorary Oscar and multiple Golden Globe awards.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is the first Black actress to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting, having won an Oscar, an Emmy, and two Tony Awards. She gained massive critical acclaim for her roles in ‘Doubt’ and ‘The Help’, the latter of which earned her an Academy Award nomination. In 2017, she won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the film adaptation of ‘Fences’. Davis also starred as the formidable Annalise Keating in the legal drama series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. Her performances are frequently cited for their depth, vulnerability, and technical precision.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry made history in 2002 as the first, and currently only, African American woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in ‘Monster’s Ball’. Before her Oscar win, she appeared in popular films such as ‘Boomerang’ and ‘The Flintstones’. She is also well known for her portrayal of Storm in the ‘X-Men’ film series and for her role in the James Bond film ‘Die Another Day’. Berry has successfully navigated both high-budget blockbusters and independent dramas throughout her career. She also earned an Emmy and a Golden Globe for the television film ‘Introducing Dorothy Dandridge’.

Regina King

Regina King began her career as a child actress on the sitcom ‘227’ before transitioning into a highly successful film and television career. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. King has also secured four Primetime Emmy Awards for her work in ‘American Crime’, ‘Seven Seconds’, and ‘Watchmen’. In addition to her acting, she has moved behind the camera to direct the critically acclaimed film ‘One Night in Miami…’. Her versatility has allowed her to excel in comedy, drama, and action genres alike.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard is one of the most honored actresses of her generation, possessing four Emmy Awards and an Academy Award nomination. She is known for her work in films such as ‘Cross Creek’, ‘Passion Fish’, and ’12 Years a Slave’. On television, she has held significant roles in series like ‘St. Elsewhere’ and ‘Hill Street Blues’. Woodard also portrayed the villainous Mariah Dillard in the Marvel series ‘Luke Cage’. Her career is defined by a consistent ability to bring gravitas and nuance to every character she plays.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg is one of the few entertainers to achieve EGOT status, meaning she has won an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony. She burst onto the film scene with her starring role in ‘The Color Purple’, which earned her an Academy Award nomination. She later won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the 1990 hit ‘Ghost’. Goldberg became a household name with the ‘Sister Act’ franchise and has spent many years as a moderator on the talk show ‘The View’. Her career spans stand-up comedy, dramatic acting, and voice work.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer rose to prominence with her breakout role as Minny Jackson in ‘The Help’, for which she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She followed this success with Oscar-nominated performances in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘The Shape of Water’. Spencer is recognized for her ability to balance humor and dramatic depth in a wide range of roles. She has also ventured into television production and starred in the limited series ‘Self Made’. Her consistent presence in critically acclaimed films has made her a staple of modern Hollywood.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson gained critical recognition for her role in ‘Hustle & Flow’ and later earned an Academy Award nomination for ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’. She became a global television icon through her portrayal of Cookie Lyon on the musical drama series ‘Empire’. Henson also led the cast of the historical drama ‘Hidden Figures’, which was a major box office success. Her work spans from intense dramas like ‘The Color Purple’ musical to comedic roles in films like ‘Think Like a Man’. She is known for her energetic screen presence and emotional range.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington achieved international fame for her role as Olivia Pope in the political thriller series ‘Scandal’. Her performance as the high-powered crisis manager earned her multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. In film, she is known for her roles in ‘Ray’, ‘The Last King of Scotland’, and ‘Django Unchained’. Washington also received critical praise for her work in the limited series ‘Little Fires Everywhere’, which she also executive produced. She is frequently cited as a major influence in modern television production and performance.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her film debut in ’12 Years a Slave’. Since her breakout, she has starred in massive global franchises, including the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy and the ‘Black Panther’ films. She received further acclaim for her dual lead roles in the horror film ‘Us’, showcasing her range as a performer. Nyong’o is also a Broadway actress, having earned a Tony nomination for her performance in ‘Eclipsed’. Her fashion choices and public presence have also made her a significant cultural icon.

Zendaya

Zendaya transitioned from a Disney Channel child star to a critically acclaimed actress and producer. She became the youngest two-time winner of the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role in ‘Euphoria’. In addition to television, she has starred in major blockbusters including the ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy and the ‘Dune’ series. Zendaya is also a prominent figure in the fashion world, often noted for her influential red carpet appearances. Her career trajectory is considered one of the most successful transitions in modern entertainment.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross first gained fame for her role as Joan Clayton in the long-running sitcom ‘Girlfriends’. She later achieved even greater success as Dr. Rainbow Johnson on the series ‘Black-ish’, for which she won a Golden Globe Award. Ross is known for her impeccable comedic timing and her ability to anchor family-centric narratives. She has also ventured into film with roles in ‘The High Note’ and ‘American Fiction’. Beyond acting, she is recognized as a style icon and an advocate for representation in the beauty industry.

Nia Long

Nia Long became a prominent figure in Black cinema during the 1990s with roles in classic films like ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘Friday’. She is widely recognized for her work in the ‘The Best Man’ franchise and the romantic drama ‘Love Jones’. Her television career includes long-running roles in series such as ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ and ‘Third Watch’. Long has maintained a steady presence in the industry for over three decades, appearing in both independent films and major studio productions. She remains a beloved figure in American pop culture.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union rose to stardom in the late 1990s with roles in teen classics like ‘Bring It On’ and ’10 Things I Hate About You’. She later transitioned into leading adult roles in films such as ‘Bad Boys II’ and ‘Deliver Us from Eva’. Union starred in the hit television series ‘Being Mary Jane’ for several seasons, earning critical praise for her portrayal of a news anchor. She is also a successful author and activist, frequently speaking on issues of racial and gender equality. Her career has evolved to include significant work as a producer.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith began her career on the sitcom ‘A Different World’ before moving into feature films. She starred in notable 1990s movies such as ‘Menace II Society’, ‘Set It Off’, and ‘The Nutty Professor’. Smith also played the role of Niobe in ‘The Matrix’ sequels and appeared in the television series ‘Gotham’. In recent years, she has hosted the popular talk show ‘Red Table Talk’, which became known for its candid celebrity interviews. Her diverse career includes acting, directing, producing, and music.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah is a multitalented performer who transitioned from a successful hip-hop career to becoming an Oscar-nominated actress. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Matron Mama Morton in the musical ‘Chicago’. Latifah has starred in numerous hit films including ‘Set It Off’, ‘Bringing Down the House’, and ‘Last Holiday’. On television, she led the sitcom ‘Living Single’ and currently stars in the action series ‘The Equalizer’. She is widely regarded as a pioneer for women in both the music and film industries.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton is a British actress known for her work in both major Hollywood productions and independent films. She received critical acclaim and a BAFTA Award for her role in the 2004 drama ‘Crash’. Newton also starred in ‘Mission: Impossible 2’ and ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ alongside Will Smith. Her performance as Maeve Millay in the science fiction series ‘Westworld’ earned her a Primetime Emmy Award. She has been a consistent presence in international cinema for over thirty years.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo is a highly respected British actress who earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Hotel Rwanda’. She has appeared in a variety of high-profile films including ‘The Secret Life of Bees’ and ‘Dirty Pretty Things’. Okonedo is also an accomplished stage actress, winning a Tony Award for her performance in the Broadway revival of ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. Her television work includes roles in ‘The Hollow Crown’ and ‘Ratched’. She is known for her intense and emotionally grounded performances.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris gained international recognition for her role as Eve Moneypenny in the James Bond films ‘Skyfall’, ‘Spectre’, and ‘No Time to Die’. She received an Academy Award nomination for her powerful portrayal of a mother struggling with addiction in the film ‘Moonlight’. Harris first broke through with her role in the horror film ’28 Days Later’ and appeared in the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ franchise. She is also known for her work in biographical films like ‘Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’. Her career is marked by a balance of blockbuster action and prestige drama.

Ruth Negga

Ruth Negga is an Ethiopian-Irish actress who received widespread critical acclaim for her role in the 2016 film ‘Loving’. Her portrayal of Mildred Loving earned her nominations for an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. She is also well known for her role as Tulip O’Hare in the television series ‘Preacher’. Negga has a strong background in theater, having performed in numerous Shakespearean productions and on Broadway. In 2021, she starred in the film ‘Passing’, which further established her as a major talent in contemporary cinema.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo is a powerhouse performer who achieved fame on Broadway in ‘The Color Purple’, for which she won a Tony Award. She successfully transitioned to film, earning two Academy Award nominations for her work in the biopic ‘Harriet’. Erivo has also starred in films such as ‘Bad Times at the El Royale’ and ‘Widows’. She portrayed Aretha Franklin in the anthology series ‘Genius’, earning an Emmy nomination for her performance. Her career continues to expand with leading roles in major upcoming musical adaptations like ‘Wicked’.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson first gained notice in the independent film ‘Dear White People’ and the drama ‘Selma’. She achieved mainstream stardom as Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ and its sequels. Thompson also stars in the ‘Creed’ film series and appeared in the science fiction series ‘Westworld’. She is known for her work in experimental and independent films like ‘Sorry to Bother You’ and ‘Passing’. Her career is characterized by a mix of high-profile genre work and challenging artistic projects.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira became a household name through her role as Michonne on the long-running horror series ‘The Walking Dead’. She further increased her global profile by playing Okoye in the ‘Black Panther’ films and the ‘Avengers’ franchise. In addition to her acting, Gurira is an award-winning playwright, known for the Tony-nominated play ‘Eclipsed’. She often portrays characters defined by their physical strength and leadership qualities. Her work has significantly impacted the representation of African women in mainstream media.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright rose to international fame for her portrayal of Shuri in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, starting with ‘Black Panther’. She took on the lead role in the sequel, ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’, following the death of Chadwick Boseman. Wright has also appeared in the anthology series ‘Small Axe’, specifically in the episode ‘Mangrove’, which earned her critical praise. Her filmography includes roles in ‘Ready Player One’ and ‘Death on the Nile’. She is considered one of the most promising young talents in the industry today.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae first gained attention through her YouTube web series ‘Awkward Black Girl’. This success led to her creating, co-writing, and starring in the HBO series ‘Insecure’, which received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. Since then, Rae has expanded into film with roles in ‘The Photograph’, ‘Vengeance’, and ‘Barbie’. She is also a prolific producer, using her platform to highlight underrepresented voices in entertainment. Her career is a testament to the power of digital creators transitioning into mainstream success.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi began her career as a child actress, gaining widespread recognition for her role as Zoey Johnson on the sitcom ‘Black-ish’. Her character was so popular that it led to the spin-off series ‘Grown-ish’, which followed her character’s college years. Shahidi has also starred in films such as ‘The Sun Is Also a Star’ and played Tinker Bell in ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’. Beyond acting, she is known for her activism and focus on education and social justice. She is frequently cited as a role model for the younger generation.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer has had a prolific career since her childhood breakout role in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’. She has starred in various television projects including ‘Scream Queens’ and the revival of ‘The Proud Family’. In 2022, she received critical acclaim for her leading role in Jordan Peele’s science fiction horror film ‘Nope’. Palmer is also a singer and a popular internet personality, known for her charismatic hosting and comedic clips. Her longevity in the industry is a result of her continuous reinvention and versatility.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe established a successful career as a singer and musician before making a significant impact in film. She made her big-screen debut with acclaimed roles in ‘Hidden Figures’ and the Oscar-winning ‘Moonlight’. Monáe has since starred in the horror film ‘Antebellum’ and the mystery sequel ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. Her artistic style is often characterized by afrofuturist themes and a unique fashion sense. She continues to balance a high-profile music career with a growing filmography.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Gugu Mbatha-Raw is a British actress who gained critical acclaim for her title role in the period drama ‘Belle’. She also starred in the romantic drama ‘Beyond the Lights’ and the acclaimed ‘Black Mirror’ episode ‘San Junipero’. Mbatha-Raw has appeared in major productions such as ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and the series ‘The Morning Show’. She currently stars in the Marvel series ‘Loki’ as Ravonna Renslayer. Her performances are often noted for their grace and emotional clarity.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch made history by playing Nomi, the first female 007 agent, in the James Bond film ‘No Time to Die’. She also gained recognition for her role as Maria Rambeau in ‘Captain Marvel’ and ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. Lynch starred in the historical epic ‘The Woman King’ and the musical ‘Matilda the Musical’. Her roles often emphasize strength, resilience, and groundbreaking representation for Black women in action films. She is a recipient of the BAFTA Rising Star Award.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson first rose to fame as a contestant on ‘American Idol’ before delivering an Oscar-winning performance in ‘Dreamgirls’. This win made her one of the few actors to win an Academy Award for their film debut. She has since starred in ‘Sex and the City’, ‘The Secret Life of Bees’, and played Aretha Franklin in ‘Respect’. Hudson is also a Grammy-winning singer and has performed on Broadway in ‘The Color Purple’. She currently hosts her own daytime talk show, ‘The Jennifer Hudson Show’.

Beyoncé

While primarily known as a global music icon, Beyoncé has maintained a significant presence in film throughout her career. She earned a Golden Globe nomination for her performance in the musical ‘Dreamgirls’. Her film credits also include ‘Carmen: A Hip Hopera’, ‘The Pink Panther’, and ‘Obsessed’. She provided the voice for Nala in the 2019 photorealistic remake of ‘The Lion King’. Beyoncé has also directed and produced several visual albums and documentaries, such as ‘Lemonade’ and ‘Homecoming’.

Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige, the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul,” successfully transitioned into a critically acclaimed actress. She made history in 2018 by becoming the first person nominated for an Oscar for acting and original song in the same year for ‘Mudbound’. Her television work includes a starring role in the series ‘Power Book II: Ghost’ and the ‘The Umbrella Academy’. She also appeared in the film adaptation of the musical ‘Rock of Ages’. Blige’s acting is often praised for its raw honesty and grit.

Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams became a major star in the 1980s and 1990s across music, television, and film. She is well known for her role in the action film ‘Eraser’ and the ensemble drama ‘Soul Food’. On television, she delivered a memorable performance as the villainous Wilhelmina Slater on ‘Ugly Betty’, earning multiple Emmy nominations. She also joined the cast of ‘Desperate Housewives’ in its later seasons. Williams has maintained a successful career on Broadway and remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Lynn Whitfield

Lynn Whitfield is a veteran actress best known for her Emmy-winning portrayal of Josephine Baker in ‘The Josephine Baker Story’. She has appeared in numerous films, including ‘Eve’s Bayou’, ‘A Thin Line Between Love and Hate’, and ‘Stepmom’. In recent years, she gained a new following for her role as the matriarch Lady Mae Greenleaf in the series ‘Greenleaf’. Whitfield’s career is marked by her ability to portray sophisticated and complex characters. She has been a consistent presence in film and television for over four decades.

Phylicia Rashād

Phylicia Rashad became “America’s Mother” through her role as Clair Huxtable on the legendary sitcom ‘The Cosby Show’. She was the first African American actress to win the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for her role in ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. Rashad has also appeared in the ‘Creed’ film series and ‘For Colored Girls’. Beyond acting, she has served as the Dean of the College of Fine Arts at Howard University. Her career is defined by a legacy of excellence on both stage and screen.

Debbie Allen

Debbie Allen is a multitalented actress, dancer, and director who gained fame for her role in the film and television series ‘Fame’. She has been a major creative force behind the scenes of many television shows, including ‘A Different World’ and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. On ‘Grey’s Anatomy’, she has held a long-running role as Dr. Catherine Fox while also serving as an executive producer. Allen is a recipient of multiple Emmy Awards and a Kennedy Center Honor. She also operates the Debbie Allen Dance Academy to mentor future performers.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph originated the role of Deena Jones in the Broadway musical ‘Dreamgirls’, earning a Tony nomination. She has had a long and successful television career, starring in ‘Moesha’ and appearing in films like ‘To Sleep with Anger’. In recent years, she has experienced a career surge for her role as Barbara Howard on the sitcom ‘Abbott Elementary’. This performance earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. She is recognized for her advocacy work and her enduring presence in the industry.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts first gained fame for her comedic work on ‘Reno 911!’ and as the host of ‘Clean House’. She successfully transitioned into dramatic roles with acclaimed performances in ‘Getting On’ and ‘When They See Us’. Nash-Betts won an Emmy Award for her role in the limited series ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She has also starred in the series ‘Claws’ and ‘The Rookie: Feds’. Her career is noted for her ability to seamlessly move between broad comedy and intense drama.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson rose to prominence through her comedic content on Instagram and BuzzFeed. She reached a new level of success as the creator, executive producer, and star of the hit mockumentary series ‘Abbott Elementary’. For her work on the show, she has won multiple Emmy Awards and Golden Globes. Brunson has also appeared in series like ‘A Black Lady Sketch Show’ and ‘Miracle Workers’. She is considered a leading figure in the new wave of television creators and performers.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris first gained attention for her role as Dawn Chambers on the period drama ‘Mad Men’. She went on to star in the independent film ‘Chi-Raq’ and the acclaimed drama ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. Parris joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Monica Rambeau in the series ‘WandaVision’ and the film ‘The Marvels’. She also appeared in the horror sequel ‘Candyman’ and the science fiction comedy ‘They Cloned Tyrone’. Her career is marked by a diverse selection of roles across different genres.

KiKi Layne

KiKi Layne had a breakout year in 2018 with her leading role in Barry Jenkins’ ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. Since her debut, she has appeared in high-profile projects such as ‘The Old Guard’ and ‘Coming 2 America’. Layne also starred in the psychological thriller ‘Don’t Worry Darling’ and the film ‘Native Son’. She is recognized for her poise and the emotional depth she brings to her characters. She continues to be one of the most sought-after young actresses in Hollywood.

Thuso Mbedu

Thuso Mbedu is a South African actress who gained international acclaim for her role in the limited series ‘The Underground Railroad’. Her performance earned her an Independent Spirit Award and a Gotham Award. She made her feature film debut starring alongside Viola Davis in the historical epic ‘The Woman King’. Before her international success, she was a two-time International Emmy nominee for her work in the South African series ‘Is’Thunzi’. She is widely regarded as a rising star with immense dramatic range.

Please share your thoughts on these legendary actresses and tell us who your personal favorites are in the comments.