The Shortest African-American Actresses in Hollywood

Hollywood is home to many talented African-American actresses who have made a significant impact on the industry despite their petite stature. These performers have taken on diverse roles ranging from medical professionals and historical figures to superheroes and vocal powerhouses. Their careers demonstrate that physical height does not determine the magnitude of one’s presence on screen or stage. This list highlights some of the shortest African-American actresses currently working in the entertainment industry.

Chandra Wilson

Chandra Wilson is widely recognized for her long-running role as Dr. Miranda Bailey on the medical drama series ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. Standing at 5 feet tall, she has earned multiple Emmy nominations for her performance as the firm but compassionate hospital administrator. Before her television breakthrough, Wilson appeared in various stage productions and films like ‘Philadelphia’. Her height has never limited her commanding presence on screen, where she portrays one of television’s most authoritative figures. She also directs episodes for several television series, expanding her influence in the industry.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith is a versatile actress and producer known for her roles in action films and dramas alike. Measuring 5 feet tall, she gained early fame on the sitcom ‘A Different World’ before moving into major motion pictures. She is well-known for her role as Niobe in ‘The Matrix Reloaded’ and ‘The Matrix Revolutions’, where she performed many of her own stunts. Pinkett Smith has also voiced Gloria the hippopotamus in the ‘Madagascar’ animated film franchise. She continues to be a prominent figure in Hollywood through her acting and her talk show production work.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and actress who transitioned seamlessly from music to the big screen. The performer stands at 5 feet tall and has garnered critical acclaim for her roles in award-winning films. She delivered a breakout performance in ‘Moonlight’ and portrayed a real-life NASA mathematician in ‘Hidden Figures’. Recently, she took on a complex dual role in the mystery film ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. Monáe is celebrated for her unique fashion sense and her ability to tackle socially relevant themes in her work.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine is a veteran of stage and screen with a career spanning several decades. Standing at 5 feet tall, she is known for her distinctive voice and warm on-screen presence. She originated the role of Lorrell Robinson in the Broadway production of ‘Dreamgirls’ and later won an Emmy for her guest role on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. Devine has appeared in numerous films, including ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘The Preacher’s Wife’. Her extensive television work includes series such as ‘Boston Public’ and ‘Family Reunion’.

Naturi Naughton

Naturi Naughton is an actress and singer who first rose to prominence as a member of the girl group 3LW. The actress measures 5 feet tall and is perhaps best known for her role as Tasha St. Patrick on the hit Starz drama ‘Power’. She also portrayed rap icon Lil’ Kim in the biographical film ‘Notorious’. Naughton has appeared on Broadway in the musical ‘Hairspray’, showcasing her theatrical roots. Her career continues to thrive with lead roles in television series and independent film projects.

Rozonda Thomas

Rozonda Thomas, better known by her stage name Chilli, is a singer and actress most famous as a member of the group TLC. Standing at 5 feet tall, she has made numerous appearances in films and television shows throughout her career. She had a recurring role on the sitcom ‘Single Ladies’ and appeared in the film ‘Hav Plenty’. Thomas also participated in the biographical film ‘CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story’, which chronicled her group’s rise to fame. She remains an active figure in the entertainment world through both music and media appearances.

Sherri Shepherd

Sherri Shepherd is a comedian, actress, and television personality known for her quick wit and vibrant energy. The performer stands at 5 feet 1 inch tall and has a prolific career in sitcoms and talk shows. She is well-remembered for her role as Angie Jordan on ’30 Rock’ and for her time as a co-host on ‘The View’. Shepherd has also appeared in films such as ‘Precious’ and ‘Ride Along 2’. Currently, she hosts her own syndicated daytime talk show, which showcases her comedic talents and interview skills.

Quvenzhané Wallis

Quvenzhané Wallis became a household name at a very young age when she was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress. Standing at 5 feet 1 inch tall, she achieved this milestone for her role in the 2012 film ‘Beasts of the Southern Wild’. She later starred as the title character in the 2014 remake of ‘Annie’, earning a Golden Globe nomination. Wallis has transitioned into teen roles, appearing in the series ‘Swagger’ and the film ‘Black-ish’. She is also an author of children’s books, expanding her creative reach beyond acting.

Priah Ferguson

Priah Ferguson is a rising star known for her breakout role as Erica Sinclair on the popular series ‘Stranger Things’. The young actress measures 5 feet 1 inch tall and has become a fan favorite for her character’s sharp dialogue. She began her acting career with small roles in shows like ‘Atlanta’ and ‘Mercy Street’. Ferguson recently starred in the Halloween-themed comedy film ‘The Curse of Bridge Hollow’. Her comedic timing and expressive performances have established her as a prominent young talent in Hollywood.

Shahadi Wright Joseph

Shahadi Wright Joseph is an actress and singer who gained significant recognition for her work in horror and animation. Standing at 5 feet 1 inch tall, she starred in Jordan Peele’s ‘Us’ as Zora Wilson and her tethered counterpart, Umbrae. She also provided the voice for Young Nala in the 2019 live-action retelling of ‘The Lion King’. Before her film success, she performed on Broadway in ‘School of Rock’ and ‘The Lion King’. Joseph continues to build a diverse resume with roles in television and film.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer is an Academy Award-winning actress known for her powerful performances in both dramas and comedies. Standing at 5 feet 2 inches tall, she won an Oscar for her role as Minny Jackson in ‘The Help’. She has received further nominations for her work in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘The Shape of Water’. Spencer also stars in and executive produces the Apple TV+ series ‘Truth Be Told’. Her ability to bring depth and humanity to every character has made her one of the most respected actresses in the industry.

Nia Long

Nia Long has been a staple in Hollywood since the early 1990s, appearing in several culturally significant films. The actress measures 5 feet 2 inches tall and is well-known for her roles in ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘Friday’. She also starred in the ‘The Best Man’ film franchise and the television series ‘Empire’. Long has maintained a consistent career in both film and television, recently appearing in ‘Missing’ and ‘You People’. Her enduring popularity is a testament to her talent and screen presence.

Zoë Kravitz

Zoe Kravitz is an actress, singer, and model who has successfully carved out her own path in the entertainment world. Standing at 5 feet 2 inches tall, she played the iconic role of Catwoman in the 2022 film ‘The Batman’. She also gained critical acclaim for her performance in the series ‘Big Little Lies’ and ‘High Fidelity’. Kravitz has appeared in major franchises like ‘Divergent’ and ‘Fantastic Beasts’. In addition to acting, she is making her directorial debut with the upcoming film ‘Pussy Island’.

Lisa Bonet

Lisa Bonet rose to fame as a child star playing Denise Huxtable on ‘The Cosby Show’ and its spinoff ‘A Different World’. The actress measures 5 feet 2 inches tall and became a fashion icon during the height of her television career. She transitioned into film with roles in ‘Angel Heart’ and ‘Enemy of the State’. Bonet is known for her bohemian style and her selective approach to acting roles in recent years. Her influence on television and fashion remains significant decades after her debut.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné began her career as a child actor on ‘The Cosby Show’ before becoming a Disney Channel star. Standing at 5 feet 2 inches tall, she starred in the hit series ‘That’s So Raven’, which was later revived as ‘Raven’s Home’. She has also appeared in films like ‘Dr. Dolittle’ and ‘The Cheetah Girls’. In addition to acting, she served as a co-host on the daytime talk show ‘The View’. Her career spans acting, singing, and producing, making her a versatile figure in entertainment.

Kandi Burruss

Kandi Burruss is a singer, songwriter, and actress who first gained fame as a member of the R&B group Xscape. The multi-talented performer measures 5 feet 2 inches tall and has transitioned into a successful career in reality television and acting. She has appeared in the series ‘The Chi’ and had a role in the film ‘The Trap’. Burruss is also a Grammy-winning songwriter, having penned hits like ‘No Scrubs’. She remains a prominent figure on ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ while continuing her acting pursuits.

Skai Jackson

Skai Jackson is a former child star who gained popularity on the Disney Channel series ‘Jessie’ and its spinoff ‘Bunk’d’. Standing at 5 feet 2 inches tall, she has since transitioned into more mature roles and voice acting. She provided the voice for Summer in the animated series ‘DreamWorks Dragons: Rescue Riders’. Jackson is also an author, having released a memoir titled ‘Reach for the Skai’. She is frequently recognized for her advocacy against cyberbullying and her influence on social media.

Anika Noni Rose

Anika Noni Rose is a Tony Award-winning actress and singer known for her exceptional vocal talent. Standing at 5 feet 2 inches tall, she made history as the voice of Tiana in Disney’s ‘The Princess and the Frog’. She also starred as Lorrell Robinson in the film adaptation of ‘Dreamgirls’ alongside Beyoncé and Jennifer Hudson. Rose has a prolific career on Broadway and in television series such as ‘The Good Wife’ and ‘Power’. Her work continues to span musical theater, film, and television.

Kat Graham

Kat Graham is an actress, singer, and dancer who is best known for her role as Bonnie Bennett on ‘The Vampire Diaries’. The actress measures 5 feet 2 inches tall and appeared in the series for its entire eight-season run. She has also starred in films such as ‘All Eyez on Me’, where she played Jada Pinkett Smith, and ‘The Holiday Calendar’. Graham is a talented dancer and has appeared in music videos for various artists before launching her own music career. She is also heavily involved in humanitarian work with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

Lovie Simone

Lovie Simone is a rising actress who gained recognition for her lead role in the series ‘Greenleaf’. Standing at 5 feet 2 inches tall, she played Zora Greenleaf, a role that showcased her dramatic range. She also starred in the film ‘Selah and the Spades’, which received critical praise at the Sundance Film Festival. Simone appeared in the 2020 sequel ‘The Craft: Legacy’ as one of the lead witches. Her career is marked by choosing complex and thought-provoking characters in independent and studio projects.

Essence Atkins

Essence Atkins is a seasoned comedic actress known for her roles in various popular sitcoms. The actress measures 5 feet 2 inches tall and starred in ‘Smart Guy’ as the older sister, Yvette Henderson. She is also well-known for her work in ‘Half & Half’ and the ‘Are We There Yet?’ television series. Atkins has appeared in several films, including the horror-comedy ‘A Haunted House’ and its sequel. She continues to work steadily in the television industry, often appearing in lead roles for sitcoms and dramas.

Bresha Webb

Bresha Webb is an actress and comedian who has appeared in numerous television comedies and films. Standing at 5 feet 2 inches tall, she is known for her high-energy performances and comedic timing. She starred in the series ‘Love That Girl!’ and ‘Marlon’, playing the character Yvette. Webb also had a significant role in the film ‘Night School’ alongside Kevin Hart and Tiffany Haddish. Her career includes voice work and recurring roles on various popular network shows.

Dominique Fishback

Dominique Fishback is an actress and playwright who has received critical acclaim for her dramatic performances. Measuring 5 feet 2 inches tall, she earned a BAFTA nomination for her role in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. She also starred in the series ‘The Deuce’ and ‘Swarm’, the latter of which garnered her significant award buzz. Fishback is known for her ability to bring intense emotional depth to her characters. She also appeared as the female lead in ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’, showcasing her versatility in big-budget action films.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is an iconic comedian, writer, and actress known for her sharp social commentary and distinct voice. The performer stands at 5 feet 2 inches tall and has won an Emmy for her writing on ‘The Chris Rock Show’. She has appeared in numerous films, including ‘Monster-in-Law’ and ‘Evan Almighty’. Sykes also stars in the Netflix sitcom ‘The Upshaws’, which she co-created. Her long career in stand-up comedy and television has made her one of the most influential figures in American comedy.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin rose to fame as Diane Johnson on the hit sitcom ‘Black-ish’. Standing at 5 feet 2 inches tall, she made history as the youngest person to ever produce a major Hollywood film with the movie ‘Little’. In that film, she also starred alongside Regina Hall and Issa Rae. Martin has won multiple NAACP Image Awards for her acting and producing work. She continues to expand her production company, Genius Productions, while pursuing new acting opportunities in film and television.

Tionne Watkins

Tionne Watkins, known as T-Boz, is a singer and actress who gained international fame as the lead singer of TLC. The performer measures 5 feet 2 inches tall and has appeared in several film projects over the years. She had a notable role in the 1998 film ‘Belly’ and appeared in the television series ‘Living Single’. Watkins has also been an advocate for sickle cell anemia awareness, a condition she has lived with throughout her career. She continues to perform and make media appearances, maintaining her status as an R&B legend.

Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey is an actress and singer who first gained fame as part of the musical duo Chloe x Halle. Standing at 5 feet 2 inches tall, she took on the iconic role of Ariel in the live-action reimagining of ‘The Little Mermaid’. She also appeared in the television series ‘Grown-ish’ as Sky Forster. Bailey recently starred in the film adaptation of the musical ‘The Color Purple’. Her transition from a successful music career to leading major Hollywood films has been met with significant critical and commercial success.

Laya DeLeon Hayes

Laya DeLeon Hayes is a young actress who has made a name for herself in both voice acting and live-action television. The actress measures 5 feet 2 inches tall and currently stars as Delilah in the series ‘The Equalizer’ opposite Queen Latifah. She is also the voice of the titular character in the animated series ‘Doc McStuffins’. Hayes began her career with guest spots on shows like ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Chicago Fire’. Her work in ‘The Equalizer’ has allowed her to showcase her growth as a dramatic actress.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi is an actress and activist best known for her role as Zoey Johnson on ‘Black-ish’. Standing at 5 feet 3 inches tall, she went on to star in her own spinoff series, ‘Grown-ish’. She also played the lead role in the film ‘The Sun Is Also a Star’ and portrayed Tinker Bell in ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’. Shahidi is a graduate of Harvard University and is well-known for her social and political activism. Her career is characterized by a balance of mainstream entertainment and meaningful advocacy work.

Adrienne Warren

Adrienne Warren is a Tony Award-winning actress and singer who reached new heights of fame portraying a music legend. Measuring 5 feet 3 inches tall, she won critical acclaim for her titular role in ‘Tina: The Tina Turner Musical’ on Broadway and in the West End. She also appeared in the film ‘The Woman King’ as the warrior Ode. Warren has guest-starred in television series like ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and ‘Blue Bloods’. Her powerful stage presence and vocal ability have established her as one of theater’s brightest stars.

Logan Browning

Logan Browning is an actress known for her lead roles in series that explore social issues and complex relationships. Standing at 5 feet 3 inches tall, she starred as Samantha White in the Netflix series ‘Dear White People’. She also appeared in the horror film ‘The Perfection’ and the series ‘Hit the Floor’. Browning began her career as a child actor in the film ‘Bratz’. She is recognized for her versatility and her ability to lead both satirical comedies and intense psychological thrillers.

Cree Summer

Cree Summer is a prolific voice actress and live-action performer with one of the most recognizable voices in animation. The actress measures 5 feet 3 inches tall and famously played Freddie Brooks on ‘A Different World’. Her voice work includes characters in ‘Rugrats’, ‘Danny Phantom’, and ‘Codename: Kids Next Door’. Summer has voiced hundreds of animated characters throughout her career, spanning several decades. She is also a singer-songwriter and has released her own musical projects alongside her acting work.

Amber Riley

Amber Riley is an actress and singer best known for her role as Mercedes Jones on the musical series ‘Glee’. Standing at 5 feet 3 inches tall, she became a fan favorite for her powerful vocal performances on the show. Riley also won the seventeenth season of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and the fourth season of ‘The Masked Singer’. She has had a successful stage career, winning an Olivier Award for her role in the West End production of ‘Dreamgirls’. Riley continues to release music and perform in various theatrical and television projects.

Chloe Bailey

Chloe Bailey is a singer and actress who rose to fame alongside her sister in the duo Chloe x Halle. Standing at 5 feet 3 inches tall, she transitioned into acting with a regular role on the series ‘Grown-ish’. She also starred in the thriller film ‘Jane’ and the musical drama ‘Praise This’. Bailey recently appeared in the series ‘Swarm’, showcasing her ability to handle dark and challenging material. In addition to acting, she has launched a successful solo music career with the release of her debut album.

Serayah

Serayah is an actress and singer who became famous for her role as Tiana Brown on the musical drama ‘Empire’. The performer stands at 5 feet 3 inches tall and was a series regular throughout most of the show’s run. She has also appeared in films like ‘Burning Sands’ and ‘Favorite Son’. Serayah is a talented singer and has released several singles and music videos during her time in the spotlight. She continues to pursue roles that allow her to combine her acting and musical talents.

China Anne McClain

China Anne McClain is an actress and singer who started her career as a child star in ‘Tyler Perry’s House of Payne’. Measuring 5 feet 3 inches tall, she became a Disney Channel favorite after starring in ‘A.N.T. Farm’ and the ‘Descendants’ franchise. She also played Jennifer Pierce, also known as Lightning, in the superhero series ‘Black Lightning’. McClain has a strong musical background and has contributed to numerous soundtracks for her projects. She remains an active figure in both film and television.

Lauryn Hill

Lauryn Hill is a legendary musician and actress who made a significant impact on cinema early in her career. Standing at 5 feet 3 inches tall, she delivered a memorable performance as Rita Louise Watson in ‘Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit’. Before her solo music success, she also appeared in the soap opera ‘As the World Turns’. While her career shifted primarily to music with the group Fugees and her solo album, her film work remains highly regarded. Hill is often cited as an influence on many of the actresses and musicians who followed her.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg is an actress known for choosing impactful roles in films based on popular literature. Standing at 5 feet 3 inches tall, they first gained recognition as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. They later starred in ‘The Hate U Give’, a role that earned critical acclaim for its portrayal of social justice issues. Stenberg also appeared in ‘Everything, Everything’ and the series ‘The Eddy’. Their career is defined by a commitment to diverse storytelling and exploring complex identity themes on screen.

Lyric Ross

Lyric Ross is an actress who became a standout talent on the critically acclaimed drama ‘This Is Us’. Measuring 5 feet 3 inches tall, she played Deja Pearson, a role that earned her a Screen Actors Guild Award as part of the ensemble. She also provided the voice for the lead character in the stop-motion animated film ‘Wendell & Wild’. Ross has been praised for her ability to portray vulnerability and resilience in her performances. She is slated to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the upcoming series ‘Ironheart’.

Diamond White

Diamond White is an actress and singer who transitioned from reality television competition to a steady acting career. Standing at 5 feet 3 inches tall, she first appeared on the second season of ‘The X Factor’ at age 13. She now voices the lead character, Lunella Lafayette, in the animated series ‘Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur’. White also has a recurring role as Paris Buckingham on the long-running soap opera ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’. Her career includes various voice roles in ‘The Lion Guard’ and ‘Transformers: Rescue Bots’.

Reagan Gomez-Preston

Reagan Gomez-Preston is an actress known for her roles in popular sitcoms during the 1990s and 2000s. Measuring 5 feet 3 inches tall, she is best remembered for playing Zaria Peterson on ‘The Parent ‘Hood’. She also provided the voice of Roberta Tubbs on the animated series ‘The Cleveland Show’. Gomez-Preston has appeared in films such as ‘Love & Basketball’ and ‘Jerry Maguire’. She remains active in the industry, contributing to independent film projects and voice-over work.

Ashanti

Ashanti is a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter who has also maintained a consistent career in acting. Standing at 5 feet 3 inches tall, she starred as Dorothy in the television movie ‘The Muppets’ Wizard of Oz’. She also had roles in films such as ‘Coach Carter’, ‘John Tucker Must Die’, and ‘Resident Evil: Extinction’. Ashanti has appeared on Broadway in ‘The Wiz’ as Dorothy, showcasing her theatrical range. She continues to balance her music career with various television and film appearances.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall is a versatile actress who has excelled in both slapstick comedy and prestige drama. Standing at 5 feet 4 inches tall, she gained fame for her role as Brenda Meeks in the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise. She received critical acclaim for her lead role in the independent film ‘Support the Girls’, for which she won a New York Film Critics Circle Award. Hall also starred in the hit comedy ‘Girls Trip’ and the series ‘Black Monday’. Her ability to move between genres has made her one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is an Academy Award-nominated actress known for her commanding performances and charismatic screen presence. Measuring 5 feet 4 inches tall, she earned an Oscar nomination for ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’. She became a cultural icon for her role as Cookie Lyon on the musical drama series ‘Empire’, winning a Golden Globe. Henson also starred in the hit film ‘Hidden Figures’ as Katherine Johnson. Her career is marked by a wide array of roles in action, drama, and comedy.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington is an actress and producer who became a household name through her lead role on a major network drama. Standing at 5 feet 4 inches tall, she starred as Olivia Pope on the series ‘Scandal’, earning multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. She also received praise for her roles in films like ‘Ray’, ‘Django Unchained’, and ‘The Last King of Scotland’. Washington has since moved into producing, working on projects like ‘Little Fires Everywhere’, in which she also starred. She is widely regarded as a trailblazer for African-American women in lead television roles.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is an actress who has successfully navigated both independent cinema and major blockbuster franchises. Measuring 5 feet 4 inches tall, she plays Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, starting with ‘Thor: Ragnarok’. She also starred in the ‘Creed’ film series and the acclaimed independent film ‘Dear White People’. Thompson is known for her roles in ‘Westworld’ and ‘Passing’, the latter of which earned her significant award recognition. Her career is characterized by a mix of high-profile action roles and nuanced dramatic performances.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash is an actress and television host known for her comedic timing and dramatic versatility. Standing at 5 feet 4 inches tall, she starred in the comedy series ‘Reno 911!’ as Deputy Raineesha Williams. She transitioned into dramatic roles with critically acclaimed performances in ‘Getting On’, ‘When They See Us’, and ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. Nash has also hosted the style show ‘Clean House’ and the game show ‘Don’t Forget the Lyrics!’. Her recent Emmy win highlights her status as a premier talent in both comedy and drama.

Kyla Pratt

Kyla Pratt is an actress who grew up in the spotlight, starring in popular films and series as a child and teenager. Measuring 5 feet 4 inches tall, she is well-known for voicing Penny Proud in ‘The Proud Family’ and its revival ‘The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder’. She also starred in the sitcom ‘One on One’ and played Maya Dolittle in the ‘Dr. Dolittle’ film franchise. Recently, Pratt appeared as a series regular on the sitcom ‘Call Me Kat’. Her long career has allowed her to transition successfully from a child star to a leading adult actress.

Kelly McCreary

Kelly McCreary is an actress best known for her long-standing role on a popular medical drama. Standing at 5 feet 4 inches tall, she played Dr. Maggie Pierce, the half-sister of Meredith Grey, on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. Before joining the cast of the medical series, she appeared in shows like ‘White Collar’ and ‘Castle’. McCreary is also a classically trained stage actress and has performed in various theatrical productions in New York. Her work on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ made her a familiar face to television audiences worldwide over her nine seasons on the show.

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