The Tallest Black Actresses in Hollywood

The entertainment industry is home to performers of all backgrounds, and height often plays a significant role in the presence an actress commands on screen. In Hollywood, many Black actresses have utilized their statuesque builds to portray powerful, regal, and physically demanding characters. These women have broken barriers across genres, from high-octane action films to prestigious television dramas. This list highlights some of the tallest Black actresses in the industry, showcasing their careers and the impact they have made through their notable roles.

Lisa Leslie

Lisa Leslie is a prominent athlete and actress who stands at 6 feet 5 inches tall. After a legendary career in the WNBA, she transitioned into acting with roles in films such as ‘Uncle Drew’ (2018). She has also appeared as herself in various television series, including ‘The Game’ (2006–2015). Her height was a defining characteristic of her basketball career and continues to give her a unique presence in her media appearances.

Venus Williams

Venus Williams is a world-renowned tennis champion and actress who stands 6 feet 1 inch tall. While primarily known for her dominance on the tennis court, she has made several appearances in scripted television and film. She appeared in the movie ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ (2022) and voiced a character in ‘The Simpsons’ (1989–Present). Williams often brings her athletic discipline and statuesque frame to her diverse entertainment projects.

Aisha Tyler

Aisha Tyler is a versatile actress and director who measures 6 feet in height. She is well-known for her role as Dr. Tara Lewis on the long-running series ‘Criminal Minds’ (2005–2020). Tyler also provided the voice for Lana Kane in the animated comedy ‘Archer’ (2009–2023). Her height has frequently been discussed in her stand-up comedy specials and during her time as a co-host on ‘The Talk’ (2010–Present).

Leslie Jones

Leslie Jones is a comedic actress and writer who stands at 6 feet tall. She rose to national prominence as a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ (1975–Present). Jones went on to star in the major film reboot ‘Ghostbusters’ (2016) and appeared in ‘Coming 2 America’ (2021). Her physical stature and high-energy performances have made her a distinct and recognizable figure in Hollywood comedy.

Sheila Atim

Sheila Atim is a Ugandan-British actress who stands at 5 feet 11 inches. She gained significant recognition for her role as Amenza in the historical action film ‘The Woman King’ (2022). Atim has also appeared in the series ‘The Underground Railroad’ (2021) and the film ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’ (2022). Her height and regal bearing have led to her being cast in powerful, authoritative roles across film and stage.

Nona Gaye

Nona Gaye is an actress and singer who stands at 5 feet 10 inches tall. She is best known for her role as Zee in ‘The Matrix Reloaded’ (2003) and ‘The Matrix Revolutions’ (2003). Gaye also appeared in the biographical film ‘Ali’ (2001) alongside Will Smith. Her height and striking features helped her establish a career in both the modeling and acting industries.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah is a multifaceted performer who stands at 5 feet 10 inches. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance as Matron Mama Morton in ‘Chicago’ (2002). Latifah has led numerous projects, including the film ‘Set It Off’ (1996) and the television series ‘The Equalizer’ (2021–Present). Her height and charismatic personality have made her one of the most enduring leading women in the entertainment business.

Zendaya

Zendaya is an award-winning actress who stands 5 feet 10 inches tall. She stars as Rue Bennett in the acclaimed drama series ‘Euphoria’ (2019–Present), for which she has won multiple Emmy Awards. Her film work includes portraying MJ in the ‘Spider-Man’ (2017–2021) trilogy and Chani in ‘Dune’ (2021). Zendaya’s height and fashion influence have made her a prominent figure on red carpets and in global advertising campaigns.

Tyra Banks

Tyra Banks is a former supermodel and actress who measures 5 feet 10 inches in height. She is the creator of the long-running reality competition ‘America’s Next Top Model’ (2003–2018). Her acting credits include the film ‘Coyote Ugly’ (2000) and the television movie ‘Life-Size’ (2000). Banks has used her stature to build a massive brand spanning modeling, acting, and television hosting.

Naomi Campbell

Naomi Campbell is a world-famous supermodel and actress who stands 5 feet 10 inches tall. In addition to her historic fashion career, she has held recurring roles in television shows like ‘Empire’ (2015–2020). Campbell also appeared in the musical series ‘Star’ (2016–2019) and the film ‘I Feel Pretty’ (2018). Her statuesque figure and trailblazing work in the 1990s helped define the supermodel phenomenon.

Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige is a singer and actress who stands 5 feet 9 inches tall. She received two Academy Award nominations for her work in the film ‘Mudbound’ (2017). Blige currently stars as Monet Stewart in the drama series ‘Power Book II: Ghost’ (2020–Present). Her height and commanding screen presence have allowed her to transition successfully from a music legend to a respected dramatic actress.

Beverly Johnson

Beverly Johnson is a pioneering model and actress who stands 5 feet 9 inches. She made history as the first Black woman on the cover of American ‘Vogue’ (1892–Present) in 1974. Her film and television work includes roles in ‘Martin’ (1992–1997) and ‘Crossroads’ (2002). Johnson’s height and grace helped her break significant barriers in the fashion and entertainment industries during the 1970s and 1980s.

Jodie Turner-Smith

Jodie Turner-Smith is a British actress known for her 5-foot-9-inch height. She rose to fame with her starring role in the romantic crime drama ‘Queen & Slim’ (2019). She has since taken on major roles in the action film ‘Without Remorse’ (2021) and the series ‘Anne Boleyn’ (2021). Turner-Smith’s height and striking appearance have made her a standout presence in contemporary cinema.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch is a British actress who measures 5 feet 9 inches in height. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Maria Rambeau in ‘Captain Marvel’ (2019). Lynch also made history as Nomi, the first female 007, in the ‘James Bond’ film ‘No Time to Die’ (2021). Her height often complements the physically capable and authoritative characters she portrays in action-heavy franchises.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson is an EGOT-winning actress and singer who stands at 5 feet 9 inches. She won an Academy Award for her debut film role as Effie White in ‘Dreamgirls’ (2006). Hudson also starred in the biopic ‘Respect’ (2021), where she portrayed the legendary Aretha Franklin. Her height and powerful vocal talent have made her a dominant force across film, theater, and television.

Garcelle Beauvais

Garcelle Beauvais is an actress and television personality who stands 5 feet 9 inches tall. She is well-known for her role as Fancy on ‘The Jamie Foxx Show’ (1996–2001). Beauvais has also appeared in ‘NYPD Blue’ (1993–2005) and the blockbuster film ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ (2017). Her height and background as a model helped her establish a successful career as a leading lady in television.

Tamara Tunie

Tamara Tunie is a veteran actress who stands 5 feet 9 inches tall. She is best recognized for her long-standing role as Dr. Melinda Warner on ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’ (1999–Present). Tunie also appeared in the film ‘Flight’ (2012) and the series ‘Blue Bloods’ (2010–Present). Her height and professional demeanor have frequently led to her being cast in roles that require a strong, authoritative presence.

Janet Hubert

Janet Hubert is an actress and dancer who stands 5 feet 9 inches. She is most famous for originating the role of Vivian Banks on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ (1990–1996). Hubert has also appeared in ‘General Hospital’ (1963–Present) and the digital series ‘The Ms. Pat Show’ (2021–Present). Her height and theatrical background allowed her to portray Aunt Viv with a unique blend of elegance and strength.

Salli Richardson-Whitfield

Salli Richardson-Whitfield is an actress and director with a height of 5 feet 9 inches. She is known for her starring role as Allison Blake in the science fiction series ‘Eureka’ (2006–2012). Richardson-Whitfield also appeared in the film ‘I Am Legend’ (2007) and voiced Elisa Maza in ‘Gargoyles’ (1994–1997). Her height and versatility have transitioned her into a successful career as a director for various high-profile television shows.

Iman

Iman is a Somali-American model and actress who stands 5 feet 9 inches tall. She is a pioneer in the fashion industry and has appeared in films like ‘Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country’ (1991). Her acting resume also includes the film ‘No Way Out’ (1987) and the series ‘Project Runway Canada’ (2007–2009). Iman’s height and iconic features have secured her status as a legendary figure in both beauty and entertainment.

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor is an actress who measures 5 feet 9 inches in height. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Oracene “Brandi” Price in ‘King Richard’ (2021). Her other notable projects include ‘Lovecraft Country’ (2020) and the miniseries ‘When They See Us’ (2019). Her height and expressive acting style have made her a prominent figure in prestige television and film dramas.

Lorraine Toussaint

Lorraine Toussaint is a prolific actress who stands 5 feet 9 inches tall. She gained significant acclaim for her role as Yvonne “Vee” Parker in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ (2013–2019). Toussaint has also starred in the series ‘Any Day Now’ (1998–2002) and the film ‘Selma’ (2014). Her height and deep, resonant voice contribute to the powerful and often formidable characters she portrays on screen.

Florence Kasumba

Florence Kasumba is a German-Ugandan actress who stands at 5 feet 8 inches. She is widely known for her role as Ayo in the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’, appearing in ‘Black Panther’ (2018). Kasumba also appeared in the live-action remake of ‘The Lion King’ (2019) and the series ‘Emerald City’ (2017). Her height and athletic frame are perfectly suited for her recurring roles as a highly trained warrior.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris is a British actress who stands 5 feet 8 inches tall. She gained international fame as Eve Moneypenny in the ‘James Bond’ films, starting with ‘Skyfall’ (2012). Harris also delivered an Oscar-nominated performance in the drama ‘Moonlight’ (2016). Her height and range as an actress have allowed her to move between action blockbusters and intimate independent films with ease.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo is an actress who stands at 5 feet 8 inches. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Hotel Rwanda’ (2004) and appeared in ‘The Secret Life of Bees’ (2008). Okonedo has also found success on Broadway, winning a Tony Award for ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ (2014). Her height and emotional depth have made her a respected talent in both the United Kingdom and Hollywood.

Retta

Retta is a comedian and actress who stands 5 feet 8 inches tall. She is best known for her role as the luxury-loving Donna Meagle on ‘Parks and Recreation’ (2009–2015). She also starred as Ruby Hill in the crime drama ‘Good Girls’ (2018–2021). Retta’s height and comedic presence have made her a standout in ensemble casts, often providing some of the most memorable moments in her shows.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae is an actress and producer who stands 5 feet 8 inches tall. She is the creator and star of the hit HBO series ‘Insecure’ (2016–2021), which earned her multiple award nominations. Rae has also starred in films like ‘The Photograph’ (2020) and ‘American Fiction’ (2023). Her height and distinctive voice have helped her become one of the most influential figures in modern television and media.

Nicole Ari Parker

Nicole Ari Parker is an actress who stands at 5 feet 8 inches. She is well-known for her role as Teri Joseph in the television series ‘Soul Food’ (2000–2004). Parker has also appeared in films such as ‘Boogie Nights’ (1997) and ‘Remember the Titans’ (2000). Her height and sophisticated screen presence have made her a consistent presence in both film and television for over two decades.

Kelly Rowland

Kelly Rowland is a singer and actress who stands 5 feet 8 inches tall. While she first became famous as a member of Destiny’s Child, she has also established a successful acting career. Rowland appeared in the horror film ‘Freddy vs. Jason’ (2003) and the series ‘Empire’ (2015–2020). Her height and star power have allowed her to transition effortlessly between the music industry and various acting roles.

Audra McDonald

Audra McDonald is a celebrated actress and singer who stands 5 feet 8 inches tall. She is a historic six-time Tony Award winner for her work in theater. McDonald is also known to television audiences for her role as Naomi Bennett in ‘Private Practice’ (2007–2013). Her height and classical training have given her a formidable presence in musical theater and dramatic television series.

Joy Bryant

Joy Bryant is an actress and former model who stands 5 feet 8 inches tall. She is most recognized for her role as Jasmine Trussell in the family drama ‘Parenthood’ (2010–2015). Bryant has also appeared in films like ‘Antwone Fisher’ (2002) and ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin” (2005). Her height and natural screen presence helped her transition from a high-fashion modeling career into a steady acting career.

Adepero Oduye

Adepero Oduye is an actress who stands at 5 feet 8 inches. She received critical acclaim for her breakout role in the film ‘Pariah’ (2011). Oduye has since appeared in major projects such as ’12 Years a Slave’ (2013) and ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’ (2021). Her height and intense performances have made her a respected figure in both the independent film world and mainstream television.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph is an actress and singer who stands 5 feet 8 inches tall. She is well-known for her role as Barbara Howard on ‘Abbott Elementary’ (2021–Present), for which she won an Emmy Award. Ralph also starred in the original Broadway production of ‘Dreamgirls’ (1981) and the film ‘Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit’ (1993). Her height and authoritative demeanor have made her a legendary figure in both theater and television.

Monica

Monica is a singer and actress who stands 5 feet 8 inches tall. While primarily known for her music career, she has appeared in several film and television projects. She starred in the film ‘Love Song’ (2000) and appeared in the television series ‘Living Single’ (1993–1998). Monica’s height and poise have been a consistent part of her public persona since she entered the spotlight as a teenager.

Wunmi Mosaku

Wunmi Mosaku is a British-Nigerian actress who stands at 5 feet 8 inches. She gained international recognition for her role as Hunter B-15 in the series ‘Loki’ (2021–2023). Mosaku also appeared in the film ‘His House’ (2020) and the series ‘Lovecraft Country’ (2020). Her height and powerful acting ability have made her a prominent talent in science fiction and horror genres.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira is an actress and playwright who stands 5 feet 7 inches tall. She is most famous for her role as the katana-wielding Michonne on ‘The Walking Dead’ (2010–2022). Gurira also plays the lead warrior Okoye in the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’. Her height and rigorous physical preparation have allowed her to become one of the most recognizable action stars in Hollywood.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid is an actress who stands at 5 feet 7 inches. She had her breakout role as Meg Murry in the fantasy film ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ (2018). Reid also stars as Gia Bennett in the drama series ‘Euphoria’ (2019–Present). Her height and mature presence have helped her transition from child roles to leading parts in major television and film productions.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union is a popular actress and producer who stands 5 feet 7 inches tall. She first achieved fame in films like ‘Bring It On’ (2000) and ‘Bad Boys II’ (2003). Union later starred as the lead in the television series ‘Being Mary Jane’ (2013–2019). Her height and enduring screen appeal have made her a consistent leading woman in romantic comedies and television dramas.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldana is a major film actress who stands 5 feet 7 inches tall. She is the only actor to appear in three of the top five highest-grossing films of all time, including ‘Avatar’ (2009). Saldana also portrays Gamora in the ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014–2023) films. Her height and background as a dancer contribute to the physicality she brings to her numerous science fiction and action roles.

Paula Patton

Paula Patton is an actress who measures 5 feet 7 inches in height. She is well-known for her role in the action film ‘Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol’ (2011). Patton also appeared in the drama ‘Precious’ (2009) and the comedy ‘Hitch’ (2005). Her height and striking appearance have led to a variety of roles across different genres, from action blockbusters to romantic films.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox is a veteran actress who stands at 5 feet 7 inches. She is famous for her roles in blockbuster films like ‘Independence Day’ (1996) and ‘Kill Bill: Vol. 1’ (2003). Fox has also maintained a strong television presence in shows like ‘Empire’ (2015–2020). Her height and commanding screen presence have made her a staple in Hollywood since the mid-1990s.

CCH Pounder

CCH Pounder is a versatile actress who stands 5 feet 7 inches tall. She is best known for her television roles in ‘The Shield’ (2002–2008) and ‘NCIS: New Orleans’ (2014–2021). Pounder also appeared in the film ‘Avatar’ (2009) as the Na’vi spiritual leader Mo’at. Her height and distinctive voice have helped her create memorable and authoritative characters throughout her career.

Renée Elise Goldsberry

Renée Elise Goldsberry is an actress and singer who stands at 5 feet 7 inches. She gained worldwide fame for her role as Angelica Schuyler in the musical film ‘Hamilton’ (2020). Goldsberry also stars in the series ‘Girls5eva’ (2021–Present) and appeared in ‘She-Hulk: Attorney at Law’ (2022). Her height and dynamic stage presence have made her a standout in both musical theater and television.

Kimberly Elise

Kimberly Elise is an actress known for her emotional depth, standing 5 feet 7 inches tall. She had her breakout role in the film ‘Set It Off’ (1996) and later starred in ‘Beloved’ (1998). Elise also appeared in the film ‘For Colored Girls’ (2010) and the series ‘Hit the Floor’ (2013–2018). Her height and intense performances have established her as one of the most respected dramatic actresses in the industry.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan is an actress who stands at 5 feet 7 inches. She is best known for her starring roles in films like ‘Love & Basketball’ (2000) and ‘Brown Sugar’ (2002). Lathan has also appeared in the series ‘Succession’ (2018–2023) and voiced Donna Tubbs in ‘The Cleveland Show’ (2009–2013). Her height and leading-lady presence have made her a prominent figure in romantic dramas and ensemble television.

Eve

Eve is a rapper and actress who stands 5 feet 7 inches tall. She starred in her own sitcom ‘Eve’ (2003–2006) and appeared in the ‘Barbershop’ (2002–2016) film franchise. Eve also served as a co-host on the talk show ‘The Talk’ (2010–Present). Her height and confident persona allowed her to successfully move from a legendary music career into a prominent career in television and film.

Brandy Norwood

Brandy is a singer and actress who stands at 5 feet 7 inches. She is most famous for her role as the title character in the sitcom ‘Moesha’ (1996–2001). Brandy also made history as the first Black Cinderella in the television film ‘Cinderella’ (1997). Her height and girl-next-door appeal made her a defining star of 1990s television and music.

Danielle Brooks

Danielle Brooks is an actress and singer who stands 5 feet 7 inches tall. She gained fame for her role as Tasha “Taystee” Jefferson in the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’ (2013–2019). Brooks also received an Academy Award nomination for her role in the film ‘The Color Purple’ (2023). Her height and powerful screen presence have made her a standout in both dramatic and musical roles.

Adina Porter

Adina Porter is a versatile actress who stands 5 feet 7 inches tall. She is well-known for her various roles in the anthology series ‘American Horror Story’ (2011–Present). Porter also played Indra in the science fiction series ‘The 100’ (2014–2020). Her height and ability to portray intense, complex characters have made her a frequent collaborator in prestige television projects.

Emayatzy Corinealdi

Emayatzy Corinealdi is an actress who stands at 5 feet 7 inches. She gained critical acclaim for her starring role in the independent film ‘Middle of Nowhere’ (2012). Corinealdi has since appeared in the series ‘Roots’ (2016) and the drama ‘Reasonable Doubt’ (2022–Present). Her height and expressive acting style have allowed her to lead several high-profile legal and historical dramas.

Please share your thoughts on these talented actresses and their impact on cinema in the comments.