Black actresses have always been central to the success of film and television, consistently delivering compelling performances in all kinds of roles. Whether in historical dramas or big-budget action movies, they bring a unique depth and realism to their characters. Many have overcome significant obstacles, inspiring and opening doors for those who followed. Acknowledging their impact is crucial to understanding how storytelling has evolved.
Viola Davis
Viola Davis has made history as the first Black actress to win an Academy Award, an Emmy Award, and two Tony Awards – the ‘Triple Crown of Acting’. She first became widely known for her work in ‘The Help’ and later won an Oscar for her performance in ‘Fences’. Her powerful portrayal of Annalise Keating on the TV show ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ cemented her status as a star. Davis is highly regarded throughout the entertainment industry for her deeply moving and impactful performances.
Angela Bassett
Angela Bassett is famous for bringing powerful, real-life women to the screen, like her iconic portrayal of Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’. She’s also received praise for playing Queen Ramonda in the ‘Black Panther’ movies. Throughout her long career, she’s given memorable performances in films like ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and the TV series ‘American Horror Story’. Bassett is often admired for her commanding presence and how convincingly she embodies strong characters.
Regina King
Regina King started her acting career as a child on the TV show ‘227’ and later became a prominent film star. She’s won an Oscar for ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and multiple Emmys for her work on ‘Watchmen’ and ‘Seven Seconds’. More recently, she’s proven herself as a talented director with the film ‘One Night in Miami’. King is known for her ability to excel in both funny and serious roles.
Alfre Woodard
Throughout her impressive career, Alfre Woodard has received many awards, including four Emmys and a Golden Globe. She’s celebrated for her emotionally powerful roles in films like ‘Cross Creek’ and ‘Passion Fish,’ and for memorable television performances in ‘Miss Evers’ Boys’ and ‘Luke Cage.’ Woodard is widely recognized as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.
Octavia Spencer
Octavia Spencer is an Academy Award-winning actress, celebrated for her role in ‘The Help’ and receiving nominations for ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘The Shape of Water’. She’s known for her versatility, appearing in films like the thriller ‘Ma’ and the biographical series ‘Self Made’. Spencer frequently plays characters who are strong and determined, and her consistently excellent performances have established her as a major star in Hollywood.
Taraji P. Henson
Taraji P. Henson is a celebrated actress who earned an Academy Award nomination for her work in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’. She’s widely recognized for playing Cookie Lyon on the hit TV show ‘Empire’, and has also starred in popular films like ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Proud Mary’. Known for her vibrant personality and strong performances, Henson excels whether leading a large cast or carrying a project on her own.
Kerry Washington
Kerry Washington became well-known around the world for her role as Olivia Pope in the TV show ‘Scandal’. She’s also starred in popular films like ‘Ray’ and ‘Django Unchained’, and earned critical acclaim for the miniseries ‘Little Fires Everywhere’. Washington is celebrated for her talent in bringing strong, complicated female characters to life, making her a leading actress in Hollywood.
Naomie Harris
Naomie Harris is a British actress known for her roles in popular films like the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ series, where she played Tia Dalma. She received an Academy Award nomination for her work in ‘Moonlight’ and also appeared as Eve Moneypenny in multiple ‘James Bond’ movies. Harris has proven her versatility by successfully acting in both smaller, independent films and large-scale blockbuster productions.
Gugu Mbatha-Raw
Gugu Mbatha-Raw first gained widespread recognition for her leading role in the film ‘Belle’. Since then, she’s appeared in notable projects like ‘Beyond the Lights’ and a popular episode of ‘Black Mirror’ called ‘San Junipero’. More recently, she’s been in big productions such as ‘Loki’ and ‘The Morning Show’. Critics often praise her acting for its elegance and ability to convey deep emotion.
Lupita Nyong’o
Lupita Nyong’o burst onto the scene and immediately won an Oscar for her incredible debut in ’12 Years a Slave,’ and she hasn’t slowed down since. I’ve been consistently impressed by her range – from the power of ‘Black Panther’ to the sheer terror of ‘Us,’ she truly commits to every role. And let’s not forget Maz Kanata in the newer ‘Star Wars’ films – that was her under all that digital magic! What really strikes me about Nyong’o is her willingness to completely transform herself for a character; she doesn’t just play them, she becomes them.
Tessa Thompson
Tessa Thompson initially gained recognition with her performances in ‘Dear White People’ and ‘Selma’. She then became a worldwide star through her roles as Valkyrie in the Marvel movies and in the ‘Creed’ films. Thompson is also highly regarded for her work on the sci-fi series ‘Westworld’, and she’s become known for taking on roles that are different and push boundaries.
Ruth Negga
Ruth Negga is a highly acclaimed actress, recognized for her nuanced and impactful performances. She received an Academy Award nomination for her work in the film ‘Loving’ and is also known for playing Tulip O’Hare in the TV series ‘Preacher’. Beyond these roles, she’s earned praise for her performances in ‘Passing’ and on stage.
Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo is an acclaimed actress and singer, known for winning both Tony and Grammy Awards. She transitioned from success on Broadway to film, notably appearing in ‘Widows’ and receiving two Academy Award nominations for her powerful performance as Harriet Tubman in ‘Harriet’. Other notable roles include appearances in ‘Bad Times at the El Royale’ and the series ‘Genius: Aretha’. Erivo is celebrated for her exceptional voice and ability to portray a wide range of characters.
Teyonah Parris
Teyonah Parris first gained recognition for her work in ‘Dear White People’ and then appeared in ‘Mad Men’. She earned praise for her acting in ‘Chi-Raq’ and also had a role in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. More recently, Parris became known to Marvel fans as Monica Rambeau in ‘WandaVision’, and she continues to take on increasingly important roles in popular film and television series.
Danielle Deadwyler
Danielle Deadwyler received widespread praise for her role in the movie ‘Till,’ earning her several award nominations. She’s also appeared in films like ‘The Harder They Fall’ and the series ‘Station Eleven.’ Deadwyler is a powerful actress, known for her ability to portray both deep sadness and incredible resilience. Her work in independent films has quickly made her a respected and rising star.
Thuso Mbedu
Thuso Mbedu first became well-known internationally for her leading role in the series ‘The Underground Railroad’. She then starred with Viola Davis in ‘The Woman King’, building on that success. Before moving to Hollywood, Mbedu had already built a successful acting career in South Africa. Critics often praise her performances for being powerfully emotional and honest.
Lashana Lynch
Lashana Lynch is a celebrated actress known for her powerful performances and athleticism. She made history as the first female to hold the 007 designation in the James Bond film ‘No Time to Die’. Fans will also recognize her from roles in ‘Captain Marvel’ and the historical epic ‘The Woman King’, as well as the film adaptation of ‘Matilda the Musical’.
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor is an acclaimed actress who earned an Academy Award nomination for her work in ‘King Richard’. Throughout her career, she’s delivered memorable performances in projects like ‘The Help’ and ‘Lovecraft Country’. She’s consistently praised for her realistic and compelling acting in both movies and TV, and remains a popular choice for challenging dramatic roles.
Marianne Jean-Baptiste
Marianne Jean-Baptiste made history as the first Black British actress to receive an Academy Award nomination, for her work in ‘Secrets & Lies’. Many viewers recognize her from her extended role on the TV drama ‘Without a Trace’. More recently, she’s been praised for her performances in the films ‘In Fabric’ and the series ‘Broadchurch’. Jean-Baptiste is known for her realistic acting and has enjoyed a long and successful career.
Sophie Okonedo
As a film lover, I’ve always been impressed by Sophie Okonedo. She’s just incredible – remember her powerful performance in ‘Hotel Rwanda’? She even got an Oscar nomination for it! But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. She’s been in so many great things, like ‘The Secret Life of Bees’ and more recently, ‘Ratched’. And it’s not just film – she’s a huge stage actress too, having won a Tony Award. Honestly, she’s one of those actors who completely disappears into every role, and that’s why she’s become such a familiar and welcome face in both British and American movies.
Anika Noni Rose
Anika Noni Rose is a talented actress known for bringing Tiana to life in ‘The Princess and the Frog’ and for her role in ‘Dreamgirls’. She’s a seasoned theater performer, having won a Tony Award for her performance in ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. You might also recognize her from TV shows like ‘Power’ and ‘The Good Wife’. Throughout her career, she’s excelled in voice acting, singing, and live-action roles.
Kimberly Elise
Kimberly Elise is a celebrated actress known for her compelling performances in films like ‘Set It Off’ and ‘Beloved’. She’s earned widespread recognition for her roles in ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman’ and ‘For Colored Girls’, and is particularly known for portraying complex, emotionally challenging characters in dramas that often focus on the lives of Black women facing difficult situations.
Sanaa Lathan
Sanaa Lathan is a celebrated actress known for her work in popular films like ‘Love & Basketball’ and ‘The Best Man’. She’s proven versatile, appearing in everything from action movies like ‘Alien vs. Predator’ to dramatic roles in ‘Out of Time’, and even lending her voice to the animated series ‘The Cleveland Show’. Throughout her career, she’s successfully moved between romantic comedies and a variety of other genres.
Nia Long
Nia Long is well-known for her roles in classic films like ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘Friday’. She’s also become a familiar face thanks to her long-running appearances in ‘The Best Man’ movies and the series ‘Soul Food’. Beyond film, Long has had a successful television career, including parts in shows like ‘Empire’ and ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’. She continues to be an important presence in Black film and the romantic comedy genre.
Regina Hall
Regina Hall first gained recognition for her work in the ‘Scary Movie’ films and has become a prominent comedic actress since then. She’s earned praise for her role in the independent film ‘Support the Girls,’ and has also starred in popular projects like ‘Girls Trip’ and the TV series ‘Black-ish.’ Hall is known for skillfully combining humor with realistic emotional depth, making her a truly adaptable performer.
Gabrielle Union
Gabrielle Union first became well-known for her roles in popular teen movies, including ‘Bring It On.’ She later took on leading parts in television, most notably in the series ‘Being Mary Jane,’ for which she earned numerous awards. Beyond acting, Union is also an author and a vocal supporter of important social causes. She continues to enjoy success in both film and TV.
Tracee Ellis Ross
Tracee Ellis Ross is famous for starring in the popular TV shows ‘Girlfriends’ and ‘Black-ish’. She’s won a Golden Globe and several NAACP Image Awards for her talent in comedy. Beyond acting, she’s also worked behind the scenes as a producer and taken on dramatic roles. People love her for her great sense of style and funny personality.
Issa Rae
Issa Rae started her career with the popular web series ‘Awkward Black Girl’ and then went on to create the acclaimed show ‘Insecure’. She’s now also appearing in films like ‘The Photograph’ and ‘American Fiction’, and is a successful producer and businesswoman dedicated to telling a wider range of stories. Her work often centers on the real lives and experiences of Black women today.
Zendaya
Zendaya started her career as a young actress on the Disney Channel and has since become a highly acclaimed star, winning two Emmy Awards for her role in ‘Euphoria’. She’s appeared in popular films like the ‘Spider-Man’ series and ‘Dune’, as well as ‘The Greatest Showman’ and ‘Malcolm & Marie’. Because of her talent and success, Zendaya is now one of the most prominent and in-demand actresses in Hollywood.
Keke Palmer
Keke Palmer started acting as a child in the movie ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ and has been working consistently ever since. She’s appeared in shows like ‘Scream Queens’ and the film ‘Hustlers,’ but gained significant recognition for her leading role in Jordan Peele’s ‘Nope.’ Keke Palmer is a versatile entertainer, working in acting, singing, and hosting television shows.
Storm Reid
Storm Reid first gained recognition in the movie ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ and went on to appear in ‘The Invisible Man’. She’s widely known for playing Gia Bennett on the hit series ‘Euphoria’, and has also starred in the thrillers ‘Missing’ and the TV adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’. Many consider her to be one of the most promising young actors working today.
Marsai Martin
Marsai Martin is famous for playing Diane Johnson on the TV show ‘Black-ish’. She’s also made history as the youngest person to executive produce a major movie, ‘Little’. Martin has received many awards for her acting and her work as an entrepreneur. Her achievements in both entertainment and business are inspiring for young people.
Dominique Fishback
Dominique Fishback has earned praise for her acting, particularly for her role in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. She’s also known for her work in the series ‘The Deuce’ and as the lead in the thriller ‘Swarm’, as well as appearing in the popular film ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’. Critics often highlight the emotional range and depth she brings to her characters.
Moses Ingram
Moses Ingram quickly became well-known after her performance in the popular miniseries ‘The Queen’s Gambit,’ which earned her an Emmy nomination. She also had a key role in the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ and appeared in Joel Coen’s film, ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth.’ Her success demonstrates her impressive skills as an actress.
Da’Vine Joy Randolph
Da’Vine Joy Randolph has received widespread praise for her acting, notably for her work in ‘Dolemite Is My Name’ and her recent Academy Award win for ‘The Holdovers’. She’s also appeared in popular series like ‘Only Murders in the Building’ and ‘The Idol’, demonstrating her versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles.
Uzo Aduba
Uzo Aduba is well-known for playing Suzanne Warren on ‘Orange Is the New Black’, a role that earned her two Emmy Awards – one for comedy and one for drama. She’s also appeared in ‘Mrs. America’ and a revival of ‘In Treatment’. Critics often highlight the depth and originality she brings to her characters.
Danai Gurira
Danai Gurira is a well-known actress who achieved international recognition for her roles as Michonne in ‘The Walking Dead’ and Okoye in the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe,’ including ‘Black Panther.’ Beyond acting, she’s a celebrated playwright with productions on Broadway. Gurira is praised for taking on physically demanding roles and for her commitment to telling powerful, layered stories.
Letitia Wright
Letitia Wright is famous for playing Shuri in the ‘Black Panther’ movies. She’s also been in the TV show ‘Black Mirror’ and the animated film ‘Sing 2’. Wright recently starred in the historical dramas ‘The Silent Twins’ and ‘Aisha’. She’s known for bringing both intelligence and deep emotion to her roles.
Michaela Coel
Michaela Coel is the talented creator and star of the critically acclaimed series ‘Chewing Gum’ and ‘I May Destroy You’, for which she won an Emmy Award for her writing. She’s also acted in popular shows like ‘Black Mirror’ and the film ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. Coel is known for tackling challenging and important topics with boldness and honesty.
Sheila Atim
Sheila Atim is a highly skilled actress and musician known for her captivating performances in both theater and film. She’s appeared in acclaimed projects like ‘The Woman King’ and ‘The Underground Railroad,’ and has received two Laurence Olivier Awards for her work on stage in the UK. People often describe her as having a powerful and dignified presence.
Jodie Turner-Smith
Jodie Turner-Smith first became well-known for her starring role in the movie ‘Queen & Slim’. Since then, she’s appeared in films like ‘After Yang’ and played Anne Boleyn in a biographical drama. She also took on an action role in ‘Without Remorse’. Turner-Smith is celebrated for her captivating performances and willingness to take on challenging and interesting projects.
Wunmi Mosaku
Wunmi Mosaku is a highly acclaimed actress known for her compelling performances. She gained recognition for her work in the horror film ‘His House’ and has also appeared in popular series like ‘Lovecraft Country’ and ‘Loki’. Fans will also recognize her from the crime drama ‘Luther’ and the film ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’. Critics often highlight the delicate balance of vulnerability and strength in her acting.
Cush Jumbo
Cush Jumbo is a talented actress best known for playing Lucca Quinn in the popular TV series ‘The Good Wife’ and ‘The Good Fight’. Before television, she built a solid foundation in theater, performing with the renowned Royal Shakespeare Company. Recently, she appeared in the crime thriller ‘Criminal Record’. Critics and audiences consistently praise her performances for being both smart and incredibly precise.
Nicole Beharie
Nicole Beharie is an acclaimed actress known for her roles in shows like ‘Sleepy Hollow’ and ‘The Morning Show’, and the film ‘Miss Juneteenth’. She’s also appeared in ‘Shame’ and the miniseries ‘Scenes from a Marriage’. Beharie is particularly praised for her ability to bring authenticity and realism to even the most dramatic stories.
Emayatzy Corinealdi
Emayatzy Corinealdi first gained widespread recognition for her role in Ava DuVernay’s film, ‘Middle of Nowhere’. Since then, she’s appeared in TV series like ‘Hand of God’ and ‘Ballers’. More recently, she starred as Jax Stewart in the legal drama ‘Reasonable Doubt’. Critics often praise Corinealdi for her subtle and powerfully emotional performances.
Adepero Oduye
Adepero Oduye is a highly praised actress, best known for her leading role in the film ‘Pariah’. She’s also appeared in popular movies like ’12 Years a Slave’ and ‘The Big Short’, and had a part in the series ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’. Oduye is celebrated for her subtle yet impactful performances.
Quvenzhané Wallis
Quvenzhané Wallis achieved a historic milestone by becoming the youngest nominee for Best Actress at the Oscars, thanks to her role in ‘Beasts of the Southern Wild’. She continued to build her career with roles in the remake of ‘Annie’ and the film ‘12 Years a Slave’, and more recently starred in the TV series ‘Swagger’. Her impressive start quickly marked her as a rising star in Hollywood.
Amandla Stenberg
I first discovered Amandla Stenberg when they played Rue in ‘The Hunger Games,’ and I’ve been a fan ever since. They’ve been in some really powerful movies like ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Everything, Everything,’ and I also enjoyed seeing them in ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ and the series ‘The Acolyte.’ What I really admire about Amandla, though, is how they use their platform and consistently choose roles that really matter and spark important conversations.
Yara Shahidi
I’ve been a big fan of Yara Shahidi for years! Most people probably recognize her as Zoey Johnson from ‘Black-ish’ and ‘Grown-ish,’ but she’s done some great voice work too – I loved her as a lead in ‘Smallfoot,’ and she was a fantastic Tinker Bell in the recent ‘Peter Pan & Wendy.’ What I really admire, though, is that she’s not just a talented actress; she’s a really passionate activist and uses her platform to speak up about important issues. It’s awesome to see someone so successfully combine a career in entertainment with genuine social engagement.
Laura Harrier
Laura Harrier became well-known internationally after appearing in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’. She’s also received praise for her work in Spike Lee’s ‘BlacKkKlansman’, as well as the miniseries ‘Hollywood’ and the film ‘White Men Can’t Jump’. People often note her timeless look and ability to excel in different roles.
We’d love to know who you think delivered the most memorable performance! Share your pick in the comments below.
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2026-02-17 18:20