African-American Actors Who Have Won Emmys

The Primetime Emmy Awards are a major symbol of quality in television, honoring the best acting in all kinds of shows. Throughout the years, Black actors have made history and given unforgettable performances, earning them this important award. From the first wins in the 1960s to the successes of today’s stars, these actors have changed how stories are told on TV. This list celebrates forty actors who have won Emmys for their amazing work.

Bill Cosby

Bill Cosby made history as the first African-American actor to win a Primetime Emmy Award. He won the award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series three years in a row, starting in 1966, for his role as Alexander Scott in the show ‘I Spy’. This achievement was a significant breakthrough for Black actors in television during the Civil Rights Movement.

Robert Guillaume

Robert Guillaume was a talented comedic actor who won Emmy Awards for his work on two popular shows. He first gained recognition and won an Emmy in 1979 for his supporting role on ‘Soap’. He then starred as the lead in the spin-off, ‘Benson’, earning another Emmy in 1985. Notably, he is the only African-American man to have won an Emmy for Lead Actor in a Comedy Series.

Isabel Sanford

In 1981, Isabel Sanford broke ground as the first African-American woman to win an Emmy Award for her leading role in a comedy series. She earned the award for her beloved portrayal of Louise Jefferson on ‘The Jeffersons,’ a role she was nominated for seven years in a row before finally winning. Her performance is still remembered as a defining moment in television from the 1970s and 80s.

Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson was an award-winning actress who enjoyed a successful career spanning many decades. She famously won two Emmys in 1974 for her role in the TV movie ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman,’ and later earned another Emmy in 1994 for her supporting performance in ‘Oldest Living Confederate Widow Tells All.’ Throughout her career, Tyson often portrayed powerful, Black women from history with nuance and respect.

James Earl Jones

I’ve always been in awe of James Earl Jones, and it’s incredible to me that he won two Primetime Emmys in 1991! He was recognized as the best lead actor in a drama for ‘Gabriel’s Fire,’ and then also took home an award for supporting actor in ‘Heat Wave.’ It just proves what everyone knows: his voice is instantly recognizable and he completely commands your attention whenever he’s on screen. He’s truly one of the most respected actors in the business.

Andre Braugher

Andre Braugher, a celebrated actor who won two Emmy Awards, was known for his powerful and detailed performances. He first won an Emmy in 1998 for his role as Detective Frank Pembleton on the show ‘Homicide: Life on the Street’, and then again in 2006 for the miniseries ‘Thief’. Later in his career, he gained widespread popularity for his comedic work on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’, earning him several award nominations.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard is a highly acclaimed actress with four Emmy Awards to her name. She’s won for supporting roles in shows like ‘Hill Street Blues’ and ‘L.A. Law,’ as well as lead performances in the TV movie ‘Miss Evers’ Boys’ and the series ‘The Practice.’ Throughout her career, she’s successfully transitioned between guest appearances and starring roles.

Viola Davis

In 2015, Viola Davis made Emmy Award history as the first Black woman to win Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. She received the award for her role as Annalise Keating in the hit show ‘How to Get Away with Murder.’ In a memorable acceptance speech, she pointed out that the main difference between women of color and everyone else is simply having the same opportunities. This groundbreaking win was a key step in her journey to becoming an EGOT winner – someone who has won an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony Award.

Regina King

Regina King is one of the most-awarded actors ever at the Primetime Emmy Awards, having won four times. She notably won two Emmys in a row for her supporting work on the series ‘American Crime’. She also received awards for her performances in the miniseries ‘Seven Seconds’ (2018) and ‘Watchmen’ (2020). Throughout her career, she’s successfully moved from being a child star to taking on leading, dramatic roles.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown is a two-time Primetime Emmy Award winner, recognized for his work in popular TV dramas. He first won in 2016 for playing Christopher Darden in ‘The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story’, and then again in 2017 for his leading role in ‘This Is Us’. Notably, Brown was the first African-American man to win the Lead Actor in a Drama Series award in almost two decades.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba is an Emmy-winning actress who has impressively won awards for both comedic and dramatic roles playing the same character. She first gained recognition for her work as Suzanne Warren on ‘Orange Is the New Black’, earning an Emmy in 2014 for comedy and another in 2015 for drama. In 2020, she added a third Emmy to her collection for her performance as Shirley Chisholm in ‘Mrs. America’. Aduba is celebrated for her ability to completely transform into her characters.

Courtney B. Vance

I’ve always been so impressed by Courtney B. Vance. He’s a truly gifted actor, and it’s wonderful to see him recognized with two Emmy Awards! I was absolutely captivated by his portrayal of Johnnie Cochran in ‘The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story’ – he really deserved the win in 2016. And then, seeing him shine in ‘Lovecraft Country’ and win again in 2021 just confirmed what I already knew: he brings such a careful, powerful presence to every role he plays. It’s a joy to watch his work.

Zendaya

Zendaya is now the youngest person to win an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series twice. She first won in 2020 and again in 2022, both times for her role as Rue Bennett in ‘Euphoria’. These wins have quickly made her a prominent star in television. Critics have especially praised her honest and powerful depiction of addiction and mental health challenges in the series.

Billy Porter

In 2019, Billy Porter made Emmy Award history by winning Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his role as Pray Tell in the show ‘Pose’. ‘Pose’ focuses on New York City’s ballroom culture, and Porter’s win was significant as he became the first openly gay Black man to win an Emmy in a leading acting role. His performance was crucial to the show’s depiction of the LGBTQ+ community and the impact of the HIV/AIDS crisis.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover is an award-winning actor, writer, and director. In 2017, he won two Emmy Awards for his show ‘Atlanta,’ earning recognition as both the lead actor and director of a comedy series. This made him the first African-American to direct and win an Emmy for a comedy series. ‘Atlanta’ is known for its unique, dreamlike style and its thoughtful exploration of social issues.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson created and stars in the hit comedy series ‘Abbott Elementary,’ and has already received two Emmy Awards for her work on the show. She won an Emmy for writing in 2022 and for her leading acting performance in 2024. Notably, she’s the first Black woman to be nominated for three Emmys in comedy categories within a single year. Many people believe her show has brought new life to traditional network sitcoms.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph finally received her first Primetime Emmy Award in 2022 for her role as Barbara Howard, a seasoned kindergarten teacher on the hit show ‘Abbott Elementary’. This win was particularly special because it came after many years performing, including her start on Broadway in ‘Dreamgirls’. Her emotional acceptance speech quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the Emmy Awards.

Ayo Edebiri

As a huge fan of ‘The Bear,’ I was thrilled to see Ayo Edebiri win the Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series this year! She absolutely killed it as Sydney Adamu, that incredibly talented chef. Honestly, her performance was a real standout and a big part of why the show is getting so much love. It’s also amazing to see a new generation of Black comedic actors getting the recognition they deserve – Ayo’s win feels like a really important moment for that.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts received a Primetime Emmy Award in 2024 for her supporting role in the limited series ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She played Glenda Cleveland and delivered a powerful dramatic performance. Though often recognized for comedy, this Emmy showcased her versatility as an actress. During her acceptance speech, she championed the importance of amplifying the voices of Black women who are often unheard.

Jharrel Jerome

Let me tell you, Jharrel Jerome absolutely blew me away in ‘When They See Us,’ and thankfully the Emmys agreed! He took home the award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie back in 2019 for his incredible portrayal of Korey Wise. What’s even more impressive? He was only 21 years old at the time – a seriously young talent! His performance wasn’t just acting; it was a complete emotional and physical transformation. He became Korey, and it was truly captivating.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright is an award-winning actor. He won an Emmy in 2004 for his supporting role in the television adaptation of ‘Angels in America,’ a performance he originally delivered on Broadway – earning him a Tony Award for that stage version. More recently, he’s been recognized with several nominations for playing a leading role in the sci-fi series ‘Westworld’.

Ron Cephas Jones

Ron Cephas Jones, known for his role as William Hill in the hit drama ‘This Is Us,’ won two Emmy Awards for his performance. He received the award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series in both 2018 and 2020. His character was central to the show’s themes of family and overcoming challenges, and his heartfelt performances consistently resonated with viewers despite appearing in a recurring role.

Jasmine Cephas Jones

Jasmine Cephas Jones received an Emmy Award in 2020 for her performance in the short-form series ‘#FreeRayshawn’. The win was particularly special because she and her father, Ron Cephas Jones, made history as the first father-daughter pair to each win an Emmy in the same year – a feat that has not been repeated.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

In 2020, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II received an Emmy Award for his supporting role in the limited series ‘Watchmen’. He played both Cal Abar and the powerful Dr. Manhattan, a challenging part that demanded he portray hidden identities and extraordinary abilities. His win was one of many for ‘Watchmen’ at the Emmy Awards that year.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo won an Emmy in 2022 for his guest appearance in the drama series ‘Euphoria’. He played Ali, a supportive figure helping others with recovery, and his performance was particularly impactful in some of the show’s most powerful and talkative scenes. The award celebrated Domingo’s extensive work across theater, film, and television.

Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne is a three-time Primetime Emmy Award winner. He first won in 1993 for his guest appearance in the drama series ‘TriBeCa’, and again in 1997 as the lead actor in the movie ‘The Box’. Most recently, he won his third Emmy in 2020 for his work on the short-form series ‘#FreeRayshawn’.

Jackée Harry

In 1987, Jackée Harry made history as the first African American woman to win an Emmy Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. She won for her memorable role as Sandra Clark on the sitcom ‘227,’ where she was loved by fans for her unique voice and comedic skills. This groundbreaking win opened doors for other Black actresses in the same category.

Beah Richards

Beah Richards was a celebrated actress and a two-time Primetime Emmy Award winner. She first won an Emmy in 1988 for her work on the comedy series ‘Frank’s Place’, and then again in 2000, receiving an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series for ‘The Practice’. Sadly, she passed away just days after receiving her second award, at the age of 80.

Madge Sinclair

Madge Sinclair received an Emmy Award in 1991 for her supporting role as Empress Josephine in the drama series ‘Gabriel’s Fire’. A well-established actress, she was also known as the voice of Sarabi in ‘The Lion King’. Interestingly, her Emmy win that year was shared with her ‘Gabriel’s Fire’ co-star, James Earl Jones, who won in the lead actor category.

Glynn Turman

Glynn Turman received an Emmy Award in 2008 for his guest appearance in the HBO drama ‘In Treatment’, where he played Alex Prince, Sr. A veteran actor, Turman began his career as a child in the original Broadway production of ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ and remains a frequent presence on television, with multiple guest role nominations in recent years.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine won an Emmy Award in 2011 for her guest appearance on the drama series ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. She played Adele Webber, and her moving portrayal of a woman battling Alzheimer’s disease received a lot of positive attention from critics. Devine is also famous for originating the role in the Broadway hit musical ‘Dreamgirls’.

Joe Morton

Joe Morton received an Emmy Award in 2014 for his guest appearance in the drama series ‘Scandal’. He played Rowan “Eli” Pope, the powerful and mysterious father of the main character and leader of a clandestine government agency. Morton’s strong and captivating performances, especially his dramatic monologues, became a defining feature of the show.

Reg E. Cathey

Reg E. Cathey, a well-known actor, won an Emmy Award in 2015 for his role as Freddy Hayes on ‘House of Cards’. He was recognized as the best guest actor in a drama series for playing the owner of a barbecue restaurant who was also a trusted advisor to the main character. He was nominated for the same award three years in a row before finally winning.

Katt Williams

Katt Williams won an Emmy Award in 2018 for playing Willie, nicknamed the “Alligator Man,” on the show ‘Atlanta’. His performance in the episode “Alligator Man” was praised for being both funny and emotionally engaging. This Emmy win was an important step in his career as he took on more complex acting roles.

Tiffany Haddish

Tiffany Haddish received an Emmy Award in 2018 for her guest appearance on ‘Saturday Night Live.’ This followed her successful role in the movie ‘Girls Trip,’ and she made history as the first Black female stand-up comedian to both host the show and win an Emmy for it. Since then, she’s become a prominent figure in television and film.

Maya Rudolph

Maya Rudolph is a celebrated comedian and has received several Primetime Emmy Awards, notably for her time on ‘Saturday Night Live’. She’s won for playing Kamala Harris in the Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series category, and also for her voice work in the animated show ‘Big Mouth’, earning awards for Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance. Rudolph is widely considered one of today’s most talented and adaptable comedic performers.

Eddie Murphy

In 2020, Eddie Murphy finally won a Primetime Emmy Award, recognized as the best guest actor in a comedy series. He earned the award for his return to ‘Saturday Night Live’ after a 35-year absence, where he brought back some of his famous characters from the 1980s. Though he’s been a successful entertainer for decades, this marked his first Emmy win.

Dave Chappelle

Dave Chappelle is an Emmy-winning comedian known for his work in both television and stand-up. He’s won Emmys for hosting ‘Saturday Night Live’ in 2017 and 2021, with his opening monologues sparking conversations about American politics. He has also received Emmy Awards for his stand-up comedy specials.

S. Epatha Merkerson

S. Epatha Merkerson received an Emmy Award in 2005 for her leading role in the TV movie ‘Lackawanna Blues’, where she played Nanny. While many know her as Lieutenant Anita Van Buren from the long-running series ‘Law & Order’, this Emmy highlighted her talent for carrying a powerful story in a different kind of role, outside of the typical ‘Law & Order’ format.

Phylicia Rashād

Phylicia Rashad finally received her first Primetime Emmy Award in 2022, winning for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series for her work on ‘This Is Us’. While she’s been a beloved television icon for decades, including multiple Emmy nominations for her role as Clair Huxtable on ‘The Cosby Show’, this win celebrated her lasting impact on American television.

Please share your thoughts on these historic performances in the comments.

2026-02-11 02:54