Black Actresses Who Are Successful Businesswomen

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For years, Black actresses have been incredibly important to the entertainment world, and many have successfully launched their own businesses. They’ve used their public profiles to create hugely successful brands in areas like fashion, beauty, and film production. By owning their stories and taking control of their finances, they’ve become powerful leaders in the business world. This showcases talented performers who have demonstrated their abilities go beyond acting and into the corporate arena.

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey created a hugely successful media company, Harpo Productions, which was behind her popular talk show. She then broadened her impact with the Oprah Winfrey Network, offering lifestyle content to viewers around the world. Beyond television, Winfrey has invested in businesses like WeightWatchers and launched her own publishing ventures with books and magazines. She’s also dedicated to giving back, using her resources to support education and charitable causes globally. Winfrey is widely considered one of the most accomplished and admired business leaders in entertainment history.

Rihanna

Rihanna successfully transitioned from music to business, launching Fenty Beauty. The brand quickly became popular for offering a wide range of shades to suit all skin tones and changed the cosmetics world. She then expanded her success with Savage X Fenty, a lingerie line designed for all body types. Despite also acting in films like ‘Ocean’s 8’, Rihanna continues to manage her highly successful businesses. She remains a leading figure for Black women in the luxury and beauty industries worldwide.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross launched Pattern Beauty to provide hair products specifically designed for natural, curly, and coily hair. After years of research and development, the actress and CEO created a line that’s now available in major stores. Pattern Beauty blends Ross’s love of self-expression with a successful business that helps customers feel confident and embrace their natural beauty through effective, high-quality hair care.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae founded Hoorae Media to create TV and film projects that showcase a wider range of voices and perspectives. She first became well-known with her online series ‘Awkward Black Girl’ and then starred in the popular HBO show ‘Insecure.’ Beyond entertainment, Rae has also ventured into other businesses, including the hair care line Sienna Naturals and the Hilltop Coffee & Kitchen restaurants. She’s dedicated to helping creators from underrepresented groups succeed and boosting the economy in her community. This diverse business strategy has established her as a leading producer in Hollywood.

Marsai Martin

I’m such a big fan of Marsai Martin! It’s amazing to me that she became the youngest executive producer ever in Hollywood – she was only fourteen when she made ‘Little’! She didn’t stop there, though. She started her own production company, Genius Productions, to tell important stories about the Black experience. And now she has a deal with Universal Pictures to make even more content! On top of all that, she launched her own beauty line, Mari by Marsai, with really cool press-on nails and tools. It just proves that you don’t need to be older to be a successful entrepreneur – she’s seriously inspiring!

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson created her hair care line, TPH by Taraji, to prioritize a healthy scalp and provide nourishing products. Inspired by her own hair journey and a gap in the market, she aimed to create high-quality solutions for all hair types. Beyond beauty, Henson is also dedicated to mental health within the Black community through her Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation. Known for her roles in shows like ‘Empire’ and films like ‘Hidden Figures,’ she’s become a successful actress and businesswoman, and continues to champion wellness and entrepreneurship.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis and her husband started JuVee Productions to create compelling films and TV shows focused on strong characters. As an Oscar winner, Davis aimed to bring more representation to people of color and share stories that haven’t been told before. The company has produced acclaimed projects like ‘The Woman King’ and ‘First Ladies,’ highlighting a variety of experiences. Davis prioritizes high-quality, genuine storytelling in everything JuVee Productions does, and has used her success as an actress to become a powerful producer.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington founded Simpson Street Productions to create compelling and inclusive stories for viewers around the world. The company has already produced acclaimed projects like ‘Little Fires Everywhere’ and ‘Confirmation.’ In addition to her acting career, including her role on ‘Scandal,’ Washington partners with prominent beauty and jewelry brands as a spokesperson and creative advisor. She skillfully uses her business sense to ensure she has artistic control over the projects she works on. Washington continues to be a role model, demonstrating how actors can leverage their platform to support important and impactful storytelling.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union created Flawless, a haircare line designed to be both affordable and effective for those with natural hair. She updated the brand to make sure it reflected her commitment to quality and inclusivity. Beyond haircare, Union is also a successful author and fashion designer, known for creating stylish and inclusive clothing. Through her production company, I’ll Have Another, she champions diverse storytelling and strong characters. Despite a busy acting career in film and television, Union continues to grow her entrepreneurial ventures.

Beyoncé

As a huge fan, it’s amazing to see how Beyoncé has built her empire. She started Parkwood Entertainment not just as a label, but as a full production house for all her creative projects – everything from her incredible visual albums like ‘Homecoming’ to her concert films. And it doesn’t stop there! She recently launched Cécred, her own hair care line, and she’s always doing cool fashion collaborations. What I really admire is that she’s completely in charge of her brand and her art, both creatively and financially. She’s become a true role model, showing everyone what it means to be independent and influential on a global scale.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith co-founded Westbrook Inc., a media company creating content for both online and traditional platforms. She’s best known for her hugely popular digital series, ‘Red Table Talk,’ which she hosts and produces. As a strong supporter of entrepreneurship, Smith has also invested in several tech and wellness companies. Westbrook Inc. aims to produce compelling stories that connect with today’s viewers. Smith has successfully moved from being an actress to a leading figure in the media industry.

Tia Mowry

Tia Mowry has created a lifestyle brand built around wellness and family. She started 4U by Tia, a haircare line offering clean, sustainable products for everyone, and Anser, a supplement line designed for busy women. Beyond products, Mowry, known for her role in ‘Sister Sister,’ has also written books and hosted a cooking show. She focuses on being open with her audience and providing healthy choices for families, and has successfully turned her personal experiences into a thriving business.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry launched rē•spin, a health and wellness platform, to help people live healthier, more balanced lives. As an Academy Award-winning actress, she shares fitness, beauty, and nutrition advice on the site. Berry also runs her own production company, allowing her to create and star in films like ‘Bruised’. Through all her work, she aims to inspire women to prioritize their physical and mental health. Her businesses are a reflection of her dedication to living a long, empowered life.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett launched Bassett Vance Productions to create excellent films and shows that celebrate Black stories and culture. She’s produced and acted in projects showcasing important figures from the past and present. In addition to her work in entertainment, Bassett also created a skincare line designed for people of color. Through all her ventures, she focuses on quality and giving opportunities to a wider range of voices. Angela Bassett remains a highly respected figure in Hollywood, both creatively and in business.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah is a successful actress, musician, and businesswoman who co-founded Flavor Unit Entertainment. The company has produced many films and TV shows, including popular projects like ‘Beauty Shop’ and ‘The Equalizer’. Beyond production, Latifah has also partnered with various brands and created her own fashion and fragrance lines. Throughout her career, she’s focused on helping other artists and creators succeed, and continues to be a trailblazer for Black women in independent film and television.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o has achieved success as both an actress and an author, with her children’s book ‘Sulwe’ addressing themes of colorism and self-worth. Beyond acting, including her well-known role in ‘Black Panther,’ she’s also a producer, working to share important stories from diverse cultures. Nyong’o partners with major luxury brands, not just as a face, but as a creative collaborator. Throughout her career, she consistently makes choices that reflect her dedication to social justice and representing different cultures, successfully blending her acting work with impactful business ventures.

Iman

Iman started Iman Cosmetics in 1994 because she wanted to create makeup that worked for women of every ethnicity. Her company was a leader in the beauty industry, offering a broad selection of foundation shades to match diverse skin tones. In addition to cosmetics, Iman also created her own lines of clothing and home goods sold at different stores. For many years, she’s been a strong voice for inclusivity and representation in fashion and beauty, and she continues to be a highly successful and respected businesswoman.

Tyra Banks

Tyra Banks is famous for creating and hosting the popular reality show ‘America’s Next Top Model,’ which she also helped produce. Beyond television, she built Bankable Productions to oversee her various projects and online content. She’s also an entrepreneur, launching the ice cream brand SMiZE Cream, known for including fun surprises in every container. Banks shares her business expertise by teaching personal branding at universities, demonstrating how she’s successfully turned her celebrity into a wide-ranging and thriving business.

La La Anthony

La La Anthony is a successful entrepreneur who created Inala, a hair care line focused on healthy hair growth and strength. Beyond beauty, she’s also launched popular clothing lines and partnered with well-known fashion brands. As an actress known for her role in ‘Power,’ Anthony has expanded into producing television shows and documentaries. Her businesses thrive because she understands what her audience wants and has a knack for spotting the latest trends. Anthony continues to build a strong reputation as a leader in the beauty and fashion worlds.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good isn’t just an actress; she’s also become a producer and director, working on independent films and TV shows. She co-wrote a popular book offering advice on life and relationships. Known for her role in ‘Harlem,’ Good is dedicated to developing projects that uplift and motivate young women through her storytelling. By expanding her skills beyond acting, she’s built a consistently successful career in entertainment.

Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams, the actress and singer, has expanded her career into business, launching a fashion line and home decor collection inspired by her own sophisticated taste. She’s also taken on producing her own music and theater projects, and has partnered with leading beauty and wellness brands as a spokesperson. These ventures highlight her adaptability and enduring success in a challenging industry. Williams continues to be a well-known personality, skillfully balancing her creative work with her business endeavors.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer started Orit Entertainment to create engaging and diverse movies and TV shows. The company has produced successful projects like ‘Self Made’ and ‘Truth Be Told,’ both known for their powerful female leads. As an Academy Award winner, Spencer is dedicated to making content that is not only enjoyable but also addresses important social issues. She also actively uses her platform to champion equal pay and improved representation for women in Hollywood. Through her work as a producer and creative leader, Spencer is building a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan is expanding her career beyond acting, now producing and directing projects like ‘On the Come Up’ for popular streaming services. She’s also a strong advocate for Black-owned businesses and actively supports entrepreneurial ventures. Known for her role in ‘Love and Basketball,’ Lathan uses her influence to champion wellness and raise awareness about mental health. She focuses on projects that share genuine and impactful stories, and has become a leader in the entertainment industry.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash is a talented actress and producer who founded Chocolate Chick, a production company dedicated to creating content that celebrates diversity and inclusion. She’s the executive producer behind shows like ‘Claws’ and also runs a popular line of home and lifestyle products. These ventures showcase her energetic personality and her passion for empowering others. Niecy Nash remains a prominent figure in entertainment, succeeding both on screen and behind the scenes.

Garcelle Beauvais

Garcelle Beauvais created Garcelle at Home, a home decor brand offering stylish and affordable products. In addition to being an actress and reality TV personality, she’s a producer with experience in television and talk shows. Beauvais is also an author, having written both a memoir and a series of children’s books. Her various ventures center around lifestyle and family themes, and she’s successfully created a brand that connects with a large and dedicated fanbase.

Cynthia Bailey

Cynthia Bailey is a successful entrepreneur who created The Bailey Agency School of Fashion to guide up-and-coming models and actors. Beyond her work in entertainment, she’s launched popular product lines like eyewear and leather goods, and recently opened a high-end wine cellar and event space. Through these ventures, Bailey has built a diverse brand and continues to motivate others with her dedication to growing her businesses and mentoring aspiring talent.

Kandi Burruss

Kandi Burruss is a highly successful entrepreneur with a knack for building thriving businesses. She’s the founder of Bedroom Kandi, a popular lifestyle brand, and also owns TAGS Boutique clothing stores and the Old Lady Gang restaurant chain. Beyond her business ventures, Kandi is an actress, songwriter, and executive producer of many reality and scripted TV shows. Her sharp business skills have made her one of the wealthiest stars on reality television, and she continues to be a major force in the world of celebrity entrepreneurship.

Porsha Williams

Porsha Williams is an entrepreneur who started Go Naked Hair, a company offering premium hair extensions and beauty products. She’s also created her own clothing and accessories for people who love fashion. As an actress and TV personality, Williams is also a published author and has hosted several shows. Her businesses have flourished thanks to her strong social media following and recognizable personal brand. She’s constantly growing her portfolio, focusing on beauty and lifestyle products.

Tasha Smith

Tasha Smith created the Tasha Smith Actors Workshop to help promising actors and actresses hone their skills and receive guidance. She’s expanded her career to include directing and producing for television and streaming platforms, and has directed episodes of well-known shows and independent movies. Through her workshop and work, Smith is dedicated to empowering the next generation of entertainment professionals and is now a highly regarded acting teacher and leader.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg isn’t just a celebrated actress and TV host – she’s also a successful entrepreneur. She created Emma and Clyde, a clothing line offering comfortable and fashionable clothes for all women, and co-founded a wellness company dedicated to women’s health. Throughout her impressive career, Goldberg has produced many films and TV specials, and her business projects consistently aim to offer helpful products and embrace diversity. She continues to be a powerful force in both the entertainment world and the business side of things.

Jennifer Hudson

As a total movie and entertainment fan, I’ve been watching Jennifer Hudson’s career with admiration. She’s really taken control with her production company, JHud Productions, using it to create projects that let her shine both in front of and behind the camera. And it’s working – her talk show is a hit! Beyond that, she’s partnering with big names in fashion and beauty, bringing her creative touch to everything she does. What I really appreciate is that she’s focused on telling great stories and making sure we see positive representation on screen. She’s built an incredible career for herself, and it’s amazing to see how she’s using her platform to do it all.

Kelly Rowland

Kelly Rowland is a successful entrepreneur who has expanded her career beyond music and acting. She co-founded a production company dedicated to showcasing diverse talent in the entertainment industry, and has partnered with well-known fashion brands to create popular clothing and accessories. Passionate about wellness, Rowland also actively participates in beauty and health projects. Her various business endeavors demonstrate her creative drive and dedication to empowering women. She remains a leading figure in lifestyle and entertainment.

Ciara

Ciara is a successful entrepreneur who has launched several businesses alongside her career as an actress and musician. She created OAM Skin, a skincare line for all skin types, and LR & C, a sustainable fashion brand with her husband. She also runs her own entertainment company, overseeing her creative work. Ciara focuses on innovative and socially conscious practices in both the fashion and beauty industries, successfully balancing her business ventures with her global performing career.

Mary J. Blige

I’m so impressed with everything Mary J. Blige is doing! She’s really expanded her reach beyond music. I recently learned she created her own wine collection, the Sun Goddess line, working with a fantastic Italian winery. But that’s not all – she’s also started her own production company focused on telling stories about strong women in film and TV. She’s been the face of so many luxury brands for years, and it’s clear to me that all these business moves really reflect who she is – a powerful and genuine person. She’s truly a force in entertainment, and I can’t wait to see what she does next with all her ventures!

Yvonne Orji

Yvonne Orji, known for her role in ‘Insecure,’ has launched a production company dedicated to bringing stories from the African diaspora to life through both scripted and unscripted projects. She’s already executive produced her own comedy specials and is currently developing several television shows. Beyond producing, Orji is also an author who actively uses her influence to advocate for financial literacy and overall well-being. Ultimately, her work aims to highlight diverse voices and support fellow creators, establishing her as a rising force in Hollywood as both a producer and entrepreneur.

Loni Love

I’m such a fan of Loni Love! It’s amazing to see how she’s built her career. She didn’t stop at performing – she started her own production company to make the kinds of funny and relatable shows she wants to see! She’s been an executive producer on so many projects and hosted a ton of big events. Plus, she’s an author and has partnered with some major brands. Everything she does really seems to be about bringing joy to people, and she does it for everyone. It’s inspiring to watch her grow as both a creative force behind the scenes and a performer we all love.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox has built a successful career as both an entertainer and a businesswoman. She’s known for her acting work in numerous films and TV shows, and has also created a popular hair collection. Beyond that, she’s a published author, sharing her insights on business and life. Fox’s success comes from her years in the entertainment industry and her commitment to delivering high-quality products and independent projects. She continues to be a leading figure in the beauty world and as an independent producer.

Naturi Naughton

Naturi Naughton is expanding her career into producing to have more say in the stories she brings to life. She’s currently developing projects that focus on the lives of modern Black women. In addition to her acting work, like her role in ‘Power,’ Naughton is also investing in businesses related to beauty and wellness. These choices demonstrate her goal of creating a meaningful and enduring impact beyond her on-screen performances. Naughton is steadily becoming a more powerful force as both a producer and businesswoman in the entertainment world.

Nicole Ari Parker

Nicole Ari Parker created Gymwrap because she wanted a headband that was both practical and fashionable for women who are active. The idea came from her own struggle to protect her hair while exercising. As an actress and producer – often working with her husband on TV and stage – Parker also uses Gymwrap to encourage health and wellness for women from all walks of life. She’s successfully created a well-known brand that fills a clear need in the market.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira is a celebrated writer and producer known for her award-winning plays and film work. She also co-founded Almasi Arts, an organization dedicated to developing professional theater in Zimbabwe. As the actress who starred in ‘Black Panther,’ Gurira uses her production company to share compelling stories from Africa with the world. Her work blends her passion for high-quality art with a commitment to positive social impact, establishing her as a leader in both the creative and nonprofit fields.

Share your favorite success stories from these inspiring Black actresses in the comments.

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2026-02-16 23:20