Black Actresses Who Should Have Won An Oscar

Throughout the history of the Oscars, many incredible performances by actresses haven’t been recognized with a win. This is especially true for Black women, who have consistently delivered powerful and critically acclaimed performances without receiving the award. These actresses have brought rich detail and complexity to a wide range of characters, from real-life figures to those created for the screen. Recognizing their contributions is important because it shows how film has changed and celebrates the lasting impact of these talented women.

Angela Bassett

As a huge movie fan, I’ll always remember Angela Bassett’s incredible performance as Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It.’ She truly became Tina, showing both her strength and vulnerability as she fought for her independence. Honestly, I thought she was robbed of the award back then – she poured everything into that role! And then, years later, she blew everyone away again as Queen Ramonda in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.’ It’s clear she’s a true master of her craft, and she consistently sets the bar incredibly high for acting in film.

Cicely Tyson

As a film lover, I’ve always been deeply moved by Cicely Tyson’s performance in ‘Sounder.’ She played Rebecca Morgan, a mother just trying to hold her family together during the Depression in the South, and she did it with such grace and strength. It really felt like a turning point – before that, Black women weren’t often shown with that kind of dignity on screen. It’s a shame she didn’t win a competitive Oscar during her career, even though she deserved it and eventually received an honorary one. Honestly, she paved the way for so many actresses who came after her, and her impact is still felt today.

Dorothy Dandridge

Dorothy Dandridge was a trailblazer, becoming the first African American woman nominated for the Best Actress Academy Award for her role in ‘Carmen Jones’. She powerfully portrayed the character with both vibrant energy and heartbreaking fragility. Her performance demonstrated that Black actresses could successfully lead major Hollywood films. Though she didn’t win that year, Dandridge remains a celebrated and influential figure for the barriers she broke in the industry.

Diahann Carroll

Diahann Carroll was nominated for an award for her performance in ‘Claudine,’ where she played a single mother dealing with hardship and love in New York City. Her portrayal of a working-class woman was celebrated for being realistic and heartfelt. Known for her ability to move effortlessly between stage and film, Carroll brought a special elegance to all her roles. The nomination itself was noteworthy, as it recognized a modern and relatable Black female character.

Juanita Moore

Juanita Moore gave a deeply affecting performance in the film ‘Imitation of Life’. She played Annie Johnson, a mother whose daughter tries to live as white to avoid racism. Moore’s character was the heart of the movie, showing incredible resilience and unwavering love. Though she received a nomination for Best Supporting Actress, she didn’t win. However, her portrayal of motherhood remains one of the most memorable and touching in film history.

Alfre Woodard

Early in her career, Alfre Woodard received recognition for her role in ‘Cross Creek.’ Later, she gave a particularly striking performance as a prison warden in ‘Clemency,’ with many critics calling it one of the year’s best for its nuance and emotional impact. Throughout her extensive career, Woodard has consistently showcased her impressive acting abilities and versatility. Despite not yet winning a competitive Oscar, she remains a highly respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Beah Richards

Beah Richards received an Academy Award nomination for her supporting role in ‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’. She played the mother of a man introducing his white fiancée to his family, and her moving monologue about love and memory is a highlight of the film. Despite limited screen time, she delivered a performance filled with wisdom and genuine emotion, which significantly contributed to the movie’s powerful message and lasting impact.

Diana Ross

Diana Ross’s first film role was a remarkable performance as Billie Holiday in ‘Lady Sings the Blues.’ She convincingly changed her voice and how she carried herself to truly embody the iconic jazz singer. This earned her an Academy Award nomination and proved she was a talented dramatic actress. For many, her portrayal remains the most definitive depiction of Holiday’s life. Ross is one of the rare singers who successfully became a respected and acclaimed actor.

Ruby Dee

Ruby Dee earned her first Oscar nomination late in her career for her role in ‘American Gangster’. She powerfully portrayed the mother of a famous crime boss, making a strong impact in just a few scenes. This nomination was particularly meaningful given her decades of dedication to both activism and the arts. Ruby Dee continues to be celebrated as an icon of lasting achievement and talent within the Black arts community.

Margaret Avery

Margaret Avery received a nomination for playing Shug Avery in ‘The Color Purple’. She brilliantly captured the character’s confident and sensitive nature as a glamorous singer. Her strong connection with the other actors helped make the story’s relationships feel real. Many viewers felt her performance was the emotional center of the film, and she brought the well-loved character to life with genuine authenticity.

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey began her acting career in the film ‘The Color Purple,’ playing the strong-willed character Sofia. Her performance showed a wide range of emotions, from powerful independence to heartbreaking pain. She received a Best Supporting Actress nomination for her work, proving her skills as a dramatic actor alongside a cast of established stars. This role is still considered one of the most memorable and acclaimed performances of her diverse career.

Marianne Jean-Baptiste

Marianne Jean-Baptiste gained widespread praise for her performance in the British film ‘Secrets and Lies’. She portrayed a young woman on a journey to find her birth mother, uncovering a complex and surprising family background. Her realistic and subtle acting was key to the film’s emotional impact. Notably, she was the first Black British actress to receive an Academy Award nomination, and her performance is still considered a brilliant example of nuanced screen acting.

Gabourey Sidibe

Gabourey Sidibe made a stunning first impression in the movie ‘Precious,’ which was based on the novel ‘Push.’ She played a teenage girl facing terrible abuse and struggling with reading and writing, and she did so with remarkable strength. Her honest and powerful performance deeply moved viewers worldwide. She earned a Best Actress nomination and was widely commended for her courage in the role. The film, thanks to her work, sparked important conversations about difficult social problems.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is known for her powerful performances in a variety of films. She earned recognition for her touching portrayal of Queenie in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’, where she played the nurturing adoptive mother to the main character. Later, she starred as the inspiring mathematician Katherine Johnson in ‘Hidden Figures’, a role many believed deserved more awards attention. Henson’s talent for both dramatic historical roles and popular films has solidified her place as a prominent figure in Hollywood.

Quvenzhané Wallis

Quvenzhané Wallis made history as the youngest nominee for Best Actress, thanks to her role in ‘Beasts of the Southern Wild’. She played Hushpuppy, a spirited young girl in a struggling, isolated community. Critics praised her performance for being both remarkably smart and incredibly natural. Despite her young age, she commanded attention with a surprising level of maturity, and her work was a major reason the film received so much positive attention.

Ruth Negga

Ruth Negga gave a remarkably understated yet impactful performance in the film ‘Loving’. She portrayed Mildred Loving, a woman who bravely fought for the right to marry her husband, despite laws prohibiting interracial marriage. Negga’s nuanced acting and quiet strength perfectly embodied the spirit of this civil rights pioneer. While she was nominated for Best Actress, many believed her performance should have won. Through a deeply personal story, she brought a crucial moment in American history to life.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris powerfully portrayed a mother battling addiction in the film ‘Moonlight’, showing the character across many years. Though filmed quickly, in just a few days, her performance was incredibly impactful and earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Harris is a versatile actor, seamlessly moving between large-scale action films and smaller, more personal projects.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo received nominations for her powerful performance as Harriet Tubman in the movie ‘Harriet,’ skillfully portraying both Tubman’s physical resilience and deep faith. She was also recognized for her work on an original song from the film. Erivo has consistently delivered strong performances as she’s moved from starring in Broadway shows to leading roles in major films, and her work helped bring renewed attention to the inspiring story of Harriet Tubman.

Andra Day

As a huge movie fan, I was so impressed with Andra Day’s performance in ‘The United States vs Billie Holiday’! She really threw herself into playing Billie during a particularly difficult time in her life. Everyone was talking about how incredible her singing was, but it was her honest and vulnerable portrayal of Billie’s struggles that truly moved me. The film itself showed how the government tried to suppress Billie because she was speaking out for civil rights. You could just feel how committed Andra was to the role, both physically and emotionally – it was a truly captivating performance.

Danielle Brooks

Danielle Brooks received a nomination for her role in the movie musical ‘The Color Purple’. She played Sofia with incredible energy, honoring the original character while also making it her own. Brooks’s strong voice and perfect comedic timing helped her shine among the other actors. Many critics felt her performance was a major reason the film was so successful, bringing both happiness and strength to a character known for overcoming hardship.

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor was nominated for an award for her performance as Oracene Price in ‘King Richard’. She powerfully portrayed the mother of Venus and Serena Williams, grounding the film’s emotional core. Her performance beautifully showcased the vital, often unseen role mothers play in their children’s achievements. Viewers praised her calm and dignified acting, which perfectly complemented the lead role. Ellis-Taylor is a well-respected actress known for bringing nuance and depth to all her work.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo received a Best Supporting Actress nomination for her role in ‘Hotel Rwanda’, where she portrayed Tatiana Rusesabagina, a woman struggling to keep her family safe during the Rwandan genocide. Critics admired her performance for its powerful emotions, particularly how she showed both fear and hope at the same time. Since then, she’s continued to appear in excellent films and TV shows, and is known for bringing a deeply human touch to stories about difficult historical events.

Ethel Waters

As a movie fan, I’m always fascinated by the pioneers, and Ethel Waters is definitely one of them. She was a total legend – a singer and actress who really smashed through barriers. What’s so cool is she was one of the very first Black actresses to even get an Oscar nomination, and it was for her role as a grandmother in ‘Pinky’. She brought so much experience to that part, and honestly, she paved the way for so many performers who came after her, especially during the old studio system days. It was a huge moment for Black actors and actresses at the time.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Gugu Mbatha-Raw first gained widespread recognition for her role in the historical film ‘Belle’, where she played Dido Elizabeth Belle, a woman of mixed race trying to find her place within British high society. Critics praised her elegant and nuanced performance, particularly how she showed the character’s inner struggles. Despite positive reviews for both her and the film, she wasn’t nominated for any major awards. Since then, she’s proven herself to be a talented actress, successfully taking on roles in both science fiction and serious dramas.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall earned high praise for her leading role in the independent film ‘Support the Girls’. She played the manager of a sports bar navigating both work challenges and personal difficulties. Critics especially admired her ability to portray the character with compassion and realistically show how draining it can be to constantly manage other people’s feelings. Numerous critics’ groups recognized her as the year’s best actress, but surprisingly, she didn’t receive an Academy Award nomination.

Teyana Taylor

Teyana Taylor delivered a powerful and emotional performance in ‘A Thousand and One,’ playing a mother who takes her son out of foster care to create a new life for them in New York City. The film received the top prize at Sundance, and Taylor was widely praised as a standout star. Her realistic and heartfelt depiction of a woman battling difficult circumstances deeply resonated with audiences. Many were disappointed when she wasn’t nominated for an Oscar, considering it a major oversight.

Thuso Mbedu

Thuso Mbedu gave a powerful and moving performance in ‘The Woman King’. She portrayed a young woman joining an all-female African warrior group, and her character’s transformation from an outsider to a capable fighter was central to the story. Reviewers highlighted her passionate acting and how well she performed with more experienced actors. Despite the film being well-received, she wasn’t nominated for an Academy Award.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch impressed audiences in ‘The Woman King’ with her portrayal of a seasoned warrior and guide. She brought both humor and unwavering loyalty to her character, Izogie. Her strength and captivating presence were particularly noticeable in the film’s action scenes. Lynch has also proven herself in large-scale franchises like James Bond and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and continues to demonstrate her talent and promise as a future leading actress.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright took on the central role in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ after the tragic loss of her colleague. She played Shuri, showing the character’s journey through grief and her struggle to become a leader. Critics praised her emotionally powerful performance and how the character developed throughout the film. Despite the film’s many nominations, Wright wasn’t nominated for her acting.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton delivered a powerful and unforgettable performance in the film adaptation of ‘Beloved’. She beautifully captured the character’s delicate and otherworldly nature, which was crucial to the story’s impact. Critics especially admired how she portrayed both intense emotional pain and the story’s supernatural aspects. She’s gone on to win numerous awards for her work in TV and movies, and many feel her early dramatic roles deserved even more accolades, including from the Academy.

Pam Grier

Pam Grier’s career was revitalized when she starred in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Jackie Brown,’ playing a flight attendant caught up in a risky money-laundering operation. The role both honored her past as an action star and showcased her impressive acting skills. Critics and fans alike thought she deserved an Academy Award nomination for her calm and clever performance. Grier continues to be a celebrated icon, known for her groundbreaking work in blaxploitation films and her lasting impact on cinema.

Kimberly Elise

Kimberly Elise is a remarkably talented actress who gave a standout performance in ‘Beloved,’ acting alongside Oprah Winfrey. She portrayed Denver, a young woman deeply affected by her mother’s traumatic history and a lingering, unsettling atmosphere. Critics praised her for her raw emotional depth and ability to convey the character’s loneliness. Elise has a history of delivering compelling performances in dramatic roles, including films like ‘For Colored Girls’ and ‘Antwone Fisher.’ Many believe she deserves more recognition as one of the most gifted actresses of her generation.

Adepero Oduye

Adepero Oduye first gained widespread attention for her powerful role in the independent film ‘Pariah’. She played a teenage girl in Brooklyn navigating her identity as a lesbian while growing up in a religious household. Critics and audiences alike praised her honest and moving performance, highlighting its realistic portrayal of adolescence. The film received strong reviews, and Oduye’s work was honored with several awards. Since then, she’s gone on to appear in well-known films such as ‘12 Years a Slave’ and ‘The Big Short’.

Nicole Beharie

Nicole Beharie earned high praise for her work in ‘Miss Juneteenth,’ where she played a former beauty queen and a single mother determined to help her daughter succeed in a pageant. Critics highlighted the subtle power of her performance and her ability to show the weight of dreams that didn’t come true. Beharie’s realistic and relatable portrayal anchored the film and deeply connected with audiences, leading many to believe she deserved an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira powerfully portrayed Okoye in ‘Black Panther,’ bringing both strength and humor to the leader of the Dora Milaje. Her performance was crucial in creating the vibrant world of Wakanda, seamlessly blending exciting action sequences with emotionally resonant moments. Gurira’s work significantly contributed to the film’s success, making it a cultural landmark and award-winning production.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson gave a nuanced and compelling performance in the historical drama ‘Passing’. She portrayed a woman whose life is thrown into turmoil when she reconnects with a friend from her past who is living as white. The film thoughtfully examines issues of identity and jealousy with a delicate and controlled style. Thompson received acclaim for showing her character’s inner struggles through subtle actions and facial expressions, and many considered her performance to be one of the best of the year.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe really shone in 2016 with memorable performances in both ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. In ‘Hidden Figures’, she portrayed Mary Jackson, a pioneering Black female engineer at NASA, bringing both humor and determination to the role. Monáe’s move from a thriving music career to acclaimed acting felt natural and was incredibly impressive. She’s continued to take on interesting and demanding roles, such as the one in ‘Glass Onion’.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington delivered a powerful and touching performance as Della Bea Robinson in the movie ‘Ray’, where she played Ray Charles’ wife. She beautifully captured the character’s inner strength and hardships, serving as the emotional heart of the film. Washington has since become a well-known actress, starring in popular projects like ‘Django Unchained’ and various television shows. Many viewers feel her earlier work deserved more award nominations.

Audra McDonald

Audra McDonald is a celebrated stage actress who has successfully transitioned to film, showcasing her incredible talent in both. Her recent role as civil rights activist Ella Baker in ‘Rustin’ was particularly powerful, demonstrating her ability to bring both strength and genuine emotion to her performances. Already a record-holder for Tony Awards, she’s consistently earned praise for her work on screen and remains a captivating presence in any role she takes on.

Anika Noni Rose

Anika Noni Rose is well-known for her role as Lorrell Robinson in the hit movie ‘Dreamgirls’, where she impressed audiences with her powerful singing and funny performance. She was a key part of the film’s success and its realistic portrayal of the music world. She also made history by voicing Tiana, Disney’s first Black princess, in ‘The Princess and the Frog’. Throughout her career, Anika has excelled in a variety of roles on Broadway and in film.

Emayatzy Corinealdi

Emayatzy Corinealdi gained widespread recognition for her role in ‘Middle of Nowhere’, where she powerfully portrayed a woman dealing with the difficulties of her husband being in prison while also striving to live her own life. Critics praised her intelligent and nuanced performance, noting that she avoided overly dramatic portrayals. The film was a significant step forward for director Ava DuVernay and firmly established Corinealdi as a promising leading actress, earning her an Independent Spirit Award nomination.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba successfully transitioned from popular TV roles to impactful films, notably starring as the lead in ‘Miss Virginia’. The film tells the true story of a mother passionately advocating for her son’s education within a struggling school system, and Aduba powerfully portrayed the real woman’s unwavering dedication. She brought the same captivating energy to film that made her famous in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Aduba’s versatility and skill consistently make her an actress to watch.

Chandra Wilson

As a movie fan, I’ve always appreciated Chandra Wilson, even though most people know her from TV. She was actually in ‘Philadelphia’ way back when, and it was a really strong performance! What I love about her is that she can play characters with both strength and a real sense of warmth – she just commands your attention. While she’s famous for her long-running TV show, her film work really showcases how versatile she is. She’s just captivating whenever she’s on screen.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine played a memorable role in the popular film ‘Waiting to Exhale’ as Gloria, a woman navigating life and motherhood while discovering her own strength. Her performance resonated with audiences because it felt real and was full of warmth. Throughout her extensive career, she’s excelled in both funny and serious roles, and fans consistently praise her for creating a feeling of connection and genuine emotion in everything she does.

CCH Pounder

CCH Pounder gave a truly memorable performance in ‘Bagdad Cafe,’ portraying a stressed-out motel owner who unexpectedly becomes friends with a German tourist. Her acting stood out for its subtle humor and the way her character gradually revealed her emotions. Over a career lasting many decades, she’s become a highly recognizable and respected character actress. Her distinctive voice and presence consistently elevate any film she appears in.

S. Epatha Merkerson

S. Epatha Merkerson delivered a stunning, award-winning performance in ‘Lackawanna Blues,’ where she portrayed Nanny, a boarding house owner who becomes a mother figure to her community. Though made for television, the film truly highlighted her talent as a leading actress. She’s also been in well-known films like ‘Lincoln’ and ‘Terminator 2,’ and her career proves what can be achieved through consistently strong acting.

Moses Ingram

Moses Ingram received excellent reviews for her performance as Lady Macduff in ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth’. She infused the classic character with a fresh, modern sense of both urgency and sadness. Despite appearing in only a few scenes, her performance made a strong impression. Ingram is rapidly becoming a prominent actress, landing roles in both blockbuster franchises and critically acclaimed TV series, and her talent suggests she’ll have a successful and award-winning career.

Rosalind Cash

Rosalind Cash was a well-known actress in the 1970s, most famously appearing in the sci-fi film ‘The Omega Man.’ She played a strong and determined survivor, breaking away from typical roles for women at the time. Throughout her career, she consistently appeared in both smaller independent films and big studio productions, earning recognition for her powerful performances and ability to stand out alongside leading actors. Cash’s work was important in creating opportunities for Black women to play more dynamic and impactful characters on screen.

Lonette McKee

Lonette McKee gave a truly memorable performance in the original movie ‘Sparkle’. She played Sister Williams, a gifted singer whose life is tragically affected by the difficulties of fame and struggles with addiction. Her incredible voice and powerful acting made her the most impressive performer in the film. She went on to work with director Spike Lee in several movies, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Many fans of musical dramas still consider her early work to be a classic.

Esther Rolle

Esther Rolle was a much-loved actress known for her work on television and in films. She gave a memorable performance as Idella, the housekeeper, in ‘Driving Miss Daisy,’ portraying her with grace and poise. Her role offered a valuable viewpoint within the film’s depiction of life in the American South. Rolle was a trailblazer who consistently sought out complex and meaningful characters. Her work in film was a natural extension of her dedication to impactful and well-crafted stories.

Share your own picks for actresses who were overlooked by the Academy in the comments.

2026-02-19 09:21