Black Actresses Who Started in Small Roles and Ended Up Unforgettable

Even incredibly talented actors and actresses rarely become overnight successes in Hollywood. Many famous Black actresses worked for years doing small roles and appearing in the background before finally getting their big break. They spent those years perfecting their skills in less glamorous parts, patiently waiting for a chance to truly shine. Their stories – going from brief screen appearances to becoming well-known stars – prove how much talent and determination it takes to succeed.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis was already a respected theater actress when she started appearing in films. Early on, she took small roles in movies like ‘Out of Sight’ and ‘Kate & Leopold’ to gain experience and build her filmography. Her impactful performance in ‘Antwone Fisher’ really got people noticing her talent. This led to leading roles in successful projects like ‘The Help’ and ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. Now, she’s achieved EGOT status, winning Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Awards for her work in acting and other performing arts.

Octavia Spencer

For over ten years, Octavia Spencer took on small roles, often unnamed or simply labeled as “Nurse” or “Waitress.” She had brief appearances in popular movies like ‘Spider-Man’ and ‘Big Momma’s House.’ Her hard work finally led to a breakthrough when she was cast as Minny Jackson in ‘The Help,’ a role that perfectly showcased her abilities. This performance won her an Academy Award and launched her into stardom. Now, Octavia Spencer is a successful producer and leading actress in her own film and television projects.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson started her acting career with small roles on TV shows like ‘Sister, Sister’ and ‘ER’. While honing her skills and raising her son, she consistently worked in supporting parts. Her performance in ‘Baby Boy’ really put her on the map as a talented dramatic actress. She then became a worldwide star playing Cookie Lyon in ‘Empire’. Today, Henson continues to be a powerful presence in both action and dramatic films.

Regina King

Regina King began her acting career as a child on the sitcom ‘227’, playing a recurring role. Unlike many child actors, she successfully continued her career into adulthood, appearing in films like ‘Boyz n the Hood’. After years of solid supporting roles, she gained widespread recognition for her work in ‘American Crime’. Her career peaked with an Academy Award for ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’, and she’s now also known as a talented and respected director.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett started her career with smaller parts in TV movies and action films like ‘F/X’, including quick appearances on shows like ‘The Cosby Show’ in the late 1980s. Her hard work and talent truly shone when she played Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’, a role that made her a star. Today, Angela Bassett is still considered one of the most respected actresses in the industry.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry began her acting career with a brief appearance on the sitcom ‘Living Dolls’. Early in her career, she took on diverse roles in films like ‘Strictly Business’ and ‘Jungle Fever’ to demonstrate her acting abilities. Her dedication eventually led to more significant parts in movies such as ‘Boomerang’ and the ‘X-Men’ series. Berry achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Black woman to win an Academy Award for Best Actress, awarded for her performance in ‘Monster’s Ball’. Today, she continues to act in and direct popular action films.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington started her career with small roles in teen films like ‘Save the Last Dance’ and gradually took on supporting parts in movies such as ‘Ray’ and ‘The Last King of Scotland’. Her career truly took off when she landed the lead role of Olivia Pope in ‘Scandal’. This groundbreaking role made her the first Black woman in almost four decades to star in a network television drama. Today, Washington is a powerful producer and an important voice in Hollywood.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union started her career with small parts on teen TV shows and as a supporting actress in films like ‘She’s All That’. For a while, she was part of many ensemble casts, but wasn’t usually the main character. Her breakout role came with ‘Bring It On’, which showed she could lead a movie. After that, she moved into starring roles in both romantic comedies and dramas, including ‘Being Mary Jane’. Now, she’s also known for speaking out about the need for more diversity in Hollywood.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldana began her career as a dancer, which led to a small role in the movie ‘Center Stage’. She initially appeared in supporting parts in films like ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl’. Her career took off when she landed leading roles in blockbuster science fiction series like ‘Star Trek’ and ‘Avatar’. Remarkably, she’s the only actor to star in multiple films that have earned over two billion dollars worldwide, solidifying her status as a major sci-fi icon.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton started her career in smaller films like ‘Flirting’ and ‘Interview with the Vampire’ and consistently worked in the industry for many years, often in supporting roles. Her powerful performance in ‘Crash’ earned her critical praise, and she later gained widespread recognition and an Emmy Award for her work on ‘Westworld’. Recently, she reverted to the original spelling of her name and continues to choose complex and demanding roles.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard has consistently delivered strong performances since the late 1970s, starting with smaller roles in films like ‘Remember My Name’. She quickly gained a reputation for making a big impact even in supporting parts on both film and television. Throughout her career, she’s given memorable performances in films such as ‘Cross Creek’ and ‘Passion Fish’. Notably, she has received more Primetime Emmy nominations than any other Black actress. Woodard continues to bring a dignified and commanding presence to all her work.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith began her acting career with small roles on television shows like ‘True Colors’ and ‘Doogie Howser, M.D.’ She became more well-known for her recurring part on the sitcom ‘A Different World.’ Her film career gained momentum with supporting roles in movies like ‘The Nutty Professor’ and ‘Set It Off.’ She then rose to international fame as an action star in ‘The Matrix’ sequels. Today, she hosts a successful talk show and is also a film producer.

Nia Long

Nia Long started her acting career with a part on the soap opera ‘Guiding Light’. While she had a small role in the film ‘Boyz n the Hood’, it helped more people become familiar with her work. Throughout the nineties, she became a familiar face in movies like ‘Friday’ and ‘Love Jones’. For over thirty years, she’s consistently worked in both television and film, becoming a popular and well-loved figure in pop culture.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox began her career with roles in popular soap operas such as ‘Days of Our Lives’ and ‘The Young and the Restless’. After a small part in ‘Born on the Fourth of July’, she gained recognition. Her career really took off in 1996 when she starred in the hit films ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Set It Off’. Known for her range, Fox also appeared in action movies like ‘Kill Bill’. She remains a busy and successful actress and producer today.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall started her film career with a small role in ‘The Best Man’ and became well-known for playing Brenda in several ‘Scary Movie’ films. For a long time, she was known mostly for comedic supporting roles, but she later proved she could handle more serious acting. Her starring role in ‘Support the Girls’ received praise from many critics, and now she’s a leading actress in both comedies and dramas for major film studios.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan began her acting career with appearances on TV shows like ‘Family Matters’ and ‘Moesha’ before moving on to films. She made a striking debut as a vampire in the very first scene of ‘Blade’, and her career steadily gained traction. This led to her breakout role as the lead in the popular film ‘Love & Basketball’. Since then, she’s appeared in big franchises like ‘Alien vs. Predator’ and continues to work as both a director and actress.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson’s acting career began unexpectedly when she was discovered on a porch and cast in the movie ‘Kids’. For years, she successfully juggled work on smaller, independent films with supporting roles in big-budget blockbusters like ‘Men in Black II’. This range allowed her to excel in both realistic, dramatic roles and action-packed comic book adaptations. Eventually, she became a leading star, playing Ahsoka Tano in the ‘Star Wars’ franchise. Dawson continues to be a reliable and impressive actress in Hollywood.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson began her career with small roles on television shows like ‘Cold Case’ and ‘Life’. While she appeared in the film ‘For Colored Girls’, she wasn’t widely known yet. Her career really took off with the acclaimed film ‘Dear White People’ and the popular movie ‘Creed’. She became a major star after joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Valkyrie. Now, Tessa Thompson is a leading actress who also produces her own projects.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira began her acting career with smaller parts in films like ‘The Visitor’ and ‘Ghost Town’. While pursuing bigger roles, she dedicated herself to writing plays. Her breakthrough came with the role of Michonne in ‘The Walking Dead’, which made her a well-known action star. She then solidified her fame as General Okoye in ‘Black Panther’. Today, Gurira is a highly respected and influential writer and actress.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris began her acting career as a child on TV shows like ‘Simon and the Witch’. She appeared in supporting roles in films such as ‘28 Days Later’ and the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ series before landing the role of Moneypenny in the James Bond films, which significantly boosted her career. She received an Academy Award nomination for her compelling performance in ‘Moonlight’ and continues to impress audiences with her talent across a wide range of movie genres.

Rashida Jones

I first noticed Rashida Jones in those early shows, ‘The Last Don’ and ‘Freaks and Geeks’ – she was great even then! She really started gaining traction when she was on ‘The Office’, but it was ‘Parks and Recreation’ and her character Ann Perkins that cemented her as a comedy pro in my book. What’s really cool is she hasn’t stopped there – she’s moved into writing and directing now, making some really impactful documentaries and films. She’s seriously one of those people who can do it all, and I admire her for that.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross began her career in television and film with early roles in a magazine show and the movie ‘Far Harbor’. After years of trying out for parts, she became well-known for her work on the sitcom ‘Girlfriends’. Her breakthrough came with the hit show ‘black-ish’, where she played Rainbow Johnson, earning her both popularity and critical acclaim. Building on that success, Ross launched her own beauty line and a production company. Today, she’s celebrated as a major figure in television and a leading force in the fashion world.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba built her career performing in theater and taking on small roles on TV before landing the part that made her famous. She initially auditioned for a minor character on ‘Orange Is the New Black,’ but was cast as Suzanne Warren. Though the character was meant to be short-lived, Aduba’s performance was so compelling that the role became central to the show. She eventually won two Emmy Awards for playing Suzanne, in different categories. Since then, Aduba has appeared in acclaimed dramas like ‘Mrs. America.’

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox started her career with appearances on reality TV and in small independent films. Before landing a consistent role on ‘Orange Is the New Black,’ she struggled to find opportunities in the entertainment industry. That role changed everything, making her the first transgender actress to be nominated for an Emmy Award. Since then, she’s used her visibility to speak out for human rights while continuing to work as an actress. Today, Laverne Cox is a well-known and influential figure in both media and fashion.

Kimberly Elise

Kimberly Elise began her acting career on stage before landing her first film role in ‘Set It Off.’ She quickly gained recognition as a talented actress, even holding her own alongside Oprah Winfrey in ‘Beloved.’ Elise continued to appear in dramatic films like ‘John Q’ and ‘For Colored Girls,’ and later reached a wider audience with her role in the popular TV series ‘Hit the Floor.’ Her powerful and moving performances have allowed her to enjoy a successful career for many years.

Sophie Okonedo

Sophie Okonedo started her career with minor roles in films like ‘Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls’. She consistently worked in British television and theatre, often playing supporting characters. Her breakthrough came with the film ‘Dirty Pretty Things’, which gained her international recognition. She received an Academy Award nomination for her compelling performance in ‘Hotel Rwanda’, and continues to be recognized with awards for her work in both theatre and film.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine first played Lorrell in the Broadway version of ‘Dreamgirls’, but when the musical was adapted for film, she had to begin auditioning for roles again. Throughout the 1980s and 90s, she steadily worked in small roles in movies, eventually becoming well-known for her unique voice and comedic timing in films like ‘Waiting to Exhale’. After years of dedication, she received an Emmy Award for her work on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. Loretta Devine is a highly respected and consistently working character actress.

Jenifer Lewis

Jenifer Lewis began her career singing backup for Bette Midler and later transitioned to acting, appearing in films like ‘Beaches’ and ‘Sister Act’. She gained recognition as “The Mother of Black Hollywood” for her portrayals of strong, motherly figures in many movies. A wider audience discovered her talent through the sitcom ‘black-ish’. Beyond acting, Lewis is a respected author and commentator on social issues.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Gugu Mbatha-Raw began her career with small roles in British TV shows such as ‘Doctor Who’ and ‘Spooks’. She steadily built her experience through theater and smaller film parts. Her leading role in the historical drama ‘Belle’ brought her critical acclaim, and she’s since appeared in popular series like ‘Loki’ and ‘The Morning Show’. Mbatha-Raw is celebrated for her graceful presence and ability to play a wide range of characters.

Ruth Negga

Ruth Negga started her career with smaller parts in films like ‘Breakfast on Pluto’ and consistently worked in TV shows such as ‘Misfits,’ though she wasn’t yet a household name. She gained more recognition among American viewers when she was cast in ‘Preacher.’ Her performance in ‘Loving’ earned her an Academy Award nomination, showcasing her talent and nuance. Today, Negga continues to appear in prominent theater and film projects.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright began her acting career with small parts in British TV shows such as ‘Top Boy’ and ‘Doctor Who’. She almost gave up on acting before getting a role in ‘Black Mirror’. Her big break came when she was cast as Shuri in ‘Black Panther’, and she went on to lead the sequel, ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. Wright has since become a hugely popular and well-known young actress.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo first made a name for herself performing on stage in Britain, and later on Broadway. Before landing the lead role in ‘Harriet’, she hadn’t appeared in many films. That performance brought her two Academy Award nominations – one for acting and one for songwriting. Since then, she’s starred in popular TV shows like ‘Genius: Aretha’. Erivo is a remarkably talented singer and actress, and her work in film and television is quickly expanding.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer began her acting career as a child with a minor role in ‘Barbershop 2: Back in Business’. She gained recognition as the lead in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’, demonstrating her talent as a leading actress. Palmer then successfully moved from being a Nickelodeon star to taking on more mature roles in films like ‘Hustlers’. Her work in Jordan Peele’s ‘Nope’ received widespread praise from critics. Beyond acting, Palmer is a versatile entertainer who also hosts and sings.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good began her acting career with small parts, including a brief appearance in the popular film ‘Friday’. She gained experience with roles in ‘Eve’s Bayou’ and ‘Cousin Skeeter’ as she grew up, and later became known for more mature roles in films like ‘Think Like a Man’ and ‘Anchorman 2’. Good has built a successful, lasting career in both movies and television, and continues to star in leading roles for streaming services like Amazon and Netflix.

Tika Sumpter

Tika Sumpter started her acting career on daytime TV shows and later appeared in popular shows like ‘Gossip Girl’. She’s been in several films, including ‘Sparkle’ and ‘Ride Along’. Her performance as Michelle Obama in ‘Southside with You’ was highly praised, and she also voiced the character Maddie in the ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ movies. These days, Sumpter often produces the projects she stars in.

Paula Patton

Paula Patton began her acting career with a minor part in the movie ‘Hitch’. She gradually took on more prominent roles, eventually starring opposite Denzel Washington in ‘Deja Vu’. The film ‘Precious’ allowed her to showcase her range as an actress. Patton achieved widespread success with a leading role in the blockbuster ‘Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol’, and she continues to appear in action and fantasy films today.

Marianne Jean-Baptiste

Marianne Jean-Baptiste earned an Academy Award nomination early in her career for her performance in ‘Secrets & Lies’. While she initially often appeared in smaller roles on American TV, she gained widespread recognition as a lead actress on the series ‘Without a Trace’. More recently, she’s been praised for her work in ‘Hard Truths’. Jean-Baptiste is a highly regarded and experienced actress in both British and American films.

CCH Pounder

CCH Pounder has been a familiar face on screen since the late 1970s, starting with a small part in ‘All That Jazz’. She’s known for playing strong, commanding characters, even in smaller roles on police shows and dramas. Her performance in ‘The Shield’ earned her several Emmy nominations, and she later became a vital part of the ‘Avatar’ films as the voice of Mo’at. Pounder is a remarkably reliable and talented character actress.

S. Epatha Merkerson

I first noticed S. Epatha Merkerson way back in Spike Lee’s ‘She’s Gotta Have It,’ though it was a small part. She’d been working in theater, and I remember being really impressed with her even in a brief scene in ‘Terminator 2.’ But it was ‘Law & Order’ where she really became a star, and she absolutely deserved all the awards – an Emmy, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild Award! It’s great to see she’s still a familiar and important face on TV today.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch started her career with small parts in British TV shows, including ‘Silent Witness’. While she appeared in the period drama ‘Still Star-Crossed’, it didn’t last long on air. Her career really took off when she played Maria Rambeau in ‘Captain Marvel’. Then, she made history as the first Black woman to take on the iconic 007 code name in ‘No Time to Die’. Now, Lashana Lynch is a leading star in big-budget movies.

Wunmi Mosaku

Wunmi Mosaku began her career with appearances in British television and small film parts. She first gained significant recognition with a BAFTA TV Award win for her work in ‘Damilola, Our Loved Boy’. She then built an international following through her role in ‘Lovecraft Country’, and reached a huge global audience with her appearance in the Marvel series ‘Loki’. Mosaku is celebrated for her versatility and captivating performances.

Sheila Atim

Sheila Atim began her career performing on stage and in small TV parts. She first gained widespread recognition for her performance in the miniseries ‘The Underground Railroad,’ and later showcased her athleticism in the action film ‘The Woman King.’ She’s rapidly become known as an actress who excels in challenging and nuanced roles. Beyond acting, Atim is also a talented composer and writer.

DeWanda Wise

DeWanda Wise began her career with small roles in short films and low-budget independent projects, including appearances on shows like ‘The Good Wife’ and ‘Boardwalk Empire’. Her big break came with the lead role in the series ‘She’s Gotta Have It’, and she’s now appearing in major blockbuster films like ‘Jurassic World Dominion’. Wise is quickly becoming a prominent actress known for her powerful presence on screen.

Aja Naomi King

Aja Naomi King started her acting career with appearances in shows like ‘Blue Bloods’ and independent films such as ‘Four’. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Michaela Pratt on ‘How to Get Away with Murder’, which launched her into stardom. She also received praise for her work in ‘The Birth of a Nation’ and continues to appear in popular TV series.

Yvonne Orji

Yvonne Orji began her career doing stand-up comedy and making videos for YouTube. It was difficult to find acting work until Issa Rae gave her a role in ‘Insecure.’ Her performance as Molly Carter was so well-received, she received an Emmy nomination. Since then, Orji has released her own comedy specials and appeared in movies, demonstrating the power of forging your own path to success.

Tell us which of these actress’s transformations surprised you the most in the comments.

2026-01-31 21:50