In an industry historically dominated by white actors, these black actresses have not only made their mark but also amassed impressive fortunes. From Oscar winners to TV icons, these women have proven that talent and determination can overcome any obstacle. Join us as we celebrate their achievements and explore their incredible journeys to the top of Hollywood.
Viola Davis: From Small Roles to Commanding the Screen
Net worth: $25 million
Viola Davis began her career with minor roles in films like “Customer Service” and TV shows like “New York Undercover.” However, her talent quickly propelled her to more substantial parts in critically acclaimed projects such as “Traffic,” “Doubt,” and “The Help.” Davis’s versatility and powerful performances have made her a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.
Davis’s crowning achievement came with her lead role in the TV series “How to Get Away with Murder,” for which she won Emmy, Golden Globe, and SAG Awards. Her recent portrayal of the fierce Agojie leader in “The Woman King” further solidified her status as one of the most talented and respected actresses of her generation.
Angela Bassett: A Trailblazer for Black Actresses
Net worth: $25 million
Angela Bassett’s breakthrough role as Tina Turner in the 1992 biopic “What’s Love Got to Do With It” earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. This powerful performance opened doors for Bassett, leading to memorable roles in films like “Malcolm X,” “Waiting to Exhale,” and “How Stella Got Her Groove Back.”
Bassett’s impact on the industry extends beyond her career. Her success has paved the way for other black actresses, proving that there is room for diverse talent in Hollywood. Her recent role as Queen Ramonda in the groundbreaking film “Black Panther” showcased her regal presence and acting prowess, captivating audiences worldwide.
Zoe Saldana: Conquering the Box Office with Sci-Fi Blockbusters
Net worth: $35 million
Zoe Saldana has become a fixture in some of the highest-grossing films of all time, thanks to her roles in the “Avatar,” “Guardians of the Galaxy,” and “Star Trek” franchises. Her portrayal of Neytiri in James Cameron’s “Avatar” and its sequel, “Avatar: The Way of Water,” has cemented her status as a box office powerhouse.
Despite her success in franchises, Saldana has expressed a desire to expand her artistic range and take on more diverse roles. Her talent and dedication to her craft ensure that she will continue to make her mark in Hollywood, both in blockbuster films and more intimate, character-driven projects.
Raven Symone: From Child Star to Disney Channel Icon
Net worth: $50 million
Raven Symone began her career as a child actor on “The Cosby Show” and later became a household name with her starring role in the Disney Channel series “That’s So Raven.” The show’s popularity led to a successful four-season run and established Symone as a beloved figure among young audiences.
Symone’s career has been marked by her versatility, with appearances in films like the “Dr. Dolittle” franchise and “College Road Trip,” as well as recurring roles on various TV series. Her return to the Disney Channel with “Raven’s Home,” now in its sixth season, demonstrates her enduring appeal and ability to connect with audiences of all ages.
Kerry Washington: Scandal’s Leading Lady and Trailblazing Producer
Net worth: $50 million
Kerry Washington’s portrayal of Olivia Pope in the hit ABC series “Scandal” earned her critical acclaim and a Primetime Emmy nomination for Lead Actress. Her powerful performance in the show, combined with her roles in films like “Ray,” “Django Unchained,” and “The Last King of Scotland,” has established her as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.
Washington’s impact extends beyond her acting career. As the founder of her own production company, Simpson Street, she has taken on the role of producer and director, most recently co-executive producing and directing the Hulu series “Reasonable Doubt.” Her commitment to creating opportunities for diverse talent both in front of and behind the camera is shaping the future of the entertainment industry.
Jada Pinkett Smith: Actress, Businesswoman, and Red Table Talk Host
Net worth: $58 million
Jada Pinkett Smith first gained recognition for her roles in films like “Menace II Society,” “The Nutty Professor” franchise, and “Gotham.” Her talent and business acumen led her to establish her own production company, 100% Women Productions, which has been instrumental in creating opportunities for women in the entertainment industry.
In recent years, Pinkett Smith has become known for her successful Facebook Watch talk show, “Red Table Talk,” which features candid discussions on a wide range of personal and societal topics with her family members and celebrity guests. The show’s popularity has further cemented Pinkett Smith’s status as an influential figure in the entertainment world.
Whoopi Goldberg: From Stand-Up Comedy to Oscar Glory
Net worth: $60 million
Whoopi Goldberg began her career as a stand-up comedian before making her film debut in Steven Spielberg’s “The Color Purple,” which earned her first Golden Globe and Oscar nominations. Her breakout role in the 1990 film “Ghost” made history, as she became the first black woman to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Goldberg’s career has been marked by her versatility, with successful performances in films like the “Sister Act” franchise and her recent role in “Till.” She has also become a household name as a host on the popular daytime talk series “The View,” where she continues to use her platform to discuss important issues and advocate for social justice.
Queen Latifah: Hip-Hop Pioneer and Hollywood Powerhouse
Net worth: $70 million
Queen Latifah’s multi-faceted career began with her groundbreaking work as a rapper, becoming one of the pioneers of female rap with her debut LP, “All Hail the Queen,” in 1989. Her transition to acting in the early 1990s, with her screen debut in Spike Lee’s “Jungle Fever,” marked the beginning of a successful Hollywood career.
Latifah’s standout roles in films like “Chicago” and “Bessie,” along with her recurring role on “The Equalizer” and her talk show, “The Queen Latifah Show,” have demonstrated her range and appeal as an actress and entertainer. Her success in both music and acting has made her one of the most influential and respected figures in the entertainment industry.
Halle Berry: Breaking Barriers and Making History
Net worth: $90 million
Halle Berry’s journey from model to actress began in the late 1980s, with her breakthrough role in Spike Lee’s “Jungle Fever” in 1991. Her stunning performances in films like “X-Men,” “Monster’s Ball,” and “Die Another Day” quickly established her as a leading actress in Hollywood.
Berry’s historic win at the 2001 Academy Awards, where she became the first (and to date, only) black actress to win the Best Actress Oscar for her role in “Monster’s Ball,” was a watershed moment for representation in Hollywood. Her success has inspired countless aspiring actresses and continues to pave the way for greater diversity in the industry.
Oprah Winfrey: The Richest Black Actress and Media Mogul
Net worth: $2.5 billion
Oprah Winfrey’s net worth of $2.5 billion puts her in a league of her own among black actresses. While she has appeared in classic films like “The Color Purple” and “Beloved,” her true legacy lies in her work as a media icon, with her groundbreaking and immensely popular “Oprah Winfrey Show” that ran for 25 years.
Winfrey’s influence extends far beyond her acting career. As an executive producer for her company, Harpo Productions, she has been involved in numerous successful film and TV projects. Her business acumen, combined with her ability to connect with audiences on a profound level, has made her one of the most powerful and respected figures in the entertainment world.
A Legacy of Excellence
The black actresses featured in this article have not only achieved remarkable success in their careers but have also paved the way for future generations of diverse talent in Hollywood. Through their groundbreaking performances, business ventures, and advocacy work, they have challenged the status quo and proven that black actresses belong at the forefront of the entertainment industry.
As we celebrate the achievements of these extraordinary women, it is important to recognize that their success is not just a testament to their talent and determination, but also a reflection of the slowly changing landscape of Hollywood. While there is still much work to be done in terms of representation and equal opportunities, these actresses have laid the foundation for a more inclusive and diverse future in the entertainment world.
