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40 black actresses over 60 who are still inspiring us

The entertainment industry is filled with pioneers who have broken down barriers to pave the way for upcoming black actresses in the entertainment industry. They have made a mark in the film and television industry with their phenomenal talent, beauty, and grace. Their ability to bring depth, life, and authenticity to their characters is truly amazing. They have proven to us that age is just a number from their vibrant and energetic performance on stage and screen. Over the years these remarkable women have made award-winning appearances in both film and television. They are also a source of inspiration to most upcoming black actresses in the entertainment industry. Therefore, today in this article we have compiled a list of 40 inspiring black actresses over 60.  

1. Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is an incredible actress born on August 16, 1958, in New York City. She has gained worldwide recognition for her work in film, television, and on stage since the 1980s. Angela has showcased her versatility as an actress in films such as “What’s Love Got to Do with It”, “Malcolm X” (1992), “Waiting to Exhale” (1995), “How Stella Got Her Groove Back” (1998), and “Black Panther” (2018). She has had a significant presence on television, starring in the television series “American Horror Story.” Angela has received critical acclaim throughout her career and has been nominated for numerous awards including Golden Globe nominations and Primetime Emmy Award nominations. She remains one of the most respected black actresses who has continued to inspire her audience with her powerful performance.

2. Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard is an accomplished talented actress and producer born on November 8, 1952, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She has showcased her incredible performance in films such as 鈥淐ross Creek鈥� (1983), 鈥淢ississippi Grind鈥� (2015), and 鈥�12 Years a Slave鈥� (2013). Throughout her career, Woodard has portrayed a wide range of characters, each with depth and authenticity. She has also had a successful career both on television and on stage. She is one of the actresses who has received numerous awards for her craft, including a Golden Globe Award and several Primetime Emmy Awards. Aside from her acting career, Woodard is also an advocate for social and humanitarian issues.

3. Phylicia Rashad

Phylicia Rashad is a talented American actress, singer, and stage director who was born on June 19, 1948, in Houston, Texas. She came into the limelight after her breakthrough role as Clair Huxtable on the popular sitcom 鈥淭he Cosby Show,鈥� which aired from 1984 to 1992. Her performance earned her two Primetime Emmy Award nominations in 1985 and 1986.  She has appeared in several other films including, 鈥淔or Colored Girls鈥� (2010), 鈥淕ood Deeds鈥� (2012), 鈥淐reed鈥� (2015), 鈥淐reed II鈥� (2018), and 鈥淐reed II鈥� (2023). Throughout her career, Rashad has received several accolades including the Tony Award, NAACP Image Award, and the Drama Desk Award. She is also an advocate for education and the arts aside from her acting career. She continues to inspire and captivate audiences with her incredible talent and grace.

4. Debbie Morgan

Debbie Morgan was born on September on 20, 1956, in Dunn, North Carolina. She is a highly respected actress who came to the limelight after her breakthrough role as Angie Baxter Hubbard on the daytime ABC soap opera 鈥淎ll My Children.鈥� She became the first African American to win the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in A Drama Series for her performance as Angie in 1989. She appeared in shows like, 鈥淕ood Times,鈥� 鈥淭he Young and the Restless,鈥� and 鈥淧ower.鈥� Debbie Morgan’s performance is one to look out for because she brings authenticity to every character, she portrays. She is a force to be reckoned with.

5. Jenifer Lewis

The famous versatile actress, singer, and comedian was born on January 25, 1957, in Kinloch, Missouri. Her career began when she first appeared in the Broadway musical 鈥淓ubie!鈥� in 1979. She worked as a backup singer for Bette Midler before transitioning into television and films. She became a prominent figure in the entertainment industry appearing in films such as 鈥淲hat鈥檚 Love Got to Do with It鈥� (1993), 鈥淭he Preacher鈥檚 Wife鈥� (1996), and 鈥淭he Princess and the Frog鈥� (2009), where she voiced the character, Mama Odie. She has also starred in numerous television series including the famous ABC series “Black-Ish.” Beyond her acting career, Jennifer is an advocate for mental health awareness and is one of the most respected actresses in the entertainment industry.

6. Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson was a legendary American actress born on December 19, 1924, and died on January 28, 2021. She was known for her portrayal of strong African-American women. Tyson featured in numerous films, including 鈥淪ounder鈥� (1972), for which she was nominated for both the Academy Award nomination for Best Actress and Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in Motion Picture and, 鈥淭he Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman鈥� (1974), a TV miniseries in which she represented a woman鈥檚 life from enslavement to the Civil Rights Movement  Throughout her career, Tyson received numerous awards and accolades including three Emmy Awards, a Screen Actor Guild Awards, a Tony Award, an Honorary Academy Award and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016. Tyson鈥檚 contributions to the entertainment industry will always be remembered and cherished.

7. Marla Gibbs

The gifted actress, singer, comedian, writer, and producer was born on June 14, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois. Marla’s seven-decade-long career brought so much laughter and joy to the audience with her comedic timing and memorable performances. She is best known for her role as Florence Johnston, in the CBS sitcom 鈥淭he Jeffersons鈥� (1975-1985), in which she received five nominations for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. Aside from that, Gibbs starred in the sitcom 鈥�227鈥� (1985-1990) playing the lead role of Mary Jenkins. Her performance not only showcased her versatility as an actress but also garnered her critical acclaim.

8. Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine is an iconic actress and singer who was born on August 21, 1949, in Houston, Texas. She has graced our screen and stage with numerous roles which showcased her incredible performances. Loretta began her career in the original Broadway productions of 鈥淒reamgirls鈥� (1981), before starring in several films and TV shows. She is notably known for her roles in the films “Waiting to Exhale”, and in the medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, for which she won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series in 2011. She has also voiced several animated projects including, 鈥淭he Princess and the Frog.鈥� Loretta has positively impacted the entertainment industry and remains one of the actresses who is dedicated to her work.

9. Pam Grier

The amazing black actress was born on May 26, 1949, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. She is well known for her iconic roles in blaxploitation, action, women in prison for American International Pictures, and New World Pictures films of the 1970s. Her commitment to her craft earned her several honors including, nominations for an Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, a Screen Actor Guild Award, a Satellite Award, and a Saturn Award. Aside from her acting career, Pam is involved in various charitable activities and she is also an advocate for health issues, including breast cancer awareness.

10. Lynn Whitfield.

Lynn Whitefield was born on May 6, 1953, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She is a successful actress who has showcased incredible performances in film, television, and theatre. Lynne made a breakthrough in the entertainment industry in the 1980s. She is well-known for her role as Josephine Baker in the HBO biographical drama 鈥淭he Josephine Baker Story鈥� (1991), which earned her a Primetime Emmy Award. Beyond her successful career in film and television, Lynn has been involved in philanthropy and advocacy, especially on issues related to health and wellness. She remains one of the phenomenal actresses who has continued to inspire us with her powerful performance.    

11. Carol Christine Hilaria Pounder

The Guyanese-born American actress was born on December 25, 1952, in Georgetown, British Guyana. She has made numerous appearances in film, theatre and television. The amazing actress showcases her incredible performances in a variety of films, including “Bagdad Cafe”, “Prizzi’s Honor”, and “The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones. She has also played the role of Detective Claudette Wyms in the television series 鈥淭he Shield鈥� which earned her a Primetime Emmy nomination and the role of Dr. Loretta Wade in the television series 鈥淣CIS: New Orleans.鈥� Aside from her entertainment career, Carol is well-known for her for her advocacy and humanitarian efforts. She continues to be a powerhouse in the acting world, inspiring most of her audience.

12. Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph is a multitalented artist, being that she is an actress, singer, and activist who rose to fame in the 1980s. She played Deena Jones in the original Broadway production of the musical 鈥淒reamgirls鈥� (1981) which earned her a Tony Award nomination. She also appeared in various films including 鈥淪ister Act 2: Back in the Habit鈥�, 鈥淭he Distinguished Gentleman鈥�, and 鈥淭o Sleep with Anger.鈥� Outside her work in film and theatre, Sheryl has played a big role in raising HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention. She founded the Diva Foundation which was a non-profit organization that mainly focused on HIV/AIDS awareness.

13. Vanessa Bell Calloway

Vanessa Bell Calloway is an American actress, born on March 20, 1957, in Toledo, Ohio. She began her career as a dancer before transitioning into film, television, and theatre. Some of her notable films include “Coming to America” (1988), “What’s Love Got to Do with It” (1993), “The Inkwell” (1994), 鈥淐rimson Tide鈥� (1995), and Daylight (1996). In television, Vanessa has had recurring roles in the series such as 鈥淗awthorne鈥� and 鈥淪hameless.”  The award-winning artist is also known for her participation in community service and philanthropy activities. Her talent and presence on the screen are remarkable.

14. Margaret Avery

The American actress and singer has had a successful career that started with her appearing on stage before starring in film and television. She is well-known for her role as Shug Avery in the 1985 film “The Color Purple”, which earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. She has also played in other films including “Something to Talk About,” “Welcome Home, Roscoe Jenkins,” and the TV series “Being Mary Jane.” Avery has a strong and captivating presence on screen, and her incredible performance has left a lasting impact on the film industry.

15. Ruby Dee

The legendary American actress, poet, playwright, screenwriter, journalist, and civil rights activist was born on October 27, 1922 and passed away on June 11, 2014. Ruby Dee left a long-lasting legacy in the entertainment industry. She will be remembered for some of her notable film roles including 鈥淎 Raisin in the Sun鈥� (1961), 鈥淒o the Right Thing鈥� (1989), and 鈥淎merican Gangster鈥� (2007). Aside from her acting career Ruth also engaged in the civil rights movement together with her husband, actor Ossie Davis.

16. Mary Alice

The American television, film, and stage actress was born on December 3, 1941. She is famed for her versatile talent and contributions to the entertainment industry. One of her most notable films that gained her recognition in the entertainment industry was the 1987 film, “The Color Purple,” in which she played Sofia. She again appeared on stage in a play named 鈥淔ences鈥� (1987), which earned her a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play. In addition to that Mary has also appeared in numerous television shows including, “A Different World” and “The Cosby Show.” The actress continues to inspire the audience with her talent to date.

17. Regina Taylor

The successful American actress, playwright, and director was born on August 22, 1960, in Texas.  One of her notable roles was as Lilly Harper in the television series 鈥淚鈥檒l Fly Away鈥� (1991-1993). She has also appeared in various films, including 鈥淐ourage Under Fire鈥�, 鈥淭he Negotiator鈥�, and 鈥淭he Unit.鈥� As an accomplished playwright one of her well-known plays is 鈥淐rown鈥� which focuses on African American women and their hats. Throughout her career, Regina has received numerous awards including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series and an NAACP Image Award. Her ability to bring complex characters to life is truly amazing. She leaves most of her audience with a lasting impression because of her impressive performances.

18. Diahann Carroll

Diahann Carroll was an amazing talented actress, singer, model, and activist, born on July 17, 1935, and she died on October 4, 2019. She is one of the celebrated black actresses whose grace and talent were unmatched. The award-winning artist featured in the television series 鈥淛ulia鈥� (1968), which earned her a Golden Globe Award. She also appeared in the film 鈥淐laudine鈥� (1974) and the Broadway musical “No Strings” (1962). Besides the Golden Globe Award, Carroll also won an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress and a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical, making her become the first African American woman to win the Tony in a leading role. She was indeed a trailblazer who paved the way for future generations.

19. JoMarie Payton

The talented actress and singer was born on August 3, 1950, in Florida. She gained fame through her role as Harriette Winslow in the TV show 鈥淔amily Matters鈥� which aired from 1989 to 1998. Her role as Harriet brought so much warmth and humor to her audience. Before she appeared in 鈥淔amily Matters,鈥� JoMarie had a recurring role as Suga on the sitcom鈥�9 to 5鈥� which aired from 1982 to 1988. Since then, Payton has appeared in several other films and television shows. She has greatly impacted the entertainment industry through her craft which has earned her several accolades and honors.

20. Anna Maria Horsford

The respected actress is famous for her performance in film and television comedies. She was born on March 6, 1948, in New York City, New York. She began her career in the 1960s, producing the PBS show Soul! which aired between 1968 and 1973. Since then, Anna has appeared in several films including, 鈥淔riday鈥�, 鈥淧resumed Innocent鈥� and 鈥淎 Madea Christmas鈥� (2013). She has also had a successful career on television with roles in 鈥淎men,鈥� 鈥淭he Wayans Bros,鈥� and 鈥淭he Bold and the Beautiful. Throughout her career, Anna has showcased her versatility as an actress in both comedy and drama series. Aside from her film and television projects, Anna has also played a big role in various charitable activities. She continues to be a loved actress who inspires her audience, especially the rising black actresses.

21. Irma P. Hall

Irma P. Hall is an incredible American actress born on June 3, 1935, in Texas. She began her career in the 1970s, making appearances in both films and television projects. Her most notable roles in films include; 鈥淎 Family Thing鈥� (1996), 鈥淭he Ladykillers鈥� (2004), and 鈥淪oul Food鈥� (1997). Most of her performances received critical acclaim. Irma has portrayed a range of characters in various television shows, showcasing her talent in both comedic and dramatic roles. She is one of the actresses who has received recognition for her performance, including nominations for the NAACP Image, Award and The Independent Spirit Award.

22. Jackee Harry

The celebrated American actress, comedian, and television personality was born on August 14, 1956, in Winston-Salem North Carolina. She came into the limelight after her role as Sandra Clark on the sitcom 鈥�227,鈥� (1985-1990), which earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress. Aside from “227,” Jackie has also graced our screen with her performance in films such as 鈥淎nother 48 Hrs.,鈥� (1990) and 鈥淵ou鈥檙e So Cupid鈥� (2010). In addition to her film projects, Harry has showcased her incredible talents in television shows and theatrical productions. Her comedic timing and vibrant personality make her an outstanding actress in the entertainment industry.

23. Khandi Alexander

Khandi Alexander is a successful American dancer, choreographer, and actress, born on September 4, 1957, in New York City, New York. She is well-known for her role as Dr. Alexx Woods on the popular television series 鈥淐SI: Miami, which was her breakthrough series that paved the way for other film roles and television shows. Her ability to transition to different genres effortlessly became a source of inspiration to other actors and actresses who wanted to follow in her footsteps. Khandi continues to captivate audiences with her really impressive talent.

24. Vanessa Williams

The distinguished American producer, actress, model, and singer was born on March 18, 1963, in New York. She started her career as a fashion model and became the first African-American woman to be crowned Miss American in 1983. She later transitioned into acting where she featured in various television series including “The Red Fox Show”, “The Love Boat,鈥� and 鈥淭he Pick-Up Artist. Her dedication to her work has earned her numerous awards, including Grammy, Emmy, and Tony nominations, making her one of the artists to achieve the 鈥淭riple Crown鈥� of acting. She continues to be celebrated for her captivating performances in the entertainment industry.

25. Lorraine Toussaint

Lorraine Toussaint is a Trinidadian-American actress known for her remarkable performances in film and television. She began her career in theatre before transitioning into films and television shows. From her role as Yvonne 鈥淰ee鈥� Parker in 鈥淥range is the New Black鈥� to her portrayal of Amelia Boynton Robinson in 鈥淪elma,鈥� Lorraine always brings so much authenticity to her characters. She has received various accolades, including a Black Reel Award, a Critics’ Choice Television Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award. She is also known for her advocacy work on social issues. Lorraine Toussaint continues to captivate us with her commanding presence on our screen.

26. Penny Johnson Jerald

Penny Johnson Jerald is an accomplished American actress who received her breakthrough after starring as Beverly Barnes on the popular television series, 鈥淭he Larry Sanders Show,鈥� (1992-1998). She has featured in other television shows and films including 鈥淢ortuary鈥� (2005) and 鈥淭he Hills Have Eyes II鈥� (2007). Penny has also been active in theatrical production aside from her film and television projects. Her prowess in the acting industry has been recognized and throughout her career, she has won several awards for her dedication to her craft. In addition to her film and television career, Penny is known for her philanthropic work, including supporting causes related to education and healthcare.

27. Tina Lifford

Tina Lifford is an American actress and author who rose to fame in the 1980s. Her phenomenal talents and performance are seen in various films including, 鈥淧arenthood鈥� (1989), 鈥淏lood Work鈥� (2002), and 鈥淗ostile Waters鈥� (1997). One of her most significant roles is as Violet Bordelon in 鈥淨ueen Sugar.鈥� The actress is known for her stunning performances in theatre. Tina is also involved in philanthropic and advocacy work, particularly in the areas of mental health and wellness.

28. Tina Turner

The iconic American actress, Swiss singer, and songwriter was born on November 26, 1939. She started her career in the 1950s as part of the musical duo Ike & Tina Turner before venturing into acting. She has starred in several films, including 鈥淭ommy鈥� and 鈥淢ad Max Beyond Thunderdome.鈥� Her talent and exceptional performance have captivated audiences for decades. Tina continues to inspire most of her fans to date

29. Jenifer Holliday

Jennifer Holliday is an influential actress and singer who has graced our screens and stage with her incredible talent and performance. She started her career on Broadway in musicals such as Dreamgirls in 1981 before venturing into an acting career. She appeared in television shows and films, including a role in the film adaptation of “Dreamgirls” (2006). Jenifer has also shown her resilience in overcoming personal and health challenges throughout her life, including struggles with weight and depression. She has actively been involved in advocacy work, especially in areas of mental health.

30. Nancy Wilson

Nancy Wilson was a legendary American singer, songwriter, and actress who featured in several films and television shows, including The Nancy Show, I Spy, Room 222, Hawaii Five-O, Police Story, The Cosby Show, The Andy Williams Show, Moesha and The Parkers. Nancy also left a lasting legacy in the world of jazz and popular music. The award-winning artist was highly involved in various humanitarian causes aside from her singing and acting career. Nancy, unfortunately, died on December 13, 2018. She made a long-lasting impression in the entertainment world which was marked by her grace, talent, and dedication to portraying powerful, multifaceted black women.

31. Shari Belafonte

The vibrant American actress, model, writer, and singer was born on September 22, 1954, in New York City. She started her career as a model before transitioning into acting. Shari made her big screen debut appearing in the 1982 drama film If You Could See What I Hear. She also starred in the television series 鈥淗otel鈥� (1983-1988) and had guest appearances on shows like 鈥淭he Twilight Zone鈥� and 鈥淢urder, She Wrote.鈥� In addition to her work in the entertainment industry, Shari has been involved in various charitable works.  Shari continues to inspire most of her audience with her dedication to her craft.

32. Ella Mitchell

Ella Mitchell is an amazing American soul singer and actress best recognized for playing the comic role of Hattie Mae Pierce in the 2000 comedy film “Big Momma’s House”, Mama in the play 鈥淎 Raisin in the Sun鈥� and Evillene the evil witch in the Broadway theatre revival production of the musical 鈥淭he Wiz.鈥� Ella has a way of connecting with her audience and her commanding presence on stage and screen is usually captivating. Ella Mitchell remains one of the remarkable actresses that left an immense impact on the acting world.

33. Esther Rolle

Esther Rolle was an amazing actress born on November 8, 1920, and died on November 17, 1998. She was notably known for her role as Florida Evans, on the CBS television sitcom 鈥淢aude.鈥� She also played the role of Florida Evans in the TV show 鈥淕ood Times鈥� and Rose in the movie 鈥淒riving Miss Daisy.鈥� Over the course of her career, she won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series and a nomination for the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Esther greatly impacted the entertainment industry and her time there has been truly memorable to most of her audience.

34. Della Reese

Della Reese was an American jazz and gospel singer, actress, and ordained minister. Her career spanned seven decades and she started it out as a singer before venturing into films and television shows. Della hosted her talk show, Della which ran for the longest time with 197 episodes. She also appeared in several films including 鈥淎 Thin Line Between Love and Hate鈥� and 鈥淓xpecting Mary.鈥� She left a long-lasting legacy that continues to inspire the upcoming generations who want to follow in her footsteps.

35. Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey is an influential actress, producer, philanthropist, and author. She is notably known for her talk show, 鈥淭he Oprah Winfrey Show鈥� which aired for 25 years and has received numerous accolades. Oprah is also a successful actress, with notable roles in films such as 鈥淭he Color Purple鈥� (1985), which earned her an Academy Award nomination. She has also ventured into philanthropic work, donating to various causes, including education, healthcare, and disaster relief.       Oprah is one of the women who is regarded as the most powerful and influential in the world because of her accomplishments and incredible talents.

36. Ella Joyce

The accomplished actress and producer was born on June 12, 1954, in Chicago, Illinois. She is popularly known for her role as Elanor Emerson on the Fox comedy-drama sitcom Roc (1991-1994). She has also featured in several other films and TV shows including, Set It Off, Temptations: Confessions of Marriage Counselor, My Wife & Kids, and NewsRadio. Her dedication to her craft earned her several awards and nominations including the New York AUDELCO and the NAACP Image Nominations.

37. Whoopi Goldberg

The versatile American actress, comedian, author, and television personality rose into the limelight in 1985 when she appeared in a film known as 鈥淭he Color Purple.鈥� Some of her other notable roles are in the movies, Ghost, Sister Act, and the TV shows Star Trek: The Next Generation and The View. Goldberg鈥檚 career has spanned several decades and during this time, she has won an Emmy, Oscar, Grammy, and Tony Awards making her achieve the EGOT status. Her ability to transition into different characters makes her an outstanding actress. Aside from her career in the entertainment industry, Whoopi is involved in social issues which makes a positive impact in the community.

38. Suzanne Doughlas

Suzanne Doughlas was an American actress born on April 12, 1957, and died on July 6, 2021. She is well-known for her role as matriarch Geraldine 鈥淛erri鈥� Peterson on The WB Sitcom 鈥淭he Parent Hood鈥� (1995-1999). She also appeared in the 1989 dance drama film Tap which earned her an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture. Her ability to bring characters to life is truly impressive. Her incredible talent and performance continue to inspire her audience to date.

39. S. Epatha Merkerson

The talented American actress was born on November 28, 1952, in Saginaw, Michigan. She began her career in theatre before gaining recognition for her role as Lieutenant Anita van Buren on the popular television series 鈥淟aw& Order, for which she received an Emmy Award. She also appeared in various film roles including “Terminator 2: Judgement Day” and “Lackawanna Blues.” In addition to her acting career, Merkerson is known for her advocacy work, especially in raising awareness about diabetes which she has been diagnosed with.

40. Loretta Swit

Loretta Swit is best known for her work in films and television series. One of her most significant roles was as Major Margaret’s “Hot Lips” in the television series “MAS*H”, which was also her breakthrough series that led to opportunities in other roles. Apart from her successful television series, Loretta has appeared in films, including 鈥淩ace with the Devil鈥� and 鈥淔reebie and the Bean.鈥� Her extraordinary performance in the entertainment industry has earned her several awards and honors. Beyond her acting career, Swit participates in advocacy work, majorly in areas of animal rights and Veterans鈥� problems.

All these black actresses have made impressive contributions to the entertainment industry in one way or another. They have graced our screens with phenomenal talents and performances. These black actresses have also proven to us that being black cannot be a hindrance for one to stop chasing their dreams. They are truly a source of inspiration to the coming generations.