These actors have significantly impacted the film industry, from blockbuster hits to culture-shifting television shows. Their roles have captured the attention of audiences worldwide. Even more remarkable is that many attended Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Oprah Winfrey – Tennessee State University
Oprah Winfrey is a renowned media mogul, actress, and philanthropist. She is known for her roles in films like The Color Purple, and Selma and featured role in The Six Triple Eight. In 1987, she graduated from Tennessee State University with a bachelor’s degree in Speech Communications and Performing Arts, having earned a full scholarship to attend the institution.
Samuel L. Jackson- Morehouse College
From Morehouse to Marvel Samuel L. Jackson is an actor known for his versatility, playing roles in blockbuster films like The Avengers, xXx: Return of Xander Cage, and deeply impactful performances in movies such as Coach Carter. Jackson graduated from Morehouse College with a Bachelor of Arts in Dramatic Arts. Most recognizable for his portrayal of Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to his dynamic roles in both action-packed thrillers and emotional dramas, Samuel L. Jackson has left a lasting imprint on the film industry.
Taraji P. Henson – Howard University
“I work like a dog, day and night Living off a coffee from a pot none of you want to touch!” a line that garnered attention to a story unheard of in Hidden Figures. Taraji P. Henson is a graduate of what some people call the “Real HU” Howard University. The actor earned a Bachelor’s degree in drama in 1995 shortly after she starred in her first lead role as “Yvette” in Baby Boy. Henson has since won a Golden Globe award while recently being involved in The Color Purple, Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, and a guest appearance on Abbott Elementary
James Avery- Virginia State University
“In West Philadelphia, born and raised, On the playground was where I spent most of my days”—a theme song that forever changed the culture of television. James Avery, best known for his role as “Uncle Phil” in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, was an alumnus of Virginia State University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Theater and Literature. Avery’s career spanned a variety of notable projects, including Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, L.A. Law, The Brady Bunch Movie, and many others, cementing his legacy as one of Hollywood’s most respected actors.
Tim Reid – Norfolk State University
Tim Reid, beloved for his role as a TV dad in the hit 1994 series Sister, Sister, where he starred alongside a young Tia and Tamera Mowry, is also a Norfolk State University graduate. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the institution. In addition to his TV dad role, Reid has worked on numerous other notable projects, including Frank’s Place, IT: The Movie, and many more.
Anika Noni Rose – Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
The voice of the first African-American Disney princess is also a graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. The Princess and the Frog earned three Oscar nominations, and Anika Noni Rose became the youngest individual ever inducted as a Disney Legend. Rose earned her Bachelor’s degree in Theater.
Lance Gross – Howard University
Courtesy of IMDB
Lance Gross is a talented actor best known for his role in one of BET’s longest-running television series, Tyler Perry’s House of Payne. A proud graduate of Howard University, Gross earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theater, which laid the foundation for his acting career.
Phylicia Rashad- Howard University
Courtesy of IMDB
Phylicia Rashad, a graduate of Howard University, earned her Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts. She became a household name with her portrayal of Clair Huxtable on The Cosby Show. Beyond television, Rashad has enjoyed a career on Broadway, where her performance in A Raisin in the Sun earned her a Tony Award. In 2021, she returned to her alma mater to serve as the Dean of Howard University’s Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts.
Brian Tyree Henry- Morehouse College
Brian Tyree Henry is an alumnus of Morehouse College. Known for his breakout role in the series Atlanta his film career has also flourished, with standout performances in movies like If Beale Street Could Talk, Widows, and most recently Transformers One taking on the role of Megatron.
Wanda Sykes- Hampton University
Wanda Sykes, a comedian and actress, is a proud graduate of Hampton University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in marketing. Sykes has starred in a range of successful films and TV shows, including Monster-in-Law, Evan Almighty, and most recently the Upshaws which is in its seventh season.
