Academy Award-winning actress renowned for her powerful performances in film, television, and theater, bringing complex characters to life with depth and nuance.
Known for her captivating performances on screen and stage, Viola Davis is a powerhouse of talent, boasting an impressive array of accolades, including the prestigious Triple Crown of Acting and the coveted EGOT. With her incredible range and emotional depth, she has become one of the most respected and beloved actresses of our time.
Davis's extensive career is marked by a multitude of critically acclaimed performances, earning her numerous awards and nominations. Some of her most notable roles include:
Davis's groundbreaking role as lawyer Annalise Keating in the ABC drama series How to Get Away with Murder (2014-2020) made her the first black actress to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.
Off-screen, Davis is a passionate advocate for human rights and women of color. Alongside her husband, she founded JuVee Productions, a production company dedicated to promoting diverse voices and stories. In 2019, she became a L'Oréal Paris ambassador, further solidifying her commitment to empowering women.
Born on August 11, 1965, in Central Falls, Rhode Island, Davis grew up in a low-income household, often relying on government assistance to get by. Her early life experiences have deeply influenced her advocacy work and informed her dedication to giving back to her community.
Davis has spoken candidly about the importance of self-love, self-acceptance, and the need for greater representation in the entertainment industry. Her motto, "The only way to get what you want is to give up the illusion that you can have it by taking it," has inspired countless individuals to reexamine their own values and aspirations.
"The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are."
In 2012 and 2017, Time magazine named Davis one of the 100 most influential people in the world. In 2020, The New York Times ranked her ninth on its list of the greatest actors of the 21st century. Her contributions to the world of acting have cemented her place as a trailblazing icon, paving the way for future generations of artists.
Davis's remarkable career has spanned decades, with notable milestones including:
As a shining beacon of excellence in the world of acting, Viola Davis continues to inspire generations with her remarkable talent, unwavering dedication to her craft, and unrelenting passion for social justice and human rights.
76 Years Old
Acclaimed actress renowned for her versatility and range, starring in iconic films like "The Devil Wears Prada" and "Sophie's Choice".
71 Years Old
Acclaimed actor, director, and producer renowned for his powerful performances in film, television, and theater, earning numerous awards and accolades.
55 Years Old
Academy Award-winning actress and children's book author, known for her powerful performances in films like "The Help" and "Hidden Figures".
55 Years Old
Academy Award-nominated actress and singer, known for her powerful performances in films like "Hidden Figures" and TV shows like "Empire", bringing strong, complex women to life on screen.
Born in 1924
A pioneering actress who broke racial barriers on stage and screen, earning numerous awards and accolades for her powerful performances.
58 Years Old
Academy Award-winning actress and producer, starring in iconic romantic comedies like "Pretty Woman" and "Notting Hill", captivating audiences with her charming smile and versatility on screen.
59 Years Old
Academy Award-winning actress and producer, known for her iconic roles in films like "Monster's Ball" and the "X-Men" franchise, and for being the first African American woman to win the Best Actress Oscar.
54 Years Old
Award-winning actress known for her versatility in film and television, particularly her iconic role as Dr. Cristina Yang in Grey's Anatomy.