40 Amazing 80’s Black Actresses

40 Amazing 80’s Black Actresses

Originally published by  Faith on October 2023 and Updated by Beatrice J on May 2024

The entertainment industry has grown exponentially over the years with actors and actresses of different races and cultures gracing our screens and providing us with immense enjoyment with their performances.  The 1989s saw the release of a lot of television series and films that kept people entranced on their television. 

Some of these shows and movies featured black actresses who did exceptionally well in capturing the characters and giving them life. Therefore, in this article, we are going to explore the 40 amazing black actresses in the 80s.

1. Whoopi Goldberg

A picture of Whoopie Goldberg.

She is an iconic actress, producer and comedian who rose into the limelight in 1985 when she starred in a film known as The Color Purple. Her incredible performance earned her an Academy nomination. Her ability to transform seamlessly from dramatic to comedy roles is what makes her a great actress. Furthermore, her sense of humour made her a favourite among the fans thus earning more roles as she was well-liked by the audience.  Whoopi’s career has spanned several decades and during this time, she has won an Emmy, Oscar, Grammy and Tony Awards thus achieving the EGOT status. The actress is also keen on addressing social issues and thus making a positive impact on society.

2. Angela Bassett

The renowned actress was born in August 1958 in New York City.  She is famed for her prowess and versatility as an actress. She started making waves in the entertainment industry in the 1980s when she was featured in Boyz in the Hood as Reva Styles. Her performance in the film touched on an array of social issues and made her well-liked in the industry. Basset also made an appearance in The Cosby Show and Spenser: For Hire which increased her visibility in the entertainment industry. Her talent in both film and television has been recognised and as a result, she has won several accolades and been nominated for prestigious awards like the Golden Globe and Academy Award.

3. Halle Berry

Actress Halle Berry. Kingkongphoto & www.celebrity-photos.com from Laurel Maryland, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The actress was born in Cleveland, Ohio on August 14, 1966. She has had a successful career that has spanned decades but she came into the limelight in the 1980s. She first started out as a model where she participated in several beauty pageants until she won the Miss Ohio USA in 1986. She then transitioned into film. She starred in a comedy show known as Harlem Nights that was released in 1989 and which laid a good foundation for her career in the entertainment industry.  She then grew in the acting industry to become one of the most celebrated Hollywood actresses. Her talent and captivating presence have made her a good actress and she even won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role In Monster’s Ball.

4. Pam Grier

Pam Grier. Canadian Film Centre from Toronto, Canada, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The iconic actress was famed for her iconic roles in the 1979s and the 1980s. The actress was even referred to as the Queen of Blaxploitation and often the point of reference when it came to the empowerment of black women in the entertainment industry. The 1980s saw her captivate the audience with iconic performances that left them glued to their screens. Some of the films that she featured in the 1980s include Fort Apache, The Bronx which was released in 1981 and Above the Law which was released in 1988.

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. The actress was also influential in breaking the stereotypes that were associated with black people in the entertainment industry and proving that black people are also talented.

5. Robin Givens

The talented actress and model was born in New York City in November 1964. She rose to prominence in the acting industry when she starred as Darlene Merriman in the critically acclaimed sitcom Head of the Class. The actress was famed for her prowess and beauty which made her a favourite among the fans as well as the directors and producers. Her role in the sitcom set a good foundation for her in that in the next decade, she featured in notable productions like Boomerang which was released in 1991. Furthermore, the actress is known for her philanthropic efforts as she advocates against domestic violence and thus leaves a positive impact on society.

6. Theresa Randle

Actress Theresa Randle. eternalconceptspr, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The accomplished actress is known for her talent and versatility when it comes to playing roles in different genres. The actress started her career in the late 1989s and grew to have a successful career that spanned decades. Randle featured in Maid to Order which was released in 1987 and from then she went on to feature in several notable films that showcased her incredible talent. Over the years she has grown in the entertainment industry and remains one of the celebrated artists who is committed and dedicated to her craft.

7. Kim Fields

The American actress is well known for her portrayal of Tootie Ramsey on the popular television series The Facts of Life. The series was aired from 1979 until 1988 which is quite a long time. Kim started her acting career early in that when she was young the actress featured in commercials and television shows. Her role in Facts of Life is what propelled her into the limelight as she played the character Tootie for the duration of the entire series. This in turn earned her a loyal fan base as they loved her talent and charm. Even after the show stopped airing, the actress continued to make contributions to the entertainment industry by appearing in several films and television shows.

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8. Tish Campbell

The talented actress Tish Campbell. Valder Beebe Show, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The talented actress, comedian and singer came into the limelight in the 1980s. She became a household sensation when she starred in the hit sitcom Martin as Gina Walters-Payne. She starred alongside Martin Lawrence and the duo gave the audience outstanding performances that featured excellent on-screen chemistry and a sense of humour which made the show a success. Over the years, she has continued to make appearances in films and television series of different genres which show her versatility as an actress.

9. Roxie Roker

The talented actress was famed for her role as Hellen Willis in the famous television series The Jefferson which aired from 1975 to 1985. The television series earned her a huge fan following as her performances were outstanding. Having been born into a family that was in the show business, the actress started her career early by starring in several stage productions. The sitcom marked her transition from theatre to film where she showcased her iconic talent. Her role on the show as an interracial couple was influential in changing societal norms and stereotypes about interracial relationships.  The actress was also an avid advocate of social justice issues and civil rights thus leaving an indelible mark in society. The celebrated actress passed away on 2^nd December 1995, but her legacy still lives on.

10. Jennifer Lewis

Celebrated actress Jeniffer Lewis. greginhollywood (Greg Hernandez), CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The vibrant actress, singer and comedian was born in January 1957. She started her career in the 1970s where she featured in Broadway musicals and in the 1980s, she transitioned into television where she grew to become a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Some of the films that she had roles in during this time include What’s Love Got to Do with It and The Preacher’s Wife. The actress also voiced the character Mama Odie in the Disney animation The Princess and the Frog.  Over the years the actress has appeared in several television series with her role as Ruby in the hit series Blackish being the one that has earned her widespread recognition. The celebrated actress is known for being an advocate of mental health and is one of the beloved figures in Hollywood.

11. Tempest Bledsoe

The renowned American actress is famed for her role in the widely acclaimed television series The Cosby Show where she played the character of Vanessa Huxtable. The show which was aired between 1984 and 1992 showcased the actress’s remarkable acting skills. Tempest’s portrayal of Vanessa who was the second oldest child in the family made her a favourite among the audiences. She later appeared in several other shows after the Cosby Show came to an end and still wowed the audience with her acting skills. Some of the shows that she featured in include South of Nowhere, The Practice and Guys with Kids.

12. Keshia Knight Pulliam

A picture of actress Keshia Pulliam. Paula R. Lively from Zanesville, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Keshia is another actress who rose to prominence in the 1980s when she starred in the celebrated show The Cosby Show. The played the character of Rudy Huxtable in the long-running sitcom. Her performance in the show was phenomenal and she received an Emmy Award nomination for her role. Interestingly, she received this nomination when she was six years old which is an outstanding achievement. After the Cosby Show, the actress continued to appear in several other television shows including The Celebrity Apprentice and Tyler Perry’s House of Payne.

13. Margaret Avert

The esteemed actress and singer is known for her role in the critically acclaimed film The Color Purple where she portrayed the character of Shug. The actress earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in the show as she was able to embody the complex character and deliver great results. Her role in the film gained her widespread recognition but she had already established herself as a talented actress having appeared in several films that include Which Way is Up? And Scott Joplin. Her prowess in the acting industry has been recognised and over the course of her career, she has won several accolades for the work that she is doing.

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14. Karen Malina Whiter

The American actress is famed for her versatile talents on the stage as well as on the screen. She became popular in the entertainment industry when she played the role of Charmaine Brown in the iconic television series The Cosby Show. Her charisma coupled with her acting prowess resulted in an iconic performance which opened doors for more roles. Some of the other films that she featured in include A Different World and Malcolm and Eddie. The actress is also known for her exceptional performance in theatre with her notable performance being in The Vagina Monologues. The actress continues to inspire the audience with her talent to date.

15. Denise Nicholas

A picture of the actress at a book signing event. Dnfreshwater, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The talented actress is known for her impactful contributions to film and television in the 1980s. Denise rose to prominence when she played the role of Liz McIntyre in the popular television series Room 222. Her portrayal of the character earned her widespread recognition as she was able to capture the emotions and characteristics of the role well. The actress is also keen on addressing social justice issues and civil rights which makes her a critical member in society as she is using her platform to advocate for positive change.

16. Jackee Harry

The American actress and media personality is among the celebrated black actresses who were active in the 1980s. She rose to prominence when she starred in the hit sitcom 227 where she played the role of Sandra Clark. Her performance in the sitcom was so well received by the audience that she even earned a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in 1987. The actress went on to have a prolific career where she made appearances in several other television series.

17. Phylicia Rashad

Actress Phylicia Rashad. 

The American actress is famed for her commanding presence on the screen and she is among one of the audience’s favourites. She rose to prominence in the 1980s when she played the role of Claire Huxtable as the matriarch of the family in the critically acclaimed sitcom, The Cosby Show. her role in the show was instrumental in breaking cultural stereotypes and cementing the fact that black women can be sophisticated and successful. Her graceful demeanour attracted the audience to her performances and made her a household favourite. Furthermore, the actress was the first African American woman to win the Tony Award for Best Actress for her performance in A Raisin in the Sun.

18. Regina King

Regina was a well-known actress in the 1980s. While her career blossomed in the latter part of the decade, she laid the foundation for her future success. King gained widespread recognition for her role as Brenda Jenkins in the popular television series “227,” which aired from 1985 to 1990. Her performance not only showcased her acting prowess but also garnered her critical acclaim.

Regina King’s transition from television to film began in the late 1980s, setting the stage for her illustrious career in both mediums. During this period, she honed her craft and built a solid reputation for her versatility. Little did audiences know that the 80s marked the beginning of a journey that would see Regina King become an Academy Award-winning actress.

19. Lynn Whitfield

A picture of Lynn Whitfield. John Mathew Smith & www.celebrity-photos.com, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The American actress was born in 1953 and she made a breakthrough in the entertainment industry in the 1980s.  Lynn captivated the audience with her flawless performances in the 1980s and thus kickstarted a successful career that spanned decades. One of the notable films that she starred in during this time was The Josephine Baker Story where her impeccable performance in the role earned her an Emmy Award. Her versatility and depth as an actress allowed her to play different characters and portray them clearly. Lynn Whitfield remains a phenomenal actress who left an immense impact in the 1980s.

20. Vanessa Williams

The American producer and actress has had a successful career that started with her being a fashion model before she transitioned into the acting industry. In 1984, Vanessa William became the first African American woman to win the Miss America title which was no easy feat. She then ventured into the acting industry when she featured in several television series in the 1980s including The Red Fox Show, The Love Boat and The Pick-Up Artist.  Her resilience in facing the challenges that came her way made her a good actress and she has grown to be one of the influential people in the entertainment industry.

21. Shari Headley

Shari rose into the limelight when she starred as Lisa McDowell in the 1988 film Coming to America.  Her portrayal of independent Lisa showcased her prowess when it came to acting as well as her charisma. The enormous popularity and cultural effect of the movie were boosted by Shari’s performance. Headley went on to do parts in both television and cinema after “Coming to America,” further establishing herself in the entertainment sector. She was in high demand as an actress throughout the 1980s and beyond due to her talent and beauty. Shari Headley’s accomplishments on the silver screen, particularly in a movie lauded for its cultural relevance, make her a recognisable name in the history of black actresses of the time.

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22. Jasmine Guy

Talented actress Jasmine Guy. Igitcha, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The talented actress rose to prominence in the 1980s when she starred in A Different World as Whitney Gilbert. The show was a spin-off of The Cosby Show and it attracted a lot of fans. Jasmine’s portrayal of the character was on point as she was able to capture the sophistication and sometimes snobbish characteristics that were associated with the character and thus gain a huge and loyal following. She also appeared in several film and stage productions throughout the 1980s and thus cemented her title as a good actress. The actress continued to make immense contributions in the later years by venturing into writing, producing and directing thus leaving a mark in the entertainment industry.

23. Lisa Bonet

The celebrated actress gained prominence when she played the role of Denise Huxtable in the critically acclaimed 1980s sitcom The Cosby Show.  Her portrayal of the free-spirited character was well-liked by the audience and also contributed to the show’s success. She not only appeared on “The Cosby Show,” but also in its spin-off, “A Different World,” which followed Denise Huxtable as she went to college. Bonet’s contentious performance in the 1987 movie “Angel Heart,” in which she co-starred with Mickey Rourke, served as a marker for her departure from “The Cosby Show.”

24. Alfre Woodard

LOS ANGELES, CA – JANUARY 27: Actress Alfre Woodard arrives at the19th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards held at The Shrine Auditorium on January 27, 2013 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jeff Vespa/@portraits)

The celebrated actress was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She rose to prominence in the 1980s, because of her exceptional talent and versatility as an actress. The actress was famed for her ability to transition seamlessly between roles which made her able to feature in different genres. Some of the notable films that Woodard featured in during the 1980s include Cross Creek and St Elsewhere,  which was a medical drama series that even got her an Emmy nomination. The actress’ performance features intense emotions and commitment to authenticity which make her a favourite among the fans.

25. Debbie Allen

Debbie is a multitalented artist being that she is a dancer, an actress and also a director. The talented actress left a huge impact on the entertainment industry with the roles that she played in the 1980s. Her role in the television series Fame where she played the character of Lydia Grant. Her performance was so great that she even earned three Emmy nominations.

Allen’s experience in dance and acting skills gave her performances a distinctive energy. She made a substantial contribution to choreography in addition to performing, most notably by working on the 1980 film “Fame” and later winning praise for it in the Broadway production of “Sweet Charity.” Allen has directed a number of television programmes, and her choreography for the special “The Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever” won her a Primetime Emmy Award.

 26. Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson at Heart Truth. The Heart Truth, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

She was a legendary American actress who made a lasting impression on the entertainment business. Tyson’s seven-decade-long career was marked by her grace, talent, and dedication to portraying powerful, multifaceted black women. She maintained her stellar performance throughout the 1980s. Notably, her performance in the television miniseries “The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman” in 1984 earned her two Emmy Awards, displaying her talent for giving characters depth and realism.

Beyond her work as an actor, Tyson made significant contributions to social justice and racial diversity in Hollywood. She won various honours throughout her career, including a Tony Award, an Honorary Academy Award, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

27. Rae Chong

Rae is a talented actress best recognised for her 1980s performances. She is Tommy Chong’s daughter. In “Commando” (1985), alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rae Dawn Chong played the vivacious Cindy. The performance earned her worldwide acclaim.

Her acting skills go beyond action flicks; she has demonstrated them in a variety of genres. Chong’s portrayal as Squeak in Steven Spielberg’s 1985 film “The Colour Purple” won her praise from critics. Rae Dawn Chong has branched out into producing and directing in addition to her performing career.

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28. Jenilee Harrison

The American actress and model is best known for playing Cindy Snow in the renowned 1980s TV show “Three’s Company.” Harrison, a California native, started her career as a model before switching to acting. She debuted on “Three’s Company” in 1980, portraying Chrissy Snow’s cousin. Her interpretation of the character gave the programme humour and charm. Harrison continued her acting career after leaving “Three’s Company” in 1981 by making cameos in a number of television programmes, such as “Dallas,” “The Love Boat,” and “Fantasy Island.”

29. Tichina Arnold

Actress Tichina Arnold, talking to fans at an air base

Arnold became well-known in the 1980s and 1990s, and she is most known for her vivacious attitude and extraordinary talent. She started out as a child actor in the entertainment industry, making her first major performance in the sitcom “Ryan’s Hope.” But it was her portrayal of Pamela James on the popular sitcom “Martin” that made her a household name.

Arnold’s career was booming, and she demonstrated her flexibility in everything from comedies to dramas. In addition to “Martin,” she also played the role of Rochelle Rock in the popular sitcom “Everybody Hates Chris.” Beyond acting, Tichina Arnold has made contributions to the film industry as a skilled singer who has released her own music and contributed her soulful voice to other projects.

30. Sheryl Lee Ralph

Ralph rose to fame in the 1980s when she played Deena Jones in the original Broadway production of “Dreamgirls,” for which she was nominated for a Tony Award. She kept making headlines in Hollywood by appearing in films like “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit” and “The Mighty Quinn.”

Sheryl Lee Ralph has worked tirelessly to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS issues outside of her work in film and theatre, including co-founding the DIVA (Divinely Inspired Victoriously Anointed) Foundation. Her efforts in addressing how HIV/AIDS affects the African-American community have brought her praise and acclaim.

31.Marla Gibbs

Marla Gibbs has been a force to be reckoned with for over seven decades. The role of the maid from The Jeffersons put her on the maps. While that role earned her five Emmy nominations and cemented her place in television history, Gibbs’ achievements extend far beyond.

Gibbs is a mulch-talented actress, singer, comedian, writer, and producer.  She co-produced the sitcom 227, where she played the lead role of Mary Jenkins, showcasing her range and comedic timing.

Never shying away from diverse roles, Gibbs has graced our screens in recent years with appearances on shows like Station 19 and even the soap opera Days of Our Lives. Her longevity and ability to captivate audiences across genres is a true testament to her artistry.

32.Janet Jackson

Janet Jackson isn’t just another pop star, she’s a powerhouse vocalist and performer who has redefined music itself. Her collaborations with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis produced iconic hits that dominated the 80s and 90s, with albums like Rhythm Nation 1814 .

Jackson isn’t afraid to tackle social issues in her music, making her a role model for young people.  Beyond awards and accolades, her influence on MTV and the music industry as a whole is undeniable.  She’s not just a singer; she’s a trendsetter and an inspiration.

33.Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine is a highly respected American actress with a career that has spanned many years. She rose to fame on Broadway, especially with her performance as Lorrell Robinson in the original Dreamgirls in 1983, a defining moment in her career.

Her move to the silver screen received high praise, particularly for her role as Gloria Matthews in Waiting to Exhale back in 1995. She received an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture.

Her portrayal of Adele Webber in Grey’s Anatomy solidified her esteemed position, earning her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress. She has consistently been a source of inspiration and determination, persistently pushing boundaries and establishing lofty benchmarks for performers in the industry.

34.Irene Cara

Irene Cara was an exceptionally talented American entertainer, celebrated for her significant contributions to cinematic and music industries. She is remembered for her iconic role as Coco Hernandez in the 1980 hit musical Fame.

Her stellar performance in Fame garnered her prestigious accolades. She received an Academy Award for Best Original Song and a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Cara’s enduring legacy in the arts has established her as a cherished icon and a paragon of success within the entertainment realm.

Her artistic influence persisted throughout her life until she passed away on November 25, 2022, from complications related to hypertensive heart disease.

35.Esther Rolle

Esther Rolle is renowned for her iconic role as Florida Evans in the sitcoms Maude and Good Times. Her portrayal was so compelling that it garnered her a nomination for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in 1976.

In 1979, Rolle’s remarkable abilities were further acknowledged with a Primetime Emmy Award for her role in the TV film Summer of My German Soldier. Her influence extended to the silver screen with notable performances in films.

She later featured on films like Driving Miss Daisy and Rosewood, leaving an indelible mark on both viewers and the film industry. Away from acting, Rolle was a proponent for the positive depiction of African-American families in media.

 36.Kirstie Alley

Kirstie Alley was a prominent actress with a career that lasted more than 40 years. She became well-known for her role in Cheers, winning an Emmy and a Golden Globe.

Her movies include Look Who’s Talking, Star Trek II, and Drop Dead Gorgeous. She won another Emmy for David’s Mother and got more nominations for Veronica’s Closet. Alley was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her film work.

Kirstie Alley’s dynamic presence and flair for comedy made a lasting impression in the entertainment industry. She departed on December 5, 2022, following her courageous fight against cancer.

37.Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné started as a child actress on The Cosby Show and Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper, gaining early fame. She starred in the Disney series That’s So Raven and continued in Raven’s Home.

Her movies include Dr. Dolittle and The Princess Diaries 2. She’s also a singer with albums and has won several awards, including NAACP Image Awards and Emmy nominations. Nichelle Nichols’ contributions extended beyond her acting career.

Her efforts not only broke barriers but also paved the way for a more inclusive space program. Nichols’ influence endured well past her passing on July 30, 2022, as she left an indelible mark that inspired countless individuals to aspire to new heights.

38.Nichelle Nichols

Nichelle Nichols was a seminal figure in entertainment, celebrated for her role as Lt. Uhura in Star Trek. Her role was a pioneering presence for African American women on TV.

Nichols also played a key part in diversifying NASA’s astronaut corps, leaving a lasting legacy in space exploration. Her multifaceted career included acting, singing, and dancing, making her a pathfinder for actors of color.

39.Gail Fisher

Gail Fisher made history with her role as Peggy Fair in Mannix, winning both a Golden Globe and an Emmy. These awards made he the first African American woman to do so.

Her role transcended acting, symbolizing the shift towards greater diversity and representation on American TV. These was during a time when such roles were rare for black actresses. Fisher’s pioneering work laid a foundation for future generations in Hollywood.

40.Telma Hopkins

Telma Hopkins, known for her dual talents as a singer and actress, first shone with Tony Orlando and Dawn. She then made a seamless move to acting, with notable roles in Family Matters and Half & Half.

Her diverse contributions to music and TV have earned her a place as a cherished entertainer in the industry. In recent times, Telma Hopkins has continued to showcase her acting talent with regular appearances on series.

She has also been featured in movies including The Wood and The Love Guru. Her sustained success in the entertainment sector is a testament to her adaptability and lasting charm.

The entertainment industry has seen a lot of black actresses who have done exceptionally well in their careers. This list is not exhaustive as there are other exceptional actresses that graced the screen during this period, but the article is a good place for the reader to start exploring the topic of black actresses in the 1980s.

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