50 Wealthiest Black Actresses in 2023

50 Wealthiest Black Actresses in 2023

The entertainment industry has grown over the years and we have witnessed artists with exceptional talent that ensure that we get the most amazing experience when watching a show, film or television series. Some of the actresses in the industry are black and they have left an indelible mark in the industry and achieved financial success in the process. Some of these remarkable women have broken stereotypes and paved the way for future generations in the industry. Therefore, this article will explore the 50 wealthiest black actresses in the industry to give the reader insight into the trailblazers who have not only inspired people and entertained them but amassed quite a fortune in the process.

1 Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey. Maryland GovPics, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

At the top of the list of richest black actresses is Oprah Winfrey, popularly known as the “Queen of All Media” who had an estimated net worth of $2.5 billion. Her meteoric ascent to fame started with her ground-breaking talk show, “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” which aired for 25 years and attracted a sizable international following. She is an actress, philanthropist, and media magnate in addition to her prosperous television career.

Oprah has a huge impact on a lot of other businesses, like publishing, where her book club picks become immediate hits. She expanded her media empire by launching the Oprah Winfrey Network in 2011. Her commercial endeavours and influence on the entertainment industry have added to her enormous riches. Oprah has also made notable contributions to healthcare, education, and other charitable causes through her philanthropic endeavours.

2 Beyonce

American singer, songwriter, producer, actress, and role model was born on September 4, 1981. Beyoncé, who is acknowledged as one of the world’s best performers, has had enormous success in the music business. She first became well-known as the lead vocalist for the R&B group Destiny’s Child before starting a very prosperous solo career.

In addition to her success in music, Beyoncé has dabbled in acting, landing prominent parts in films including “Dreamgirls” (2006) and “The Lion King” (2019). She is involved in fashion, fragrance, and endorsement business ventures. Apart from her artistic accomplishments, Beyoncé is acknowledged for her charitable contributions and advocacy efforts.

3 Rihanna

Iconic artist Rihanna. SIGMA, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In addition to being a phenomenal vocalist, the singer and worldwide phenomenon, has also excelled in the fields of acting and business. She was born Robyn Rihanna Fenty, and she is well-known for her strong voice, avant-garde style, and unwavering spirit of entrepreneurship. Apart from her successful music career, Rihanna has acted in films such as “Ocean’s 8” and “Battleship.” Her success in business, however, has made a major contribution to her fortune.

She is the creator of the innovative makeup brand Fenty Beauty, which is praised for its diverse selection of goods. Among Rihanna’s fashion ventures are her Fenty apparel line and her partnerships with high-end labels like Dior. Her diverse success goes beyond entertainment, establishing her as a shrewd businesswoman in addition to an artist, creating waves and being a source of inspiration to others who want to be like her.

4 Halle Berry

Halle Berry is a powerhouse in the entertainment world. She has a multi-decade career and has received praise and awards for her adaptable acting. Her performance in Monster Ball was so incredible that she became the first African American woman to win an Academy Award in the category of Best Actress which is no easy feat. Berry has dabbled in producing and directing in addition to her performing career. Her captivating presence has adorned critically acclaimed as well as commercially successful motion pictures and cemented her place as a Hollywood legend. She is well-known off-screen for her advocacy work and charitable endeavours. Halle is demonstrating that brilliance has no bounds as she keeps shattering limits and redefining expectations. In addition to receiving critical praise, her remarkable career has helped her succeed, placing her among the wealthiest black actors.

5 Kerry Washington

A picture of Kerry Washington. www.GlynLowe.com from lisbon, Portugal, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Hollywood actress Kerry Washington is not like the others. Recognised for her legendary performance as Olivia Pope in “Scandal,” she is an influential person. The actress is a natural on the screen and her ability to seamlessly deliver whether on film or television has earned her many accolades and made her one of the most sought-after actresses in the industry. Kerry’s breadth as an actress is astounding from her searing portrayal of Anita Hill in Confirmation to her captivating performance in Save the Last Dance. Her successful career has earned her quite a fortune making her one of the wealthiest black actresses in the industry.

6 Queen Latifah

Popularly known as the queen of versatility, the talented actress has a net worth of approximately $70 million which shows that she is not only a talented artist but also a business savvy woman. She started her career in the entertainment industry as a rapper but quickly rose up in the acting scene and was even nominated for an Oscars early in her career. Her seamless crossover into the production and hosting industries further highlights her diverse skill set. She has established herself as a powerful figure in finance by making wise investments in real estate and other businesses outside of the spotlight in Hollywood. With a heart as vast as her skill, Queen Latifah never stops inspiring people through her work and as a representation of tenacity and achievement in the entertainment business.

7 Whoopi Goldberg

Actress Whoopi Goldberg. Mark Taylor from Rockville, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The talented actress boasts of a net worth that is approximately $45million which makes her a very wealthy woman. The actress made her debut in the entertainment industry when she was cast in the critically acclaimed film The Color Purple which was produced by Steven Spielberg.  She then catapulted into fe with her roles in Sister Act and Ghost.  Her versatility as an actress has earned her an EGOT which is an Emmy Award, Grammy Award, Oscar Award and a Tony Award, which is not easy in the entertainment industry. 

In addition to acting, Whoopi’s comic prowess comes through in stand-up and hosting roles. Her sharp mind and sage advice on “The View” have won her popularity and added humour and wisdom to everyday conversations. In addition, Goldberg has dabbled in product development, launching a profitable line of goods that includes an assortment of distinctive and vibrant sweaters. With her unique voice, unwavering spirit, and long-lasting influence on the field.

8 Raven-Symoné

The actress and businesswoman is a multi-talented person whose career has grown significantly since her early days on “The Cosby Show” and “That’s So Raven.” She has established herself as a formidable force in the entertainment sector, with an estimated net worth of a cool $45 million.

From an early age, Raven-Symoné captivated audiences with her indisputable charm and acting talent. She moved from kid celebrity to seasoned professional with ease as an actress, singer, and comedian. Her portrayal as Raven Baxter cemented her fame as a Disney Channel icon while also showcasing her comedic timing. Raven-Symoné’s business sense is evident outside of the screen. She has experimented with music, put out records, and performed on Broadway.

9 Angela Bassett

The iconic actress Angela Basset. Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The talented actress is a powerhouse in the entertainment industry where she has proved her talent by gracing our screens in different films and television shows where she captivated the audience with her outstanding performance.  The actress’s estimated worth is around $28million which proves that she has been doing exceptionally well in her field.  Some of her iconic roles were in What’s Love Got to Do with it as well as her role in American Horror Story where she proved to the audience that she is quite talented.

The actress has carved out a legacy in the entertainment industry as she not only acts but also produces and directs films. Her career continues to be a source of inspiration to upcoming artists who want to be like her.

10 Vanessa Williams

She is a multi-talented singer and actress who is among one of the wealthiest black actresses in the entertainment industry.  Her captivating performances have left an indelible mark in the entertainment industry with them being used as a point of reference. Her journey to fame started quite early when she was crowned Miss America in 1983 making her the first African American woman to win the crown. She then transitioned into television where she featured in films like Ugly Betty and Desperate Housewives. Vanessa has received Grammy nominations for her musical abilities in addition to her acting career. Her remarkable riches are a result of her entrepreneurial energy, which is evident in all of her endeavours. Vanessa Williams’s tenacity and diverse creative abilities never cease to amaze.

11 Zoe Zaldana

A picture of Zoe Zaldana. Dick Thomas Johnson from Tokyo, Japan, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The celebrated actress is best known for her portrayal of Neytiri in the famous film Avatar known for being the highest-grossing film. Furthermore, she also starred in its sequel Avatar: Way of Waters which was ranked as the seventh highest-grossing film. The actress has also played roles in other great films like Star Trek and The Guardian of the Galaxy which is how she has amassed her fortune that is said to be approximately $35 million.

12 Jada Pinkett Smith

By now everyone knows who Jada Pinkett Smith is after the debacle at the 2022 Oscar party where her husband Will Smith slapped the emcee of the event Chris Rick after he made some remarks about his wife. Aside from that controversy, Jada is a talented actress who has appeared in several high-profile films like Menace II Society, The Nutty Professor franchise and Gotham. She also has a production house known as 100% Women Productions. The talented actress also has a Facebook talk show which she launched in 2018 and has continually done well. The show features her family alongside other guests.

13 Gabrielle Union

Actress Gabrielle Union. MTV UK, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The talented artist is among the wealthiest black actresses in the industry with an estimated net worth of $40 million. The talented actress has starred in several successful films that have built her career and made her a household name. Furthermore, she was once a judge on the highly acclaimed television show, America Got Talent when the show came for season fourteen.

Some of the films that she featured in include Breaking In, Neo Ned, Cradle 2 the Grave, Think Like a Man Too, Daddy’s Little Girls and Being Mary Jane where she is the star of the series and for which her performance in it won her an NAACP Image Award. The actress is one of the wealthiest black actresses and she serves as an influential figure in the black community as well as the world.

14 Viola Davis

The talented actress started her career in a small theatre in Rhode Island and she has worked to overcome all the obstacles that come her way to emerge as one of the wealthiest black actresses in the industry. The Juilliard graduate is one of the few African-American actresses who have won the triple crown of acting which includes an Academy Award, two Tony Awards and a Primetime Emmy Awards.

Furthermore, the talented actress is the most nominated black actress in the Academy Award history which shows that her performances in roles that she plays in are always outstanding and she is a great actress.

15 Taraji P. Henson

Actress Taraji. Kim Shiflett , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

In Hollywood, Taraji P. Henson is a formidable presence. She is most known for playing the endearing Cookie Lyon in the popular television series “Empire,” but her brilliance doesn’t end there. With roles in films like “Hidden Figures” and “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” Taraji has starred in major motion pictures and received praise from critics as well as an Academy Award nomination. In addition to her acting career, she runs a business that promotes mental health awareness. Taraji P. Henson’s unquestionable skill and contagious charisma continue to make a lasting impression on the entertainment industry.

16 Regina King

The talented actress has a successful career that spans decades. She is not only an actress but also a great producer and director. With her captivating presence on screen and on television, Regina has garnered praise from critics and a devoted following. She has acted in “Jerry Maguire,” “Ray,” and the critically praised series “Southland.” She has gained popularity in the past several years working behind the camera, having won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in “If Beale Street Could Talk.” Her dedication and versatility is what makes her a great actress who has made an impact in the entertainment industry.

17 Thandie Newton

A picture of the actress.  Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The British-Zimbabwean actress is famed for bringing her talent coupled with her charm onto the screen and thus captivating fans during her performances. The actress was born in London and she has made great strides in the acting industry when she landed roles in critically acclaimed films like Mission Impossible 2 and Crash, a film that won her a BAFTA Award. The actress is also known for her versatility in that she can easily play a complex character as well as a dramatic one which in turn makes her a good actress. Her estimated net worth is about $17.5 million which shows how she has done well for herself in the industry.

18 Rosario Dawson

Hollywood has seen a remarkable amount of success with the charming actress Rosario Dawson, who is well-known for her adaptable roles. She became well-known for her iconic roles in films such as “Sin City,” “Rent,” and “Seven Pounds.” Furthermore, Dawson is praised for her advocacy efforts and dedication to social concerns in addition to her acting abilities.

 She has demonstrated her commitment to having a good influence through her involvement in multiple charity endeavours in addition to her film career. Dawson’s charity activities and captivating on-screen persona have cemented her status as a reputable personality in the entertainment business.

19 Nia Long

Nia Long. MingleMediaTVNetwork, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The celebrated actress who is famed for her captivating performances is said to have a net worth of about $10 million. She has established herself as a respected personality in the entertainment industry, having starred in television hits like “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” and classics like “Boyz n the Hood.” Among the films in Nia’s remarkable reel are “Love Jones,” “The Best Man,” and “Big Momma’s House.” In addition to acting, she is a proud mother and a supporter of numerous organisations. Nia Long is still a shining example of brilliance and tenacity.

20 Loretta Devine

The seasoned actress has had a successful career that spans decades in both stage and film production and her estimated worth is about $10 million. Her journey in the entertainment industry is a success that started in Houston Texas and has grown to exponential heights. She is famed for her charisma and distinctive voice which makes her a hotcake in the entertainment industry. The actress’s performance in roles like For Colored Girls, Waiting to Exhale, The Client’s List and Grey’s Anatomy have earned her accolades that cement the fact that she is an exceptional actress.

21 Meagan Good

A picture of Meagan Good. Toglenn, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

With her seamless blend of talent and personality, Meagan Good is a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.  The actress began her acting career at a young age, appearing in television series such as “My Wife and Kids” and “Cousin Skeeter.” Later, she made the move to the big screen, stealing hearts with roles in blockbusters like “Anchorman 2” and “Think Like a Man.” Megan demonstrated her versatility by branching out into producing and directing in addition to acting. Meagan Good, well-known for her radiant beauty and captivating performances, is leaving a lasting impression on Hollywood and demonstrating that adaptability is essential for building a successful career in the entertainment industry.

22 Tamera Mowry

The talented actress is one half of the iconic twin duo who rose to prominence when they featured in the television series Sister Sister. The talented actress’s net worth is said to be around $7 million. She has featured in films like The Real and Twitches where she showed her capabilities as a talented actress. Furthermore, Tamera has also explored the world of producing where she produces and co-hosts a daytime talk show known as The Real thus bringing out her versatility as an actress. Her entrepreneurial energy and social personality make her a beloved figure in the world of entertainment.

23 Tia Mowry

Tia is the other half of the identical Mowry twins. She is estimated to be worth $10 million which makes her one of the wealthiest black actresses in the entertainment industry. She featured in the television series Sister Sister alongside her twin sister Tamera and then seamlessly transitioned into a successful career as an adult where she has featured in shows like Instant Mom, The Game and Family which cemented her status as a successful actress. Tia is a successful author, lover of cookbooks, and businesswoman. Her dedication to wellness and health is reflected in her lifestyle brand, Anser. Her varied business endeavours helped her to maintain her success and established her as a reputable person in the field.

24 Garcelle Beauvais

The actress adressing people at an event. Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The talented actress is among the well-loved people in the industry because of her charisma and talent. She has starred in several shows like The Jamie Foxx Show and NYPD Blue where she played the role of Fancy Monroe. Furthermore, the actress is not only limited to small screens in that she is featured in the critically acclaimed film Coming To America 2. Furthermore, she is a published author and fashion model both ventures which have amassed quite a fortune for her as her estimated net worth is about $8 million dollars thus making her one of the wealthiest black actresses in the industry that motivated upcoming artists who want to reach the heights that she has reached.

25 Tiffany Hadish

The versatile artist who is famed for her energy and great sense of humour is among the wealthiest black actresses in the entertainment industry with an estimated net worth of $8 million. She rose to prominence when she starred in the critically acclaimed movie Girl’s Trip and since then she has been a household name bringing captivating experiences to the audience. Resilience was a defining feature of Haddish’s success path as she made comedic gold out of her setbacks. In addition to performing, she has dabbled in stand-up comedy, hosting, and writing the best-selling autobiography, “The Last Black Unicorn.” Tiffany is a storyteller with a gift for making people laugh while staying true to herself, in addition to being a gifted performer.

26 Octavia Spencer

American actress Octavia Spencer speaks on a panel after a screening of the film “Hidden Figures” at the White House. Aubrey Gemignani , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The talented actress is an influential figure in Hollywood as she is known for her talent and charm which makes her performances incredible. The actress has featured in several high-performing films with the notable one being The Help where her performance earned her an Academy Award in the Best Supporting Actress category in 2022. The actress has amassed a huge fortune through the roles that she has starred in and her net worth is estimated to be about $13.4 million cementing the fact that she is good at what she does. Beyond the acting scene, the talented actress is known for having a down-to-earth personality and is passionate about advocacy and philanthropic efforts.

27 Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin is a force in the entertainment industry, demonstrating that talent knows no age restrictions. This young producer and actress shot to stardom when she played Diane Johnson in the popular television sitcom “Black-ish.” However, Marsai didn’t stop there. At the age of 14, she created history by becoming the youngest executive producer in Hollywood for the movie “Little”. In addition to her stellar career, she supports inclusion and diversity in the field. Marsai Martin is without a doubt a trailblazer, motivating not just her colleagues but also a new generation of creatives with her contagious energy and extraordinary achievements.

28 Rashida Jones

This personality is not only a talented actress but also an iconic figure in the entertainment industry with an estimated worth of $25 million. Jones was born into a family that was already in the entertainment industry as her father was a producer and her mother was an actress thus making it easy and almost natural that she chose acting as her career. Rashida has had a successful career and she has starred in films like Parks and Recreation and The Office which catapulted her into fame. The talented actress is also a writer and producer.

29 Saana Lathan

Saana Lathan. Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

With an estimated worth of $4 million, the talented actress is doing well in the entertainment industry. She is famed for her versatility and talent which she brings to the screen and ensures that her performances captivate the audience. Her name may be familiar to you from classic films like “Love & Basketball” and “The Best Man.” The way that Sanaa brings characters to life with nuance and authenticity is a masterclass. In addition to acting, she has dabbled in voice acting, contributing her skills to animated productions. Throughout the course of her decades-long career, Sanaa has captivated audiences and left an enduring impression on the entertainment business. Watch this pioneer closely as she continues to steal the show.

30 Paula Patton

The talented actress has left a significant mark in the entertainment industry with her captivating performance. With an estimated net worth of $12 million, the multi-talented artist has had a successful career and she is known for her enchanting performances in films like Mission Impossible- Ghost Protocol and Precious where her onscreen presence keeps the audience glued to their seats. Furthermore, the actress is known for her philanthropic efforts where she supports the causes that she holds dear.

31 Trace Ellis Ross

Talented actress Trace Ellis Ross. Erik Melvin, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The actress who is well known for her role as Dr. Rainbow Johnson in the critically acclaimed television series Blackish is a talented actress who has made an indelible mark in the entertainment scene. Having been born to the legendary Diana Ross, the actress has carved out her own niche in the industry where she is known for her work and not her mother. Additionally, the actress is a director and producer which supports the notion that she is a multi-talented artist.

32 Lauren London

The talented actress who is known for her roles in the films This Christmas and ATL has an estimated worth of about $10 million. Lauren is also a model in addition to being an actress which in turn diversifies her financial interest. Her work as an actress has made her a household name who is well-liked by the audience. Beyond the screen, London has a captivating personality as a fashion icon, she is renowned for her grace and style. She has persevered in the face of personal hardships and never stops inspiring her admirers with her skill and genuineness.

33 Janet Jackson

The multi-talented artist is a force to reckon with in the entertainment industry. The artist is a singer who burst into the entertainment industry in the 80s when she released her album titled Control which amplified her capabilities as a singer and a dancer. The talented artist has also ventured into the big screen where she has several films that she has featured in her name. They include Poetic Justice and The Nutty Professor. She is also keen on activism and philanthropic efforts to causes that she finds dear. With an estimated net worth of about $190 million, the talented actress and singer has left an indelible mark in the entertainment industry.

34 Issa Rae

Actress Issa Rae. Bam0822, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The talented actress is known for bringing her charm and talent onto the screen which captivates and enchants the audience. With an estimated net worth of about $8 million, the celebrated actress has had a successful career. She rose into prominence when she played a role in the popular television series Insecure which follows the journey of modern black women as they try to navigate through life. The actress is also a business-savvy lady as she owns a production company known as Issa Rae Production which is doing well.

35 Jennifer Hudson

The multi-talented artist rose to prominence when she became the finalist in the reality show American Idol. The Grammy award-winning artist has had a successful career as an artist as well as an actress with an estimated net worth of $30 million. She is famed for winning an Academy Award for her performance in Dreamgirls which cements her talents and capabilities.

She supports a number of humanitarian projects outside of the spotlight, such as childhood obesity and education. Her ability continued to enthral fans in 2021 when she starred in the eagerly awaited biopic “Respect,” playing the legendary Aretha Franklin.

36 Regina Hall

Regina Hall. The Other Side, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The talented actress is often referred to as the queen of diversity in that she is able to easily switch from comedy to drama and everything else. She joined the entertainment industry when she starred in a 90s soap opera known as Loving but her acting career really took off when she starred in Scary Movie, a performance that made her popular.  The actress has starred in several highly acclaimed movies like Girl’s Trip, Little and The Hate U Give which have earned her several awards and accolades. Regina Hall has an estimated net worth of $6 million making her one of the wealthiest black actresses.

37 Nicki Minaj

The singer who is famed for her chart-topping hits has also ventured into the acting industry. She made her debut in the acting industry when she featured in The Other Woman where she appeared alongside Cameron Diaz. Her onscreen presence captivated the audience. She then went on to do a voice role in the animated films Ice Age: Continental Drift and Barbershop: The Next Cut which portrayed her versatility as an artist. The artist’s net worth is $150 million.

38 Mary J Blige

The actress talking to the press. WBLS, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The formidable artist who is also known as the queen of Hip-Hop Soul has also made great strides in the acting industry.  The talented musician who is known for her soul-stirring voice has featured in several films like Madbound where her performance earned her an Academy nomination. She has had a multi-faceted career comprising acting, music and business ventures which have made her net worth soar to an estimated $22 million.

39 Zendaya

The multi-talented phenomenon Zendaya has become extremely well-known for her mesmerising performances on television and film.  Zendaya, who is most recognised for her roles as Rue Bennett in the popular series Euphoria and MJ in the Spider-Man trilogy, skillfully strikes a balance between grace and passion in her performances. She made history in 2021 when she became the youngest winner of the coveted Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Dramatic Series. Zendaya’s star is still rising thanks to her unquestionable brilliance and irresistible charisma, and this suggests that she will make even more ground-breaking discoveries in the future. She is also among the wealthiest black actresses with a net worth of $22 million,

40 Lupita Nyong’o

Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong’o. Daniel Benavides from Austin, TX, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Kenyan-Mexican actress rose into the limelight with the role that she played in the critically acclaimed film 12 Years a Slave which garnered her an Academy Award for the Best Supporting Actress. The talented actress is famed for her advocacy efforts where she fights for equal representation in the entertainment industry. She has continued to showcase her talent in the famous Wakanda series and Us. With an estimated net worth of approximately $10 million, she is among the wealthiest black actresses.

41 Jennifer Lewis

The talented actress is famously known as the Mother of Black Hollywood and has a successful career that spans decades and is estimated to be worth $2 million. The actress is famed for her role in the television series Blackish where she played the matriarch of the family. She has also starred in other movies like Princess and the Frog. With a flair of diva in her performance, the talented actress fascinates the audience and brings light to the production. She is also keen on advocacy where she raises awareness about mental health.

42 Tichina Arnold

Actress Tichina Arnold. Airman 1st Class Eric Summers, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

American actress and singer Tichina Arnold is a talented individual. Over the course of her three-decade career, she became well-known for her roles as Rochelle Rock in “Everybody Hates Chris” and Pamela James in the popular sitcom “Martin.” Beyond her work in acting, Arnold is a skilled vocalist who has contributed to several soundtracks. Tichina Arnold, who is renowned for her charm and adaptability, never fails to enthral audiences with her captivating performances, solidifying her place as a popular figure in the entertainment business.

43 Alfre Woodard

The actress’s compelling performances have left a lasting impact on Hollywood.  With more than 100 credits in films and television shows, Alfre’s adaptability is unmatched. She easily attracts attention, whether it is through her captivating parts in films like “Cross Creek” or her Emmy-winning performance in “Miss Evers’ Boys.” In addition to being a gifted actor, Woodard is a powerhouse behind the scenes who produces and promotes diversity in the business and her net worth is approximately $13 million. She is a true icon because of her accomplishments and reputation, and young performers and storytellers are still motivated by her legacy.

44 Amber Riley

A picture of Amber Riley. Organicshawty, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The actress is best known for her role in the television series Glee where she played the character of Mercedes Jones. She started her career in theatre where she performed in productions like Hairspray and The Wiz before transitioning into film where she has played other roles in Strand of Joy and Horton Hears a Who!. The actress is also a singer and has released an album which contributes to her overall fortune. With an estimated worth of $4 million, she is among the wealthiest black actresses in the industry.

45 Sherry Lee Ralph

 With skill and grace, Sheryl Lee Ralph has graced our screens for decades as an activist and seasoned actress. Renowned for her parts in “Dreamgirls” and “Moesha,” Ralph’s career demonstrates her adaptability. She’s made a name for herself in advocacy outside of acting, especially in bringing awareness to HIV/AIDS-related causes. Her impact goes beyond the screen in that in order to address the effects of HIV/AIDS on women, she established the DIVA (Divinely Inspired Victoriously Aware) Foundation. Sheryl Lee Ralph has a contagious energy that never fails to enthral audiences. She leaves a lasting impression on the entertainment business and uses her position to meaningfully change society.

46 Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox.  Sachyn Mital, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The talented actress and LGBTQ+ advocate is among the wealthiest black actresses in the industry and is worth approximately $6 million. The actress rose to prominence in her role in the famous television series Orange is the New Black where she played the role of Sophia Burset.  Her performance in the series was outstanding and she was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award making her the first openly transgender person to be nominated. The actress continues to break societal norms and stereotypes thus leaving an indelible mark in the industry.

47 Keesha Sharp

The multi-talented artist is an actress and director who is celebrated in the entertainment industry. The actress came into the limelight when she starred in roles in shows like Girlfriends and Are We There Yet?  Beyond acting, Sharp is a versatile artist who has also directed films such as “Lethal Weapon.” She supports a number of initiatives off-screen, which demonstrates her dedication to having a positive influence. Keesha Sharp is a captivating presence behind the scenes with a gift for storytelling that keeps drawing crowds in.

48 Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson is a rising figure in the entertainment industry who gained popularity with her engaging content and contagious humour. Initially gaining popularity on Vine, she quickly made the switch to YouTube, where her humorous illustrations and approachable demeanour captivated viewers. The actress, who was born in Philadelphia, has pursued acting and producing in addition to honing her comedic skills. Beyond the screen, Quinta captivates audiences as a published novelist who has added “She Memes Well” to her list of works. Quinta Brunson continues to forge her own path, leaving an enduring impression on the digital landscape, and she has a gift for making people laugh.

49 Essence Atkins

Atkins during an appearance at Sisters Circle. Sister Circle TV, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Atkins is a talented actress and singer who is making waves in the entertainment industry.  In the acting scene, the actress is known for her roles in Half & Half and Are We There Yet?. Her infectious energy coupled with her sense of humour captivates the audience who keep wanting more of her presence on the screens. With a career that is more than two decades, the talented actress has garnered praise and had a successful career with her net worth being estimated to be at $5 million.

50 Kym Whitley

Actress and comedian Kym Whitley has established a distinct niche for herself in the entertainment industry. She’s a well-known figure on big and small screens, having had a career spanning decades. Thanks to her contagious humour and adaptable acting skills, Kym has been cast in shows like “The Parkers” and films like “Next Friday.” Kym has been a major player in the comedy scene outside of the cinema, captivating audiences with her stand-up routines. However, Kim is more than simply a funny person; she has utilised her platform to support adoption as a proud adoptive mother. Kym Whitley is a multi-talented and well-liked entertainer who still shines in the ever-changing Hollywood scene.