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Black America Web
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
20 Black Women in Film Who Proved One Role Can Change Everything
Some Black women in film don't need a dozen chances to make their mark. One role. One performance. One unforgettable presence—that's all it took. This list honors 20 Black women in film whose breakout performances became instant cultural milestones. These weren't just great roles. They were turning points for Hollywood and for how we see Black women on screen. Take Halle Berry in Monster's Ball. She became the first Black woman to win the Oscar for Best Actress. That moment was historic, but it also exposed how rare those moments are. Lupita Nyong'o stunned the world in 12 Years a Slave. Her emotional performance earned her an Academy Award and solidified her place in cinematic history after just one role. Then there's Gabourey Sidibe in Precious. Her raw debut helped shift conversations about Black girlhood, poverty, and body image in mainstream media. Each of these Black women in film did more than act—they represented, they challenged, and they redefined what power looks like. Some lit up indie films. Others carried major blockbusters. All brought something fresh, honest, and unforgettable to the screen. Their performances proved that one moment—one chance—can change a life, spark a movement, and leave a legacy. This list isn't just about success. It's about visibility, impact, and the cultural weight these women carry every time their scenes replay in our heads. It's time to give them their flowers. Let's start with these 20. Viola Davis' Madame Tussauds Wax Figure Reveal Was A Whole Moment, Comes As Her New Film G20 Set To Air Tiffany Haddish Debunks Katt Williams Claim Live On Stage At The Improv Taraji P. Henson Gains Full Ownership Of Beauty Brand, TPH 20 Black Women in Film Who Proved One Role Can Change Everything was originally published on 1. Halle Berry – Monster's Ball (2001) Berry made history as the first Black woman to win the Oscar for Best Actress for her raw, emotional performance. 2. Lupita Nyong'o – 12 Years a Slave (2013) Her heartbreaking debut earned her an Academy Award and launched a global career rooted in grace and power. 3. Viola Davis – Doubt (2008) Davis stunned with just one scene, earning an Oscar nomination and proving her unmatched dramatic presence. 4. Whoopi Goldberg – Ghost (1990) Goldberg won an Oscar for her comedic and heartfelt role, showing the power of blending humor with soul. 5. Angela Bassett – What's Love Got to Do with It (1993) Bassett's fierce portrayal of Tina Turner remains one of the most respected biopic performances ever. 6. Gabourey Sidibe – Precious (2009) Sidibe's debut role was vulnerable, raw, and unforgettable—earning her Oscar nods and instant cultural relevance. 7. Cynthia Erivo – Harriet (2019) Erivo embodied Harriet Tubman with strength and dignity, earning Oscar, Golden Globe, and Grammy nominations. 8. Danai Gurira – Black Panther (2018) As Okoye, she became a global symbol of power, loyalty, and Black female leadership on screen. 9. Tiffany Haddish – Girls Trip (2017) Haddish stole every scene and launched a comedy career off one unforgettable, meme-worthy performance. 10. Oprah Winfrey – The Color Purple (1985) Though known as a media mogul, Oprah's first major acting role earned her an Oscar nomination and deepened her legacy. 11. Taraji P. Henson – Hustle & Flow (2005) Her emotional performance and musical contribution ('It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp') helped the film win an Oscar. 12. Tessa Thompson – Dear White People (2014) Thompson brought sharp wit and emotional depth to a film that challenged race and identity in America. 13. Lashana Lynch – No Time To Die (2021) Lynch became the first Black female 007, breaking barriers in one of the world's biggest franchises. 14. Quvenzhané Wallis – Beasts of the Southern Wild (2012) At just 9 years old, she became the youngest Best Actress Oscar nominee ever. 15. Adepero Oduye – Pariah (2011) Her role as a queer Black teen in this indie film was quietly groundbreaking and deeply human. 16. Aja Naomi King – The Birth of a Nation (2016) King's performance brought grace and grit to a controversial but historically significant film. 17. Kiki Layne – If Beale Street Could Talk (2018) Layne delivered softness and strength in a poetic adaptation of Baldwin's work. 18. Saniyya Sidney – King Richard (2021) Sidney's portrayal of Venus Williams added depth and energy to one of 2021's most celebrated biopics. 19. Tia Nomore – Earth Mama (2023) With little acting experience, Nomore's raw, natural performance earned critical acclaim and spotlighted motherhood in crisis. 20. Teyonah Parris – Dear White People (2014) Parris held her own with charm and fire in a satire that helped redefine modern Black cinema.
Newsweek
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Diddy Trial Verdict: Celebrities React—'Sick to My Stomach'
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Celebrities are speaking out following Sean "Diddy" Combs' high-profile federal trial verdict on Wednesday. The rapper, 55, was acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering charges and was found guilty of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. Newsweek reached out to Combs' representative via email for comment on Thursday. The Context Combs got his start as an intern at Uptown Records, and he founded Bad Boy Records in the early 1990s. The label signed notable artists like French Montana, Machine Gun Kelly, Janelle Monáe and Cassie Ventura. The New York native is also a three-time Grammy Award winning rapper, and he appeared in films like Get Him to the Greek, Godzilla, Monster's Ball and Bad Boys II. Prior to his legal troubles, Forbes said Combs was "on a glide path to becoming a billionaire." In 2019, the outlet reported his net worth to be approximately $740 million. Sean "Diddy" Combs attends the 2022 Billboard Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 15, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (L) Aubrey O'Day attends the Creators Inc Art Week & Celebrity Fashion... Sean "Diddy" Combs attends the 2022 Billboard Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 15, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (L) Aubrey O'Day attends the Creators Inc Art Week & Celebrity Fashion Show at Hyde Beach at SLS South Beach on December 8, 2024 in Miami Beach, Florida. (R) Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson attends the BMF/STARZ – For Your Consideration 2024 on May 2, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. More Bryan Steffy/WireImage;;for STARZ What To Know In November 2023, Ventura—who dated Combs on-and-off from 2007 until 2018—filed a lawsuit against him, alleging that he raped, sex trafficked and physically abused her over a 10-year period. In total, 120 people accused the music mogul of sexual misconduct, the Associated Press reported, and in March 2024, his Los Angeles and Miami homes were raided by federal agents. Combs was arrested in New York City in September and charged with racketeering, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution. He has denied all accusations against him. What People Are Saying Ventura's laywer, Douglas H. Wigdor, said in a statement: "This entire criminal process started when our client Cassie Ventura had the courage to file her civil complaint in November 2023. Although the jury did not find Combs guilty of sex trafficking Cassie beyond a reasonable doubt, she paved the way for a jury to find him guilty of transportation to engage in prostitution. By coming forward with her experience, Cassie has left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and the fight for justice. We must repeat – with no reservation – that we believe and support our client who showed exemplary courage throughout this trial. She displayed unquestionable strength and brought attention to the realities of powerful men in our orbit and the misconduct that has persisted for decades without repercussion. This case proved that change is long overdue, and we will continue to fight on behalf of survivors." John Rich, one half of the country duo Big & Rich, wrote on X: "Wicked and perverted child abusers across America are celebrating the Sean Combs verdicts today. I'm sick to my stomach and can't stop gritting my teeth. I pray The Father exercises His judgement upon them beyond anything a court could ever do. Can I get an amen from the people of The Lord?" Kesha shared on X: "Cassie, I believe you. I love you. Your strength is a beacon for every survivor." Rosie O'Donnell posted to Instagram: "i guess a jury just never wants to believe that a woman stays because of power and coercion- wow - they just think women stay because what? money - fame - 'they love the abuse' - what a f***ing joke - this decision got me angry #cassie." Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, who often takes jabs at Diddy on social media, said on Instagram: "Diddy beat the Rico, that boy a bad man! he like the Gay John Gotti @50centaction." Danity Kane member Aubrey O'Day, an outspoken critic of her former mentor Combs, took to her Instagram Story, writing: "I am still unpacking the magnitude of it all. The cultural weight of this decision is immeasurable. It is heartbreaking to witness how many lives have been impacted by their experiences with Sean Combs—only for those stories to fall short in the eyes of a jury. I can only hope these jurors never have to watch someone they love endure what so many survivors have described." "My heart is with Cassie. A woman who could've had a life and career free of fear and control. A woman who told her truth in a courtroom, only to have the world dissect her credibility instead of her courage." "Let's be clear: the courtroom operates by the law, but that DOES NOT mean it delivers justice. Nor is it the best place to develop the moral compass this world so urgently needs. The pattern of behavior Sean Combs has shown us over the decades is not a mystery. It is a warning. And now, that pattern risks being reframed—and has now been legitimized by the system. This wasn't Bonnie and Clyde—this was control, coercion, and abuse - and we have to stop rewriting history and excuse the behavior and start normalizing accountability—no matter how powerful the person. That narrative is not just dishonest. It's dangerous." "Women, Nor men, Nor ANY ARTIST - are the property of those with the most wealth, fame & power. We are not disposable. 12 people on a jury will not be deciding that for us." What Happens Next Combs was denied bail by Judge Arun Subramanian while he awaits his sentencing. His sentencing date is currently set for October 3 this year.
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Diddy's ‘Monster's Ball' Inmate Costume Sold For Over $24,000
One of Sean 'Diddy' Combs' major film roles came in 2001 when he played inmate Lawrence Musgrove— Halle Berry's husband— in Monster's Ball. Amid his federal sex trafficking-racketeering trial, the costume from the film hit the auction block and was sold for $24,510. GWS Auctions, who oversaw the sale, noted that bidding began and ended on June 7. The ensemble, which consisted of a 'short sleeved white Hanes crew neck t-shirt, light grey crew neck sweatshirt with cut off sleeves, pair of Faded Glory blue jeans and pair of black canvas slip on shoes,' was a reported 'hot-ticket lot with 49 total bids.' The costume also comes with a production costumer's tag listing the items and scenes they appeared in. The official description read, 'This ensemble was worn by Sean (P. Diddy) Combs as he portrayed 'Lawrence Musgrove' in the 2001 romantic drama film, 'Monster's Ball.' The costume is worn by Combs during the beginning to middle of the film while in prison and meeting with his son and wife 'Leticia' (portrayed by Halle Berry) to say goodbye before being executed.' The costume was acquired from Star Wares of Los Angeles. A rep from GWS told TMZ an overseas collector spent $24,510 acquiring the ensemble. Meanwhile, his request for a mistrial was denied for a second time. Defense attorneys who previously alleged 'prosecutorial misconduct' in a motion to U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian, made his ruling Tuesday (June 10). The letter claimed 'the government has presented testimony that it knew or should have known was materially false related to its allegation that Mr. Combs dangled Bryana Bongolan from the balcony of Casandra 'Cassie' Ventura's apartment in September 2016.' Both Bongolan and Ventura have testified about the alleged incident. Combs' defense argued, 'The incident, as alleged, is disturbing and powerful evidence, and the government has used it to depict Mr. Combs in an extremely negative light, as an angry and dangerous man who terrified Ms. Ventura and her friends.' They also labeled Ventura's account of the alleged ordeal as 'demonstrably false.' More from Sean "Diddy" Combs Is Currently Reading This Book While On Trial Diddy's Ex-GF Shares Recording Of Him Asking For Friendship After Cassie Lawsuit Diddy Allegedly Continued "Freak-Offs" After Homeland Security Raided His Homes
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Sean 'Diddy' Combs Is Currently Reading This Book While On Trial
If you're wondering what Sean 'Diddy' Combs is reading to keep his mind clear as he faces sex trafficking and racketeering charges, journalist Emilie Hagen has the answer. Attending the trial as a court reporter, Hagen took to her Instagram page Thursday to reveal that she 'spoke to Diddy' in the courtroom as he walked in with a book and took his seat with the defense. As he turned around to acknowledge the room, Hagen asked what he was reading, and he proceeded to hold up the tome for the room to see. 'He grabs the book and then he shows it to me then shows it to everyone else,' she shared. 'It was The Magic Of Believing, a book about how to use the power of the mind to tap into reality, to help manifest different thoughts and actions. 'It's like a self-help book that I would read,' she added. In a follow-up post, Hagen shared her belief that Diddy reading the book, which is properly titled The Magic Of Believing: The Classic Guide To Unlocking The Power of Your Mind, is an indication that he's trying to 'manifest his verdict.' If you're curious enough, you can pick up a copy via Amazon here. Since his September 2024 arrest, Combs has been jailed at Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center, where he'll remain throughout his trial, which officially began in early May. The Bad Boy Records founder has denied all charges against him. If found guilty, he could face 15 years to life in prison. More from Diddy's Ex-GF Shares Recording Of Him Asking For Friendship After Cassie Lawsuit Diddy's 'Monster's Ball' Inmate Costume Sold For Over $24,000 Diddy Allegedly Continued "Freak-Offs" After Homeland Security Raided His Homes
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Yahoo
Judge Greg Mathis Hypothetically Sentences Sean 'Diddy' Combs Based On Trial So Far
Judge Greg Mathis and son Amir continue to dissect the Sean 'Diddy' Combs sex trafficking trial on their Mathis Verdict podcast, where Mathis recently offered up his hypothetical sentencing of the fallen mogul based on what has been presented in court thus far. The television veteran is first sure to acknowledge that the prosecution has yet to prove without a doubt the sex trafficking and racketeering charges. However, he does believe they have proven Combs guilty of the third charge, which is transportation to engage in prostitution. 'Yes, that is a federal crime. A very low-level federal crime, which he should be guilty of and sentenced to less than one year. On the other hand, you got some state crimes and the statute of limitations has expired, and that's why they aren't charging him in state court.' Judge Mathis then hypothesized that the state charges were valid, and offered his thoughts on how Diddy would be sentenced under those circumstances. 'Let me say what I think has been proven,' Mathis says in the clip. 'The things I've heard, the testimony, the video I've observed, I'm convinced that he was involved in at least two cases of assault and battery against women.' He later adds that he believes Diddy was involved in Kid Cudi's car being set ablaze, to which Cudi testified in court. 'To that extent, I'd have to give him a couple or a few years,' Mathis determined. And on the multiple assaults and batteries against women, I'd have to give him a few more on that. If you want to sum it up, If it were a state crime, Judge Mathis has observed the evidence and the testimony and the transcripts. What would I give him? Five to ten.' 'Which is not letting him off on anything,' Mathis' son, Amir, added. 'That's a tough sentence, In my opinion.' Check out the clip below. More from Sean "Diddy" Combs Is Currently Reading This Book While On Trial Diddy's Ex-GF Shares Recording Of Him Asking For Friendship After Cassie Lawsuit Diddy's 'Monster's Ball' Inmate Costume Sold For Over $24,000
