It’s been 25 years since Kerry Washington’s film debut in Our Song, and since then, she has proven her talent across all genres, from comedic cult classic movies to the simmering drama of long-running TV favorites. Washington has blazed her iconic trail in front of the camera, refusing to be typecast and rejecting the stereotypes that continue to be all too common in traditional Hollywood projects.
Washington has embodied the role of strong Black women from all walks of life on both the big and small screen, racking up numerous awards and nominations along the way. From keeping us on the edge of our seats as Olivia Pope in Shonda Rhimes’ Scandal to her more recent acclaimed work with Tyler Perry in The Six Triple Eight, the actress has shown Hollywood time and time again that Black women are the stars of the show.
Celebrate Washington’s most meaningful depictions of Black women on the screen with these seven iconic roles.
The Six Triple Eight (2024)
In her latest role, Washington embodies the role of Major Charity Adams, an American hero who made history as a leader in World War II’s only overseas unit of women of color. The battalion was tasked with sorting over 17 million pieces of mail, which they did in record time. Washington captured Major Adams’ strength and determination in this NAACP Image Award-winning movie.
Our Song (2000)
In her movie debut, Washington proved her star power as Lanisha, a Brooklyn teen who navigates her evolution into girlhood with her two best friends during one hot summer inside the Crown Heights Projects. Washington drew praise from The New York Times for her honest and emotional performance in this cult classic.
Ray (2004)
The Oscar-winning Ray Charles biopic had a stellar cast, including Washington, who plays Charles’s wife, Della Bea. As it pulled back the curtain on the soul singer’s struggle with fame, fortune and infidelity, Washington plays Della with a sense of humanity and integrity as she leans into the intimate struggle of motherhood and marriage.
Scandal (2012-2018)
Over seven seasons, Washington took center stage as Olivia Pope, a crisis PR mastermind who carves her own path after working in the nation’s highest office. During its run, Washington was nominated for two Primetime Emmy Awards as she brought one of the most powerful female characters in the United States to life.
Confirmation (2016)
Washington took a short break from Scandal to bring a real one to life. She plays Anita Hill in her most vulnerable and powerful moment. The real-life lawyer and educator testified against Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas and shone a national light on sexual harassment. The actress portrayed Hill with dignity under pressure, receiving nominations for both Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe Awards for her role.
Little Fires Everywhere (2020)
In this book-to-screen adaptation, Washington plays Mia Warren, a mother who heats up an intense custody controversy after arriving in the small town of Shaker Heights, Ohio. The show earned plenty of recognition from the Emmy Awards, and Washington herself was celebrated for her rendition of a woman who takes her fate (and secrets) into her own hands.
Unprisoned (2023-2024)
Washington plays Paige Alexander in this comedy about a single mother trying to adjust to her new home life with her teen son and newly freed father living under one roof. The actress gave an authentically funny twist to her role as a lead relationship therapist, and the show earned seven NAACP Image Award nominations during its two-season run.
