Cynthia Erivo and Black Actresses Break Hollywood Limits with New Roles

Black actresses like Cynthia Erivo and Zendaya are breaking barriers in Hollywood. Their new roles show that diverse stories are wanted by audiences.
By Newsroom | Entertainment, Hollywood |

The Struggle for Recognition

Hollywood's movie and TV screens have often not shown the full range of human experience. For a long time, many talented Black actresses found it hard to get roles that truly showcased their skills. This meant that stories that were vital and true to many people's lives were not being told. However, actresses like Cynthia Erivo, Zendaya, and Brandy have stepped forward, taking on challenging parts that have helped change what audiences expect and what Hollywood offers. Their work is not just about acting; it's about opening doors for others and proving that diverse stories are powerful and popular.

Breaking Down Walls Through Roles

The careers of several Black actresses highlight a shift in Hollywood, with notable performances challenging existing norms. Cynthia Erivo took on the role of Elphaba in a film adaptation, a part many thought she wouldn't be considered for. This performance was not just a display of acting talent but also a statement, as she embraced her natural hair and cultural identity. Erivo has spoken about understanding the feeling of being an outsider, a sentiment that resonates with audiences who share similar experiences. Her dedication to the role included intense physical and vocal training, starting as early as 2 a.m. to manage demanding schedules.

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How Cynthia Erivo & More Black Actresses Broke Barriers in Hollywood - 1

Other actresses have also made significant impacts:

  • Zendaya has shown her range, moving from early success on the Disney Channel to more complex and demanding roles. Her work in films like "Challengers" has drawn attention.

  • Brandy portrayed Cinderella, a role where she also made a point of using her natural hair, bringing her cultural identity to the forefront.

  • Halle Bailey, as Ariel in the live-action "The Little Mermaid," connected deeply with the character's search for self. She spoke about how important seeing herself represented would have been for her own confidence as a child. Her commitment to the role included early morning gym sessions and extensive stunt practice.

  • Tessa Thompson has spoken about the journey of self-acceptance and comfort in her own skin, especially when being the only one of her kind in a room. She noted that the characters she plays often reflect this personal journey, aiming for authenticity and self-defined beauty.

Defining Success Beyond Expectations

The achievements of these actresses go beyond critical acclaim. Cynthia Erivo has made history by becoming the first Black woman to receive two Golden Globe nominations in the lead actress category for comedy or musical films. This recognition is significant in a field where Black women have historically been underrepresented.

How Cynthia Erivo & More Black Actresses Broke Barriers in Hollywood - 2

The journey for these actresses has involved more than just acting talent; it has also required resilience and a commitment to authentic representation.

"I think I've had some time to reckon with the skin I'm in and to be comfortable walking into a room and being the only one," - Tessa Thompson on self-acceptance and representation.

"What I wanted for Elphaba was that when she walks into a room, the skin she's in is not new to her," - Cynthia Erivo on bringing authentic identity to a role.

"I knew that this was so great for the world to see, especially Black people," - Brandy on the importance of her role as Cinderella.

"Her sense of longing, her searching for herself, was something that I could resonate with," - Halle Bailey on connecting with her character Ariel.

A Broader Impact

The success of actresses like Erivo, Zendaya, Brandy, Halle Bailey, and Tessa Thompson is helping to redefine Hollywood. By taking on challenging and diverse roles, they are not only advancing their own careers but also paving the way for future generations of Black actresses. Their willingness to embrace their identities and tell their stories contributes to a more inclusive and representative entertainment industry. This shift suggests that audiences are ready for and actively seeking out diverse narratives.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How are Black actresses like Cynthia Erivo changing Hollywood?
Actresses such as Cynthia Erivo, Zendaya, and Brandy are taking on difficult roles that were often not given to Black women before. This helps show that stories from different backgrounds are important and popular with viewers.
Q: What does Cynthia Erivo's Golden Globe nomination mean?
Cynthia Erivo became the first Black woman to get two Golden Globe nominations for lead actress in a comedy or musical film. This is a big step because Black women have not been seen much in these award categories before.
Q: Why is it important for actresses to play roles that show their real identity?
Actresses like Cynthia Erivo and Brandy have made sure to show their natural hair in roles like Elphaba and Cinderella. They say it is important for them and for audiences to see their true selves and cultural identity on screen.
Q: How do actresses like Halle Bailey and Tessa Thompson feel about their roles?
Halle Bailey felt a strong connection to Ariel in 'The Little Mermaid' because she searched for herself, and she knows how important seeing herself would have been as a child. Tessa Thompson talks about being comfortable with herself, even when she is the only Black person in a room, and how her characters often show this journey.
Q: What is the overall effect of these actresses' success?
The success of these Black actresses is opening doors for others and helping to make Hollywood more inclusive. By taking on diverse roles, they are proving that audiences want to see a wider range of stories and people on screen.