Viola Davis is a Hollywood icon whose career in the entertainment industry spans decades and multiple genres. The Academy Award-winning actress has a long list of critically-acclaimed films and television shows that she has starred in or produced. Davis has also made her mark by advocating for racial equality, gender equality, and other social issues. In 2023, she continues to be an inspiration to many people around the world.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Viola Davis was born in St. Matthews, South Carolina in 1965. She moved to Rhode Island when she was a young girl and attended Rhode Island College, where she earned a BFA in theater. After college, Davis moved to New York City to pursue her acting career. She made her Broadway debut in 1996 in the play Seven Guitars, and since then she has appeared in more than a dozen Broadway productions.
Davis made her film debut in 2002 in the movie Antwone Fisher. Since then, she has earned acclaim for her performances in films such as Doubt (2008), The Help (2011), Fences (2016), and Widows (2018). In 2017, she became the first African-American actress to win an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in Fences.
Television Success
In addition to her success in film, Davis has also starred in many popular television shows. She had a recurring role on the series Law & Order: SVU from 2002 to 2008. In 2008, she also began playing the lead role in the ABC drama How To Get Away With Murder. She has won two Emmy Awards for her work on the show, making her the first African-American actress to win an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.
Advocacy and Other Projects
In addition to her acting career, Davis is an advocate for racial equality and gender equality. She is a vocal supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement, and she has spoken out about the lack of diversity in Hollywood. She is also a co-founder of the production company JuVee Productions, which produces films, television shows, and other media projects with a focus on stories about people of color.
Davis also works with a number of charities, including the Hunger Project and the Children's Defense Fund. In 2023, she continues to be an outspoken advocate for social justice and an inspiration to many people around the world.
A Lasting Legacy
Viola Davis has become one of the most respected and recognizable faces in Hollywood. Her work in film, television, and advocacy has earned her numerous awards and accolades. In 2023, she continues to be a role model to many and a shining example of what one person can do to make a difference in the world.
