Black voice actresses are some of the most talented people around.
From kid-friendly to adult-centric, these actresses have shown they have what it takes to voice iconic characters for every generation.
So, let’s put faces to these outstanding talents!
Uzo Aduba
You probably know Uzo Aduba from Orange is the New Black or Mrs. America.
She has won Emmy Awards for both comedic and dramatic roles.
However, the actress is also the voice behind major characters in animations like Lightyear, My Little Pony: The Movie, and Steven Universe.
It’s exciting to think of which animated character Aduba will voice next.
Marsai Martin
At 18, Marsai Martin is already among the most gifted Black voice actresses.
Martin had an affinity for acting from when she was 2, and she never looked back.
The voice actress is responsible for your favorite characters in movies and TV shows like:
- Nina
- Goldie & Bear
- The Mr. Peabody and Sherman Show
She also starred in Black-ish as the youngest daughter.
Martin has a gift for humor.
Regina King
You might know Regina King from series like American Crime and Watchmen.
However, the actress is also the voice behind some of the most iconic animated Black characters: Huey and Riley Freeman in The Boondocks.
The Boondocks offered a refreshing look at Black families, culture, social classes, and lifestyles without stereotypes.
We haven’t had a show quite like The Boondocks since, and Regina King’s voice-acting prowess is a primary reason why it can’t be duplicated.
King is an obvious reason why Black women are the best voice actresses working today.
Cree Summer
Cree Summer was one of the best things about the popular 90s sitcom, A Different World.
Since then, Summer has voiced some of the most iconic animated characters like:
- Susie Carmichael (Rugrats)
- Elmyra Duff (Tiny Toon Adventures)
- Cristy (Care Bears Movie II: A New Generation)
- Alonce (Bratz)
Summer has a distinct voice that makes her animated characters iconic, and that’s probably why she’s always landing new voice-acting roles.
Aisha Tyler
Aisha Tyler is a TV darling.
She has starred in everything from CSI: Crime Scene Investigation to Ghost Whisperer.
However, voice acting is where she shines.
Tyler lends her voice to the character of Lana Kane in Archer, a formidable Black spy who kicks butt.
Tyler has received multiple nominations and awards for her powerful voice acting for her role.
She has also voiced characters in video games like:
- Watch Dogs
- Gears of War 3
- Halo: Reach
Estelle
Yes, the gifted singer is also among the most gifted voice actresses.
After releasing the hit song American Boy, the singer joined the cast of Steven Universe.
Between 2013 and 2020, Estelle voiced Garnett in the Steven Universe animated TV show and movies.
She has also lent her voice to characters in We Bare Bears and OK KO! Let’s Be Heroes.
Kids love Estelle’s characters, and we agree.
Kyla Pratt
Remember Kyla Pratt?
She was the child star of films like Dr. Dolittle (and all its sequels) and Fat Albert.
Pratt has also leaned into her voice-acting skills, voicing Penny Proud in Disney’s The Proud Family.
The actress has also provided the voice of Allison in Duncanville.
Black Voice Actresses Rule
These Black voice actresses show that they can be diverse and offer a distinct voice you can’t get from other actresses.
Thanks to them, we have related to characters in shows like The Boondocks and Rugrats.
