Viola Davis crowned highest-grossing black actress in Hollywood

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Viola Davis has just rewritten the Hollywood record books. Her films have now grossed over $15 billion worldwide, which is a jaw-dropping R270 billion.

This makes her the highest-grossing Black film actress in history.

THE TALENTED VIOLA DAVIS

Viola Davis’s journey began far from the glitz of Hollywood, as she was born in South Carolina and raised in poverty.

She once said, “The only thing that separates women of colour from anyone else is opportunity”, according to Time Magazine.

Her filmography is a greatest hits collection. Viola Davis brings to life fierce government official Amanda Waller in the Suicide Squad franchise and heartfelt maid Aibileen in The Help.

Suicide Squad alone pulled in over R13.4 billion worldwide. The Woman King, where she led a cast of African warriors, resonated deeply with African audiences and grossed more than R9.7 billion globally.

VIOLA DAVIS AND HER EGOT STATUS

The actress also made history as the first Black actress to achieve the “Triple Crown of Acting”—winning an Oscar, an Emmy, and a Tony.

She’s also one of the rare few to land the EGOT, adding a Grammy to her trophy cabinet.

“I became an artist, and thank God I did, because we are the only ones who can tell our stories,” she once said.

Her influence stretches beyond the silver screen, as Viola Davis uses her platform to champion diversity and representation.

BLACK STORIES IN HOLLYWOOD

She’s spoken out about the need for authentic Black stories in Hollywood. “What I want to be known for is being an artist who does not shy away from the truth”.

Viola Davis’s rise feels personal; her roles in films like The Woman King connect directly to African history and culture.

She’s proof that talent, when given a stage, can inspire millions. “I stand on the shoulders of those who came before me,” Davis has said, echoing the spirit of ubuntu that resonates here.

As the world celebrates her R270 billion milestone, Viola Davis remains humble. “Success is not about the destination; it’s about the journey,” she reminds us.