Viola Davis celebrates her 59th birthday, with a career that has not only redefined Hollywood but also inspired countless individuals around the globe. With her extraordinary talent and hard work, Davis has earned a place among the most respected and accomplished actors of our time.
Viola Davis’s journey in the entertainment industry is marked by her ability to bring depth, authenticity, and power to every role she inhabits. As the first African-American woman to achieve the “Triple Crown of Acting”—winning an Oscar, an Emmy, and a Tony—Davis has proven that she is a force to be reckoned with. Her work is a masterclass in the craft of acting, consistently leaving both audiences and critics in awe.
We take a closer look at Viola Davis’s top 10 most iconic roles that have shaped her career in the world of film and television.
1. Annalise Keating in How to Get Away with Murder (2014-2020)
Viola Davis broke new ground with her portrayal of Annalise Keating, a formidable defense attorney and law professor. This role earned her an Emmy Award, making her the first African-American woman to win the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. Davis’s performance was lauded for its complexity and raw emotion, cementing Annalise Keating as one of television’s most memorable characters.
2. Aibileen Clark in The Help (2011)
In The Help, Davis played Aibileen Clark, a black maid in 1960s Mississippi who bravely shares her story of racial injustice. Her powerful performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress and highlighted the everyday struggles and quiet strength of black women during the civil rights era.
3. Rose Maxson in Fences (2016)
Davis won her first Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Rose Maxson in Fences, a film adaptation of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play. Starring opposite Denzel Washington, Davis delivered a heart-wrenching portrayal of a woman grappling with betrayal and sacrifice, bringing depth and humanity to the character.
4. Veronica Rawlings in Widows (2018)
In Widows, Davis played Veronica Rawlings, a widow who takes control of her destiny after her husband’s death. This role showcased Davis’s ability to portray strength and vulnerability simultaneously, as her character navigated grief while orchestrating a daring heist. Her performance was praised for its intensity and emotional resonance.
5. Ma Rainey in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020)
Davis transformed into the legendary blues singer Ma Rainey in this adaptation of August Wilson’s play. Her portrayal captured the fierce spirit and commanding presence of Ma Rainey, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The role was a testament to Davis’s versatility and commitment to bringing historical figures to life with authenticity.
6. Delia Shiraz in The Shrink Is In (2001)
In one of her earlier roles, Davis played Delia Shiraz, a psychiatrist dealing with her own personal issues in this romantic comedy. Though a smaller part, it showcased her ability to bring depth to even the most understated roles, setting the stage for her future successes.
7. Mrs. Miller in Doubt (2008)
Davis’s brief but unforgettable role as Mrs. Miller in Doubt earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. In just a single scene, Davis conveyed a profound mix of anguish, fear, and resilience, leaving a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike.
8. Susie Brown in Get On Up (2014)
In Get On Up, the biopic of James Brown, Davis portrayed Susie Brown, the singer’s mother. Her performance added emotional weight to the film, highlighting the troubled relationship between mother and son. Davis’s portrayal was noted for its subtlety and emotional depth, even in a supporting role.
9. Nancy Birch in Prisoners (2013)
As Nancy Birch, a mother desperately searching for her missing daughter in Prisoners, Davis delivered a performance that was both gripping and heartbreaking. Her portrayal captured the sheer desperation and fear of a parent in an unimaginable situation, adding to the film’s intense atmosphere.
10. Eva May in Antwone Fisher (2002)
In Antwone Fisher, Davis played Eva May, the biological mother of the titular character. Though her screen time was limited, Davis’s performance left a profound impact, providing a critical emotional anchor for the film’s exploration of trauma and forgiveness.
Viola Davis’s illustrious career is a testament to her unmatched talent and dedication to her craft. Each role she takes on is a gift to the audience, offering a glimpse into the myriad experiences and emotions of the human condition. As she celebrates her 59th birthday, we look forward to the many more powerful performances she has yet to deliver.
