Viola Davis: 5 moments that shaped a Hollywood powerhouse
What's the story
Viola Davis's journey from a small-town girl to an acclaimed actor is nothing short of inspiring. Her path to stardom was marked by several key moments that shaped her career and personal growth. From humble beginnings, Davis overcame numerous challenges to become one of the most respected voices in Hollywood. Here are five pivotal moments that defined her journey and helped her achieve success.
#1
Early theater experiences
Davis's passion for acting was ignited during her early theater experiences. She attended Rhode Island College, where she honed her craft and developed a deep appreciation for the art of performance. These formative years laid the foundation for her future success, allowing her to explore diverse roles and understand the nuances of storytelling.
#2
Breakthrough role in 'Doubt'
Davis's breakthrough role came in the 2008 film Doubt, where she starred alongside Meryl Streep and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Her performance as a mother dealing with an accusation against a priest earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. This moment not only showcased her incredible talent but also opened doors to more significant opportunities in Hollywood.
#3
Winning an Emmy Award
In 2015, Davis made history by becoming the first African American woman to win an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role in How to Get Away with Murder. Her acceptance speech was powerful as she spoke about representation and the importance of diverse voices in television.
#4
Producing 'The Woman King'
In 2022, Davis produced and starred in The Woman King, a historical epic inspired by true events. The film highlighted the strength and resilience of women warriors from Africa's past. It was a significant step for Davis as she took on both creative control and acting responsibilities, further establishing herself as a force behind the camera.
#5
Advocacy for diversity and inclusion
Throughout her career, Davis has been an advocate for diversity and inclusion within the entertainment industry. She has spoken out about the need for more authentic representation on screen and behind-the-scenes roles for people of color. Her efforts have sparked conversations about systemic change within Hollywood's structures.