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3w ago

Halle Berry Reflects on Oscars' Ongoing Failure to Recognize Black Actresses

Berry, still the only Black woman to win Best Actress, questions the systemic barriers in Hollywood as Cynthia Erivo's second nomination ends without a win.

Halle Berry poses on the red carpet during the Oscars arrivals at the 97th Academy Awards in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, U.S., March 2, 2025. REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni
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Overview

  • Halle Berry remains the only Black woman to have won the Best Actress Oscar, a milestone achieved in 2002 for her role in 'Monster's Ball.'
  • Cynthia Erivo's recent nomination for 'Wicked' marked the first time a Black woman has been nominated twice in the category, but she did not win.
  • The Apple TV+ documentary 'Number One on the Call Sheet' explores the lack of recognition for Black women in leading roles, featuring reflections from Berry, Whoopi Goldberg, and Taraji P. Henson.
  • Berry has expressed doubt that her historic win led to meaningful change, citing systemic inequities in Hollywood and the Oscars' failure to evolve.
  • Black actresses are more frequently recognized in supporting roles, with 11 wins in that category, underscoring the industry's reluctance to cast them as leads.