Screen Queens: Celebrating the Original Black Beauty Icons on the Small Screen

Black beauty on television has long been a site of both struggle and celebration. For decades, Black women were either invisible on screen or reduced to narrow, often harmful stereotypes. But from the elegant poise of trailblazers like Diahann Carroll in Julia to the unapologetic realness of Issa Rae in Insecure, Black actresses have continually challenged and expanded what beauty means on TV.

Their presence reshapes cultural standards, showing that Black beauty is not monolithic but rich, diverse, and evolving. Take Whitley Gilbert from A Different World—a character who unapologetically owned her style and beauty with grace and confidence, refusing to downplay her polished, sophisticated aesthetic. Or Toni Childs from Girlfriends, who knew she was everyone’s type and played that power with sleek style and fearless ambition.

Whether through natural hair, bold fashion, or complex character portrayals, these screen queens redefine beauty by simply being seen — and being celebrated — in all their multifaceted glory.

This visual roundup honors a handful of these incredible women, whose on-screen style, grace, and power have made lasting marks on television history and inspire audiences worldwide.