Jenifer Lewis, American actress

Jenifer Jeanette Lewis, born on January 25, 1957, is a multifaceted American talent, celebrated as a dynamic actress, powerful singer, gifted comedian, and dedicated activist. Her illustrious career, spanning several decades, has left an indelible mark across Broadway, film, and television, establishing her as one of Hollywood's most versatile and beloved figures.

Early Career: Broadway to Back-up Vocals

Lewis initiated her professional journey on the prestigious stages of Broadway musicals, where she honed her impressive vocal abilities and commanding stage presence. This foundational experience in live theater showcased her raw talent and set the stage for her subsequent success. A pivotal point in her early career included her impactful work as a back-up singer for the iconic Bette Midler, a collaboration that further refined her performance skills and exposed her to wider audiences before her definitive breakthrough into cinematic roles. Her transition to the big screen saw her make memorable appearances in hit films such as the heartwarming drama Beaches (1988) and the popular musical comedy Sister Act (1992), roles that quickly established her as a formidable presence in Hollywood.

"The Mother of Black Hollywood" and Iconic Film Roles

Jenifer Lewis has become unofficially, yet affectionately, known as "The Mother of Black Hollywood," a title that perfectly encapsulates her profound influence and frequent portrayal of strong, matriarchal figures across numerous films and television series. This well-earned moniker is also the evocative title of her acclaimed memoir, reflecting her significant cultural impact and consistent embodiment of resilient and often comedic maternal characters. Her extensive filmography is replete with iconic "mother" roles, including:

Beyond these powerful maternal roles, Lewis also delivered a compelling performance in The Temptations miniseries (1998), further showcasing her dramatic range. Her diverse film contributions also include roles in gritty historical dramas like Dead Presidents (1995), the critically acclaimed survival drama Cast Away (2000), and Clint Eastwood's supernatural thriller Hereafter (2010), demonstrating her versatility across genres.

Voice Acting Contributions

Adding another dimension to her expansive career, Lewis has lent her distinctive voice to beloved animated characters. She is widely recognized for her role as the wise and mystical Mama Odie in Disney's enchanting animated feature The Princess and the Frog (2009), a character lauded for her unique wisdom and memorable songs. She also voices the sassy and vibrant Flo in Pixar's highly successful Cars film series, bringing a lively personality to the classic diner owner.

Television Highlights and Critical Acclaim

On television, Jenifer Lewis has maintained a strong and consistent presence. She starred as Lana Hawkins in Lifetime's popular medical drama Strong Medicine, a role she held for six seasons from 2000 to 2006, where her character was a vital part of the show's ensemble. Lewis also captivated audiences with recurring roles on several iconic sitcoms, including the HBCU-focused A Different World, the widely popular The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and the beloved comedy Girlfriends, where her memorable guest appearances often stole the scene.

Since 2014, Lewis has garnered widespread acclaim and a new generation of fans for her portrayal of Ruby Johnson in the hit ABC comedy series Black-ish. Her portrayal of the outspoken, often over-the-top, yet deeply loving grandmother has resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, earning her two prestigious Critics' Choice Television Award nominations for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. This role has solidified her status as a comedic tour-de-force and a beloved fixture in contemporary television.

Frequently Asked Questions about Jenifer Lewis

Who is Jenifer Lewis?
Jenifer Lewis is a highly acclaimed American actress, singer, comedian, and activist, renowned for her extensive work across Broadway, film, and television since the late 1980s.
Why is Jenifer Lewis known as "The Mother of Black Hollywood"?
She earned the affectionate nickname "The Mother of Black Hollywood" due to her frequent and iconic portrayals of strong, matriarchal figures in numerous film and television productions. This title is also the name of her popular memoir, highlighting her significant cultural impact.
What are some of Jenifer Lewis's most famous film roles?
Jenifer Lewis is celebrated for her roles in films such as Beaches, Sister Act, What's Love Got to Do With It, Poetic Justice, The Preacher's Wife, the Think Like a Man series, and The Wedding Ringer. She is particularly known for her strong "mother" characters.
What animated characters has Jenifer Lewis voiced?
Jenifer Lewis provided the voice for the beloved character Mama Odie in Disney's The Princess and the Frog and the character Flo in Pixar's Cars film series.
What prominent television shows has Jenifer Lewis starred in?
On television, Jenifer Lewis starred as Lana Hawkins in the medical drama Strong Medicine and has garnered significant acclaim for her role as Ruby Johnson in the ABC comedy series Black-ish. She also had recurring roles on classic sitcoms like A Different World, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Girlfriends.