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Afro-Latina Actresses Who Are Redefining the Industry
Afro-Latina actresses are redefining what it means to be leading with female power. These women are creating shifts in an industry that has often overlooked their incredible talent. From superheroes to stereotype shatterers, these actresses are leaving a mark worldwide.
Rosario Dawson
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Rosario Dawson, a true New Yorker with Puerto Rican and Cuban-American roots, embodies the spirit of multitalented excellence. From her debut in the controversial drama Kids at the age of 16 to her role as Jane Ramos on Jane the Virgin, Dawson has proven to be a chameleon in the entertainment industry.
Whether it’s making us laugh in “Clerks 2,” singing her heart out in the musical Rent, or lending her voice to Batgirl in the LEGO Batman movie, Dawson’s versatility knows no bounds. Beyond the glitz and glamour, she is a dedicated activist, using her platform to encourage Latino voter turnout and supporting the #TimesUp movement. Currently starring in the Star Wars mini series Ahsoka, Dawson continues to showcase her boundless talent.
Tessa Thompson
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Tessa Thompson, an Afro-Panamanian actress with European and Mexican heritage, has taken Hollywood by storm in just a few short years. From her role as the acerbic Samantha White in “Dear White People” to the kick-ass Valkyrie in Marvel’s “Thor: Ragnarok,” Thompson’s characters always carry a hint of political activism.
Breaking barriers, she redefined the character of Valkyrie, originally written as a white woman in the comics. Thompson also starred in the sci-fi thriller “Annihilation,” the boxing sequels of “Creed,” and in the futuristic world of “Westworld.” With each role, she continues to inspire a new generation.
Zoe Saldaña
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Zoe Saldaña, the half-Dominican, half-Puerto Rican actor, has come a long way from her days as the fiery Eva Rodriguez in Center Stage. A dancer turned Hollywood star, Saldaña has left an indelible mark on blockbuster franchises like Star Trek and Guardians of the Galaxy. Covered in makeup for roles like Neytiri in “Avatar” and the rebel Gamora, Saldaña has successfully navigated characters of African-American and Latina origins.
She recently reprised her role as Gamora in “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. III” and is set to return to Pandora for three additional “Avatar” sequels. With her undeniable talent and versatility, Saldaña continues to be a leading lady representing Latinos in entertainment.
MJ Rodriguez
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MJ Rodriguez, a trans actress with African-American and Puerto Rican roots, emerged in 2018 with her breathtaking performance as Blanca Rodriguez-Evangelista in the series Pose. Beyond the screen, Rodriguez showcases her leadership qualities and becomes a voice of struggle, echoing beyond the realms of the show.
Born in New Jersey, Rodriguez describes herself as an entrepreneur with a relentless pursuit of a career that is ambitious and risky. Her portrayal of a true mother in the Evangelista house not only captivated audiences but also sent a powerful message about resilience and hope.
In a 2020 interview with Vogue, Rodriguez emphasized the importance of fighting for peace and justice, even in the face of violence.
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