Waters, Ethel
1896-1977 · Contribution: 1933-1962
Singer & Actress
First African American to star in her own television show in 1939; first African American woman nominated for a Primetime Emmy; second African American ever nominated for an Academy Award
Portraits are AI-generated interpretations, not photographs.
Quick facts
- Born
- 1896
- Active since
- 1917
- Category
- Arts, Music & Entertainment Tech
- Best known for
- First Black star of her own TV showFirst Black woman Emmy nomineeBroadway equal-billing pioneer
Impact on the world
Waters strung together a remarkable series of firsts across records, Broadway, film, and television, insisting on equal standing at each step. She broke barriers in every medium she entered.
Sources
- NMAAHC (Ethel Waters)
3 more sources and references are available to members.
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