Viola Davis Fences 2017

Viola’s consistent work since her Juilliard graduation is testament to her talent. Although it is acknowledged that there are few roles available for actresses, from the perspective of a woman of color, the availability of roles is limited. Viola, however, never let it stand in her way. Viola portrays a prison pastor by the name of Ellen in the film “Madea Goes to Jail.” The character has a history of being a drug addict and a prostitute, but she eventually converted to Christianity and changed her life. She guides incarcerated women to forge a life free from criminal activity.

Honorable Mention—In 1998, she appeared off-Broadway in an adaptation of William Shakespeare’s “Pericles, Prince of Tyre.” Viola played three roles, one of which was part of Bawd. She is a madam of a brothel.

To read more about other Oscar-winning actresses playing characters working in the sex trade industry, please continue perusing Oscar Hookers