Viola Davis Fences 2017

Viola Davis as Rose Lee Maxson in Fences
Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role 2017

Viola Davis Fences 2017
Viola Davis Fences 2017

SEX WORKER ROLE

Pastor Ellen in Madea Goes to Jail 2009

Character Is A Former Prostitute

Viola Davis in Madea Goes to Jail 2009
Viola Davis in Madea Goes to Jail 2009

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.


Watch clip of Viola Davis in Madea Goes to Jail

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

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