Viola Davis Movies and TV Shows highlight her extraordinary talent and range as one of the most acclaimed actresses of her generation. Davis first captured global attention for her powerful performance in the film Doubt, where her portrayal of a mother confronting a priest in a tense moral dilemma earned her an Academy Award nomination.
On television, Viola Davis became a household name as the lead in How to Get Away with Murder, where she portrayed Annalise Keating, a brilliant, tough, and complex law professor. Her groundbreaking role made history when she became the first African American woman to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.
Davis’s film career includes stunning performances in The Help, Fences, and Widows, with each role showcasing her unmatched ability to bring deep emotional intensity and authenticity to the screen. Her body of work in movies and TV shows has cemented her as a true acting legend.
Viola Davis Biography/Wiki
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Viola Davis |
| Date of Birth | August 11, 1965 |
| Birthplace | Saint Matthews, South Carolina, USA |
| Education | Graduated from Rhode Island College (1988), Juilliard School (1994) |
| Occupation | Actress, Producer |
| Years Active | 1996–Present |
| Awards | EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony), over 120 awards including a Tony for King Hedley II, Oscar for Fences, Emmy for How to Get Away with Murder |
| Notable Roles | How to Get Away with Murder, The Help, Fences, Widows, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom |
| Spouse | Julius Tennon |
| Children | Genesis Tennon (adopted) |
| Net Worth (2025) | $25 million |
| Philanthropy | Advocate for racial and gender equality in Hollywood, supports education and children’s rights |
| Company | Co-founder of JuVee Productions with husband Julius Tennon, focused on diverse and inclusive content |
| Awards and Recognition | Named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2012 and 2017. Winner of Triple Crown of Acting (Oscar, Emmy, Tony) |
Who is Viola Davis?
Viola Davis is an acclaimed American actress and producer, widely regarded for her powerful performances in film and television. Born on August 11, 1965, in Saint Matthews, South Carolina, Davis overcame a challenging childhood and became one of Hollywood’s most respected figures. She is best known for her roles in The Help, Fences, and the TV series How to Get Away with Murder.
Davis made history as the first African-American woman to win the Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role in How to Get Away with Murder. Her work has earned her an EGOT, the prestigious distinction of having won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award.
Davis also co-founded JuVee Productions with her husband Julius Tennon to promote inclusive and diverse content in the entertainment industry. She continues to advocate for racial and gender equality while inspiring future generations of actors.
Viola Davis Early Life and Family
She was the second youngest of six children in a working-class family. Her father, Dan Davis, worked as a horse trainer, while her mother, Mary Alice, was a factory worker, maid, and homemaker.
Growing up in poverty, Davis and her family moved to Central Falls, Rhode Island, shortly after her birth. From an early age, Davis showed a keen interest in the arts, performing in school productions and theater competitions.
Despite facing racial and financial challenges, she found a way to pursue her passion for acting. Davis went on to study at Rhode Island College and later graduated from the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City.
Her family’s support and determination played a crucial role in her rise to fame as a world-renowned actress.
Viola Davis Amazing Career
Viola Davis’s career began in 1996 when she appeared in guest roles on TV shows like NYPD Blue. Her big break came in 2008 with her performance in the film Doubt, for which she received an Academy Award nomination.
Davis’s powerful portrayal of strong, complex characters caught the attention of critics and audiences alike. In 2011, she starred in The Help, winning numerous awards for her portrayal of Aibileen, an African-American maid.
Her career continued to soar with her iconic role in Fences, where she starred opposite Denzel Washington. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for this role. Davis also made history in television with her Emmy-winning portrayal of Annalise Keating in How to Get Away with Murder.
She became the first African-American woman to win the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. Davis’s career is a testament to her immense talent and dedication to breaking barriers in Hollywood.
Viola Davis Movies and TV Shows
Movies:
- The Help (2011)
In The Help, Davis played Aibileen Clark, a Black maid working in 1960s Mississippi, whose life is changed when a young white journalist writes a book about the lives of African American maids. Davis received an Academy Award nomination for her role, and her portrayal brought depth and emotion to a crucial part of history. - Fences (2016)
Viola Davis starred alongside Denzel Washington in this adaptation of August Wilson’s play Fences. She played Rose Maxson, a woman facing the emotional and societal challenges of raising a family while being in a troubled marriage. Davis won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, solidifying her as one of the finest actors of her generation. - Widows (2018)
Directed by Steve McQueen, Widows features Davis as Veronica Rawlins, a woman who must carry out a heist after her husband’s death. The film explores themes of crime, loyalty, and survival. Davis’s performance in this gritty thriller demonstrated her versatility and range as an actress. - Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020)
In this film adaptation of August Wilson’s play, Viola Davis portrays the legendary blues singer Ma Rainey. Her powerful performance earned her numerous accolades and her second Oscar nomination. Davis’s portrayal of a strong, uncompromising character in the world of 1920s Chicago music was a standout in the film. - Doubt (2008)
Davis had a supporting role in Doubt, playing Mrs. Miller, a mother concerned about her son’s well-being at a Catholic school. Her brief, yet intense, appearance earned her widespread recognition and an Academy Award nomination, showcasing her ability to leave a lasting impact even in smaller roles.
TV Shows:
- How to Get Away with Murder (2014-2020)
Viola Davis is best known for her portrayal of Annalise Keating, a brilliant, enigmatic law professor and criminal defense attorney in this legal thriller. Davis became the first African American woman to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for this role, making history in 2015. - City of Angels (2000)
In this short-lived TV series, Davis played Nurse Lynette Peeler, which was one of her first major roles on television. Despite the show’s cancellation, Davis’s performance was widely praised for its authenticity and depth, making it a pivotal moment in her career. - The First Lady (2022)
Davis starred as Michelle Obama in The First Lady, a historical drama that focuses on the lives of the women in the White House. Davis’s portrayal of the former First Lady explored her personal and professional struggles, as well as her role in shaping the nation. - Shonda Rhimes’ “Inventing Anna” (2022)
In Inventing Anna, Viola Davis made an impactful guest appearance, further strengthening her television career. Although a supporting role, her appearance was highly anticipated, and her work in the show added an extra layer of prestige to an already successful production. - Law & Order: SVU (2009)
Viola Davis guest-starred in an episode of the iconic show Law & Order: SVU, where she played a mother of a young girl who was a victim of abuse. Her role was brief but memorable, showing her ability to bring depth to even short television appearances.
Viola Davis Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Description |
| Height | 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 154 lbs (70 kg) |
| Body Type | Hourglass, full-figured |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown (often wears it short or styled in a natural curl) |
| Skin Tone | Dark brown, radiant complexion |
| Dress Size | 14 (US) |
| Shoe Size | 9 (US) |
| Distinct Features | Strong jawline, warm smile, expressive face, and a natural, confident presence. Davis’s authenticity and bold presence make her stand out in both red carpets and acting roles. |
| Fitness Routine | Viola Davis follows a balanced fitness routine, which includes regular workouts and healthy eating habits, helping her maintain her shape and energetic persona. |
| Fashion Style | Viola often dresses in elegant and bold fashion choices, reflecting her powerful roles and confident character. She balances modern chic with classic styles, often using bright and strong colors. |
Viola Davis Husband/Boyfriend and Relationship Status
Viola Davis is happily married to Julius Tennon, an actor and producer. The couple tied the knot in 2003 and have been together ever since. Their strong relationship is a model of support and love.
Together, they co-founded JuVee Productions, a production company dedicated to producing diverse content in film and television. Viola and Julius have one daughter, Genesis Tennon, whom they adopted in 2011.
Davis has frequently expressed her admiration for her husband and their shared mission in the entertainment industry to elevate voices that have been historically marginalized. Their marriage is not only a personal partnership but also a professional one, with Davis praising Julius’s support throughout her career.
Viola has openly discussed how the couple’s bond has helped her navigate the pressures of fame and motherhood, further demonstrating their deep connection and commitment to one another.
Viola Davis Net Worth
| Attribute | Details |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated at $25 million |
| Primary Source of Income | Acting, producing, endorsements |
| Annual Earnings | $5 million+ (varies based on roles, productions, and endorsements) |
| Key Film Contributions | The Help, Fences, Widows, Suicide Squad, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom |
| TV Appearances | How to Get Away with Murder, City of Angels |
| Producing Credits | Co-founder of JuVee Productions (producing diverse film and TV content) |
| Endorsements | Viola Davis has endorsement deals with high-profile brands, contributing to her wealth. |
| Awards and Recognitions | EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony), Time 100 list, over 120 awards. |
| Real Estate Investments | Davis owns several properties, including in Los Angeles and Rhode Island. |
| Other Ventures | Davis also participates in philanthropic efforts and is active in speaking engagements, adding to her overall earnings. |
| Business Ventures | Her production company, JuVee Productions, is a significant part of her wealth creation, producing several critically acclaimed works. |
Viola Davis Future Plan and Goal
Viola Davis has an exciting vision for her future, which includes expanding her production company, JuVee Productions. She plans to continue creating projects that amplify underrepresented voices, particularly in stories about race, gender, and socio-political issues.
She aims to produce films and television shows that are not just entertaining but that provoke thought and foster change. Another major goal for Davis is to continue advocating for diversity and inclusion in Hollywood.
As one of the few Black actresses to win an EGOT, she is determined to pave the way for more actors of color to receive recognition and opportunities. In addition to her producing endeavors, Viola hopes to focus on acting roles that challenge her creatively, exploring new genres and deepening her range as an artist.
Moreover, she plans to contribute more to social justice causes, helping to bridge gaps in education and access to opportunities for marginalized communities.
Viola Davis Social Media
| Platform | Followers | Following | Posts | Engagement (Post) | Platform Link |
| 12M | 1079 | 5708 | 42M posts, 617 Likes, 20 Comments | Viola Davis Instagram | |
| Tik Tok | Not Available | Not Available | Not Available | 42M posts, 617 Likes, 20 Comments | Viola Davis Tik Tok |
| 1.5M (estimated) | Not Available | Not Available | Engaging with fans and advocating for change | Viola Davis Twitter | |
| 2.3M | Not Available | Not Available | Fan engagement and event promotions | Viola Davis Facebook | |
| YouTube | 500K (estimated) | Not Available | Not Available | Sharing interviews, speeches, and documentaries | Viola Davis YouTube |
| Not Available | Not Available | Not Available | Professional network, sharing business ventures | Viola Davis LinkedIn |
Fun Facts about Viola Davis
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EGOT Winner:
Viola Davis is one of the rare few to have won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award, making her an EGOT winner, an honor for achieving excellence in all major American entertainment awards.
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Childhood Dreams:
Growing up in Central Falls, Rhode Island, Davis faced poverty and racism, but she always dreamed of being an actress, performing in school plays, and using her voice to inspire others.
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Passionate Advocate:
Davis is a passionate advocate for diversity in Hollywood, consistently working to bring more representation to the screen, especially for Black women and marginalized communities.
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A Family Affair:
Davis co-founded JuVee Productions with her husband, Julius Tennon. The production company focuses on creating diverse content and elevating underrepresented voices in the entertainment industry.
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Famous for Her Roles:
Davis is best known for her powerful performances in The Help, Fences, and How to Get Away with Murder, where her portrayal of Annalise Keating earned her an Emmy Award.
Viola Davis Videos and Images
Frequently Asked Questions about Viola Davis
What is Viola Davis most famous for?
Viola Davis is most famous for her award-winning performances in The Help, Fences, and How to Get Away with Murder. Her portrayal of Annalise Keating in How to Get Away with Murder earned her an Emmy Award, making her the first Black woman to win the award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.
How many awards has Viola Davis won?
Viola Davis has won over 120 awards in her career, including an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for Fences, a Tony Award for King Hedley II, and an Emmy Award for How to Get Away with Murder. She has also received Grammy recognition for her audiobook narration, completing her EGOT.
Is Viola Davis married?
Yes, Viola Davis is married to Julius Tennon, an actor and producer. They married in 2003 and have one daughter, Genesis Tennon, whom they adopted.
What is JuVee Productions?
JuVee Productions is a production company co-founded by Viola Davis and her husband Julius Tennon. The company focuses on producing content that emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and powerful storytelling, particularly about marginalized communities.
Conclusion about Viola Davis
Viola Davis is one of the most accomplished and influential actresses of her generation. Her remarkable ability to portray complex, deeply human characters has earned her a place among Hollywood’s elite.
As an EGOT winner, she has not only shaped the industry with her work in television, film, and theater but also used her platform to advocate for greater representation and diversity in entertainment.
Davis’s career is marked by resilience, as she overcame personal and professional challenges to become a trailblazer for Black women in the arts. Through her acting, producing work, and advocacy for social change, Viola Davis has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Her legacy continues to inspire future generations, and her commitment to empowering voices that have long been marginalized reflects her vision for a more inclusive industry.