Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington is an Emmy Award-winning actress, producer, and activist known for her dynamic performances and impactful presence, both on- and off-screen.

Washington gained widespread recognition for her role as crisis management expert Olivia Pope in the hit ABC series "Scandal," the first network TV drama in nearly four decades to feature an African-American woman in a lead role. Her performance not only earned her critical acclaim, including multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, but also solidified her status as one of Hollywood's leading actresses.

She has also starred in notable movies such as "Ray," "Django Unchained," "The Last King of Scotland," "Cars 3" and the "Fantastic Four" films as well as several independent films. Her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters has made her a sought-after talent in the industry.

Through her company, Simpson Street, Washington is also a successful producer, shaping the narratives that reflect the diverse experiences of underrepresented communities. She has produced and starred in projects like the HBO television film "Confirmation," about Clarence Thomas's Supreme Court nomination hearings; the Netflix series "American Son," in which she reprised the role she played on stage; and "Little Fires Everywhere," the Hulu adaptation of Celeste Ng's bestselling novel. She continues to act in and executive produce "Unprisoned," a comedy-drama airing on Hulu since 2023.

In addition to her acting career, Washington wrote a memoir, "Thicker Than Water," which delves into her personal life, exploring themes of identity, family, and self-discovery. In the book, she shares intimate stories about her childhood, her rise to fame, and the challenges she faced in Hollywood. A significant portion of the memoir focuses on her experiences as a Black woman in the entertainment industry, her journey to understanding her own identity, and the impact of her family's secrets on her life. Washington's candid reflections offer insights into her struggles with self-worth, mental health, and the pressures of public life, making the memoir both a personal narrative and a broader commentary on race, family, and belonging.

A dedicated activist and advocate for social justice, Washington has been involved in various causes, including the fight against domestic violence, promoting LGBTQ+ rights, and encouraging political engagement. She has served as a spokesperson for organizations like V-Day and has been active in supporting voting rights through her work with groups like the "When We All Vote" initiative. In 2020, Washington served as an executive producer on "The Fight," a documentary film revolving around legal battles lawyers for the ACLU faced during the Trump administration. Earlier, in 2012, Washington spoke at the Democratic National Convention in favor of re-electing Barack Obama, and later returned to host a night at both the 2020 and 2024 Democratic National Conventions.

Washington graduated magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from The George Washington University.