Lynn Whitfield

Lynn Whitfield is an acclaimed American actress and producer, celebrated for her powerful performances across film, television, and theater. Whitfield began her career on stage, performing with the Black Repertory Company in Washington, D.C., and quickly established herself as a formidable talent. Her transition to film and television in the early 1980s showcased her versatility, leading to a career that has spanned over four decades. Known for her elegance, intensity, and emotional depth, Whitfield has become one of the most respected actresses of her generation.

Whitfield is a third-generation graduate of Howard University, where she earned a B.F.A. in Theatre before moving to New York to join the Negro Ensemble Company. Her first national exposure came with a standout performance in "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When the Rainbow Is Enuf" on PBS, which led to her signing with Columbia Pictures and launching a prolific career in Hollywood.

Whitfield vaulted to international fame with her portrayal of the legendary entertainer Josephine Baker in HBO’s "The Josephine Baker Story", for which she won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress, making her the first Black actress to win the award in that category. She further established herself in films such as "A Thin Line Between Love and Hate", where she played the unforgettable Brandi, and in "Eve's Bayou", where she delivered a critically acclaimed performance as Roz Batiste, a woman caught in the turmoil of her family's secrets in the Deep South.

In recent years, Whitfield earned renewed acclaim for her role as Lady Mae Greenleaf, the formidable matriarch-diva in the Oprah Winfrey Network drama series "Greenleaf". This role won her the 2017 Gracie Award and two NAACP Image Awards, showcasing her ability to bring authenticity and depth to characters across a broad emotional spectrum.

Beyond her artistic achievements, Whitfield is passionate about representation and storytelling, often championing projects that reflect the complexities of Black life. She continues to develop new work and explore opportunities. As an actress, producer, and mother, she remains committed to her craft and to mentoring the next generation of talent, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.