Diahann Carroll, born Carol Diahann Johnson on July 17, 1935, was a renowned American actress, singer, and model who rose to stardom in the early days of Hollywood with performances in groundbreaking films featuring predominantly black casts.
Her breakout roles included Carmen Jones in 1954 and Porgy and Bess in 1959, which paved the way for her future success on stage and screen. In 1962, Carroll made history by becoming the first black woman to win a Tony Award for Best Actress for her outstanding performance in the Broadway musical No Strings.
Carroll's television career was marked by another historic milestone in 1968, when she starred in the groundbreaking series Julia, the first American television show to feature a black woman in a non-stereotypical leading role. This achievement not only elevated her status as a performer but also contributed significantly to the advancement of diversity and representation in the medium.
Throughout her illustrious career, Carroll received numerous nominations and awards, including the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series in 1968 and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her captivating performance in the 1974 film Claudine.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Carroll was also a breast cancer survivor and activist, using her platform to raise awareness and support for the cause.
