Viola Davis (born August 11, 1965, in St. Matthews, South Carolina, U.S.) is an American actress and producer. She studied theater at Rhode Island College and the Juilliard School, beginning her career on stage before taking supporting film and television roles that built her reputation for powerful, emotionally grounded performances.
She gained recognition with Doubt and The Help, earning Academy Award nominations, and won the Oscar for Fences, alongside an Emmy for How to Get Away with Murder. Known for commanding, deeply expressive performances, she rose from character roles to one of the most acclaimed leading actors of her generation.
She has since starred in major projects like The Woman King and Air, while producing through her company JuVee Productions and advocating for representation in Hollywood. With historic achievements and cultural impact, she remains a defining force shaping modern film, television, and industry change.