Kerry Washington has become one of Hollywood’s most versatile and captivating actresses, known for her ability to bring a wide range of characters to life.
As we gear up for her latest thrilling role alongside Omar Sy in “Shadow Force“, hitting theaters on May 9, it’s the perfect time to reflect on some of her most unforgettable roles. In “Shadow Force”, Washington plays Kyrah, a former special forces leader who, along with her partner Isaac (played by Sy), must go on the run to protect their son from the very group they once led.
As the suspense builds in this action-packed thriller, let’s take a look back at the best Kerry Washington roles that have solidified her place as one of the most respected actresses in the industry.
Kerry Washington: Her Best Film Roles
1) “Save the Last Dance” (2001)
Kerry Washington’s first major role came in “Save the Last Dance” (2001), where she played Chenille, a wise and supportive friend to Julia Stiles’ character. Washington’s portrayal of a young woman navigating life in a tough Chicago neighborhood and her unexpected friendship with a ballet dancer showcased her ability to bring emotional depth to a supporting role. The film, which combined elements of romance and drama, helped Washington emerge as a talented actress with a bright future in Hollywood. Her performance was a breakout moment, showing her range in both dramatic and lighthearted moments.
2. “Ray” (2004)
In “Ray” (2004), Kerry Washington took on the role of Della Bea Robinson, the wife of the iconic musician Ray Charles. In this biographical drama, Washington’s portrayal of Della, a woman caught between loyalty and heartbreak as she deals with her husband’s addictions and infidelities, was nothing short of remarkable.
Her nuanced and empathetic performance earned her critical acclaim and showcased her ability to tackle complex, emotionally charged roles. Washington’s portrayal of Della was pivotal to the film, adding depth to Ray Charles’ story and further establishing her as a powerhouse in dramatic performances.
3. “Mr & Mrs. Smith” (2005)
In “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” (2005), Washington stepped into the role of a cool and mysterious agent working in the background of the film’s central story of secretive married assassins. While her part was smaller compared to the leads, Washington made an impact with her charismatic, confident presence. The film, known for its action-packed sequences and the on-screen chemistry between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, benefitted from Washington’s ability to bring a sharp, intelligent edge to her role, cementing her place in the action genre.
3. “The Last King of Scotland” (2006)
Washington’s role in “The Last King of Scotland” (2006) as Sarah, the love interest of Forest Whitaker’s Idi Amin, demonstrated her range in portraying characters in historically significant contexts. Set during the brutal regime of the Ugandan dictator, Washington’s performance was both heartfelt and intense. As Sarah, she navigated the complex and dangerous politics of the time, while also portraying a woman caught in the tumult of personal and political struggles. Her performance added emotional depth to the film, further solidifying her as an actress capable of handling intense dramas with a profound emotional impact.
4. “Django Unchained” (2012)
In “Django Unchained” (2012), Washington played Broomhilda von Shaft, a slave who becomes the object of Leonardo DiCaprio’s Calvin Candie’s obsession and the central figure in the plot of Quentin Tarantino’s revisionist Western. As Broomhilda, Washington brought a quiet yet undeniable strength to the role, embodying the resilience of her character as she faces unimaginable suffering. Her performance was integral to the film’s emotional core, giving a powerful voice to the historical trauma of slavery while also showcasing her ability to portray both vulnerability and strength.
5. “American Son” (2019)
In “American Son” (2019), Kerry Washington starred as a mother named Kendra Ellis-Connor, desperately trying to understand the fate of her missing son in a tense, real-time drama. Set in a police station, the film revolves around Kendra’s interactions with her estranged husband and the police as they struggle to navigate the grim reality of racial tensions in America. Washington’s gripping performance as a mother confronting her fears about her son’s safety while dealing with systemic racism was both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking. The role reinforced her ability to tackle socially relevant issues with an emotional depth that resonated with audiences.
6. “The Six Triple Eight” (2022)
In “The Six Triple Eight”, Washington portrayed Major Charity Adams, the first African American woman to lead a Women’s Army Corps unit during World War II. The film tells the inspiring true story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, which sorted and delivered backlogged mail to soldiers overseas. Washington’s portrayal of Major Adams was both commanding and compassionate, capturing the strength, determination, and resilience of a woman breaking barriers in a time of immense racial and gender inequality. Her role in this historical drama further expanded her range and commitment to portraying strong, impactful women in history.
Kerry Washington’s Two Iconic Emmy Nominated TV Performances
1. “Scandal” (2012-2018)
On television, Kerry Washington’s role as Olivia Pope in “Scandal” (2012–2018) remains one of her most iconic and transformative performances. As a political fixer, Olivia Pope navigated the complex world of Washington, D.C., while balancing her own personal demons and tumultuous relationships. Washington’s portrayal of Olivia Pope captivated audiences for seven seasons, earning her critical acclaim and solidifying her as one of TV’s leading actresses. Her performance not only made “Scandal” a cultural phenomenon but also demonstrated her ability to tackle powerful, morally complex characters with grace and intensity.
2. “Little Fires Everywhere” (2020)
In “Little Fires Everywhere” (2020), Washington played Mia Warren, an artist who moves with her daughter to a wealthy, predominantly white suburb, where she quickly clashes with Reese Witherspoon’s character, Elena. The miniseries, based on the best-selling novel by Celeste Ng, dealt with themes of privilege, race, and motherhood. Washington’s performance as Mia was a masterclass in restraint and emotional complexity, as her character’s struggles with identity, class, and the challenges of being a single mother resonated deeply with viewers. Washington’s ability to bring nuance to this deeply layered role further cemented her as a standout talent in both film and television.
Each of these roles highlights Kerry Washington’s ability to embody a diverse range of characters, from fierce political strategists to deeply emotional historical figures. Next up, she may take on “Desperate Housewives” with her production company producing a spinoff series. Whether on screen or television, Washington has continually proven herself as one of Hollywood’s most dynamic and powerful actresses, effortlessly blending strength, vulnerability, and complexity in every performance.
