Halle Berry is one of the most renowned actresses in Hollywood; and she credits those who came before her with inspiring her to believe it was even possible.
In a candid clip for the upcoming PBS documentary entitled “American Masters:How It Feels To Be Free,” Berry said Black actresses like Diahann Carroll, Dorothy Dandridge and Lena Horne gave her something to which to “aspire.”
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – MAY 15: Halle Berry attends the special screening of Lionsgate’s “John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum” at TCL Chinese Theatre on May 15, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)
“Growing up I really struggled to find images of Black women or women that I could identify with,” Berry said. “Early on, I remember seeing Lena Horne in ‘Stormy Weather.’ I remember seeing Dorothy Dandridge in ‘Carmen Jones.’ And then a little after that, I remember seeing Diahann Carroll in ‘Julia’ and that just rearranged me.”