If you sat down and created a long list of names of some of the most prominent Black people in entertainment, politics and so on, you’ll start to notice that many of them were born or raised in the state of South Carolina. We noticed it when we started searching for nominees for The Root 100 list in 2024. Since then, we have tried to crack the mystery of why are there so many Black superstars from this one troubled state.
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People who aren’t from South Carolina may associate the state with racial trauma above Black Excellence: From way back to current day, the state has suffered more than its share of racially-charged killings: 2015 alone included the anti-Black massacre at Charleston’s Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church, and that same year unarmed Walter Scott was fatally shot in the back by a white police officer who claimed Scott had tried to harm him. Between that and dismal statistics around education and incarceration, the state often has the odds going against it.
But people who hail from the state see it as much more. South Carolina was the first state to secede from the United States in 1860, leading to the start of the Civil War, but Black South Carolinians have helped to lead Black America to freedom. In the case of Walter Scott, a video showed what happened, protest emerged and the white officer who shot Scott was sent to prison.
In other words, South Carolinians may have uphill battles, businessman Walter Davis told The Root, but they’re willing to take a stand up for what’s right and to fight for what they deserve.
“I believe a number of people have been driven to prove the skeptics wrong. For so many years South Carolina was considered one of the worst states when it came to education, incarceration rates and other key measures that are indicators of future success,’’ Davis said. “ Expectations were traditionally low. self-determination and the desire to overcome the odds are important factors for many Black South Carolinians.”
Put even more succinctly by politician-businessman Stephen K. Benjamin: “Punching above our weight is simply what we do.”
Knowing the state’s history of principle, perseverance, and defiance, it only makes sense that it’s the home of so many trailblazers across politics, entertainment, business, and activism. Below, see a list of some of the most prominent Black people to come from South Carolina.
Viola Davis
Born in St. Matthews, South Carolina, the legendary actress proves that no dream is too big, even from small town beginnings. With wins at the Academy Awards, the Tony Awards, and the Grammys, Davis has earned both the Triple Crown of Acting and the prestigious EGOT designations. And all of her work is unforgettable: whether it’s her performance as a 1960s housemaid in “The Help,” portraying a whip smart attorney in the TV show “How To Get Away With Murder,” or going blow for blow with Denzel Washington while playing his wife in the film adaptation of playwright August Wilson’s “Fences,” Davis continues to inspire her audiences.
Erica Loewe
Erica Loewe is nothing short of a hometown hero for South Carolina. Loewe paid her dues in politics as Deputy Communications Director to House Majority Whip James Clyburn and House Financial Services Committee Chairwoman to Maxine Waters. Now, she serves as the new director of African American Media for the Biden administration.
Faith McKie
Faith McKie, another communications queen, first began her journey at Claflin University and received her bachelor’s degree in Sport Management with a Spanish and Business Administration minor. She then continued her studies at Georgetown University and received her master’s in Public Relations and Corporate Communications. McKie didn’t stop there: she later worked for NASA’s communications team, and more recently, landed a position as the Deputy Press Secretary for Vice President Kamala Harris.
Stephen K. Benjamin
Stephen K. Benjamin currently serves as a current Senior Advisor to the President of the United States and Director of Public Engagement. But before he started working with the Biden administration, he redefined the leadership of South Carolina’s capital city, Columbia, by becoming its first Black mayor. Known for his collaborative, innovative spirit, Benjamin is a true changemaker in the Palmetto State.
Moyer McCoy
Moyer McCoy is a proud Hampton University graduate and received his bachelor’s in English in 2007. McCoy began to reach new heights in his career on Capitol Hill, where he served as a senior legislative assistant and clerk for the Subcommittee on Oversight and Committee on Ways and Means. Today, McCoy has shifted his expertise to the tobacco business. As Head of Social Impact at Philip Morris International, he leverages his expertise to drive meaningful change on a global level.
Tim Scott
Tim Scott is the first Black Republican Senator from South Carolina since Reconstruction, and in November, he was appointed to serve as the next chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee. His recent decisions have opened the flood gates for debates, but his story is still a testament of perseverance and breaking barriers for his family.
Jotaka Eaddy
When Jotaka Eaddy is not serving as the “Olivia Pope of Silicon Valley” (as Forbes likes to call her), she is advocating for representation for Black women. Eaddy is the founder and CEO of Full Circle Strategies LLC with a mission to “advance transformative change and global impact.” Eaddy has racked up tons of awards, including the National Action Network Women of Power and Essence Woman to Watch. She is also a worldwide woman traveling around the globe for speaking engagements at events such as the World Youth Forum in Barcelona, Spain and the United Nations Human Rights Commission. She’s also the founder of #WinWithBlackWomen, a movement that united 44,000 Black women on a Zoom call to corral support for Kamala Harris’ 2024 presidential bid.
Jesse Jackson
Civil rights icon Reverend Jesse Jackson, born in Greenville, South Carolina, has spent decades fighting for equality and justice for our people. Jackson was a mentee of the honorable Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and founded the Rainbow PUSH Coalition to enact social change. He will forever go down In history for his bravery, resilience and intelligence. Jackson’s legacy is cemented in history for creating a voice for the voiceless.
A’Ja Wilson
A’Ja Wilson, born and raised in Hopkins, South Carolina, is a WNBA superstar, an Olympic gold medalist and has been dominating the court since her days at the University of South Carolina. Wilson is credited for helping revitalize women’s sports for her electrifying performance on the court. Wilson recently added New York Times bestselling author to her resume after publishing her memoir “Dear Black Girls: How To Be True To You” in February. She is a champion for mental health awareness off the court, and proves she’s a game-changer in every sense.
Brent Clinkscale
A native of Greenville, South Carolina, Clinkscale is a veteran in complex litigation and counseling. Previously, he served as the president of Atlanta International Arbitration Society, vice chair of the United States Council for International Business, and chair of the South Carolina Bar International Committee. These days, Clinkscale works for himself as an independent arbitrator in his hometown for Clinkscale Global ADR.
Shawn Townsend
Shawn Townsend, another veteran in the communications realm, is a Charleston-made man. In the past, Townsend served as the director of the D.C. Mayor’s Office of Nightlife and Culture to Mayor Muriel Bowser, which granted him the nickname “Night Mayor.” He’s most notable for navigating the city’s reopening after the COVID-19 pandemic and bringing the city back to life. He now works in the restaurant business as CEO for the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington. He’s also married to none other than political strategist and media personality Symone Sanders-Townsend.
Charlamagne Tha God
Lenard Larry McKelvey, AKA Charlamagne Tha God, is arguably one of the most influential voices in media today. He grew up in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, Charlamagne has made a name for himself with viral interviews alongside some of our favorite celebrities as co-host for the popular radio show “The Breakfast Club.” Known for his bold, unfiltered commentary, Charlamagne is also an author, mental health advocate, and entrepreneur. He owns his own production company called CThaGod World LLC, a podcast network called the “Black Effect Podcast Network,” and cohosts an additional podcast titled “The Brilliant Idiots.”
James Brown
Barnwell, South Carolina native James Brown was known as The Godfather of Soul, and for good reason. His electrifying singing and dancing played a major role in the expansion of Black Is Beautiful movement in the 60s and 70s with “Say It Loud – I’m Black And I’m Proud,” and many other legendary songs. Brown built his base for being a dynamic and interactive performer, and was one of the first ten inductees in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Brown passed away in December of 2006 In Atlanta, Georgia.
Jim Clyburn
Jim Clyburn, known as the “Kingmaker of South Carolina,” is a political legend. Clyburn has roots in Sumter, South Carolina, has spent two decades representing the state’s Sixth Congressional District, and was the highest-ranking Black member of Congress. In short: his impact is unmatched. Clyburn was also the first African American to serve multiple terms as the Majority Whip. His career is a testament to the continuing political promise that exists for all Black South Carolinians.
Peabo Bryson
Another native of Greenville, South Carolina, Peabo Bryson is renowned for his soulful voice and his contributions to classic animated films. Duets like “Beauty and the Beast” with Celine Dion and “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle from the film “Aladdin” have won over many hearts, along with earning two Grammys. Bryson’s music is a staple for love, passion and OG Disney fans.
Bakari Sellers
Bakari Sellers, born in Denmark, South Carolina, has been breaking barriers since he became the youngest African American in the country elected to South Carolina’s 90th district in the lower house of the state legislature at 22. He served in this position from 2006 to 2014. Later on, Sellers began to practice law with Strom Law Firm, LLC in South Carolina; A husband of a beautiful business woman and a father of three, Sellers is also a contributor for CNN.
Mignon Clyburn
Mignon Clyburn, reppin’ Charleston, South Carolina and daughter of Jim Clyburn, has spent a majority of her career advocating for equity In communications. She served as the first woman acting chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in 2013 and has worked tirelessly to expand communication access and protect net neutrality.
Marlon Kimpson
Marlon Kimpson, former South Carolina state senator, is the epitome of service. As a passionate advocate for healthcare and education reform, Kimpson was never afraid to tackle tough issues in the State House. During his political career, Kimpson advocated for the removal of the Confederate flag from the Statehouse following the untimely massacre of nine Black churchgoers in Charleston. Additionally, he successfully launched a campaign that required for South Carolina law officers to wear body cameras. Kimpson currently serves on the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations for the Biden administration.
Antjuan Seawright
Antjuan Seawright is a man of many hats. Seawright hails from Columbia, South Carolina and made a name for himself as CEO of Blue Print Strategy LLC, a consulting firm based in his birthplace. Seawright regularly appears on primetime news channels such as CNN, MSNBC and Fox. He’s had his hand In the political world as well, after serving as senior advisor on Hillary Clinton’s 2008 and 2016 presidential campaigns and additional Democratic campaigns in South Carolina, Georgia and New York. He actively collaborates with The Root, on op-ed and was a Root 100 winner. His most recent endeavors include a weekly affairs radio show, “Insight with Antjuan Seawright,” and working as co-host of “Hot Button Mondays” on Reverend Al Sharpton’s national radio show.
Ja Morant
Temetrius Jamel Morant was born in Dalzell, South Carolina on August 10, 1999. The hyper-athletic point guard for the Memphis Grizzlies Morant was the second overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, and has earned two All-Star nods since. He’s done well for himself so far despite some off-the-court issues, and he’s only getting started.
Althea Gibson
Tennis legend Althea Gibson was born in Clarendon County, South Carolina on August 25, 1927, and went on to become the first African American player to win a Grand Slam tennis event in 1957 during the Wimbledon tournament. She won five Grand Slam singles tournaments over the course of her career. Her victories paved the way for other iconic Black female tennis players like Naomi Osaka, Coco Gauff, and of course, Serena and Venus Williams.
Eartha Kitt
The “Santa Baby” singer and actress was a prominent voice during the Civil Rights movement and denounced the U.S.’s involvement in the Vietnam War. She’s most well-known for her acting roles in “Boomerang,” “Batman,” and “Holes.”
Craig Melvin
Craig Melvin is one of the most recognizable faces in broadcast journalism. Born in Columbia, South Carolina, Melvin’s career spans from local news to host of the third hour of NBC’s long-running “Today” show. Known for his warm demeanor, Melvin has interviewed everyone from world leaders like Joe Biden to cultural icons like LeBron James. Melvin represents the best of South Carolina’s journalistic legacy.
Harvey Gantt
Harvey Gantt is a trailblazer through and through. Born in Charleston, South Carolina, he became the first Black student to integrate Clemson University in 1963 and earned a bachelor’s degree in architecture. Later on, Gantt became Charlotte, North Carolina’s first Black mayor. Currently, he serves as a member of the Board of Directors Foundation of The Carolinas. He resides in Charlotte with his wife, Cindy and four children Sonja, Erika, Angela and Adam.
Marian Wright Edelman
Marian Wright Edelman, born in Bennettsville, South Carolina, has dedicated her life to fighting for children’s rights and social justice. As the founder of the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF), she has been a relentless advocate for the vulnerable youth and shifting policies that have impacted millions. After Edelman received her law degree from Yale, she was the first Black woman admitted to the Mississippi Bar. What can’t she do? Now 82, she has given her full focus to the CDF.
Jalisa Washington Price
It’s clear that South Carolinians own Washington D.C. at this point, and Jalisa Washington Price is another name on Capitol Hill that everyone should know. Price is a graduate from the University of South Carolina, with a keen sense of political advocacy. She has worked on various presidential campaigns spanning from Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. In 2022, she was named as a Washington Women In Public Relation Emerging Leader award winner. She currently resides in the nation’s capitol with her husband and three children.
Kimberly Clarice Aiken Cockerham
At just 18 years old, Columbia native Kimberly Clarice Aiken became Miss America in 1994. She quickly captivated the nation with her beauty, grace and commitment to service. Aiken utilized her platform to raise awareness for homelessness and founded the Homeless Education and Resource Organization to create a legacy beyond pageantry. Today, she works as an image consultant and remains an inspiring figure for women with beauty and brains.
Vanessa Griddine Jones
Vanessa Griddine Jones, another Columbia native, has legislative and international relations expertise for days. She has served on the staff for the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee and Congressman Alcee Hastings. Jones is the first African American woman to hold a position as senior advisor and speech writer to the President of the Organization for Security and Cooperation In Europe Parliamentary Assembly (OSCEPA). She currently serves as Executive Director of the Congressional Black Caucus Institute and reaches back to the next generation to stimulate future leadership.
Walter Davis
Walter Davis is another proud University of South Carolina alum, earning a degree in business before furthering his studies at UNC Chapel Hill’s Executive Management program. Davis is the co-founder of CertusBank. Before that, he made waves at Wells Fargo and Bank of America and managed big-time portfolio deals. These days, he’s a founding partner at Peachtree Providence Partners.
Moses Boyd
Moses Boyd is a currently a D.C.-based attorney with an expertise in entrepreneurship and public policy. But before he went to the nation’s capital, he began his career In South Carolina as a private practicing attorney. He was staff attorney to the South Carolina General Assembly and Legislative Council before moving to D.C. in 1989. Upon his arrival, he became Counsel to the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. Now, Boyd is the CEO of media company called MaxBlack.
Charity Adams Early
Charity Adams Early has quickly become recognizable after Tyler Perry’s new Netflix film, “The Six Triple Eight.” Adams was born In Kittrell, North Carolina but was raised in Columbia, South Carolina as she considered the latter state as her home. Adams was valedictorian of Booker T. Washington High School and attended Wilberforce University In Ohio, where she and majored in math, latin, and physics. Adams led the first Black Women’s Army Core (WAC) unit overseas, she was the highest-ranking female officer at Fort Des Moines, and after being ranked lieutenant colonel in 1945, she obtained the highest rank possible for a soldier in the WAC. Charity Adams Early passed away in 2002 in Dayton, Ohio, but her legacy and bravery live on forever.
J. Michelle Childs
J. Michelle Childs, another proud Columbia, South Carolina native, is a pioneer in the legal world. Currently serving on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, she is a patron for equal justice. Childs’ work reflects her hometown state’s legacy for leadership.
Deanne Millison
After Deanne Millison graduated from Washington University and obtained her law degree from Harvard, she immediately came out swinging with success. She got her political start In the office of Maxine Waters, the Chicago Mayor’s office, Kamala Harris’ Senate Office, and then the White House as Deputy Director of Policy. Millison now works for Ford Motor Company as the Senior Director of Manufacturing Policy.
Janice Mathis
Janice L. Mathis, Esq., another hometown hero from Greenville, has spent her life advocating for others through civil rights and diversity initiatives. Mathis has ties to Reverend Jesse Jackson after serving as General Counsel and Vice President of the Reverend’s Rainbow PUSH Coalition and the Citizenship Education Fund (CEF). As a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, Mathis upholds her commitment to service. Currently, Mathis was appointed as Executive Council of Negro Women to promote education, entrepreneurship and financial literacy.
Kendall Corley
Kendall Corley has recently been making waves in the political world. Corley is a Norfolk State University alumni and previously served in state and local government with the South Carolina Court System and Department of Social Services. Corley also served as Senior Advisor for Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs for the Biden-Harris Presidential Inaugural Committee and served on the campaign. Currently, he has taken his talents to the Small Business Administration where he serves as Deputy Chief of Staff for External Affairs.
Taylor Wright
Taylor Wright, Senior Advisor for Public Engagement for the White House, is a native of Charleston, S.C. Wright is on the Private Sector and Partnerships team as the liaison for Philanthropy and Implementation Equity, having previously served as Program Manager for Public Engagement at the US Department of Transportation and as Special Assistant to the Administrator at the US Small Business Administration.
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