Black Actresses Who Should Portray the President on Screen

The idea of a Black woman becoming President of the United States might be too much for some people to handle, but we’ve been thinking about this for a while. As we prepare for the possibility of Kamala Harris being elected the first Black woman to become Commander-In-Chief, we had some suggestions for how Hollywood could take advantage of this moment by casting these amazing actresses as our president. After you’re done voting, relax and enjoy our list of Black actresses we’d like to see play the President of the United States. Don’t worry, Viola Davis and Angela Bassett are already set to play POTUS in upcoming projects.

Maya Rudolph

You already know we’re 100 percent here for Maya Rudolph’s banner year bringing back her spot-on Kamala Harris impression for “Saturday Night Live.”

Janelle James

Based on her performance as “Abbott Elementary’s” principal, Janelle James would have a lot of fun bringing her hilarious energy to the Oval Office.

Simone Missick

In a “Designated Survivor” style story, Simone Missick would be perfect to fight against conspiracies looking to take her down. You know she’s not letting any power players keep her from taking office.

Robin Thede

If there’s ever a version of “The Office” set in the West Wing, Robin Thede would be the president we’d like to see commenting on the absurdity around her.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira speaks with an authority that can’t be denied. If her president gives you an order, you better follow it to the letter. And in the words of RuPaul, “Don’t f**k it up.”

S. Epatha Merkerson

Every time she’s on screen, S. Epatha Merkerson brings a power to her roles that can’t be taught. She has a powerful presence that commands respect and attention…qualities you need from your movie and TV presidents.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy’s “no time for your foolishness” vibe makes her perfect to be the president in a disaster movie, or a mystery-filled political thriller where she gets the last laugh. We definitely want to see her one-up some smug senator who thinks their evil plan worked.

CCH Pounder

You’d be hard pressed to find someone with more gravitas than CCH Pounder. When she speaks, we all listen.

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor

If there’s one thing we know about Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, she can literally play any role…whether it’s action, drama or comedy. We know she would absolutely nail being the president.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

If you need someone to deliver the inspirational speech to the troops before the big battle, look no further than the Emmy winner.

Jenifer Lewis

Jenifer Lewis has played everything else in her long, storied career, it’s only right that she play POTUS. I see her as “Auntie President” who is fed up with America’s bullshit.

Leslie Jones

The “SNL” vet would be hilarious in an outrageous, over the top comedy. And if Kevin James can play the president, Jones certainly can.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tell me you don’t want to see Tracee Ellis Ross deal with the absurdity of being the only woman in a room full of men, who are talking down to her like she’s not the president.

Erika Alexander

The actress/director is a smart, witty activist who doesn’t suffer fools and always brings something interesting to her characters. You know you want to see the Maverick as president.

Queen Latifah

You know how Harrison Ford, Jamie Foxx or Aaron Eckhart play presidents who also end up kicking the bad guys’ asses? Queen Latifah would definitely be perfect as a POTUS who fights off a bunch of evildoers.

Kerry Washington

If we ever get a “Scandal” revival, it should absolutely revolve around President Olivia Pope.

Chandra Wilson

A president who reads useless senators and congresspeople they way Bailey reads her young doctors would be endlessly entertaining.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba has a regal presence that makes her feel like she should always be in charge.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer has an innate air of leadership that makes her feel like someone who would be fair and wise. But she’s also not afraid to put her foot in someone’s ass when necessary.

Oprah Winfrey

Do I really need to explain why Oprah should play the president? She’s already been running Black Hollywood for years.

Jackée Harry

Jackée Harry as President of the United States sounds like the start of an amazing limited series where women are finally ruling the world. Just so you know, peace reigns under President Jackée.

Regina King

When Regina King talks, we all listen. Her words carry a weight that is undeniable. It’s the kind of strength you want to see in an on-screen president.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard has that same fierce demeanor as your mom or aunt. She can stop you in your tracks by saying your name in that voice we all know. Imagine her using that with foreign enemies, other politicians or military leaders who don’t respect the chain of command.

Gina Torres

Whether it’s “Suits’” Jessica Pearson or “Firefly’s” Zoe, Gina Torres always manages to make her characters the most interesting in the room. Her president would be someone we love rooting for. She’d also be amazing at cutting down mediocre white men.

Whoopi Goldberg

If you’re looking for the wise, experienced world leader who’s seen it all, look no further than Whoopi. She doesn’t always say the right thing, but her words always have meaning and depth.