How to Get Away with Murder Star: Viola Davis
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Who is Viola Davis?
Viola Davis is a renowned American actress, born on August 11, 1965, in St. Matthews, South Carolina. She is best known for her powerful performances on stage and screen, and has earned numerous accolades for her work, including an Academy Award, a Tony Award, and several Emmy nominations.
Getting Started with Her Career
Davis’ early life was marked by poverty and financial struggles, but she was determined to pursue her passion for acting. She earned a degree in theater from Rhode Island College and later received her Master’s degree from Juilliard School in New York City.
Early Roles and Breakthroughs
- Julius Caesar (1999): Davis’ first significant role was as Virgilia in a Broadway production of Julius Caesar, alongside Denzel Washington.
- Fences (2004): Davis originated the role of Rose Maxson in a Broadway revival of August Wilson’s Fences, earning a Tony nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Play.
- Doubt (2008): Davis’ performance as Sister James in John Patrick Shanley’s Doubt earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
How to Get Away with Murder: The Star of the Hit TV Show
Davis is arguably most famous for her role as Professor Annalise Keating in the ABC drama series How to Get Away with Murder. The show premiered in 2014 and has since become a ratings success, with Davis’ performance earning her widespread critical acclaim and numerous award nominations.
About the Show
- Premise: The show follows the lives of a group of law students at a prestigious Philadelphia law firm, where they become entangled in a murder mystery and a web of lies.
- Davis’ Character: Annalise Keating is a complex and troubled character, who is simultaneously a brilliant and ruthless defense attorney and a mentor to her students. Davis brings depth and nuance to the role, making her a fan favorite.
Awards and Nominations
- Primetime Emmy Awards: Davis has been nominated for multiple Emmy Awards for her role in How to Get Away with Murder, including Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.
- Golden Globe Awards: Davis won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series – Drama in 2015 and was nominated again in 2019.
- Screen Actors Guild Awards: Davis has been nominated for multiple SAG Awards for her role in How to Get Away with Murder.
Impact and Legacy
Davis’ impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable. She is one of the most highly respected and acclaimed actresses of her generation, and her performances have inspired countless women and people of color. Her advocacy work, including her efforts to increase diversity and representation in the entertainment industry, has also been widely recognized.
Recent Projects and Awards
- The Help (2011): Davis received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Aibileen Clark in Tate Taylor’s The Help.
- Fences (2016): Davis earned another Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Rose Maxson in Denzel Washington’s film adaptation of Fences.
- Widows (2018): Davis starred alongside Michelle Rodriguez and Colin Farrell in Steve McQueen’s heist thriller, Widows.
- The Woman King (2022): Davis will star as the legendary general Nanisca in Maria Bello’s historical drama, The Woman King.
Conclusion
Viola Davis is a talented actress who has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Her commitment to her craft, her passion for her work, and her advocacy for diversity and representation have inspired countless individuals. With a career spanning over two decades, Davis continues to amaze and impress audiences with her unforgettable performances, earning her a reputation as one of the most talented and versatile actresses of her generation.
Timeline of Viola Davis’ Career
| Year | Project | Role | Award Nominations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Julius Caesar | Virgilia | Tony nomination |
| 2004 | Fences | Rose Maxson | Tony nomination |
| 2008 | Doubt | Sister James | Academy Award nomination |
| 2014 | How to Get Away with Murder | Professor Annalise Keating | Emmy nomination, Golden Globe win |
| 2016 | Fences | Rose Maxson | Academy Award nomination |
| 2018 | Widows | Veronica Rawlings | |
| 2022 | The Woman King | Nanisca |
Note: This timeline is not exhaustive, but highlights some of the most significant projects and award nominations in Viola Davis’ career.
