Viola Davis Speaking Fee: $200,000 to $300,000
Speaking Fee:
$200,000 to $300,000
Travels From:
IND - Indianapolis, IN
Travels From:
IND - Indianapolis, IN
Primary Topic Category:
African American & Black
Primary Topic Category:
African American & Black
Secondary Topic Category:
Big Names / Headliners / Star Power
Secondary Topic Category:
Big Names / Headliners / Star Power
Viola Davis Speaker Profile: At A Glance
Viola Davis is an Academy Award-winning actress and producer, celebrated for her powerful performances and advocacy for social justice. With accolades including an Emmy, a Tony, and a Golden Globe, she has made an indelible mark on both stage and screen. Davis is also a passionate voice in the fight for diversity and inclusion, using her platform to drive meaningful change. Her compelling storytelling and leadership make her a sought-after speaker on issues of representation and equity.
Viola Davis is one of the most influential performers of our time, known for her remarkable talent, tenacity, and unyielding advocacy for equality in the arts. She was born on August 11, 1965, in St. Matthews, South Carolina. Growing up in poverty as one of six children, DavisÕs early life was marked by hardship. Yet, it was these formative experiences that fueled her drive and resilience.
Davis's passion for acting began in high school and eventually led her to the prestigious Juilliard School, where she honed her craft. Her breakthrough came with her Tony Award-winning performance in "King Hedley II" in 2001, a role that firmly established her as a force on stage. She continued to earn critical acclaim in theater, winning another Tony Award in 2010 for "Fences."
Her transition to film and television was equally triumphant. Davis received her first Oscar nomination for her role in "Doubt" in 2008. She made history in 2015 when she became the first African-American woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role in "How to Get Away with Murder." In 2017, she won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her powerful performance in the film adaptation of "Fences."
Beyond her acting achievements, Davis is a powerful advocate for diversity and inclusion in Hollywood. She has used her platform to speak out against systemic racism and to support and mentor emerging black artists. DavisÕs production company, JuVee Productions, co-founded with her husband Julius Tennon, focuses on creating opportunities for marginalized voices in the entertainment industry.
Viola DavisÕs journey from humble beginnings to becoming a decorated actress and outspoken advocate is a testament to her extraordinary talent, perseverance, and commitment to change. Her inspirational story continues to resonate with audiences around the world, both on and off the screen.