2025 NAACP Image Awards: 5 Times Kerry Washington Played a Real-Life Icon on Screen
Kerry Washington is no stranger to playing roles that leave a lasting impression. Having made a career portraying complex characters such as attorney Anita Hill—who testified against Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas in a historic case—the veteran star has also taken on the challenge of stepping into the shoes of real-life figures.
This year, Washington is nominated for the upcoming NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture for her powerful portrayal in Tyler Perry’s Netflix film “The Six Triple Eight.” The film chronicles the lesser-known and incredible story of the all-Black, all-female battalion that delivered mail to U.S. troops during World War II.
To celebrate this honor, we’re looking back at every time our star brought a real-life person to life on screen.
Della Bea Robinson / Ray
As the second wife of legendary musician Ray Charles, Washington’s portrayal of Della Bea Robinson captured the heartbreak and resilience of a woman navigating the challenges of supporting Charles through his battles with addiction and the pressures of fame. The pair tied the knot on April 5, 1955, but Robinson would ultimately divorce Charles two decades later.
Kay Amin / The Last King of Scotland
In this critically acclaimed film, Washington portrayed Kay Amin, the wife of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin, played by Forest Whitaker. Her performance brought vulnerability to a story marked by political turmoil and personal tragedy.
The film also stars James McAvoy, Gillian Anderson, and Golden Globe-nominated actor David Oyelowo.
Alma / The Six Triple Eight
Washington’s most recent role sees her embody Major Charity Adams, the first Black woman to become an officer in the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps, a commanding officer of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. This performance captures the determination and camaraderie of women who made history by ensuring troops received their mail despite the odds.
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Anita Hill / Confirmation
Washington took on the role of Anita Hill in this HBO film, capturing the courage and resolve of the attorney who testified against Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas during his 1991 confirmation hearings. Her performance earned widespread acclaim and nominations for a Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe.
Olivia Pope / Scandal
While Olivia Pope isn’t entirely based on a single real-life figure, the character was inspired by Judy Smith, a crisis management expert who worked in the White House.
Washington’s portrayal made Pope an iconic figure in television history and cemented her place as a trailblazer in Hollywood. More than a decade after its release, fans are replaying the series to relive the Olitz experience.
Watch the NAACP Image Awards live on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 8:00 pm ET/PT on BET.
