Gone are the days when women, especially Black women, were relegated to the sidelines as mere damsels in distress or background fixtures. Today, the horror genre resonates with the tales of strong and unwavering Black heroines who confront an array of monsters, whether they are zombies, supernatural forces, or inner demons.
Historically, the horror genre didn’t always embrace the strength of women. In its early days, female characters were often portrayed in simplistic roles, appearing as naive, fragile, and at times, ineffectual. These portrayals focused more on perpetuating stereotypes than showcasing the multifaceted nature of women. However, as cinema evolved, so did the representation of women in horror. Gradually, they transitioned from one-dimensional characters to symbols of strength and resilience, reflecting the diverse spectrum of real-world women. While there’s been progress, there’s still work to be done to ensure complete representation. Today, we spotlight the most formidable Black women in horror.
Whether navigating post-apocalyptic chaos or confronting eerie supernatural forces, these characters bring more than just fresh narratives. They introduce depth, complexity, and a powerful spirit to the horror genre. In a world that consistently challenges them, they rise not only as survivors but as courageous fighters who redefine determination in the face of overwhelming odds.
Now, let’s delve into the stories and accomplishments of some of the most formidable Black women in horror. Their narratives have captivated audiences and paved the way for new inspirations and narratives.
Michonne (Danai Gurira) The Walking Dead
Amid a zombie apocalypse, Michonne rises through the ranks to become a formidable leader. Mastering the art of the katana, she shows no mercy. Recognized as one of the most fearsome women in the horror genre, she rightfully claims her position. Where many would have succumbed to the chaos of a crumbling world in post-apocalyptic conditions, she transforms. She radiates as a true-born queen, manifesting her innate warrior. Michonne is one of the first women in the apocalypse to tame zombies, rendering them docile. Of course, they were her family. But she was able to do the hard thing: keep her mind and keep her family close.
Sasha (Sonequa Martin-Green) The Walking Dead
Sasha first appeared in season three of The Walking Dead. Although she was the sister of gentle giant Tyrese, she held her on. Sasha was one of those people who wouldn’t go down easily. If she had to go down, she was for sure going to take some people with her. She was fierce not only in life but took it straight to the afterlife. Taking a cyanide pill, she foiled whatever Negan thought he was going to use her for. Not even in death was she willing to let someone else hold the cards. That’s fierce.
Adelaide Wilson (Nupita Nyongo) Us
In the film “Us,” Lupita Nyongo masterfully plays two roles: a sinister evil twin and a resilient survivor. Initially, the distinction between the two characters isn’t immediately apparent to the audience, but as the story unfolds, their differences become apparent. Nyong’o’s portrayal reveals her character as a true warrior, fighting with every ounce of strength and fiercely defending what’s hers. Her intensity is palpable, underscoring the fact that neither her character nor her menacing counterpart is to be underestimated.
Emerald Haywood (Keke Palmer) Nope
In “Nope,” Keke Palmer’s character, Emerald Hagood, is a woman deeply committed to her family’s legacy, refusing to let anything, including an alien encounter, stand in her way. She’s focused on more than just defeating the extraterrestrial threat but also on reaping the rewards of her bravery. Ignoring the typical advice to flee, Emerald demonstrates that when the stakes are high, confronting your adversaries and fears is the only way forward. Palmer’s portrayal of Emerald isn’t her only demonstration of such strength; her role in “Alice” also showcases her boldness. While “Alice” leans more towards thriller with a significant horror element, exploring the terrors of modern-day slavery and hidden plantations, Palmer’s character, like Emerald, shows unwavering courage and determination, reminiscent of the iconic Foxy Brown.
Marie Laveau (Angela Bassett) American Horror Story
Angela Bassett has consistently portrayed strong-willed characters who aren’t afraid to assert themselves. In “American Horror Story,” she steps into the shoes of Marie Laveau, embodying a character as fierce as they come. Laveau doesn’t hold back, always speaking her mind, and isn’t someone to be taken lightly. One of her memorable lines to Fiona Goode is, “Well, maybe you haven’t heard the news about civilization started in Africa. We’re more than just pins and dolls and seeing the future in chicken parts. You’ve been reading too many tourist guides (IMDB),” underscores her audacity. And she meant every word she said and then some. So when the witches come for a fight, she gives them exactly what they are looking for.
Queenie (Gabourey Sidibe) American Horror Story
Gabourey Sidibe, as Queenie in “American Horror Story,” stands out as a formidable and uncompromising figure within the Coven ensemble. Inhabiting the role of a human voodoo doll, Queenie fully embraces her unique abilities, using them to assert her presence and power. Despite facing occasional vulnerabilities, her tenacity and bold spirit are unmistakable. This trait particularly shines when she confronts a patron attempting to deceive her, clarifying that she’s not someone to be trifled with. Her assertiveness in this scenario highlights her refusal to tolerate any nonsense, showing that she’s a character who not only understands but fearlessly wields her power. Her ability to convey a no-nonsense attitude amid the supernatural chaos of the series adds depth and strength to her character, making her an unforgettable and fierce presence in the show.
Jerryline (Jada Pinkett Smith) Demon Knight
Jada Pinkett Smith’s portrayal of Jeryline in the 1995 “Tales from the Crypt” film, “Demon Knight,” marks her as an extraordinary and groundbreaking character in horror cinema. Her role as Jeryline is pivotal, defying expectations as she bravely confronts the antagonist, The Collector. This confrontation cements her status as one of the pioneering Black “Final Girls” in horror film history.
Jeryline’s character is notable for her cleverness and resilience, particularly exemplified in her strategic use of the key’s blood to defeat The Collector. Her tactical decision to conceal the blood in her mouth, only to unleash it at the crucial moment by spitting it into The Collector’s eyes, showcases not just her ingenuity but her courage and quick thinking under pressure.
This victory over evil, ensuring her survival, emphasizes Jeryline’s role as a formidable and intelligent heroine. Her triumph against such a formidable foe underscores a significant shift in horror narratives, where she doesn’t just survive but outsmarts and outlasts evil. Nerdist rightly lauds her as a “forever boss,” acknowledging how she reshaped the mold of traditional horror film protagonists.
Maggie (Rah Digga) 13EN Ghosts
In the film “13 Ghosts,” Rah Digga steps into the role of Maggie, playing a resilient nanny for a family entangled in supernatural chaos. Hired to assist the family, Maggie quickly establishes that her presence is a choice, not an obligation. She firmly refuses to tolerate any absurdity, making it clear that she’s far from being anyone’s doormat. Maggie is aware of her limits and strengths, recognizing when a battle isn’t hers to fight. Her fierce character shines through in her understanding of self-preservation and astute judgment, especially when confronted with surreal and dangerous situations. Sometimes, being fierce means knowing who you are and how to handle yourself when things get too sketchy. And that she does. That’s why she lives to see another day. In fact, her parting line reads, “This is it for me. I am on the first ‘plane back to Newark. Uh-uh. I am sorry, family, Kathy, Bobby, uncle, ghosts. I am sick of this nanny shit. I’ve had it. This was outside the job description. I quit!”
Lt. Roberta Warren (Kellita Smith) Z Nation
In the zombie-infested landscape of the series, Smith notably stands out for her portrayal of Lt. Roberta Warren. As a commanding and resilient figure, she navigates through the chaos and peril with a leadership quality rarely seen. Amidst the relentless challenges, including battles with the undead and surviving toxic fallout, Lt. Warren survives and thrives, distinguishing herself as a formidable leader. Her character’s journey goes beyond mere survival; she carves out a space where few Black women have ventured in similar narratives, consistently maintaining her status and authority at the forefront of this apocalyptic world. Smith’s embodiment of Lt. Roberta Warren is a testament to her strength and versatility as an actress, leaving a lasting impression in the genre.
Fierceness Forever