Beah Richards

Beah Richards (Beulah Elizabeth Richardson, July 12, 1920 – September 14, 2000) was an American actress, poet, playwright, author, and activist. Born in Vicksburg, Mississippi, she graduated from Dillard University in New Orleans in 1948 and later moved to New York City. Richards gained recognition for her portrayal of an 84-year-old grandmother in the off-Broadway show Take a Giant Step in 1955. She received critical acclaim for her supporting role in the film Guess Who's Coming to Dinner in 1968, earning nominations for an Oscar and a Golden Globe. Richards also won two Primetime Emmy Awards for guest roles in Frank's Place (1988) and The Practice (2000), and received a Tony Award nomination for her performance in The Amen Corner (1965).