Danitra Vance

Danitra Vance (July 13, 1954 – August 21, 1994) was an American comedian and actress best known for her role as a cast member on the eleventh season of Saturday Night Live (SNL) in 1985. Born and raised in Chicago's South Side, Vance gained recognition for her performances at The Second City and her work in Off-Broadway productions. She made history as the first Black woman to join the primary SNL cast and was one of the first openly LGBT members. Vance's comedy and theater work addressed social issues such as stereotyping in the entertainment industry. She received accolades including an Obie Award and an NAACP Image Award. Vance also appeared in films such as Sticky Fingers, Limit Up, and Jumpin' at the Boneyard. Despite being diagnosed with breast cancer in 1990, she continued to perform until her passing in 1994.