Diahann Carroll

Diahann Carroll (born Carol Diann Johnson; July 17, 1935 – October 4, 2019) was an American actress, singer, model, and activist. She rose to prominence in the Golden Age of Hollywood and was a major figure during that time. Carroll received numerous nominations and awards, including a Tony Award in 1962, a Golden Globe Award in 1968, and five Emmy Award nominations. She starred in several groundbreaking films, such as Carmen Jones (1954) and Porgy and Bess (1959), which featured black casts. Carroll also earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in Claudine (1974). In addition, she had notable appearances in Paris Blues (1961), The Split (1968), and Eve's Bayou (1997). Carroll is best known for her role as Julia in the television series Julia (1968-1971), making her the first black woman to star in a non-stereotypical role on American television.