Have you ever wondered what it's like to grow up as a Disney Channel star? As Walt Disney Company celebrates their 100th anniversary this year, now is the perfect time to recognize some of their most successful black stars. These talented actors and actresses got their big break on the Disney Channel and have gone on to achieve even more success.
Celebrating Walt Disney's 100-Year Legacy of Diverse Talent
Walt Disney has been championing diversity and promoting young Black talent for decades. In honor of Disney's 100th anniversary, we're celebrating some of the most successful Black Disney stars.
Zendaya got her start on the Disney Channel show Shake It Up, and has since become a household name known for her roles in the Spiderman franchise, The Greatest Showman, and Euphoria. This multi-talented star continues to shake up Hollywood with her acting, singing, and activism.
Keke Palmer's breakout role was in Akeelah and the Bee, but she really rose to fame on True Jackson, VP. Palmer has gone on to star in critically acclaimed films like Hustlers and Alice. Her vivacious spirit and comedic timing have made her a fan favorite.
Raven-Symoné played the title role in That's So Raven, the first Black female lead of a Disney Channel series. She showed young viewers that it's perfectly normal to be a quirky teen with psychic abilities. Raven continues to make us laugh with her quick wit and humor.
Tia and Tamera Mowry, the charismatic twins, won hearts over on Sister, Sister. Their genuine sisterly bond and contagious energy landed them roles on the Disney Channel and Nickelodeon. The Mowry sisters have persevered in their careers, acting in and producing numerous TV shows and movies.
Kyla Pratt voiced the smart and sassy Penny Proud in The Proud Family, Disney Channel's first animated series featuring a Black family. Pratt's hip and comedic performance brought the character of Penny to life and inspired young Black girls everywhere. Her talent and poise continue to make her a role model.
From That's So Raven to Shake It Up: 6 Standout Black Disney Stars
This year marks Walt Disney's 100th anniversary, so we're honoring some of the most successful Black Disney stars. From That's So Raven to Shake It Up, these standouts have inspired generations.
Zendaya
Zendaya got her start on Disney Channel's Shake It Up, playing a character named Rocky Blue. Her role as a talented dancer and singer kickstarted her career. Now, Zendaya stars in the hit HBO show Euphoria and has appeared in major films like The Greatest Showman and the Marvel Cinematic Universe's Spider- Man trilogy.
Keke Palmer
Keke Palmer's breakout role was in the Disney Channel movie Jump In! as Mary, a skilled double dutch player. She went on to star in the show True Jackson, VP, playing a teenage fashion mogul. Keke has since appeared in acclaimed films like Hustlers, Alice, and The Proud Family reboot. Her vivacious personality and powerful voice make her an unstoppable talent.
Raven-Symoné
That's So Raven introduced us to Raven Baxter, a funny and quirky teen psychic played by Raven-Symoné. The show ran for four seasons and Raven- Symoné has worked with Disney ever since, appearing in spinoffs like Raven's Home and voicing characters in shows like T.O.T.S. Her comedic timing and expressive style have brought joy to viewers of all ages.
The Mowry Twins
Tia and Tamera Mowry played twins separated at birth who reunite as teenagers in the Disney Channel hit Sister, Sister. Their chemistry and humor made the show a 90s classic. The sisters have gone on to star in other sitcoms and host talk shows, proving that their talents are twice as nice.
Kyla Pratt
Kyla Pratt voiced Penny Proud in The Proud Family, Disney Channel's first animated series featuring a Black family. She brought spunk and wit to the character of Penny, a confident teen navigating life with her quirky family and friends. Kyla has acted in other shows and films since, including the reboot of The Proud Family, Louder and Prouder. Her memorable voice work paved the way for more representation in animation.
Conclusion
It's inspiring to see some of the amazing black talent that has come from Disney over the years. These actors and actresses have gone on to have successful careers in film, television, music, and beyond. As Walt Disney Company celebrates their 100th anniversary this year, it's a perfect time to honor and recognize some of the most successful black Disney stars. From Raven Symone and the Mowry twins in the 90s to Zendaya and Keke Palmer today, these stars show young people everywhere that anything is possible if you follow your dreams. So keep your head up, work hard, and who knows - you might just become the next big Disney star! The future is bright.
Contributed by Debby Star
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