The Early Life of Viola Davis
Viola Davis was born on August 11, 1965, in St. Matthews, South Carolina. Her parents were Mary Alice Logan and Dan Davis. Viola was the second youngest of six children. Growing up, Viola and her family lived in poverty, and she has spoken openly about her difficult childhood. She has said that her family lived in a shack without running water or indoor plumbing.
Viola Davis’ Mother
Mary Alice Logan was born in Singleton, South Carolina, on October 31, 1929. She was the daughter of Cornelia and Henry Logan. Mary Alice grew up in the Jim Crow South, where segregation was the norm. She worked as a maid to support her family and later became a homemaker. Mary Alice was a deeply religious woman who instilled her faith in her children. Viola has said that her mother was her biggest influence and that she taught her to be strong and resilient.
Viola Davis’ Father
Dan Davis was born in Georgia in 1926. He was the son of a sharecropper and grew up in poverty. Dan served in World War II and later became a horse trainer. He was an alcoholic who struggled with addiction throughout his life. Despite his flaws, Viola has said that her father loved her and was proud of her accomplishments.
Viola Davis’ Parents Nationality: African American
So, what is the nationality of Viola Davis’ parents? Both of Viola’s parents were African American. They were part of the Great Migration, a period of mass movement of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North during the early 20th century. Viola’s parents moved to Central Falls, Rhode Island, where Viola grew up.
Viola Davis’ Ethnicity
Viola Davis’ ethnicity is African American. She has spoken about the challenges of being a dark-skinned woman in Hollywood, where beauty standards are often based on Eurocentric ideals. Viola has been a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry and has used her platform to speak out against racism and sexism.
Viola Davis’ Family Life
Viola Davis is married to Julius Tennon, an actor and producer. They have a daughter named Genesis, who was born in 2011. Viola has spoken about the challenges of balancing her career and family life, but she has also said that her family is her top priority. Viola’s mother passed away in 2006, but she has said that her mother’s influence continues to guide her.
Viola Davis’ Siblings
Viola Davis has five siblings. Her older sister, Deloris Grant, passed away in 2019. Viola has spoken about the close bond she had with her sister and how much she misses her. Viola’s other siblings are Diane Davis, Henry Davis, Marshawn Davis, and Anita Davis.
Viola Davis’ Career
Viola Davis’ career began in theater, where she gained critical acclaim for her performances in productions such as “King Hedley II” and “August Wilson’s Seven Guitars.” She later transitioned to film and television, where she has become known for her powerful and nuanced performances. Some of her most notable roles include Aibileen Clark in “The Help,” Rose Maxson in “Fences,” and Annalise Keating in “How to Get Away with Murder.”
Viola Davis’ Awards and Nominations
Viola Davis has won numerous awards for her work, including an Emmy, an Oscar, and a Tony Award. She has also been nominated for several other awards, including Golden Globes, BAFTAs, and Screen Actors Guild Awards. Viola is widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses of her generation, and her talent continues to captivate audiences around the world.
Viola Davis’ Philanthropy
Viola Davis is a passionate advocate for several causes, including hunger, poverty, and education. She has worked with organizations such as Hunger Is, which aims to end childhood hunger in America, and Vaseline Healing Project, which provides medical care to people in need around the world. Viola has also established the JuVee Productions Diversity Initiative, which aims to increase the representation of people of color, women, and other marginalized groups in the entertainment industry.
Viola Davis’ Legacy
Viola Davis’ legacy extends far beyond her impressive career. She has become a role model for people around the world, and her advocacy work has inspired many to take action and make a difference. Viola has said that she hopes to be remembered as a person who made a positive impact on the world, and there is no doubt that she has already achieved that goal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the nationality of Viola Davis’ parents is African American. Viola’s parents were part of the Great Migration and moved to Rhode Island, where Viola grew up. Viola has spoken openly about her difficult childhood and the influence of her mother, who was a deeply religious woman. Viola has become one of the greatest actresses of her generation and a passionate advocate for several causes. Her legacy will continue to inspire and impact people for generations to come.