This Mother’s Day, we’re showing love to the matriarchs who raised us on-screen. Whether they were ruling kingdoms, serving up tough love, or keeping the family together with a smile and a side-eye, these Black TV and film moms gave us everything.

From sitcoms to the big screen, these moms weren’t just characters—they were cultural touchstones. They made us laugh, cry, and sometimes call our own mamas just to say “thank you.”

So, in honor of Mother’s Day, we’re spotlighting 11 iconic Black moms in television and film who reminded us that motherhood is strength, style, sacrifice, and soul—all rolled into one.

Clair Huxtable – The Cosby Show

Elegant, witty, and fiercely intelligent, Phylicia Rashad remains a timeless example of Black maternal excellence.

Tina Knowles-Lawson – Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé

As Beyoncé’s mother, her real-life nurturing, creativity, and grounding presence shine in this documentary-style film.

Angela Abar (Sister Night) – Watchmen

Regina King’s Angela redefines what it means to protect your family while carrying generational trauma and fighting injustice.

Beverly Jenkins – Abbott Elementary

Played by Sheryl Lee Ralph, Beverly blends stern love and old-school values while offering hilarious, teachable moments.

Queen Ramonda – Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Angela Bassett delivers an Oscar-nominated performance as a grieving mother leading a nation with grace and fury.

Lisa Landry (Sister, Sister)

Jackée Harry’s portrayal of Lisa Landry in “Sister, Sister” embodies a loving and supportive mother figure, offering guidance and humor as she navigates the ups and downs of raising twin daughters.

Vivian Banks – The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

Cassandra Freeman gives a fresh, dynamic take on Black motherhood, balancing art, love, and social awareness.

Rainbow Johnson (Black-ish)

Tracee Ellis Ross’s portrayal of Rainbow Johnson in “Black-ish” captures the essence of a modern-day mother, navigating the complexities of family life with humor, resilience, and unwavering love.

Lisa McDowell’s Mother – Coming 2 America

Shari Headley’s return shows a more seasoned matriarch, keeping the family legacy alive in a modern world.

Tasha St. Patrick – Power

Naturi Naughton’s character is one of TV’s most complex mothers—loyal, flawed, and fiercely protective.

Monica Wright’s Mom – Love & Basketball

Alfre Woodard plays a mother whose emotional restraint eventually gives way to understanding and acceptance.

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Looking for more must-watch moments celebrating your favorite Black TV moms? Catch your favorite shows and movies on aspireTV and stream even more anytime on aspireTV+—available now on Prime Video Channels and Xfinity! Stay connected and explore more stories with our latest Tribe Talks.