Introduction
Queen Latifah is an American singer, rapper, and actress. Queen Latifah’s movies have made an indelible mark in the entertainment industry. She has been captivating audiences with her films for more than thirty years.
From her breakthrough role in Set It Off (1996) to her acclaimed portrayal of Bessie Smith in Bessie (2015), her movies showcase her blend of comedy, emotion, and powerful storytelling. Films like Hairspray (2007) and Girls Trip (2017) further cemented her status as a Hollywood leading figure.
| Category | Details |
| Real Name | Dana Elaine Owens |
| Professional Name | Queen Latifah |
| Gender | Female |
| Birth Date | March 18, 1970 |
| Age | 54 years |
| Birthplace | Newark, New Jersey |
| Height | 5 feet, 10 inches |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Graduated from Irvington High School |
| Profession | Actress, rapper, singer, songwriter, film producer, talk show host |
| Queen Latifah’s Movies | Bessie (2015) Just Wright (2010) The Secret Life of Bees (2008) Hairspray (2007) Stranger Than Fiction (2006) Last Holiday (2006) Chicago (2002) The Bone Collector (1999) Set It Off (1996) Jungle Fever (1991) |
Early Life
Queen Latifah was born Dana Elaine Owens on March 18, 1970, in Newark, New Jersey. She grew up in East Orange. Raised in a Baptist household, she attended Catholic school and later graduated from Irvington High School. She briefly attended Borough of Manhattan Community College before launching her entertainment career.
Queen Latifah’s Movies
Queen Latifah’s movie career began in 1991 with her debut in Spike Lee’s Jungle Fever. Her breakthrough role came in 1996 with the heist thriller Set It Off, where she portrayed Cleo. Some of her famous movies are:
Bessie (2015)
- Release Date: May 16, 2015
- Director: Dee Rees
- Cast: Queen Latifah, Michael Kenneth Williams, Mo’Nique, Khandi Alexander
In HBO’s Bessie, Queen Latifah powerfully portrays blues legend Bessie Smith, highlighting her rise to fame and personal struggles. Latifah’s raw performance earned critical acclaim, showcasing her dramatic talent.
Just Wright (2010)
- Release Date: May 14, 2010
- Director: Sanaa Hamri
- Cast: Queen Latifah, Phylicia Rashad, Common, Paula Patton
In Just Wright, Queen Latifah shines as Leslie Wright, a physical therapist who develops feelings for an NBA player, played by Common, while helping him recover. Latifah’s warmth and humor make Leslie relatable, and her chemistry with Common adds a charming, lighthearted touch to this beloved romantic comedy.
The Secret Life of Bees (2008)
- Release Date: 2008
- Director: Gina Prince-Bythewood
- Cast: Queen Latifah, Jennifer Hudson, Dakota Fanning
Set in the racially turbulent 1960s, Latifah plays August, a wise and compassionate beekeeper who takes in a troubled girl (Fanning) and introduces her to a world of kindness and self-discovery. Her character’s warmth and strength provided a heartfelt center for the story, showcasing Latifah’s dramatic range.
Hairspray (2007)
- Release Date: 2007
- Director: Adam Shankman
- Cast: Nikki Blonsky, Queen Latifah, Zac Efron, John Travolta
Set in the 1960s, Hairspray brings a story of social change, and Latifah stars as Motormouth Maybelle, a record shop owner and activist. Her powerful performance of “I Know Where I’ve Been” became a memorable part of the movie, reflecting Latifah’s ability to inspire through music and acting.
Stranger Than Fiction (2006)
- Release Date: 2006
- Director: Marc Forster
- Cast: Dustin Hoffman, Queen Latifah, Will Ferrell, Emma Thompson
In this unique dramedy, Queen Latifah plays Penny, a no-nonsense assistant to a writer (Thompson) struggling to finish a novel. Latifah’s role adds a stabilizing force to the surreal narrative, and her calm, supportive character provides a counterbalance to the eccentric personalities around her
Last Holiday (2006)
- Release Date: 2006
- Director: Wayne Wang
- Cast: Queen Latifah, Timothy Hutton, LL Cool J
In Last Holiday, Latifah stars as Georgia, a humble saleswoman who embarks on a dream trip after a terminal diagnosis. The film balances humor and sentiment, and Latifah’s warm, sincere performance transforms it into an uplifting story about embracing life to the fullest.
Chicago (2002)
- Release Date: 2002
- Director: Rob Marshall
- Cast: Queen Latifah, Richard Gere, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renée Zellweger
In the musical Chicago, Latifah shines as Mama Morton, the formidable matron of the women’s cellblock. Her commanding performance and rendition of “When You’re Good to Mama” earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress. This role showcased her singing and acting talents, solidifying her reputation as a multifaceted performer.
The Bone Collector (1999)
- Release Date: 1999
- Director: Phillip Noyce
- Cast: Angelina Jolie, Queen Latifah, Denzel Washington
In this suspenseful crime thriller, Queen Latifah plays Thelma, the caregiver and trusted confidante of a paralyzed detective (Washington). Her portrayal adds warmth and humanity to a dark storyline about a serial killer on the loose. Latifah’s role, though smaller, adds a layer of support and stability to Washington’s character.
Set It Off (1996)
- Release Date: 1996
- Director: F. Gary Gray
- Cast: Queen Latifah, Vivica A. Fox, Jada Pinkett Smith, Kimberly Elise
In this heist thriller, Latifah plays Cleo, a fiercely loyal woman who joins her friends in a high-stakes bank robbery. The film was groundbreaking for its portrayal of four Black women in complex, dramatic roles, and Latifah’s performance as the tough, unapologetic Cleo earned her critical acclaim, establishing her as a serious actor.
Jungle Fever (1991)
- Release Date: 1991
- Director: Spike Lee
- Cast: Annabella Sciorra, Spike Lee, Queen Latifah, Wesley Snipes
Queen Latifah made her big-screen debut in this Spike Lee film, a powerful story exploring interracial relationships. Although her role was brief, playing a waitress who disapproves of an interracial couple, her presence was impactful. Jungle Fever remains significant as it marks the first time audiences witnessed her on the big screen.
Queen Latifah’s Personal Life
Latifah has lived in New Jersey and California and has faced personal challenges, including the tragic loss of her brother in 1992. She continues to honor his memory by wearing the key to his motorcycle.
In 2021, Latifah publicly acknowledged her partner, Eboni Nichols, and their son, Rebel, during her BET Lifetime Achievement Award speech.
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet, 10 inches
- Weight: 91 kg
- Age: 54
Queen Latifah has a commanding and charismatic presence. Known for her vibrant personality, she maintains a fit and healthy physique. Her style is celebrated for balancing elegance with bold, modern fashion.
Awards
She earned the following awards from her film career:
- Screen Actors Guild Award for Life Support (2007)
- Golden Globe Award for Life Support (2007)
- Academy Award nomination for Chicago (2002)
- BET Lifetime Achievement Award (2021)
Conclusion
Queen Latifah’s movies have showcased her incredible talent and versatility. From her early roles to her recent performances, she has consistently delivered powerful storytelling that resonates with audiences. Queen Latifah’s journey, marked by personal triumphs and challenges, adds depth to her on-screen characters. With numerous awards to her name and an enduring legacy, Queen Latifah continues to inspire aspiring artists and entertain fans worldwide.
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FAQs
Queen Latifah gained widespread fame with the film Chicago.
Yes, Queen Latifah was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2006.
Her net worth is about $70 million
