Diahann Carroll

Diahann Carroll is recognized as the first black woman who starred in a non-stereotypical role. She has transcended racial barriers when she landed the role of Julia in the TV series of the same title in the late ’60s. Her fame would, later on, be carried to the ’70s, with her hosting The Diahann Carroll Show. The actress was also included in The Star Wars Holiday Special in 1978. She has also appeared in White Collar and Grey’s Anatomy for her recurring roles. Her acting skills were given credits when she won a number of Golden Globe awards.

Carroll was a founding member of the Celebrity Action Council, a volunteer group of celebrity women who served the women’s outreach of the Los Angeles Mission, working with women in rehabilitation from problems with alcohol, drugs, or prostitution. She helped to form the group along with other female television personalities including Mary Frann, Linda Gray, Donna Mills, and Joan Van Ark. Diahann had over $20 million of net worth before she died in 2019 of breast cancer.