It has recently been announced that actor, comedian, writer, producer, and trailblazer, Chris Rock, is set to host the 88th Academy Awards in 2016. This will be Rock’s second appearance as an Academy Awards host with him taking his first shot at the coveted gig in 2005. “I’m so glad to be hosting the Oscars,” says Rock. “It’s great to be back.”
Since its inception in 1929, there have been a total of 75 entertainers, actors, or creators to host the ceremony. Rock is 1 of 5 African Americans who has had the opportunity to host Hollywood’s biggest event.
BlackEnterprise.com takes a look back at those who have paved the way for Rock, and expectantly, many, many more. Can you guess which African American actors preceded Rock in this position? Try your memory then take a sneak peek at the slideshow below to confirm what you think you know.
Chris Rock (Feb. 7, 1965 – )
Rock began standup in 1984 in New York City before eventually becoming a member of Saturday Night Live in 1990. In 1991, he released his first comedy album, Born Suspect. Rock experienced great standup, television, and film success with notable works including The Chris Rock Show, Dogma, Chris Rock: Bring the Pain, Head of State, Top Five, New Jack City, Boomerang, and many more.
Whoopi Goldberg (Nov. 13, 1995 – )
Goldberg has hosted the Oscars on several occasions including the 1993, 1995, 1998, and 2001 shows. The actress, comedian, and host has received countless accolades for her work in film, television, and theater. She is best known for her memorable roles in The Color Purple, Ghost, Sister Act, For Colored Girls, How Stella Got Her Groove Back, and countless other films. She is currently a host on the ABC daytime talk show, The View.
Richard Pryor (December 1, 1940Â — December 10, 2005)
Iconic stand-up comedian, social critic, actor, and writer, Richard Pryor, hosted the Oscars in 1977 and 1983. Best known for his forthright approach to race, drugs, society, and himself, some of Prior’s renowned works include Car Wash
, The Wiz, See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Richard Pryor Live in Concert, Bustin Loose, The Toy, Richard Pryor Live on the Sunset Strip, Harlem Nights, and the list continues. Pryor was 65 at the time of his passing.Diana Ross (March 26, 1944 – )
Legendary singer, actress, producer, and songwriter, Diana Ross, hosted the Academy Awards in 1974. Aside from being known for her sheer elegance, Ross has made outstanding strides in the music, television, theater, and film industries. Her list of accomplishments is overflowing for her many works including Lady Sings the Blues
, Mahogany, The Wiz and a plethora of award-winning hits.Sammy Davis Jr. (December 8, 1925Â — May 16, 1990)
Entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. was the first African American to host the Academy Awards–in 1972 and 1975. A famous member of the Rat Pack, Davis starred in several movies including Ocean’s Eleven, Sergeants Three, and Robin and the Seven Hoods. Davis’s career also featured acclaimed performances in The Cosby Show, One Life to Live, and The Swinging World of Sammy Davis Jr. He was also an award-winning solo vocalist with hit songs The Candy Man and What Kind of Fool Am I?