Queen Latifah’s Movies: A Look At Her Notable Performances, Personal Life, Physical Appearance, Height, Weight, And Awards

Introduction

Queen Latifah is an American singer, rapper, and actress whose influential career spans over three decades. Her compelling performances in film and music have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

Starting with her breakout role in Set It Off (1996) to her critically acclaimed portrayal of blues icon Bessie Smith in Bessie (2015), Queen Latifah has delivered a remarkable blend of comedy, emotion, and powerful storytelling. Her roles in Hairspray (2007) and Girls Trip (2017) further solidified her position as a leading figure in Hollywood.

Early Life

Born Dana Elaine Owens on March 18, 1970, in Newark, New Jersey, Queen Latifah was raised in East Orange. Raised in a Baptist household, she attended Catholic school during her formative years and graduated from Irvington High School. Before launching her entertainment career, she briefly attended Borough of Manhattan Community College.

Queen Latifah’s Movies

Queen Latifah’s film career began in 1991 with her debut in Spike Lee’s Jungle Fever. She rose to prominence with the 1996 heist thriller Set It Off, playing the role of Cleo. Below are some of her most notable movies:

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 delivers a captivating portrayal of blues legend Bessie Smith, charting her rise to fame along with her personal hardships. The role earned Latifah widespread critical acclaim and highlighted her dramatic acting prowess.

Just Wright (2010)

• Release Date: May 14, 2010
• Director: Sanaa Hamri
• Cast: Queen Latifah, Phylicia Rashad, Common, Paula Patton

Just Wright features Queen Latifah as Leslie Wright, a physical therapist who develops a romantic connection with an NBA player, portrayed by Common, while helping him recover from an injury. Latifah’s warmth and comedic timing make the character relatable and endearing.

The Secret Life of Bees (2008)

• Release Date: 2008
• Director: Gina Prince-Bythewood
• Cast: Queen Latifah, Jennifer Hudson, Dakota Fanning

Set against the backdrop of the racially charged 1960s South, Latifah portrays August Boatwright, a nurturing beekeeper who offers refuge and guidance to a young troubled girl. Her role exemplifies compassion and resilience, showcasing her dramatic versatility.

Hairspray (2007)

• Release Date: 2007
• Director: Adam Shankman
• Cast: Nikki Blonsky, Queen Latifah, Zac Efron, John Travolta

In this musical set during the 1960s civil rights era, Latifah’s performance as Motormouth Maybelle—a passionate record store owner and activist—is a standout. Her rendition of “I Know Where I’ve Been” is widely celebrated for its emotional depth and social impact.

Stranger Than Fiction (2006)

• Release Date: 2006
• Director: Marc Forster
• Cast: Dustin Hoffman, Queen Latifah, Will Ferrell, Emma Thompson

Queen Latifah plays Penny, the pragmatic and grounded assistant to a novelist facing a surreal crisis. Her steady and supportive character balances the film’s whimsical tones, demonstrating her skill in nuanced roles.

Last Holiday (2006)

• Release Date: 2006
• Director: Wayne Wang
• Cast: Queen Latifah, Timothy Hutton, LL Cool J

Latifah stars as Georgia, a modest saleswoman who decides to live her dream after receiving a terminal diagnosis. The film combines humor and heartfelt emotion, with Latifah’s performance making it an inspiring tale of hope and courage.

Chicago (2002)

• Release Date: 2002
• Director: Rob Marshall
• Cast: Queen Latifah, Richard Gere, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renée Zellweger

Queen Latifah earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress as Mama Morton in this iconic musical. Her commanding presence and powerhouse performance of “When You’re Good to Mama” add memorable energy to this Oscar-winning film.

The Bone Collector (1999)

• Release Date: 1999
• Director: Phillip Noyce
• Cast: Angelina Jolie, Queen Latifah, Denzel Washington

In this suspense thriller, Latifah plays Thelma, the devoted caregiver to a paralyzed detective. Her role adds both warmth and emotional grounding to a tense narrative about pursuing a serial killer.

Set It Off (1996)

• Release Date: 1996
• Director: F. Gary Gray
• Cast: Queen Latifah, Vivica A. Fox, Jada Pinkett Smith, Kimberly Elise

Set It Off was a groundbreaking heist film featuring four Black women in intense dramatic roles. Latifah’s portrayal of the tough and loyal Cleo earned her critical praise and established her as a serious actress in Hollywood.

Jungle Fever (1991)

• Release Date: 1991
• Director: Spike Lee
• Cast: Annabella Sciorra, Spike Lee, Queen Latifah, Wesley Snipes

Queen Latifah’s film debut came in this Spike Lee drama focused on interracial relationships. Though her role as a waitress was brief, it marked the beginning of her influential presence in cinema.

Personal Life
Queen Latifah has split her time living between New Jersey and California. She experienced a significant personal loss with the passing of her brother in 1992, a memory she honors symbolically. In 2021, she publicly introduced her partner, Eboni Nichols, and their son, Rebel, during her BET Lifetime Achievement Award acceptance speech.

Physical Appearance

• Height: 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm)
• Weight: Approximately 91 kg (200 lbs)
• Age: 54 years

Queen Latifah is known for her commanding presence and charismatic personality. She maintains a confident and healthy physique, combining elegance with modern and bold fashion. Her style continues to influence fashion and entertainment.

Awards

Throughout her career, Queen Latifah has received numerous accolades, including:

• Screen Actors Guild Award for Life Support (2007)
• Golden Globe Award for Life Support (2007)
• Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress in Chicago (2002)
• BET Lifetime Achievement Award (2021)

Conclusion

Queen Latifah’s extensive filmography underscores her outstanding talent and versatility as an entertainer. From early breakout roles to recent acclaimed performances, she consistently delivers authentic and resonant storytelling. Her personal journey of triumph and resilience adds depth and authenticity to her roles, enhancing her status as an inspirational figure. With multiple awards and a legacy that continues to grow, Queen Latifah remains a powerhouse in the entertainment world, inspiring new generations of artists and captivating audiences globally.

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