Trailblazing Soap Opera Star Ellen Holly Dies at 92
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Variety
Ellen Holly, the first Black star of a daytime television series for her role in "One Life to Live," has passed away at the age of 92. Holly's portrayal of Carla Gray on the long-running soap opera addressed racial issues and paved the way for similar storylines in other shows. In her autobiography, she revealed the mistreatment and underpayment of Black actors on the set. Holly had a successful career in theater and television, including roles in "The Guiding Light" and Spike Lee's "School Daze." She later became a librarian and is survived by her family. Donations can be made in her name to The Obama Presidential Center or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
