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10 Black Celebs Who Successfully Pass For White

Posted byBy A Moore | Published on: August 13, 2013 | Updated on April 26, 2018 CommentsComments (421)

What people are saying

421 thoughts on “10 Black Celebs Who Successfully Pass For White”

Michael Funso says:August 13, 2013 at 10:31 pmBlack people and in particular the author of this piece are shallow. What is the big deal if they did pass for white? I think the idle hand who thought this is a great “research” should go and get a real job.
Michael Funso says:August 13, 2013 at 10:31 pmBlack people and in particular the author of this piece are shallow. What is the big deal if they did pass for white? I think the idle hand who thought this is a great “research” should go and get a real job.
Michael Rene’e Daniels says:August 13, 2013 at 10:38 pmMost of the folks on this list haven’t hidden their race or ethnicity with the exception of Carol Channing. In fact Soledad O’brien has always been very specific and clear about her ehtnicity. Never heard of the young lady on the the reality show.
Michael Rene’e Daniels says:August 13, 2013 at 10:38 pmMost of the folks on this list haven’t hidden their race or ethnicity with the exception of Carol Channing. In fact Soledad O’brien has always been very specific and clear about her ehtnicity. Never heard of the young lady on the the reality show.
Aaron Sailor says:August 13, 2013 at 10:55 pmThese people aren’t Black! And as far as I am concerned Biracials have just as much right to claim there Black side as they do there White. When are Black people going to get rid of this “one drop” bullcrap?
Aaron Sailor says:August 13, 2013 at 10:55 pmThese people aren’t Black! And as far as I am concerned Biracials have just as much right to claim there Black side as they do there White. When are Black people going to get rid of this “one drop” bullcrap?
Aaron Charles Sailor says:August 13, 2013 at 10:55 pmThese people aren’t Black! And as far as I am concerned Biracials have just as much right to claim there Black side as they do there White. When are Black people going to get rid of this “one drop” bullcrap?
Sabella Abidde says:August 13, 2013 at 11:02 pm…then you are missing the point
Sabella Abidde says:August 13, 2013 at 11:02 pm…then you are missing the point
Tish Newton Virgues says:August 13, 2013 at 11:03 pmlazy journalism full of assumptions and half truths
Tish Newton Virgues says:August 13, 2013 at 11:03 pmlazy journalism full of assumptions and half truths
Bill Herder says:August 13, 2013 at 11:17 pmRight on, brother. You’re one color, I’m another. God made us both and he made us that way. Let’s start trying to solve some real problems, like family, jobs, etc. and stop worrying about something as unimportant as skin color.
Bill Herder says:August 13, 2013 at 11:17 pmRight on, brother. You’re one color, I’m another. God made us both and he made us that way. Let’s start trying to solve some real problems, like family, jobs, etc. and stop worrying about something as unimportant as skin color.
The Digital Political says:August 13, 2013 at 11:23 pmBlack people are shallow?
The Digital Political says:August 13, 2013 at 11:23 pmBlack people are shallow?
The Digital Political says:August 13, 2013 at 11:25 pmBill Herder Skin color is unimportant? Hmmm…So the NYC “Search and Frisk Law” impacts who the most?
The Digital Political says:August 13, 2013 at 11:25 pmBill Herder Skin color is unimportant? Hmmm…So the NYC “Search and Frisk Law” impacts who the most?
Nebuwah Hutip says:August 13, 2013 at 11:26 pmFence hoppers.. lol not hatin though. Scilians have a considerable amount of blood admixture from the motherland. Both her parents are probably Italian.
Nebuwah Hutip says:August 13, 2013 at 11:26 pmFence hoppers.. lol not hatin though. Scilians have a considerable amount of blood admixture from the motherland. Both her parents are probably Italian.
Kristal K’Sera says:August 13, 2013 at 11:29 pmWhoever wrote this garbage needs to be fired.
Eleshia L. Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 12:19 amInteresting though…didn’t know about chick from PLL. I find this stuff fascinating.
Eleshia L. Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 12:19 amInteresting though…didn’t know about chick from PLL. I find this stuff fascinating.
Michael W. Corbett Sr. says:August 14, 2013 at 12:22 amIts a non-issue. They are not passing, unless they pretend not to be black or of mixed heritage. Even if you changed the name of the article to “Actors you might not have known are black” it would still be poorly researched. The only one passing is the older woman….
Michael W. Corbett Sr. says:August 14, 2013 at 12:22 amIts a non-issue. They are not passing, unless they pretend not to be black or of mixed heritage. Even if you changed the name of the article to “Actors you might not have known are black” it would still be poorly researched. The only one passing is the older woman….
Wardell Benford says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 amIts alot of blacks like this! I blamed the mothers for this shit. They are first teachers. Regardless if they are white, latino, asian and black.
Wardell Benford says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 amIts alot of blacks like this! I blamed the mothers for this shit. They are first teachers. Regardless if they are white, latino, asian and black.
Kay Dejavu says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 amDamn is that Melissa? Anyhooo none of these people are black, they are part black. Let us stop the one-dropping!
Kay Dejavu says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 amDamn is that Melissa? Anyhooo none of these people are black, they are part black. Let us stop the one-dropping!
Steve Edmonds says:August 14, 2013 at 12:45 amPeople, the term “passing” actually came from American white people. America need to really know their history before saying this is shallow or is garbage. Google Plessy vs Ferguson and read about the “one drop rule” Black people did not make this rule…White people did. Whether we like it or not its a ugly part of American History.
Steven Michael says:August 14, 2013 at 12:45 amPeople, the term “passing” actually came from American white people. America need to really know their history before saying this is shallow or is garbage. Google Plessy vs Ferguson and read about the “one drop rule” Black people did not make this rule…White people did. Whether we like it or not its a ugly part of American History.
Tre Baker says:August 14, 2013 at 1:01 amI knew all of these people were Black except the first guy. I don’t understand how this wasn’t obvious unless you know zero lightskinned Black people.
Tre Baker says:August 14, 2013 at 1:01 amI knew all of these people were Black except the first guy. I don’t understand how this wasn’t obvious unless you know zero lightskinned Black people.
Brad Isaac says:August 14, 2013 at 1:56 amThis is a misleading list as most of the people here are obviously biracial and they all really do nothing to hide that they are biracial. If you are really interested in whichever actor then a little looking will let you know. Besides who cares..
Brad Isaac says:August 14, 2013 at 1:56 amThis is a misleading list as most of the people here are obviously biracial and they all really do nothing to hide that they are biracial. If you are really interested in whichever actor then a little looking will let you know. Besides who cares..
Joy Foster says:August 14, 2013 at 2:06 amI get what you’re saying, but if ‘we Black people’ are to ‘drop’ the one drop bull, then “we” Black Americans wouldn’t be “Black” either due to a few centuries worth of miscegenation starting with slavery, and would have to right to claim the white ancestry that a MAJORITY of us have, for many generations past. Unfortunately, that would make a plethora of people really uncomfortable, making it not quite as simple a task as you make it sound. Maybe in the next century we can actually be “post racial”, but it’s not here yet.
Joy Foster says:August 14, 2013 at 2:06 amI get what you’re saying, but if ‘we Black people’ are to ‘drop’ the one drop bull, then “we” Black Americans wouldn’t be “Black” either due to a few centuries worth of miscegenation starting with slavery, and would have to right to claim the white ancestry that a MAJORITY of us have, for many generations past. Unfortunately, that would make a plethora of people really uncomfortable, making it not quite as simple a task as you make it sound. Maybe in the next century we can actually be “post racial”, but it’s not here yet.
Joy Foster says:August 14, 2013 at 2:06 amI get what you’re saying, but if ‘we Black people’ are to ‘drop’ the one drop bull, then “we” Black Americans wouldn’t be “Black” either due to a few centuries worth of miscegenation starting with slavery, and would have to right to claim the white ancestry that a MAJORITY of us have, for many generations past. Unfortunately, that would make a plethora of people really uncomfortable, making it not quite as simple a task as you make it sound. Maybe in the next century we can actually be “post racial”, but it’s not here yet.
Cheapo Comics says:August 14, 2013 at 2:12 amYou’re right, who cares about their ethnicity? The article’s title alone is annoying. So much crap about race these days it gets a bit much at times.
La Yoli says:August 14, 2013 at 2:22 amI wonder why the insecure person who wrote this is attempting to cause a stir? Soledad does a lot of activism and discussions about biraciality and black/ latin perception and experience in america. Some of the other’s mentioned jobs are to entertain, not make categorizing narrow minded and announcements to make silly people feel better #stopthewitchhunt.
La Yoli says:August 14, 2013 at 2:22 amI wonder why the insecure person who wrote this is attempting to cause a stir? Soledad does a lot of activism and discussions about biraciality and black/ latin perception and experience in america. Some of the other’s mentioned jobs are to entertain, not make categorizing narrow minded and announcements to make silly people feel better #stopthewitchhunt.
La Yoli says:August 14, 2013 at 2:22 amI wonder why the insecure person who wrote this is attempting to cause a stir? Soledad does a lot of activism and discussions about biraciality and black/ latin perception and experience in america. Some of the other’s mentioned jobs are to entertain, not make categorizing narrow minded and announcements to make silly people feel better #stopthewitchhunt.
SekhmetAsare Asare says:August 14, 2013 at 2:32 amThe Digital Political explain
Trice Heard says:August 14, 2013 at 2:32 amThe Digital Political explain
Hrh Elizabeth Eff Obisanya says:August 14, 2013 at 2:52 amif their daddies are white they are white,(bible definition of where you are from – on fathers side sorry folks) those whose daddies are black are considered as black folks.
Parker Hellsin says:August 14, 2013 at 2:54 amMelissa looks cute I can tell in the curly haired picture she got some black in her(high five)…
Parker Hellsin says:August 14, 2013 at 2:54 amMelissa looks cute I can tell in the curly haired picture she got some black in her(high five)…
Parker Hellsin says:August 14, 2013 at 2:55 amoh I loves me some Rashida Jones…
Parker Hellsin says:August 14, 2013 at 2:55 amoh I loves me some Rashida Jones…
Joe Masse says:August 14, 2013 at 3:22 amBy far, this is the most racist article I’ve read in a while… “celebrated black” and “another caucasian.” Please. Not to mention, none one of these actors/celebs are full black, they are bi-racial or bi-regional, like most of the U.S. So use that in your title, “Bi-racial celebs who pass white.” OHHH..That won’t grab a readers attention. Amateur racist bullshit. Get a new job, Mr. A Moore.
Joe Masse says:August 14, 2013 at 3:22 amBy far, this is the most racist article I’ve read in a while… “celebrated black” and “another caucasian.” Please. Not to mention, none one of these actors/celebs are full black, they are bi-racial or bi-regional, like most of the U.S. So use that in your title, “Bi-racial celebs who pass white.” OHHH..That won’t grab a readers attention. Amateur racist bullshit. Get a new job, Mr. A Moore.
Perttu Superjood says:August 14, 2013 at 3:26 amWHO CARES
Perttu Super says:August 14, 2013 at 3:26 amWHO CARES
Matt Degrelle Xvii says:August 14, 2013 at 3:31 amWhat retard follows bible definitions? Everything is genetics. These people are mixed race, not black or white.
Timo Partanen says:August 14, 2013 at 4:20 amW.H.O. slogan: “WHO CARES”
Atty Earlyne McCalister Thomas says:August 14, 2013 at 4:26 amExcuse me, but most of the people you listed HAVE NOT made it a point to deny their Black ancestry. Rashida Jones–who doesn’t know that her father is Black? Soledad O’Brien has made it a point, well before her documentaries, that she is part Black. Same thing for Maya Rudolph. Oh, BTW, Maya’s character in Bridesmaids could hardly have been considered to have been a “white” woman, when the man who played her father in the movie, was BLACK, and the mother was white. Just because some of the people mentioned are biracial, and may play white roles, doesn’t necessarily mean they are passing–with the exception of Carol Channing–who didn’t find out until she was in college, and living in an age when it wasn’t unusual for very light-skinned Blacks to PASS.
Atty Earlyne McCalister Thomas says:August 14, 2013 at 4:26 amExcuse me, but most of the people you listed HAVE NOT made it a point to deny their Black ancestry. Rashida Jones–who doesn’t know that her father is Black? Soledad O’Brien has made it a point, well before her documentaries, that she is part Black. Same thing for Maya Rudolph. Oh, BTW, Maya’s character in Bridesmaids could hardly have been considered to have been a “white” woman, when the man who played her father in the movie, was BLACK, and the mother was white. Just because some of the people mentioned are biracial, and may play white roles, doesn’t necessarily mean they are passing–with the exception of Carol Channing–who didn’t find out until she was in college, and living in an age when it wasn’t unusual for very light-skinned Blacks to PASS.
Perttu Superjood says:August 14, 2013 at 4:52 amnot bad
Perttu Superjood says:August 14, 2013 at 4:52 amnot bad
Perttu Super says:August 14, 2013 at 4:52 amnot bad
Ed Violette says:August 14, 2013 at 6:31 amFunny how these people are white while our President is black??
Ed Violette says:August 14, 2013 at 6:31 amFunny how these people are white while our President is black??
Ed Violette says:August 14, 2013 at 6:31 amFunny how these people are white while our President is black??
Ed Violette says:August 14, 2013 at 6:31 amWhat are the rules man?
Ed Violette says:August 14, 2013 at 6:31 amWhat are the rules man?
Paulette Purvis says:August 14, 2013 at 7:22 amBlack people are shallow? Then, what that makes you?
Paulette Purvis says:August 14, 2013 at 7:22 amBlack people are shallow? Then, what that makes you?
Black-Women Empowerment says:August 14, 2013 at 7:26 amThese are ALL biracial or multiracial people. They are NOT black.
Black-Women Empowerment says:August 14, 2013 at 7:26 amThese are ALL biracial or multiracial people. They are NOT black.
Val Hagans says:August 14, 2013 at 7:26 amThanks for the education on Plessy vs Ferguson.
Val Hagans says:August 14, 2013 at 7:26 amThanks for the education on Plessy vs Ferguson.
Paulette Purvis says:August 14, 2013 at 7:27 amIf you really want to know the truth, at least 60% of all people are biracial in one way or another. Sorry, but true. If this stings, then you must have been bitten. Next subject please. This topic doesn’t interest me one way or another.
Paulette Purvis says:August 14, 2013 at 7:27 amIf you really want to know the truth, at least 60% of all people are biracial in one way or another. Sorry, but true. If this stings, then you must have been bitten. Next subject please. This topic doesn’t interest me one way or another.
Sharon L. Carnahan says:August 14, 2013 at 7:31 amI found this offensive; the intimation was that people gain by “passing” as White.
Sharon L. Carnahan says:August 14, 2013 at 7:31 amI found this offensive; the intimation was that people gain by “passing” as White.
Dani Lazarus says:August 14, 2013 at 7:58 amRe Ms. Gorga: many Italians deny their African heritage. Nothing new. #Moors
Dani Lazarus says:August 14, 2013 at 7:58 amRe Ms. Gorga: many Italians deny their African heritage. Nothing new. #Moors
Eva Keane says:August 14, 2013 at 8:01 amCorrect! Black people need to stop trying to “claim” people who dont want the label “black”.
Eva Keane says:August 14, 2013 at 8:01 amCorrect! Black people need to stop trying to “claim” people who dont want the label “black”.
Eva Keane says:August 14, 2013 at 8:02 amFor instance, Tiger Woods has TOLD YOU he’s “Cablasian” so just move on!
Eva Keane says:August 14, 2013 at 8:02 amFor instance, Tiger Woods has TOLD YOU he’s “Cablasian” so just move on!
Dani Lazarus says:August 14, 2013 at 8:03 amSoledad O’Brien has never tried to ‘pass’. She has always and continues to be ridiculed as a white face trying to pass for Black, in fact.
Dani Lazarus says:August 14, 2013 at 8:03 amSoledad O’Brien has never tried to ‘pass’. She has always and continues to be ridiculed as a white face trying to pass for Black, in fact.
Arthur Vee says:August 14, 2013 at 8:46 amYep, great article WAY TO PERPETUATE RACISM IN AMERICA
Arthur Vee says:August 14, 2013 at 8:46 amYep, great article WAY TO PERPETUATE RACISM IN AMERICA
Arthur Vee says:August 14, 2013 at 8:46 amSabella Abidde no he’s not. The only one missing the point is closeted bigots like yourself.
Arthur Vee says:August 14, 2013 at 8:46 amSabella Abidde no he’s not. The only one missing the point is closeted bigots like yourself.
LaVinnia Bright says:August 14, 2013 at 9:04 amthe one drop rule was started by slave master not black people. you don’t know your history
LaVinnia Bright says:August 14, 2013 at 9:04 am@Aaron Sailor the one drop rule was started by slave masters not black people. you don’t know your history
Glen Alcorn says:August 14, 2013 at 9:26 amwho cares….
Glen Alcorn says:August 14, 2013 at 9:26 amwho cares….
Rickey Fuller says:August 14, 2013 at 9:30 amthe bible is wrong about a whole lot of things
Rickey Fuller says:August 14, 2013 at 9:30 amthe bible is wrong about a whole lot of things
Danielle Tate says:August 14, 2013 at 9:31 amMaya Rudolph had a SNL alum, who is African American with locks play her father in Bridesmaids. Along with other mistakes in this article. The journalist here did no research before allowing this print. Where is thfe fact checker or is this a gossip site?
Danielle Tate says:August 14, 2013 at 9:31 amMaya Rudolph had a SNL alum, who is African American with locks play her father in Bridesmaids. Along with other mistakes in this article. The journalist here did no research before allowing this print. Where is thfe fact checker or is this a gossip site?
Aquil ExportQuality Hall says:August 14, 2013 at 9:47 amRight, nobody wants to mention that. White people have the shortest selective memory!
Aquil ExportQuality Hall says:August 14, 2013 at 9:47 amRight, nobody wants to mention that. White people have the shortest selective memory!
Terence Tramp Abney says:August 14, 2013 at 9:58 amThis is your “editorial”? who cares? awesome job blackstar.com, you have successfully proven your worthlessness.
Claire Simba says:August 14, 2013 at 10:01 amUmm excuse me… in this list there’s NO BLACK PERSON, only MIXED! Very different!
Claire Simba says:August 14, 2013 at 10:01 amUmm excuse me… in this list there’s NO BLACK PERSON, only MIXED! Very different!
Marc Reid says:August 14, 2013 at 10:04 amWhy is this news?
Marc Reid says:August 14, 2013 at 10:04 amWhy is this news?
Milton Kaseke says:August 14, 2013 at 10:07 amI just wasted 30 seconds of my life!
Nayo Luv says:August 14, 2013 at 10:08 amHahahaa…this posted to my wall….thank you for saving 30 seconds of my life!
Angela Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 10:13 amWhy is that supposed to be a success? lol. ijs
Angela Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 10:13 amWhy is that supposed to be a success? lol. ijs
Fani Lou Taylor says:August 14, 2013 at 10:15 amBill Herder “Right On Bill”
Fani Lou Taylor says:August 14, 2013 at 10:15 amBill Herder “Right On Bill”
Sharon D Brown says:August 14, 2013 at 10:24 amI would agree with you that following the father’s ancestral line makes sense, but since we live in the USA and in order to continue and maintain slavery the race was assigned according to the mother.
Sharon D Brown says:August 14, 2013 at 10:24 amI would agree with you that following the father’s ancestral line makes sense, but since we live in the USA and in order to continue and maintain slavery the race was assigned according to the mother.
Hodari Lewis says:August 14, 2013 at 10:32 amIf your father is biracial it makes u black? Why is that only the case with black people? If my mother was half Italian I wouldn’t be considered Italian passing for black. Being multiracial doesn’t catogorize everybody mixed with everything BUT black. My son is half black, a quarter Hispanic, & a quarter white. I feel like its just as wrong to tell him that he’s not white or Hispanic as it is to tell him he’s not black
Hodari Lewis says:August 14, 2013 at 10:32 amIf your father is biracial it makes u black? Why is that only the case with black people? If my mother was half Italian I wouldn’t be considered Italian passing for black. Being multiracial doesn’t catogorize everybody mixed with everything BUT black. My son is half black, a quarter Hispanic, & a quarter white. I feel like its just as wrong to tell him that he’s not white or Hispanic as it is to tell him he’s not black
Jones Andrea says:August 14, 2013 at 10:34 amSo the person who wrote this, didn’t see Bridesmaids cuz Rudolf’s dad in the movie was black. SMH
Andrea Rochester says:August 14, 2013 at 10:34 amSo the person who wrote this, didn’t see Bridesmaids cuz Rudolf’s dad in the movie was black. SMH
Kenneth Armour says:August 14, 2013 at 10:44 amThis is the kind of garbage that keeps racial issues alive in America. People are people. Talent is talent. Who gives a damn what color they are? This is super frustrating.
Necie Coles says:August 14, 2013 at 10:46 amWhat a negative racially charged piece of garbage. The author
Is no journalist. What a waste. One little point. Did you watch
The movie bridesmaids? Maya Rudolph’s character had a white mother and an African American father. You did even get that small
fact correct. The rest of this is just BS fuel.
Necie Coles says:August 14, 2013 at 10:46 amWhat a negative racially charged piece of garbage. The author
Is no journalist. What a waste. One little point. Did you watch
The movie bridesmaids? Maya Rudolph’s character had a white mother and an African American father. You did even get that small
fact correct. The rest of this is just BS fuel.
Alborz Mohtashami says:August 14, 2013 at 10:54 amIS THAT THE GIRL FROM SUITS?!?!? Crazy. I like her a lot more now
Alborz Mohtashami says:August 14, 2013 at 10:54 amIS THAT THE GIRL FROM SUITS?!?!? Crazy. I like her a lot more now
Chevas Samuels says:August 14, 2013 at 10:55 amI don’t believe the author meant these people were actually trying to pass as white (other than Melissa who denied her black ancestry). I think the author meant that these people could pass for white if they wanted to. Most of us knew the ancestry of these people without being told. “We know our people when we see them,” is what my grandmother used to say.
Chevas Samuels says:August 14, 2013 at 10:55 amI don’t believe the author meant these people were actually trying to pass as white (other than Melissa who denied her black ancestry). I think the author meant that these people could pass for white if they wanted to. Most of us knew the ancestry of these people without being told. “We know our people when we see them,” is what my grandmother used to say.
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 10:56 amI don’t believe the article says that they denied their blackness, it states that they have successfully passed for white. (basically they were able to do so in their film careers.
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 10:56 amI don’t believe the article says that they denied their blackness, it states that they have successfully passed for white. (basically they were able to do so in their film careers.
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 10:58 amI don’t see what is wrong with the article. No one was disrespected. The author never stated that anyone denied their blackness. What is the problem?
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 10:58 amI don’t see what is wrong with the article. No one was disrespected. The author never stated that anyone denied their blackness. What is the problem?
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 11:01 amPeople on this post do not read. The author never stated that any of these people purposely tried to pass for white, deny their African ancestry or anything else. This is simply a list compiled to show what actors are able to successfully pass as white in tv series and films. What is the big deal? They can’t help how they look. ughhhh
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 11:01 amPeople on this post do not read. The author never stated that any of these people purposely tried to pass for white, deny their African ancestry or anything else. This is simply a list compiled to show what actors are able to successfully pass as white in tv series and films. What is the big deal? They can’t help how they look. ughhhh
Kris Janelle says:August 14, 2013 at 11:07 amThis is a dumb ass article.. Plain and simple.. Maya Rudolph, Rasheeda Jones and Soledad O’Brien will glady say they are AFRICAN AMERICAN. Just because you dont look what they think is standard then ur passing for white??? Ignorance.
Kris Janelle says:August 14, 2013 at 11:07 amThis is a dumb ass article.. Plain and simple.. Maya Rudolph, Rasheeda Jones and Soledad O’Brien will glady say they are AFRICAN AMERICAN. Just because you dont look what they think is standard then ur passing for white??? Ignorance.
Albert Assoon says:August 14, 2013 at 11:10 amThe question is can they pass for black!
Albert Assoon says:August 14, 2013 at 11:10 amThe question is can they pass for black!
Rhonda Ovist says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amI think what is most interesting in this article is the notion of what makes a person “black” in the first place. Apparently, for this writer, it is about “ancestors” – a reliance on the old American rule of “one drop of ‘black blood’ [sic]” prevails. Of course, we know that race, as a set of mutually exclusive biological categories, does not exist, despite the repeated efforts of some scientists to prove otherwise. Race – White, Black – are social construction. This is nicely illustrated when you ask students to explain how they know someone is white – it turns out that the criteria we assume to be quite settled are in fact very shaky and rather arbitrary. Although, I have to agree that it is much easier to be seen as a handsome or beautiful “star” if one is identified by others as White as opposed to Black. There is a great deal of research that examines the definition of beauty and attractiveness in our society as being intrinsically “white.” There is no doubt that those Identified (and who identify as) Black are under represented in mainstream entertainment media, with exception of rap performers. And those same Black men and women find far fewer options and opportunities in movies, television and advertisements. Thus, I would argue that yes, being identified as White instead of Black probably does prove advantageous. But I see this as less of a confirmation of the desirability of the category of White over Black, but rather an indication of the degree to which those identified as Black are seen as inferior in relation to Whites, and thus treated as if inferior (sociological definition of racism) persists in our society. Furthermore, this article insures that we know that even if someone “looks” white, they might still really be “black,” reinforcing the belief that there is some real, absolute definitions of these racial categories, and the notion that being white is obviously preferable. In a way, the article has the danger of acting as an “outing” of those who dare pass as something they aren’t, as something they can’t be, as undeserving impostors to the exclusive club of being White (I think, Sharon, this latter aspect of the article might be the source of your discomfort – something I agree with. )
Rhonda Ovist says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amI think what is most interesting in this article is the notion of what makes a person “black” in the first place. Apparently, for this writer, it is about “ancestors” – a reliance on the old American rule of “one drop of ‘black blood’ [sic]” prevails. Of course, we know that race, as a set of mutually exclusive biological categories, does not exist, despite the repeated efforts of some scientists to prove otherwise. Race – White, Black – are social construction. This is nicely illustrated when you ask students to explain how they know someone is white – it turns out that the criteria we assume to be quite settled are in fact very shaky and rather arbitrary. Although, I have to agree that it is much easier to be seen as a handsome or beautiful “star” if one is identified by others as White as opposed to Black. There is a great deal of research that examines the definition of beauty and attractiveness in our society as being intrinsically “white.” There is no doubt that those Identified (and who identify as) Black are under represented in mainstream entertainment media, with exception of rap performers. And those same Black men and women find far fewer options and opportunities in movies, television and advertisements. Thus, I would argue that yes, being identified as White instead of Black probably does prove advantageous. But I see this as less of a confirmation of the desirability of the category of White over Black, but rather an indication of the degree to which those identified as Black are seen as inferior in relation to Whites, and thus treated as if inferior (sociological definition of racism) persists in our society. Furthermore, this article insures that we know that even if someone “looks” white, they might still really be “black,” reinforcing the belief that there is some real, absolute definitions of these racial categories, and the notion that being white is obviously preferable. In a way, the article has the danger of acting as an “outing” of those who dare pass as something they aren’t, as something they can’t be, as undeserving impostors to the exclusive club of being White (I think, Sharon, this latter aspect of the article might be the source of your discomfort – something I agree with. )
Edward Wandrick says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amIt appears the only one in denial is Melissa Gorga.
Edward Wandrick says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amIt appears the only one in denial is Melissa Gorga.
Edward Wandrick says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amAgreed.
Edward Wandrick says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amAgreed.
Francine Bw says:August 14, 2013 at 11:20 amyou are what you look period, if you look black then wear it proudly, if you look white wear that as well because in the end no one walks around with pictures of their parent pasted to their forehead. In society people are going to base you on how you look, that’s just the way our society is.
Francine Bw says:August 14, 2013 at 11:20 amyou are what you look period, if you look black then wear it proudly, if you look white wear that as well because in the end no one walks around with pictures of their parent pasted to their forehead. In society people are going to base you on how you look, that’s just the way our society is.
Mike Stoan says:August 14, 2013 at 11:22 amsuccessfully lol
Mike Stoan says:August 14, 2013 at 11:22 amsuccessfully lol
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 11:27 amThe thing is everyone, except that Italian woman, on the list is a person with only a small amount of Black ancestry. They’re “passing” for what they mostly are. That’s like Tyson Beckford showing up on a list of Asian celebrities who pass for Black.By the way, I didn’t get the impression that apparently half the commentators walked away with that the author of this article was insinuating the folks on the list were hiding or in any way denying having black ancestry.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 11:27 amThe thing is everyone, except that Italian woman, on the list is a person with only a small amount of Black ancestry. They’re “passing” for what they mostly are. That’s like Tyson Beckford showing up on a list of Asian celebrities who pass for Black.By the way, I didn’t get the impression that apparently half the commentators walked away with: that the author of this article was insinuating the folks on the list were hiding or in any way denying having black ancestry. I think Moore was simply saying they are often mistaken for white.
Kahala Lei Azuma Maui says:August 14, 2013 at 11:47 amEdward Wandrick Many Italians say that because they are descendants of Hannibal and the Elephant Invasion, where Africans raided Cicily. The old school Italians don’t like that history, so it angers them into denial.
On a similar note, some of Thomas Jefferson’s descendants argue about the black side of their family. They didn’t want to believe it really existed.
Kahala Lei Azuma Maui says:August 14, 2013 at 11:47 amEdward Wandrick Many Italians say that because they are descendants of Hannibal and the Elephant Invasion, where Africans raided Cicily. The old school Italians don’t like that history, so it angers them into denial.
On a similar note, some of Thomas Jefferson’s descendants argue about the black side of their family. They didn’t want to believe it really existed.
Edward Gay says:August 14, 2013 at 11:48 amso what are you afraid of
Edward Gay says:August 14, 2013 at 11:48 amso what are you afraid of
Kristal K’Sera says:August 14, 2013 at 11:50 amThe problem is that the author is flat out saying these actors are passing for white and that’s not true. He’s making the determination that they’ve clearly hid their blackness which is why they’re successful…that’s not true.So the problem is the article is a lie.
Kristal K’Sera says:August 14, 2013 at 11:51 amThe only one that passed for white is the old lady who keep her biracial father a secret until she turned 80. Hell….they don’t even have to identify as white OR black when they’re both….So the author is on some bullshit…if anything they’re passing for BIRACIAL/MULTIRACIAL which they are…and the world seems to be ok with biracial people. The only people who make an issue of it are racist white and black people.
Tom Murphy says:August 14, 2013 at 11:52 amit’s hard to deny at least some black ancestry for all of us since it is pretty much acknowledged that the “Human” race began in Africa. I had mentioned in a prior post that I am half Italian. In history Italy was overran by an influx of people from many other countries, most of them from the African continent. It’s not too difficult to make that leap. Humm! I wonder how I can profit from that?
Tom Murphy says:August 14, 2013 at 11:52 amit’s hard to deny at least some black ancestry for all of us since it is pretty much acknowledged that the “Human” race began in Africa. I had mentioned in a prior post that I am half Italian. In history Italy was overran by an influx of people from many other countries, most of them from the African continent. It’s not too difficult to make that leap. Humm! I wonder how I can profit from that?
Matthew Damion Taylor says:August 14, 2013 at 11:54 amBill Herder RIGHT ON BROTHER SOUNDS (SUSPECT)
Matthew Damion Taylor says:August 14, 2013 at 11:54 amBill Herder RIGHT ON BROTHER SOUNDS (SUSPECT)
Clifton Richie says:August 14, 2013 at 12:00 pmI agree, this has to be one of the most simple minded pieces of journalism ever.
Clifton Richie says:August 14, 2013 at 12:00 pmI agree, this has to be one of the most simple minded pieces of journalism ever.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 12:03 pmAbsolutely. Indirectly, everyone is 100% African. But some of us have a more…direct lineage than others. :-D. Regarding Italy, I’ve met so many Italians who I mistook for black, that I don’t blink an eye when a person I thought was black turns out to be Italian. Same deal with a few Spaniards who I mistook for black.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 12:03 pmAbsolutely. Indirectly, everyone is 100% African. But some of us have a more…direct lineage than others. :-D. Regarding Italy, I’ve met so many Italians who I mistook for black, that I don’t blink an eye when a person I thought was black turns out to be Italian. Same deal with a few Spaniards who I mistook for black.
Bryan K Lee says:August 14, 2013 at 12:04 pmWhite people started that Mr.Sailor
Bryan K Lee says:August 14, 2013 at 12:04 pmWhite people started that Mr.Sailor
Tru Locs says:August 14, 2013 at 12:11 pmYou’re an idiot dim wit, you don’t even know what with being racist is! Typical argument coming from a white individual… You created the ideology of racism and now have the nerve to call someone else out, SMH what an ass!
Tru Locs says:August 14, 2013 at 12:11 pmYou’re an idiot dim wit, you don’t even know what with being racist is! Typical argument coming from a white individual… You created the ideology of racism and now have the nerve to call someone else out, SMH what an ass!
Nikolai Snow says:August 14, 2013 at 12:13 pmSabella Abidde and what is the point?
Nikolai Snow says:August 14, 2013 at 12:13 pmSabella Abidde and what is the point?
Nikolai Snow says:August 14, 2013 at 12:13 pmSabella Abidde and what is the point?
Franny Ryan says:August 14, 2013 at 12:16 pmIt’s weird that the article claims that Maya Rudolph played a white woman in Bridesmaids – her character’s father was black. Maybe in another generation or two people will stop writing these stories.
Franny Ryan says:August 14, 2013 at 12:16 pmIt’s weird that the article claims that Maya Rudolph played a white woman in Bridesmaids – her character’s father was black. Maybe in another generation or two people will stop writing these stories.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 12:17 pmMaybe.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 12:17 pmMaybe.
Keith Josef Adkins says:August 14, 2013 at 12:21 pmI just find it frustrating that we continue to have this conversation around “passing” or not looking “black”. What does “black” supposed to look like? Americans of African descent are ALL mixed-race people, in varying degrees. Black is a cultural/social (and sometimes political) identity attached to our west African ancestors and the slave industry. There are communities in Ohio where everyone is very light skinned, but all identify, willingly and proudly, as black people. I think what we need to say is that some of us don’t necessarily show any west African physical traits. But black? How are we defining “black”?
Keith Josef Adkins says:August 14, 2013 at 12:21 pmI just find it frustrating that we continue to have this conversation around “passing” or not looking “black”. What does “black” supposed to look like? Americans of African descent are ALL mixed-race people, in varying degrees. Black is a cultural/social (and sometimes political) identity attached to our west African ancestors and the slave industry. There are communities in Ohio where everyone is very light skinned, but all identify, willingly and proudly, as black people. I think what we need to say is that some of us don’t necessarily show any west African physical traits. But black? How are we defining “black”?
Sameerah Luqmaan-Harris says:August 14, 2013 at 12:26 pmhopefully someday we’ll get to be defined as “human”.
Sameerah Luqmaan-Harris says:August 14, 2013 at 12:26 pmhopefully someday we’ll get to be defined as “human”.
Jade Bryan says:August 14, 2013 at 12:27 pmI agree, Keith.
Jade Bryan says:August 14, 2013 at 12:27 pmI agree, Keith.
Courtney Harge says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 pmGood points Keith. I’m also really concerned with the notion of “outing” people as Black. It feels a bit like a witch hunt while simultaneously posting Blackness as something to hide or be ashamed of.
Courtney Harge says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 pmGood points Keith. I’m also really concerned with the notion of “outing” people as Black. It feels a bit like a witch hunt while simultaneously positing Blackness as something to hide or be ashamed of.
Ray Washington says:August 14, 2013 at 12:30 pmAre you serious? Let me ask you this, “were you born with straight BLONDE hair???” Enough said! Sit down and be quiet…
Keith Josef Adkins says:August 14, 2013 at 12:32 pmCourtney Harge – Yes, Courtney. This “outing” blackness is equally insane.
Keith Josef Adkins says:August 14, 2013 at 12:32 pmCourtney Harge – Yes, Courtney. This “outing” blackness is equally insane.
Ray Washington says:August 14, 2013 at 12:32 pmTom Murphy Good post Tom…
Ray Mega Broker Washington says:August 14, 2013 at 12:32 pmTom Murphy Good post Tom…
Carol Daniel-Faust says:August 14, 2013 at 12:34 pmYes Paulette, please, lets move on…..no interest here either.
Carol Daniel-Faust says:August 14, 2013 at 12:34 pmYes Paulette, please, lets move on…..no interest here either.
Ron Cephas Jones says:August 14, 2013 at 12:36 pmAmen!!
Ron Cephas Jones says:August 14, 2013 at 12:36 pmAmen!!
Erica Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 12:46 pmThank you for bringing this up because they make African American people seem as if we are delusional when it comes to race matters.
Erica Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 12:46 pmThank you for bringing this up because they make African American people seem as if we are delusional when it comes to race matters.
Richard Morrison says:August 14, 2013 at 12:48 pmI find this whole think offensive. The idea of passing is offensive. The idea that any of this makes a difference is offensive. Who cares what your back ground is.
Richard Morrison says:August 14, 2013 at 12:48 pmI find this whole think offensive. The idea of passing is offensive. The idea that any of this makes a difference is offensive. Who cares what your back ground is.
Erica Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 12:55 pmWhen it comes to ethnicity people get uncomfortable. People pride is deeply rooted into what ethical background they are. We know our history in America and blacks is not a group that people like to claim when it comes to pride. That’s how the world goes unfortunately.
Erica Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 12:55 pmWhen it comes to ethnicity people get uncomfortable. People pride is deeply rooted into what ethical background they are. We know our history in America and blacks is not a group that people like to claim when it comes to pride. That’s how the world goes unfortunately.
Adrienne D. Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 1:05 pmI watched Imitation of Life this weekend, and I was thinking about if this movie would be relevant in 2013. I think you answered my question.
Adrienne D. Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 1:05 pmI watched Imitation of Life this weekend, and I was thinking about if this movie would be relevant in 2013. I think you answered my question.
Adrienne D. Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 1:05 pmI watched Imitation of Life this weekend, and I was thinking about if this movie would be relevant in 2013. I think you answered my question.
Gee Flex says:August 14, 2013 at 1:12 pmKewl! Let’s have them infiltrate the Teabillies!
Gee Flex says:August 14, 2013 at 1:12 pmKewl! Let’s have them infiltrate the Teabillies!
Gevon Monique says:August 14, 2013 at 1:12 pmEva Keane We don’t claim Tiger…trust me.
Gevon Monique says:August 14, 2013 at 1:12 pmEva Keane We don’t claim Tiger…trust me.
Alexander Thomas says:August 14, 2013 at 1:17 pmFunny you bring this up. I’ve been wondering lately about how we’ve taken the colors black & white – give them a value (ie the whole white is pure black is evil thing) ok, fine, but then we assign them inaccurately to the color of our skin – there are some people of African descent whose skin is actually black, most of us are varying shades of brown. Any child will tell you that. There are absolutely no white people – people who’s skin are white – (beige maybe?) With the exception maybe of a percentage of Albino skinned people and a number of “them” are in fact African. And then society ascribes the value that has been ascribed to the color to the people that we pretend are those colors but are actually not. Go figure.
Alexander Thomas says:August 14, 2013 at 1:17 pmFunny you bring this up. I’ve been wondering lately about how we’ve taken the colors black & white – give them a value (ie the whole white is pure black is evil thing) ok, fine, but then we assign them inaccurately to the color of our skin – there are some people of African descent whose skin is actually black, most of us are varying shades of brown. Any child will tell you that. There are absolutely no white people – people who’s skin are white – (beige maybe?) With the exception maybe of a percentage of Albino skinned people and a number of “them” are in fact African. And then society ascribes the value that has been ascribed to the color to the people that we pretend are those colors but are actually not. Go figure.
Nick Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 1:19 pmI was reading that. I cringe when I see people comment on facebook. Exposes alot of stupidity
Nick Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 1:19 pmI was reading that. I cringe when I see people comment on facebook. Exposes alot of stupidity
Donna Duplantier says:August 14, 2013 at 1:23 pmThe problem is that is STILL SOMETHING THAT WE IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY STILL HAVE ISSUES WITH!! THIS IS SO STUPID!!! FIRE THIS IDIOT! PASSING????!!! F OFF!
Donna Duplantier says:August 14, 2013 at 1:23 pmThe problem is that is STILL SOMETHING THAT WE IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY STILL HAVE ISSUES WITH!! THIS IS SO STUPID!!! FIRE THIS IDIOT! PASSING????!!! F OFF!
Donna Duplantier says:August 14, 2013 at 1:26 pmTru Locs GET A LIFE!!! this article STUPID!!! BLACK PEOPLE PLEASE STOP FIXATING ON THIS!!! WE HAVE TO GROW!!! FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!!!
Marilyn Garrison says:August 14, 2013 at 1:32 pmThis has put being Black and proud back to 100 years ago. Not good. Very sad in fact!
Micah El Mugabe Beckford says:August 14, 2013 at 1:35 pmOK NOW FOR SCIENCE….BLACKS ARE THE ONLY PEOPLE ON THIS PLANER THAT IS 100% HUMAN EVERYONE ELSE IS AN ADMIXTURE OF HUMAN NEANDERTHAL/RHESUS MONKEY DNA….I LOVE SCIENCE WHY? BECAUSE IT DOES NOT CARE ABOUT MY OPINON OR THE REST OF YOU FUCKS ON HERE!
Andrew Knoll says:August 14, 2013 at 1:43 pmI agree with most that the people on this list are largely a reach in terms of “passing,” in fact this list probably has Nella Larsen spinning in her grave. I think it’s considerably more interesting that we now have a large number of white entertainers “passing” for black, and now in a sanitized sort of way that old time rock n rollers may have. You look at contemporary R&B, it’s filled with white guys who would consider “Wow, from your record I thought you were black!” to be very high praise.
Shelly Hunt says:August 14, 2013 at 1:49 pmAll this is is drama who cares it doesn’t bother then so why are mad blk ppl crack up smh sad
Frank Nemec says:August 14, 2013 at 1:53 pmWith mobile society and intermarriage, race is quickly becoming obsolete.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 1:55 pmFrank, I kind of wish the process would speed up!
Ben Kahn says:August 14, 2013 at 2:30 pmI really needed this today. Thank You.
Joseph Flores says:August 14, 2013 at 3:14 pmNo “black” people on this list, theyre all bi/multiracial. No surprises here.
Sandy McIntire says:August 14, 2013 at 3:18 pmHistory repeats itself doesn’t it? Sometimes I feel like I’m back in the fifties again.
Chike Nwabukwu says:August 14, 2013 at 3:20 pmGood point. I agree it is probably better to say some people don’t show any west African physical traits. If not for the ‘1 drop’ rule, would it even be an issue? Anyway, to another point, I have to disagree that all Americans of African descent are mixed race people. There is a new generation of Americans of African descent whose parents recently settled in this country. As their children continue to integrate and contribute to American society, I forsee these terms “Black” and “African-American” getting a bit more…interesting?
Carly Prentis Jones says:August 14, 2013 at 3:58 pmThis is absolutely sickening to me! I am a biracial actress as well and very proud of my Black father – I just don’t fit into what society is comfortable calling “Black” in a lot of cases – which is their problem. There are many times I don’t look “black enough” for the categorized “black female role” – are we supposed to turn down racially ambiguous roles just because people who don’t know us will criticize us and say we are “passing”? We are ACTING! – that is what we do – we become other people…If it is not a direct reflection of who we are- who cares? Just because you have the ability to play multiple types of roles does not mean you are disowning your black heritage. I don’t believe Rashida Jones has ever denounced her father – and I’m pretty positive Maya Rudolf has always been open about the fact that she is mixed. This article saddens me – we have so far to go. Why must we be constantly ridiculed by our own people?
Michael Fromla says:August 14, 2013 at 3:58 pmThe author dug deep into their “one drop” bias to scribble this article, and assigned a lot of convictions on these people that we don’t know if they believe or not. Without hearing from the subjects themselves on the issue, this was a speculative exercise.
Aurelia Belfield says:August 14, 2013 at 4:09 pmThis article is 100% bizarre. I haven’t heard anyone (Black or otherwise) say that any of these people are “passing”. What I have noticed is that people seem to confuse “passing” and “presenting”, “presenting” being a passive action; when people assume you are a certain race/ethnicity on their own without your consult, and “passing” being an active action to portray oneself as a particular race/ethnicity. And at least with all the contemporary actors on the list as far as I know NONE of them have played an explicitly White character, they’ve always played Black or Bi/Multi-racial characters, or characters assumed to be Multi-racial and we never actually see their parents (like Ann on Parks and Rec or Karen on The Office, both played by Rashida Jones). I can’t remember if we saw Jennifer Beals’ parents in Flashdance, but I’m almost positive she was bi-racial on The L Word, and as for Carol Channing, she was at he peak in the 40s/50s, which was an extraordinarily different environment than it is now, so I don’t know what point exactly the author was trying to make, aside from asserting their own ignorance.
Sharon L. Carnahan says:August 14, 2013 at 4:09 pm@ Rchard, for a lot of Black people, the notion that we think we’re in a post-racial world (where race doesn’t matter) is offensive, too.
Vitamin Q says:August 14, 2013 at 4:18 pmHere’s a hint..w hen u say something and only the white people agree…u might wanna reevaluate your stance!
Vitamin Q says:August 14, 2013 at 4:18 pmSameerah Luqmaan-Harris nto me.. i always wanna be classified as black. I love being black!
Vitamin Q says:August 14, 2013 at 4:19 pmI’m from New orleans….none of em fooled me!
Theresia Tange says:August 14, 2013 at 4:32 pmthey are all biracial and biracial is not black so what was the point of this article!
Kevin Paul Gonzales says:August 14, 2013 at 5:54 pmThey’re not Black, these people are multi racial, the 1 drop rule went out with Jim Crow!
Kevin Paul Gonzales says:August 14, 2013 at 5:59 pm“SAY IT LOUD, I’M BLACK AND I’M PROUD” JAMES BROWN: SOUL BROTHA #1! Y’ALL CAN KEEP THEM MIXIES!
Ursula Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 6:07 pmHaving been born in Texas, raised in Southern California and lived most of my adult life in Northern California where I’ve come across folks from all over the diaspora I’m always surprised and often amused at people’s amazement when their perceptions of what a “black” person is “supposed” to look like! It is proven on a daily basis how unique and diverse “we” are. The folks listed in this article have, for the most part, all made a decision at some point in their life to claim that part of their ancestry with which they can most relate, accepting all the joy and pain that came with that decision. How others react to that decision is NOT something for which these individuals are responsible. They appear to be living their lives in a manner that honors both themselves and their ancestors, ALL OF THEM! It is now our responsibility to move this conversation forward.
Charles Campbell says:August 14, 2013 at 6:17 pmJust another reminder to those that would like to pretend that racism does not exist anymore. If America was not such a racist country, these people would not have had to hide their heritage to be successful.
Sara Abernethy says:August 14, 2013 at 6:18 pmPREACH
Bryant Sadiku says:August 14, 2013 at 6:28 pmThis list, is full of stupid.
Michael Hill says:August 14, 2013 at 6:29 pmChuck, Only one of these people listed has been accused of trying to hide their heritage. If you google the rest of them anyone who cares to know learns they are black. It literally takes seconds. Now when most of them are actively and vehemently denying their black heritage, the author may have a point. I mean the name ‘Rashida Jones’ immediately leads me to think black. If someone chooses to look at them and assume otherwise, it’s not their fault nor are they hiding anything.
Andrew James Bernard Kay says:August 14, 2013 at 6:30 pm…so stupid…and Maya didn’t play a “white woman” in Bridesmaids anyway… wtf?
Derrick Braud says:August 14, 2013 at 6:33 pmThis is really stupid. Black is not a race its a color. WHY do black people insist every person with some negro descent declare himself black or else. If you define black by how a person looks then these people do not fit the black phenotype. If you define black by the “one drop rule”, which is clearly retarded, then these people obviously have a lot more other drops in them. If you define black as a cultural or ethnic identity then one would be hard pressd to define that identity as it applies to all black people. What these people are are racial hybrids. they bear Simlilarities to their parent races but because of their mixture they are uniquely different from them. I think the reason blacks always bring this up is because they feel that people who are able to “pass” are somehow getting a benefit that they themselves aren’t able to recieve. Like crabs in a barrel some folks hate to see others succeed and throw off the label of Black.
Jess Nelson says:August 14, 2013 at 6:42 pmThese people are worst than the stereotypical ambiguous brown.
Geo Rule says:August 14, 2013 at 7:06 pm“one drop” (of African blood) as context is sooooo 19th century.
Elisabeth Penn Jones says:August 14, 2013 at 7:09 pmThis is my issue with “online journalism”—sometimes it’s just stupid. I actually feel like I may have lost a few brain cells reading that. I should have known by the ignorant title…it’s interesting how in today’s standards none of these people are considered black…people really shouldn’t compose articles without their brains…
Erica Taylor says:August 14, 2013 at 7:21 pmEveryone is mixed with something. Doing slavery nothing was just pure. Genes have a habit of coming out and surprising everybody. What is done in the dark will come .
Ayo Millions says:August 14, 2013 at 7:30 pmI’m agreeing with my homie Q, I’m from New Orleans and this is the home of the “passe’ Blancs” aka The black people that can pass off as white. You people from Hollywood don’t understand or see what we see, I could pick all of them out of a line up with I was given the chance. F*ck the skin color, All them mofo’s got nappy ass hair!! Look at them roots!!! Look at ya boy with that slick hair and nappy ass beard!! Come on man!! They ain’t fooling me!!!
Toni Tay says:August 14, 2013 at 7:37 pmI saw some surprises in here but for the most part, most of them were not passing for white bec they admitted their ancestry. They just look more white than black. The “passing” for black part is kind of putting a negative spin on something that isn’t negative.
Dawn Walker says:August 14, 2013 at 8:07 pmOmg !!!!!!!! Wentworth Miller I kinda knew it…. Love him to fine…..LOL
Joseph Arechavala says:August 14, 2013 at 8:13 pmI’m just wondering who has been appointed to judge whether someone is black or not…just so I know who the ultimate authority is.
Carl Webb says:August 14, 2013 at 8:27 pmEva Keane I only see one of the people listed as someone who didnt want the label “black.
Acacia Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 8:31 pmI cannot presume why or if they tried to pass. But, some biracial people think it easier to be white. They have said, they have no problems. But, I beg to differ on that issue. “What is so easy in this day and age is being white going to bring you”? If anything, I would say it’s very hard. I know to many people like this, and they call their self “family”. Give me a break!
Maya Zimmermann says:August 14, 2013 at 8:37 pmVin Diesel
Carl Webb says:August 14, 2013 at 8:46 pmKrystal Williams That’s why it’s called ‘passing’ because you can’t tell that they’re part black.
Carl Webb says:August 14, 2013 at 8:48 pmHow can someone that is half Black be said to only have a small amount of Black ancestry?
Carl Webb says:August 14, 2013 at 8:56 pmRegina Taylorhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passing_(racial_identity)
Patrice Barge-Munden says:August 14, 2013 at 9:48 pmEva Larue, The Rock, Wentworth Miller, Jessica Alba & on and on……………………….
Wotless Watty says:August 14, 2013 at 10:06 pmPerhaps I’m naive, but isn’t about time we stop labeling people? I am of Caribbean heritage (Trinidad % Tobago) and as such my ancestry is as colourful as the rainbow and I am proud to be human!
Robin M Fay says:August 14, 2013 at 10:25 pmI agree, Toni. And that kind of headline is reinforcing yet another racial sterotype…
Rachelle Miller says:August 14, 2013 at 10:30 pmFolks seem so ready to criticize and feign outrage about this story. I’m not so sure I understand why? No one said anything about what the folks pictured here say about their ancestry (except the Italian lady who seems to be in denial). Many of us are missing the obvious in this dialogue—it’s how OTHER people perceive them based on their appearance alone.When you see most of these folks on tv, they look mainstream—caucasian, and all the intricacies of their ethnicity are not readily apparent. Hollywood has coined the term “racially ambiguous” for a reason.Why are folks “outraged” over the expression of what is simply fact? Some people’s race just isn’t so obviously clear. And I’m ok with that…because race isn’t how I’m judging them anyway.Remember the Dr. King color of skin vs content of character thing?PS
I hope more of us will actually research “passing” in its historical context to discover what it truly meant and how it effected people’s lives for better and worse.
Toni Tay says:August 14, 2013 at 10:30 pmSdot Chambers Actually, the term “passing for white” used to mean that someone WAS denying their heritage. The terminology used was the only thing I found wrong with the article. It was inaccurate. But I guess they did that to get more views.
V Michelle Bernard says:August 14, 2013 at 10:50 pmThis isn’t surprising since most of them are half-white.
Jeretha Lomax says:August 14, 2013 at 10:52 pmI was watching a talk show, don’t remember the name , when Wentworth Miller stated he was biracial. However, his character on television was Caucasian. I was not surprised when he indicated he was biracial – he has beautiful coarse hair.
Chagasca Gagniere says:August 14, 2013 at 10:59 pmBest comment so far Derrick Braud. Thank you (from a biracial person.)
Dorothy Ann Porawski-Orzechowska says:August 14, 2013 at 11:00 pmyeah, i don’t get that. what is this article trying to say? it’s like, OOOH! these’s people are liars or are closet blacks! some people treat ‘black’ or ‘white’ like an issue or nationality instead of an issue of genetics. just like with Obama. his momma is WHITE people!… and who cares!!!! not. me. don’t know why i am commenting though. now because i spoke up and wrote above quoted adjectives someone is bound to say i’m racist….. beh!
Seem Park says:August 14, 2013 at 11:02 pmI don’t see the author as bashing mixed actors who pass for white, but rather criticizing the system for a limited selection of similarly strong and well developed black roles for these actors. Again, we don’t need to jump on people who discuss race. The author didn’t put-down any of those people in the descriptions and the article wasn’t negative in any way. Also, “passing” is still relevant in a country where black people “as a whole” are still on the bottom and “passing” gets you benefits. For example- roles that other blacks are denied. Again, I’m not dogging anyone for “passing”, just don’t look down on those people you “pass” moving up the ladder.
Seem Park says:August 14, 2013 at 11:05 pmWhy aren’t people similarly “upset” and “disgusted” with the lack of great black roles for these actors instead of taking issue with the author for writing an article discussing racial topics?? #societynotpostracialyet
Mimi Brooks says:August 14, 2013 at 11:28 pmI pass for Dominican at best, lol
Mimi Brooks says:August 14, 2013 at 11:31 pmThe chick from NJ Housewives is technically “Dark” Italian, Moor from 500 years ago running in that hair and nose before she anglofied herself. But never call them a “Moolie”, lol
Hugh Holmes says:August 14, 2013 at 11:37 pmAin’t NONE of them white. And Melissa’s really trippin’ if she thinks she doesn’t have any Black in her. It goes waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay back.
Hugh Holmes says:August 14, 2013 at 11:38 pmAnd Carol Channing? Her lips are bigger than mine. I could’ve told you THAT.
Eddie Pryce says:August 14, 2013 at 11:42 pmI actually know Megan Markle. Went to school with her….too funny
Eddie Pryce says:August 14, 2013 at 11:42 pmanyways you go head girl…great points!
Hugh Holmes says:August 14, 2013 at 11:52 pmKahala Lei Azuma Maui One of the oldest Italian family names is LoNegro, so what’s THAT tell you? And don’t forget Nigro, Nero, etc….
Hugh Holmes says:August 15, 2013 at 12:08 amAnd even in the “after” photo, she looks like Jayne Kennedy meets a young Dihann Carroll….
Hugh Holmes says:August 15, 2013 at 12:19 amSadik Bey And also, Julius Caesar (and you can’t get any more Italian than him) had African troops in his legions stationed in Italy. Looks like the Coal Man has been making deliveries there for a helllllllllalong time.
Rob Maysey says:August 15, 2013 at 12:47 amWow
Simon Pheenix says:August 15, 2013 at 1:58 amCarol Channing, wow!
Lucien Darthard says:August 15, 2013 at 2:52 amWhy no Mariah Carey ?
Donna J. Nicol says:August 15, 2013 at 2:58 amThis is garbage because “passing” assumes denial of their Black heritage. So even if the author didn’t say it outright, it was implied. It is utterly ridiculous to hold people to the “one-drop” rule when DNA testing services all conclude that the average African American is at least 30% non-Black. It is even more ridiculous when you consider that the “one-drop” rule was a creation of racist white people who wanted to deny fathering Black children or providing equal protection under the law. Why would oppressed people side with the policy perspectives of their oppressors is beyond me….
Clinton Andrews says:August 15, 2013 at 3:09 amcrazy
Aj Barber says:August 15, 2013 at 3:34 amwhy Bill Clinton’s name not up here? he’s the only white guy in America that knows all the words to the Black National Anthem, “Life every voice and sing” many blacks never heard that song before.
Leanne Marshall says:August 15, 2013 at 5:28 amIts a bit of a strange article. I didn’t assume that that Maya Rudolf was playing a white women in Bridesmaids.
Iris Deveney-Doughty says:August 15, 2013 at 5:35 amDoes it matter. Why can we all judge persons by their character?
Chloe Paul says:August 15, 2013 at 6:05 amYou can be what you want to be as long as you feel comfortable with it.
Walter BlackBond Cobb says:August 15, 2013 at 7:33 amI think passing is a wrong word in this story. For most of those mentioned they should have used “mistaken” for white. Perhaps the title is just an attempt to grab attention and spark debate.
Tyrone Kirk says:August 15, 2013 at 8:02 am“However, as the daughter of well-known music mogul, Quincy Jones, she can’t hide from her black side.”Looks like the author is implying here that Rashida Jones is indeed trying to hide that she is black. The tone of the article (and the headline) is written to get us to read it with contempt towards the people listed.
Stacey Ellis says:August 15, 2013 at 8:16 amThis article is misleading. These people are not trying to pass. Everyone that I recognized on this list has revealed their blackness. Just because some people assume they are white, doesn’t mean they are trying to pass.
Garikai Nyeke says:August 15, 2013 at 10:25 amStupid article and a hollow attempt at race baiting for hits. Only positive is I get to see Rachel Meghan Markle who even if she was green I would gladly hand my penis to exclusively. Stupid article I see some “journalists” are stealing a living these days.
Maureen McKenna says:August 15, 2013 at 10:34 amMaybe we have come to a place where we don’t have to identify w/one or the other. Particularly if you/they are bi-racial. Realize the history but why does the white side of the coin get ignored and they check the box “African/Black” only? Maybe it’s time to check the “melting pot” box.
Maribel Nuno says:August 15, 2013 at 10:42 amThe celebrities they are showcasing all have one whit/light skinned parent, this article fails to acknowledge that these particular celebs are both black and white… This article feels contrived.
Jorge Barreiro Pelegrin says:August 15, 2013 at 11:02 amWith articles like this, we’ll never end the racial issue! I bet the writer woudn’t say a thing if these actors would play a “Black Race” Character! The writer is extremely a racist one! She could have written the same without racial connotations!
Sharon Denise says:August 15, 2013 at 11:36 amWhy is this article relevant when their parentage is known…they are not passing…they are biracial and that’s it. The title is definitely wrong! Please go back and research the subject matter before writing an article!
Jarrett Milton says:August 15, 2013 at 12:40 pmFor reference sake, Maya Rudolph did not play a white woman in Bridesmaids. She actually played a bi-racial role as evident of her Black father played by actor/comedian, Franklyn Ajaye. If you recall the movie, he spoke during her engagement party.
Phoenix LaFemme says:August 15, 2013 at 10:43 pmThis is reaching. First off, it’s not like these people are denying their heritage. But what’s the point of them going around yelling “hey guys did you know I’m Black?!?!” Please stop reaching.
Richard Wootton says:August 16, 2013 at 12:24 amI just stumbled across this and expected to be wowed and suprised…. must say who ever bothered to write this is an idiot the people listed are biracial and most listed are with REALLY white parents like the Irish this isn’t black passing as white these are biracial you cant claim them to be any race they are simply fair skinned people some very sexy at that but anyways… author wrote an idiotic piece..
Sam Arojo says:August 16, 2013 at 6:56 amShouldn’t the piece be called “10 PART black celebs who successfully pass for white”? I mean how do we know these people don’t want to be seen and celebrated as mixed race rather than black or white?
Morgan James says:August 16, 2013 at 8:16 amI watch Pretty Little Liars. Didn’t expect Trojan to be partially black. However her mother is half black, not 100%. Making Trojan as black as Mariah Carey.
Christian-Joy Ttiremed says:August 16, 2013 at 8:30 amUm, Melissa had on a hoop earrings and a name plate chain! If that ain’t black IDK what is! Lol! j/k
Leslie Clarke says:August 16, 2013 at 10:46 amHonestly Mellisa Gorga could be all Italian the nose and hair do show traits but Jewish Italians and even full fledge Italians have black features that’s a hard one to pin down!
Roja Horchata Kurtz says:August 16, 2013 at 1:44 pmIn Bridesmaids, Maya Rudolph’s character isn’t passing for a white woman. Her “parents” are shown a few times in the movie and her “father” is black and her “mother” is white. Also, I don’t really like that the author uses the word “passing” for white people. These are multiracial people with diverse ancestries who aren’t trying to hide their “blackness” (other than Carol Channing). I don’t have any black ancestry, but I find this article a little offensive. Why do we need to fit people into boxes?
Yolanda Stanislas says:August 16, 2013 at 7:52 pmCarly Simon is also half black.
Alexia Taylor says:August 17, 2013 at 10:36 ampardon me , but aren’t most people in the worl a good mix of a lil bit of this and a lil bit of that? I considermyself a hinz 57 mix lol
Paul V. Oates Jr. says:August 17, 2013 at 11:44 amThis article misleading makes it look like these people purposefully tried to ‘pass’.
My question: is the burden on them to scream at the top of their lunges that they’re black just to prove they’re ‘Down’
Dru Daniels says:August 17, 2013 at 12:28 pmThis is one of the most perplexing and insulting articles I’ve read in a while. Passing? Really? We’re in freaking America. Mr.Moore must think it’s still a melting pot with some “unmeltables”. I hope someday we can go from melting pot to salad bowl…but clearly, it’s going to take much longer than I thought.
Wehttam Selrahc Legeis says:August 17, 2013 at 5:29 pmWhat a snarky and judgmental article. I particularly liked the one about Rashida Jones passing along with the rest of the “white cast” of Community……ignoring Ken Jeong, Donald Glover, Danny Pudi, Nicole Yvette Brown, and numerous other cameos by people of color. I completely understand having certain sensitivities about race given the history of humanity, and this country in particular, but constantly viewing the world in terms of race only reinforces race as a central defining characteristic of who we are—which isn’t that dissimilar from racism insofar as it privileges the color of skin as our most important defining characteristic. As much as racism is perpetuated by systems of oppression and discrimination, it’s also reinforced by those who try to impose their own view of what it is to be “black” and then police anyone who departs from that stereotype–something Donald Glover, one of those members of the “white” cast of Community talks about in his music (Childish Gambino).
B.j. Trammell says:August 19, 2013 at 1:50 pmI thought everybody knew jessica beals…
Paige Stewart says:August 19, 2013 at 2:15 pmClearly somebodies doesn’t know a lot about Italian. My dad’s half Italian and I grew up going to Italy. Italians have kinky hair just like black people. It’s so common. Could there have been some mixing back in the day since Africa and Italy are so close? Sure, but it’s not uncommon at all for someone to have two Italian parents and have kinky, kinky hair. That’s not odd or Atypical. That’s typical.
Jordan Walker says:August 19, 2013 at 2:37 pmBy the criterion of this article, _all_ of black america is white passing for black (black americans are on average something like 30-40% white).And the Italian woman, if all she knows is Italian ancestors, then that is all she can say. North Africa was part of the Roman Empire once, and Italy was also invaded by various North African groups before and after.I’m a little disturbed that one-drop white racial purity is still how people see this. But if the black category is the strongest where one-drop overrides everything else, then the whole world is going to be black.
Kaila Shivers says:August 19, 2013 at 7:59 pmUm, Maya Rudolf does not play a white woman in Bridesmaids.Moreover, I find this whole article offensive and a reproduction of a racially divided society. The connotations of “passing” are widely negative and implies something about the people that you are labeling here.
Tshepo Mokoena says:August 19, 2013 at 8:25 pmAmerican hypodescent is odd. In other cultures, these celebs are mixed-race, afforded their own ethnicity and culture, and not “classified” as black. I wonder when the one drop rule’s going to lose its hold on people’s minds here.
Iteref Ankh El says:August 19, 2013 at 11:07 pmTHE POINT IS IF THEY LOOK WHITE, THEY DOn’t HANG OUT WITH BLACKS OR THEY WOULDn’t ACCEPT ALL OR ONLY WHITE IMAGERY ROLES..PEOPLE DOn’t WANT TO ACCEPT THAT PEOPLE MAGNETIZE TOWARDS THIER SKIN COMPLEXION..PLAIN & SIMPLE..WHEN IM OUT @ NIGHT THEIR IS NO ONE AROUND ME BRIGHT & ITS THE SAME FOR THEM, [BUT YOU CAN IF ITS A MENTAL CONNECTION & TOO MANY PEOPLE ARE SCARED TO DO THAT]NO MATTER WHAT THEY LOOK LIKE!
Diamond Intheruff says:August 20, 2013 at 9:24 amOMG! Carol Channing? Well I guess back then you had to do what you had to do in order to succeed in your craft. SS. As for Soledad O’Brien has never hidden her blackness, but has proudly mentioned it several time.
Diamond Intheruff says:August 20, 2013 at 9:27 amWentworth Miller, he is fine though. When he played on Prison Break; he played brother to a white man, which I thought was cool. Even that show was biracial. there were several character who were biracial. Thanks for putting it in the mix!
Xavier J. Mejido says:August 20, 2013 at 9:38 amIncluding Melissa Gorga on this list highlights the problematic concept of race. There is no reason to doubt she is “100% Italian,” Sicilian to be exact. The problem is that the Mediterranean has a very different take on race than the United States for which this article was intended. There is absolutely no insidious notion of a “one drop rule” in that part of the world. The Mediterranean region, both north and south is genetically varied and the genetic tests bear that out. This is why many southern Italians, Spaniards, Portuguese and North Africans can look “black” to many Americans accustomed to the old “one drop” paradigm. The same may be said of Latin Americans and West Indians which are descended from Iberians, Africans, Amerindians, etc.
Bonnie BrushGirl Sporn says:August 20, 2013 at 12:34 pmGood piece, I think the author meant these actors could ‘pass’ for white AND many other ethnicities, a la Vin Diesel. He wrote, directed, produced, and starred in a really good short film Multi-Facial , a short semi-autobiographical film where he tries out for film roles as a Puerto Rican, African American, Italian, Caucasian and the casting director have no idea what to do with him. Also, why is Maya Rudolph’s mother listed as black but her father is an “Ashkanzi Jew”? Being Jewish is a RELIGION not a race. You can be an Italian Jew, a Irish Jew…
Russ Rogers says:August 20, 2013 at 6:06 pmThe concept of “Passing for White” and who might be able to “Pass for White” has a horrible history of racism and black on black racism. Seriously, it’s pretty ugly. Why not just have your next article be, “Which Celebrities Would Be Allowed into a Brown Paper Bag Party?”
Roma Maffia says:August 20, 2013 at 10:00 pmI agree with most of the comments on the topic, especially with the discussion of Maya’s character in Bridemaids, where and why would it be stated that her character was “White”. Because she had white girlfriends or a black issue wasn’t at the center of the movie? I found that to be very confusing.
Robert Byrd says:August 20, 2013 at 10:23 pmThis is a pretty nasty article. I don’t think many of these people try to pass for white. the author of this piece seems to have some sort of chip his or her shoulder. This is ridiculous.
Christian Johnson says:August 21, 2013 at 9:48 amWith all the bi-racial people mentioned here, you could have called the article “10 White Celebs That Successfully Pass for Black” and it would have been equally as pointless.
Jasmin Darshana Dickerson says:October 8, 2013 at 6:49 pmthnaks keith,well put! i live in germany and i am so sick and tired of people telling me i am not black because in their opinion my skin colour is supposed to be tar like in order to “pass” as black
Jasmin Darshana Dickerson says:October 8, 2013 at 6:50 pmcarly: i am a biracial actress myself but in germany.needless to say i work 3 jobs and none of them are on stage,right?
Janessa Brown says:October 8, 2013 at 7:50 pmI get what you are saying. But how can someone who is half black and white become black? or if your ancestry is 75-95 white how is that black? I am Haitian I am pretty black so people who are actually black should define whos black and not and by the way my son is mixed he isn’t black and he isn’t white but mixed :)Black Americans just like the White Americans did are forcing mixed race people to pick black one drop rules whites created. My mixed son will not be considered black or white but mixed because why should pure blacks compete with mixed people? Halle Barry is not black and my pure black ass says so
Ruby Bennett says:October 9, 2013 at 12:13 pmMost of American history is ugly if you’re black.
Mario Loredo Jr. says:October 9, 2013 at 12:23 pm…
Corey Hardin says:October 9, 2013 at 12:33 pmMaya Rudolph’s dad in Bridesmaids was a black man, so I don’t think her character was white. Remember the wedding party speech by him?? They just had her marrying a goofy, corny white dude which is the more acceptable manner of interracial relationship in Hollywood.
Teresa Achong says:October 9, 2013 at 1:01 pmReally, in this 21st century we still talking colour ???? …who gives a flying horse ?? What does it matter if we’re black, white, Chinese, Indian, red or not ?? Are they nice persons ? Do you enjoy their performances ? Sheesh…can’t believe this crap, still going on. This is why we will never evolve…the Apes have, but not us humans. Now for those who subscribe to this type of thinking…GO GET A LIFE !!!!
Pat Sha-Mac says:October 9, 2013 at 1:14 pmDo they know that half of the ‘Caribbean’ successfully passing for ‘Red’…lol woot woot, let’s hear it for ‘Red people’ (LOL.. ah have way too much time on meh hands.. LOL)
Kina Watson says:October 9, 2013 at 1:59 pmAlot of people must didnt get that memo about Barack Obama…cause they damn show giving him a hard time because of his skin color!
Kina Watson says:October 9, 2013 at 2:06 pmJanessa Brown good luck with that hun. I work in school system and have seen mixed children not treated equal to whites, they are grouped in with the blacks.
Blak Smith says:October 9, 2013 at 2:47 pmMost of ’em are MULATTOES & therefore get an *! Check this series out athttp://black2afrika.blogspot.com/2013/05/mullatoes-other-half-breed-nikkkas_20.html.
Alyssa Haskins says:October 9, 2013 at 2:57 pmMelissa Gorga can deny it all that she wants but Italy’s history, especially Southern Italy, states otherwise. She needs to do her research. There are no 100 % pure anything in Italy. Everyone from the Moors, the Phoenicians, the Normans . . . she is so mixed up and it’s apparent.
Donna Turner says:October 9, 2013 at 3:10 pmGillian Hendricks – But here in America we place others in caste systems based on mixed race categorizations. That was dark and horrible part of SA’s history.
Heru Salmon says:October 9, 2013 at 3:15 pmWho cares we all human. Doesn’t matter to me anymore. As long they living a good life and contributing and help building a better society for the future. Vamos!!!!!!
Donna Beasley says:October 9, 2013 at 3:59 pmHow does being 1/2 black and 1/2 white make you black????? It does not add up!
Mark Holder says:October 9, 2013 at 4:11 pmEcckie becky or paint brush…
Tamara Digginditches Graham says:October 9, 2013 at 4:13 pmBill Herder it has never been unimportant in this country. It shouldn’t matter and it doesn’t, but the fact that people don’t know what we look like, every way that we do look, is a problem. The content of your character is the real judge, but until we aren’t discriminating on the basis of looks then it matters
Rochelle A. Bradley says:October 9, 2013 at 4:17 pmAlani, I was thinking the same thing about Maya Rudolph, she did not play a white woman, Her father in the movie was played by Franklyn Ajaye
Ranata D. Clark says:October 9, 2013 at 4:53 pmMelissa Gorga is a liar. You looking dead on Tia and Tamera but you all white? SUUUUURRRREEEE.
Kobie Andry says:October 9, 2013 at 4:59 pmthis is dumb. they mixed and not trying to pass. wait, is this out of ashy ass Atlanta?
Author James W. Lewis says:October 9, 2013 at 5:30 pmDamn, we are so obsessed with the color of skin, aren’t we?
Ranata D. Clark says:October 9, 2013 at 5:47 pmYep. And they aren’t saying they trying to pass, but that they CAN pass. I think it was just worded differently.
Lula Jackson says:October 9, 2013 at 6:26 pmI these people are black then someone need to tell us if u have 2 black parent what are they considered…if you are half and half..when I was in school it equaled to being half and half…if you are black and white thats what u r..u r not black…2 black parent makes u black..some people need to go back to school…
Lula Jackson says:October 9, 2013 at 6:32 pmForget about the 1 drop rule..thats Bull S…my grand daughter is 75% white and 25% black..she is considered white and looking at her u would never in a million years think she has a drop of black in her…I love her with all my life but I will tell her about my back ground and why we look different..she will know she has black in her…sorry to say she will fit in where she feels more comfortable..society can be a bitch…
Von Omari says:October 9, 2013 at 6:57 pmCourtney Harge , none of these actors were outed. They’ve all acknowledged at some point in their careers that they are part Black and very proud of it. Jennifer Beals, in an interview in Ebony years ago, said that when her hair dresser wants to straighten the waved roots, she tells her not to. It’s the only thing that reminds her of her late father. It’s her own little way of staying connected to him……But I understand what you’re saying. Opps………my bad, I didn’t scroll all the way down. Yep, they did some outing……
Elvis Wong-You says:October 9, 2013 at 7:22 pmI would say, either a wonderful/happy person or a miserable/confused person.
Bruns-wade LMichelle says:October 9, 2013 at 7:52 pmMost of them have acknowledged who they are, but Melissa Gorga insists she doesn’t have a drop. She’s right..She has a whole damn bucket!
Yea Understanding Shabazz says:October 9, 2013 at 8:17 pmNot the crab there’s 16 shade of black 8shade of brown 8shade yellow dna will tell you if you if u black or not because it is a difference in race and not just the color
Sandra Bankston says:October 9, 2013 at 8:23 pmThe title of this article is misleading. By saying “successfully passing for white”, the inference is that the person is making a deliberate attempt to deny their black heritage. As stated in other posts, there is only one denial
Rodney Neal Powell says:October 9, 2013 at 8:47 pmwhere is Van Diesel?
Sayeed Sanders says:October 9, 2013 at 9:27 pmSameerah Luqmaan-Harris Hopefully those who are Black humans get to see themselves as human without denying being Black.
Juan Pablo Rivas says:October 9, 2013 at 10:43 pmI don’t know you guys but I think apparence plays an important role on this, I’m not saying that these celebrities don’t have to recognize their african heritage, but to my standards they don’t look basically black, why we blacks insist on this? if a bird looks closer to a duck, why we have to say that this animal is a lion?
Sirraj Alim says:October 9, 2013 at 11:15 pmBill Herder Let’s not forget skin color has and is a deciding factor in money allocation for schools and neighborhoods, that in turn is a heavy factor in determining education quality, which affects secondary and/or vocational education quality(if any), which dictates job selection, which impacts how you can support your family and where you can live. Which brings you right back to now what schools and neighborhoods the next generation of kids will excel or be hindered in. You following the pattern? It’s 2013 and skin color is still very relevant in the real of society. Think it’s not? Go to new york, visit manhattan and take a drive down park avenue. Let me know how the scenery changes when you cross the harlem river into bronx. Then when you’re done there come back to my home, Richmond,VA. One of america’s corner stones of deep seeded racism. The effects of Jim Crow runs deep in many black people even today. Crime, the penal system, the education system all reflect ‘color’ differences. The concentration of liquor stores. Brand new Dollar General built across the street from a Family Dollar on northside of richmond but nowhere to buy fresh produce in sight! I could go on for days about this. Don’t get me wrong though, I’m doing good. I saw the mistakes and pitfalls from an early age and was able to maneuver around them. But I have a laundry list of friends that didn’t and I can easily the mental and exposure limitations. Theoretically color should not be important but factually it is. Very much so. Mr. Herder you seem old enough to know that very well.
Sirraj Alim says:October 9, 2013 at 11:20 pmThen I guess we should stop claiming Barack Obama as the first black president… Right. Good luck winning that campaign.
Dee Vine says:October 9, 2013 at 11:43 pmThe only problem I have with this article is that it says Maya Rudolph played a white woman in Bridesmaids. Ummm if I’m not mistaken she played a Bi/Multiracial woman, remember her father was a Black man with Locs, go to the wedding scene A Moore and see for yourself.
Ifeanyi Labicas Enyia says:October 10, 2013 at 12:17 amBlack is black, white is white, whether mixed race or not, being black is a thing of the mind, you know within yourself who you are, you can deny all ur life, but u know deep down in ya soul where u belong.
I don’t care what anyone thinks, i mustn’t be compelled or reminded i am black, everyone knows who he/she is.
I am black,I love being black and would always want to remain black and am proud I am.
Sandra Serrao says:October 10, 2013 at 7:31 amOr both …lol
Chelsia Latney says:October 10, 2013 at 10:00 amSdot Chambers The implication is DEFINITELY that they tried to hide it especially the last post. And saying that Rashida Jones “couldnt deny her blackness”.
Chelsia Latney says:October 10, 2013 at 10:05 amMost of the people posted I knew were black and I don’t think they were “hiding” it. This isn’t the 40s LMAO I can’t even believe I see the word “passing” in 2013. Especially Soledad (duh!), and Maya Rudolph? Come on everyone knows who her mom was. She didn’t “play a white woman” in that movie..she played a woman, and she didn’t once say HEY I’M WHITE. Maybe the child who posted this article is the one more shocked about these people actually being black. I was surprised about Cash Warren but since he’s pretty much out of the limelight who cares. I think it matters most in Hollywood with the# of roles you are able to get because you look racially ambiguous. Maybe the title should have been “10 celebrities who look like they could be white but they are really black”
Chelsia Latney says:October 10, 2013 at 11:07 amCuff Lynks I agree, however I think The President very much considers himself a black man. Even thought he was raised by his white mother and grandparents…its just something that happesn ALOT with biracial (black and white) people…I think he times have a huge part in that…it may not be the same for biracial children born today…but back in the day? oh yeah you’re black. I was really expecting to see something jaw dropping in this article. Soledad? The creator of “Being Black in America” ? HA!
Vatrice George says:October 10, 2013 at 11:29 am@Keith Josef Adkins, I listened to that same docu about Ohio’s fair skinned black community and several of the folks did have a problem with their black identity.Pike County, Ohio – As Black as We Wish to Be. http://www.prx.org/pieces/85361-pike-county-ohio-as-black-as-we-wish-to-be
Vatrice George says:October 10, 2013 at 11:32 amEva Keane I totally agree with you Eva, why are we begging this people to accept us? We try to force Afro Latinos to admit they are black, if Sammy Sosa doesn’t believe he’s black let him be.
Vatrice George says:October 10, 2013 at 11:33 am@Carly, they should make more biracial
film roles, because I would prefer to see women who look like Sana Lathan than Rashida Jones representing black women.
ShaRall Willis says:October 10, 2013 at 12:25 pmWe all have African blood because the first man came out of Africa. The only one on this list who denies having African ancestry is rhat you lady from the reality show however, claiming to be 100% Italian and not acknowledged that Hannibal and the Moors ruled the Mediterranean for hundreds of years show how deep White supremacy and White skin privilege is in this day and time.
Crystal SQeek DaPrima says:October 10, 2013 at 1:08 pm@Eva…Sista if you knew your history, (and it’s apparent you don’t) then you would know that all African American people are of a mixed race. So ummm…yes, they are black. We all are.
Sensible Fanatic says:October 10, 2013 at 1:15 pmThis is really silly.Recognition of the one-drop-rule (or really any color based politics) is a nod to the existence of white supremacy and subservience to a “white” system, which really doesn’t exist, except in the mind of those who allow it to.People of African descent in the United States, who are the only ones on earth who actually still subscribe to this silly one-drop rule, really need to stop allowing their identity to be dictated by white southern politics put in place to protect jobs more than 100 years ago.The problem is that today here is a whole economic community built around the one-drop rule via music, movies, TV stations, businesses and organizations that benefit from keeping this USA phenomenon in existence.They have their cultural police also who accuse anyone who has African ancestry, but recognizes any other heritage, as being anti-black or in denial because they don’t subscribe to the false, non-scientific one-drop belief system.Take back your power and write your destiny with our own pen. BE FREE or cease to be a relevant voice in the diaspora.Remember 95% of all Africans brought to the Americas went to Latin America and speak Spanish, Portuguese and French and don’t follow the one drop rule.As the world becomes more global, USA-based, one-drop rule centrists, risk becoming an even more marginalized sub-culture, even among people of African descent in the Americas. Be careful.
Sensible Fanatic says:October 10, 2013 at 1:30 pmEXACTLY.A whole community exists in the USA because of supreme court decision.The recognition of the one-drop rule is an act of subservience to white supremacy. Even down to calling yourself “black”. It all is a reaction to white action.People who asserting their mixed race heritage are heroes, because they are rebelling against the white-supremacist system that forced the one-drop rule on a whole people.Mixed-race people are not “in-denial” because they don’t pick one crayon like white people want them to.They are fighting back for the freedom to define themselves outside of this crayon based system created by white supremacists. They are not passing, they are gaining access to systematic knowledge that is kept secret from as many outside of the white mainstream as possible.They are like spooks by the door.Beware of all “black” people who accuse them of being sellouts… they benefit in keeping the races separate.BET, Centric, black movies, black radio would have to change if the country becomes more mixed. Its always been about money, not race.The one-drop rule protected jobs for Hence Plessy vs Ferguson.Stop following this silly one drop rule. BE FREE. Nobody else in the WORLD follows it.
Sandi Buckland says:October 10, 2013 at 1:41 pmI used to just be a person before coming to the US. Now every form I fill out needs to categorize me by race. It was unnerving at first. Now I just fill in whatever I feel like that day!!! I can lay claim to a multiplicity of lineages. Someone is obsessed. But some how Blacks seem to always be the ones accused of being so. Don’t think we are the one (for the most part) designing the forms. I took my personhood back!!!! Today I feel ASIAN
Melissa Yasmin says:October 10, 2013 at 5:55 pmMaya Rudolf did not “play a white woman” in Bridesmaids, her character’s father was a black man with locs! Maybe you should do some research before you begin to write an article…
J’Ann Walters says:October 10, 2013 at 6:39 pmDwl, quite so. Loovev it Sandi !
Robert L Browning III says:October 10, 2013 at 9:51 pmMaya Rudolf didn’t play white in Bridesmaids, her father was black in the movie…
Debbie Silburn says:October 10, 2013 at 11:34 pmDwl! that”s a good one mi still laugh.
Karen Holgate-Morgan says:October 11, 2013 at 2:11 amDWL Sandi am ok wit that ,it should not matter nayway
M LaVora Perry says:October 12, 2013 at 6:58 pmIt says a lot about our society that in 2013 we are even having this conversation. Sad.
Rebecca Wiggins says:October 15, 2013 at 2:02 amSdot Chambers -yes but under Quincy Jones daughters picture the writer says “she can’t hide from being black and that she is trying to blend in with the other white cast mates. to me the writer is saying that these individuals are trying to hide and deny being black by “passing” and are successful at it.
Chantel Thebasedgod says:October 15, 2013 at 10:39 pmAmen….these people are biracial.
Tarnii Lee says:October 16, 2013 at 5:00 amRight on, right on … its our differences that are educating & soul inspiring, I mean who wants to be all the same anyhow.
I mean culture & its influence are important & all cultures I believe need to adhere to their own truths, of course (in the best & most uplifting way possible) but also while understanding that we are people of many races, many faces & many colours all coming together to be hopefully a better human being, one of the earth & all that encompasses.
Let us look toward the things that really matter like child welfare, poverty, famine sickness, education, science, socialisation, community interaction & support, environmental & humane issues effecting us all. All for one & one for all lol, ok ok .. well maybe that ain’t gone happen but we can try in our community’s & work our way out like a ripple in a still pond.
Tarnii Lee says:October 16, 2013 at 5:02 amThe Digital Political many people are shallow shit I see em’ everyday & they ain’t all black … infact hardly are where I am at the mo’ but I will say that ignorance get everybody & I have had my fair share of racial taunts for not being black enough though I love my darker skin brothers & sisters sometimes the sword cuts both ways.
Tarnii Lee says:October 16, 2013 at 5:06 amRashida Jones is Quincy Jones’s child if I remember correctly.
Anani Elioenai says:October 18, 2013 at 12:37 amVery astute!! Now give one of those ladies on this list the role to play Nina Simone and watch what happens. Do a research on the backlash poor Zoe Salanda(so) received when she was given the role. These hypocrites show their hate.
Damola Ifaturoti says:October 18, 2013 at 1:03 pmSpot on, sir Mr. Bill Herder. God doesn’t recognize colors only character
Damola Ifaturoti says:October 18, 2013 at 1:11 pmthis feature just confirms the racial inferiority complex suffered by it’s authors, whatever race they may be!
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:32 pmDonna J. Nicol you are incorrect you meant to say on average African Americans are 20% non-Black, not “the average African American,” meaning some are more (mixed race people) & most of us are less. The majority of Black Americans are an extremely high percentage of African and that’s the only part we should be focused on.
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:39 pmValerie Harper People of African descent would vary in skin tone, facial features, hair types, etc…with or without race mixing. Black people need to stop thinking that without “race mixing” we would ALL look the same or a certain way, that is BS.
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:42 pmPaulette Purvis “bi” means two so you meant to say that all human beings are multi-racial not biracial.
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:44 pmBill Clinton is white so why would he be on this list? Bill Clinton is no different than any other racist white man. Black people please stop acting like coons, accepting this man just because he can play the saxophone & used to eat at McDonald’s.
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:49 pmDerrick Braud the last part of your comment I am confused about. The fact that you see “passing” as some sort of “success” is disturbing.
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:52 pmAny person that is less than 50% African ancestry cannot be considered Black.
Naykishia D. Head says:October 28, 2013 at 11:43 amSdot Chambers… That’s not what “passing” means….
London Swain says:October 31, 2013 at 1:24 pmMy Son is Of Mixed heritage. However both his mother and I have raised him to see himself as a individual. He is NOT going to live his life living inside a box others( White or Black ) have made for him. When He looks in the mirror the first thing he sees is himself, not the colour of his skin. If others cant deal with that, then they don’t deserve to interact with him at all. Thank God he has grown with self love and an attitude of acceptance, of both himself and others. Catch up people, a lot of your views belong in the history books.
Dimitri James Bumbaca says:November 1, 2013 at 10:30 amEdward Wandrick Melissa Gorga is southern Italian. The hair, tan and facial structure is very similar to someone of Calabrian or Sicilian heritage.
Frances Bates says:November 5, 2013 at 3:03 amThat’s rude of you to say. I’m biracial and I AM BLACK. I’m proud of it. Shame on you for telling me I’m not.
Rasheedah May-Jenkins says:November 14, 2013 at 2:05 amOnly thing I have a problem with is this article simply seems like its saying Becuase most of these actors have some black blood in them that makes them black, They are not BLACK actors they are Bi-racial or multi-racial, whatever, The thing with Melissa Gorga made me a little mad because she said she wasnt black, she might not be she might be, but the writer of the article(just my opinion) put it as if it was shameful for her to deny her black side (if she is even part black-no one knows) but it wouldnt be shameful if she were to deny having a “White” side….People should be proud of their heritage/ethnicity why is race always end up in an argument like we have to choose sides when most are equally of both. I did enjoy reading this article I learned a lot abt actors I didnt know was Bi/Multi-racial. But I think the writer should have came with a different approach.
Ayn Marx says:November 14, 2013 at 12:55 pmEdward Wandrick It’s not just one invasion: it’s most of their history. Sicily has been a crossroads of the Mediterranean for thousands of years, and many of the people settling there have been dark: Moors, darker Arabs, darker Jews, and sub-Saharan African blacks…and because racism is useful, Northern Italians like to ‘politely’ remind Sicilians about this, and the traditional reaction has been to deny rather than to revel in their hybrid vigour So an Italian-American might know as little about her black ancestors as I know about whatever Gentile French[wo]men in my ancestry led me to resemble a Frenchman slightly more than does the average Semite on our native turf.It also reflects that the ‘one drop rule’ is a peculiarly American institution….
Pamela Ivins Dobuler says:November 15, 2013 at 11:12 pmKahala Lei Azuma Maui – Yes – you probably know that Italian American immigrants in New York City around the turn of the century were looked down upon by other white people there – the were actually called blacks. I did not know this until recently.
Pamela Ivins Dobuler says:November 15, 2013 at 11:16 pmCourtney Harge _ White people go tanning to get darker – and I see some black people want to be white(?) Let’s meet in the middle and be happy.
Francesca Ford says:November 16, 2013 at 2:54 amA couple of these are OBVIOUSLY black. How could you not tell Jennifer Beals is black? And Maya Rudolf SCREAMS black jew. Don’t have to know a damn thing about her parents to know that. Just need to see one picture. And about half the rest I would have guessed were biracial, one part of which being black. But yeah, a few I wouldn’t have guessed right away.
Ashley Swift says:November 16, 2013 at 3:22 amI am biracial (Haitian and Irish-American) and it irritates me that that these people have been characterized as black celebrities “passing” as white. They can do that b/c most, if not all, of them are white, too. They are not black “passing” as white, they ARE white just as much as they are black.As a person of mixed race, I refuse to give into societal pressure to choose one race over the other to identify with just so the rest of the world knows how to define me. I am insanely proud of my heritage on both sides and they are both equally important. Sorry I’m not sorry if that makes it hard for some people to label, categorize, and file me away in their brains as BLACK or WHITE. Maybe it’s time we ditch the race labels and file people under what actually defines us as people: SMART, KIND, TRUSTWORTHY, GENEROUS, HONEST, etc.
Rudy Daniels says:November 16, 2013 at 4:27 amBecause most of the people commenting so loosely fail to really understand the implications of the social and political and economical constricts, content and context of race and how it;s played out in the media as a ocializing element to demean and devalue blackness/african-ness. you guys are polling the superficial surface of these ideoligies and dumbing it down to a personal relatinship paradigm. ‘The implications for being ambigious or non-descript when having african bloodlines is akin to a devaluation process of black people that is now being fully perpetuated by black people because of white supremacy/racism’s powerful yet subtle processes to produce a demeaned concept of blackness.Keep asking the question WHY and continue to DIG DEEPER into history and truths will begin to reveal themselves bout the process and products of a system that racializes a society for control of power paradigms only. It is predicated through wealth access and consumption, but anchored in absulute Power Dominance. White Skin = Power & Value & Control. Yet those who classify themselves as “white” deeply understand this paradigm power dynamic because they only represent less than 10 percent of the world population and survival “instincts” have been activated to achieve, maintain and retain global dominance even though they represent a recessive gene trait population.Pathological Obsession with this particular power dynamic (RACE) would become a “natural” impetus for an individual or a group in this position. With this backdrop, I ask you to now review history with this lucid lense and tell me if it makes more sense to you. It is not about good or bad, right or wrong — but survival ….and what people will do to ensure their own survival even if it means others must suffer. It’s deeper than we all can contemplate. There is no moral compass when one’s own physical and genetic survival is at stake.This process isn’t about who we expect and accept as being part of the Black Parent People/Family of this Planet, but about what and how people identify and preserve the value of that identification. The context is NOT about skin color, but a dynamic and cultural connection that is unashammed to preserve itself amid pressures and methodologies of social dilution, decadence and degradation. This is a social directive that supplants and supercedes as well as undercuts our concepts and conversations about overt manifestations of racial classification. The construct of race was developed to isolate undesireables and caste them into a perpetual lifecycle of constant and persistent devaluation by all means necessary…and at the same time, promote, protect and produce access of life-sustaining resources to the most desirable of group members.The line of distinction made was isolated to skin color and a man-made value was given to it. Those who classified themselves as white pronounced ultimate god-given value to their own white skin thus creating a social, political, cultural and economic hierarchy based of the values attributted to white skin versus other people’s skin tones. The dehumanization process of blackness begin right there and is woven into the fabric of everything we see and do, believe and think, dream and invision — due to our edu-trainment (education and conditioning) — everything around us reinforces the value of whiteness and in so doing, also — the invalidity and devaluation of blackness in our social construct and context. This is our unescapable lense whether we want to agree with it or not. But those who cannot or refuse not to see clearly through that truthful lense of clarity will only suffer from their own ignorance.The people pictured or mentioned here, who clearly value thier black ancestry will self-identify. Those who don’t won’t. We have no control over that. And the fact that the construct of white supremacy plays into that acknowlegement or rejection is a real phenomena. We can’t keep ignoring this FACT. We can’t blame people for being subjected to the forces of it’s POWER and the real affects and effects of doin or not doing so. That would be playing to stupidity and even denial and amnesia. But those are 2 very real options offered to people when we begin to uncover racial classification and it’s purpose, processes, products, presentations and permissions. We speak too fast, teach too little, learn not enough and preach to ferverently without clue or study. We become too easily hippocrates of our own ignorance. It is complex and complicated and layed and lofty —- this thing called RACE. But we judge too swiftly and harshly without the evidence nor license to do so. If we would only seek to understand, before trying to be understood when we engage in our “1-way conversations.” Take time to aske questions, engage in critical thought (*does NOT mean to critisize everything and everyone) and dig deeper for knowledge and more questions. Most of are answers are the shallow representations for all we think we know. Become a commited learner, before you seek to be a teacher….because soem of the respnses I read on here are so telling of the respondents command of the information they are espousing about — and NOT in a good way. Talking just to Talk become just unwarranted NOISE if it is noy grounded in purpose and wisdom. Just take NOTE.
Kayla Parisi says:November 16, 2013 at 7:59 amUmm what’s a biracial black man? Either or… Either or.
Dionne McCollum says:November 16, 2013 at 8:14 amThat mindset—that any black blood makes you black—stems from past racist American laws, implemented during slavery times. They believed back then, and some still do (they just don’t enforce it) that if an ancestor was black, the person is. They used terms like these:
. #onedroprule #oneblackancestorrule
#traceableamountrule
#hyperdescentrule
That’s why you hear the phrase “passing for white”. Biracial people who were part black and were very light complected would live their lives as white people bcuz they were better accepted by society, had more advantages in life, and we’re not kept as slaves. That “passing” behavior stayed around after slavery ended for some of the same reasons. The mindset is so ingrained in our culture that people still think that way—including me, unfortunately. Ever seen the old movie called “Imitation of Life”? Very good movie about this topic!! People who were “passing” years ago LIVED IN FEAR of their ethnic background being found out bcuz their lives would immediately change!! They would lose their jobs, their homes, and would be treated like the dregs of society. Smh
Anissa Parisi says:November 16, 2013 at 10:16 amu can be biracial with other races..they just saying “black” is one of his races..if he was white n latino he would b biracial latino
Kayla Parisi says:November 16, 2013 at 12:47 pmThe term “biracial” typically means African American and Caucasian tho. You can say one race without the other in that sense. If he’s a biracial black man.. Is he black and white or black and Asian? It just doesn’t make sense
Vicki A. Chappell says:November 16, 2013 at 1:34 pmWhy is this important? They are good actors – the end.
Vicki A. Chappell says:November 16, 2013 at 3:03 pmInteresting! I commented on this article “on the site,” and it showed up on my FB feed…. hmmm. Anyway, I didn’t like the article. Why should we care about such things?
Pauline Strickland Nichols says:November 16, 2013 at 5:05 pmI agree. What difference does it make if someone is of mixed heritage?
Alvin Williams says:November 16, 2013 at 9:45 pmWell I don’t know what they are going to do once America turns to a non-white majority as the population growth trends seems to indicate to happen in less than 50 years? I guess there will be a rush to claim their racial identity; but the question is should the rest of us let them in?
Vincent Parrish says:November 17, 2013 at 9:43 amThere’s a nation called Black?? I was unaware of that, maybe someday I will go on vacation there.
Vincent Parrish says:November 17, 2013 at 9:52 amOnly 1/6 of the entire planet is considered “caucasion”.
Lynn Wagner says:November 17, 2013 at 1:43 pmAnd the reason for this article is? Who really cares anyway. We are a nation of mixed nationalities. It is what makes our Nation great! If anything, having mixed bloodlines whether Asian, German, Italian, or Black, etc. I believe in Hollywood today would only help expand the careers of these stars by opening up more acting opportunities. Love who you are and the skin that you live in!!
William Lewis says:November 18, 2013 at 11:54 amExactly how do you think we become light skinned black people?
William Lewis says:November 18, 2013 at 11:56 amSusonya Davenport: That is absolutely not true.
William Lewis says:November 18, 2013 at 2:46 pmLelani and anyone that thinks like you; your rant was quite ridiculous. Acknowledging the different races we have been mixed with is NOT a cover up for any insecurites we have. It is simply the full package of what we are. I have heard too many white people say they are part Irish and Italian and German. Are they insecure? Or simply acknowledging their heritage? Yes, many of us are mixed with Indian in this country and that should not be a shock to you, yet we don’t say I don’t want to be black and call ourselves Indians.
Binky Jewel says:November 18, 2013 at 3:00 pmEdward Wandrick Honey, have you seen many Italians? Many have hair like that and are darker, Caucasians come in many shades as all people do.
Marcus Rogers says:November 25, 2013 at 7:02 amThe title of this article makes a silly implication. Since when did any of these people TRY to PASS for white? Words are power…
Marcus Rogers says:November 25, 2013 at 7:04 amEva in that term isn’t Tiger alluding to his Black ancestry as well?
See, come people aint satisfied unless a Black person has a pick in their hair wearing a 40 Acres and a Mule shirt…
Diane Cook says:November 25, 2013 at 7:59 amAnd why was it a success? As if passing for white is an accomplishment that people strive for or so desperately want. Really, seriously. How about this, I not only pass for, but I excel at being black and proud!!!
Wayne Gaskins says:November 28, 2013 at 10:00 pmLois Magnotti let me take you to Mississippi in case you get confused and think you are “mixed”….
Kelly Powell says:December 1, 2013 at 11:11 pmMaya rudolph played a bi-racial girl.in bridesmaids… her father is bkack in the movie
Olga Tsvintarnaya says:November 10, 2015 at 1:09 pmIt’s not fair to call them just black when they are a mixture. They are as much black as white)
Elijah Dennis says:December 3, 2015 at 4:47 pmPerhaps but some of them never acknowledge their black heritage and use the white heritage to gain success when they could make the difference between the races
Olga Tsvintarnaya says:December 3, 2015 at 8:34 pmElijah Dennis ,Rachel Meghan Markle in many episodes reminds of her being black. I don’t live in the US, but I don’t believe that races matter there, though americans like to make a lot of noice around this problem, I guess, due to the history that was really terrible. Now there are black and white movie and pop stars who are loved by people of all the races. Was it hard for Will Smith or Whitney Houston to become popular? Or any other black star…
Aspyn Walton says:December 9, 2015 at 12:14 amOlga Tsvintarnaya Perhaps for celebrities its not an issue but when a white man convicted of a crime has more chance of getting a job than a black man with no record, that constitutes some “noise.” The biggest setback to equality is people who think racism no longer exists. So yes races matter here, it is still an issue, and showing that sometimes most people cannot even tell that a “race” is present is important to getting rid of the idea of race in general.
Jojo Snow says:December 18, 2015 at 5:21 amMelissa Gorga looks Italian in her before picture to me. Is it the super kinky-curly hair? Lots of Italians and Jews have that hair texture. Not that it matters what her race is, but why call her a liar? Not cool.
Jojo Snow says:December 18, 2015 at 5:25 amMaya Rudolph didn’t play a white woman in Bridesmaids. You need to rewatch the film without your bias. In the movie, her character’s father is Black.
Stacey Lucas says:December 18, 2015 at 8:55 pmShe half black she a shame of who she is this is why she changed everything about she don’t want to say she half black she feel people will judge her but she judge her self
Nathaniel Hopkins says:December 20, 2015 at 5:02 amGod and/or nature makes it impossible for any Black gene being dominate to be alterned by any other gene because the Black gene was the beginning of all subsequent genes and races. The child cannot chage the race of the parents. One Black always Black. It is biologically impossible for any Black man or woman to multiply itself by having a White baby. Atter the first Black gene infiltrates any non-Black gene pool it cosumes and changes those and all subsqent offspings into the Black family tree. It is not possible to produce Black from White, but you can produce all other colors from Black. Once Black all future generation shall remain Black. The other features may change however the genetic code is still fundamentally Balck
Nathaniel Hopkins says:December 20, 2015 at 5:06 amBlacks: Abraham Lincolin, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Andrew Jackson, J.EdgarHoover, Jacquelyn Kennedy, Woodrow Wilson… Once Black you can never go back.
Nathaniel Hopkins says:December 20, 2015 at 5:36 amLet me get this straight. Now you create a non-existent race of “Mixed People” then you claim the athority to alter natural history from the beginning of human until the present by declaring that the sons and daugher of the First Black humans are not of and from the Black male spern and the Black woman womb? The so called American Negro is not mixed until we as a people give credit to the White men that enslaves our foreparentes and ravished our Mothers, Sisters, Daughter at will produces not a Bastard Race, Not a mixed race, but a Black N slave race to be held as the White man personal property forever. Those rape based babies were born into our status, suffers as one of us and die at one with us. As a people and recognized race of under international law the old divide and conquer trick no longer works The racial screen for the so called American Negro is very simple and direct; “Do you claim, and prove under sworn affidavits that one of your grandparents was an African Slave legally recognized not as a humban being but as proeprty to the White property owners?” When you can do that then you may come to us and discuss race with your Black Brothers and sisters. Until then go sell that b.s. to all the grandchildren of the salve traders that tortured and murdered our African Grandparents by the millions. This is not academic with us it is flesh and blood real life based on 400 years of legal enslavement in this country. You young white girl and boy do not educate us on our race, color, family or culture. We not you define who is or who is not a part of us.
Olga Tsvintarnaya says:December 20, 2015 at 9:06 amAspyn Walton It’s so sad if it’s so.
Lydia L Reese-Burns says:December 23, 2015 at 6:14 amSoledad O’Brian has always claimed her ethnicity. That’s one of the reasons she created the Black in America series. She said ‘I never saw myself as mixed. I am Black because my mother is Black. I was raised n a Black home. There was never any confusion’.
Tamiko Lemon says:July 24, 2023 at 7:17 pm1st of all. If your mother is black n your dad is whyte. That means you are whyte. If you mom is whyte and your dad is black, then you are black. You are the seed of your father not your mom.

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10 Black Celebs Who Successfully Pass For White

Posted byBy A Moore | Published on: August 13, 2013 | Updated on April 26, 2018 CommentsComments (421)

What people are saying

421 thoughts on “10 Black Celebs Who Successfully Pass For White”

Michael Funso says:August 13, 2013 at 10:31 pmBlack people and in particular the author of this piece are shallow. What is the big deal if they did pass for white? I think the idle hand who thought this is a great “research” should go and get a real job.
Michael Funso says:August 13, 2013 at 10:31 pmBlack people and in particular the author of this piece are shallow. What is the big deal if they did pass for white? I think the idle hand who thought this is a great “research” should go and get a real job.
Michael Rene’e Daniels says:August 13, 2013 at 10:38 pmMost of the folks on this list haven’t hidden their race or ethnicity with the exception of Carol Channing. In fact Soledad O’brien has always been very specific and clear about her ehtnicity. Never heard of the young lady on the the reality show.
Michael Rene’e Daniels says:August 13, 2013 at 10:38 pmMost of the folks on this list haven’t hidden their race or ethnicity with the exception of Carol Channing. In fact Soledad O’brien has always been very specific and clear about her ehtnicity. Never heard of the young lady on the the reality show.
Aaron Sailor says:August 13, 2013 at 10:55 pmThese people aren’t Black! And as far as I am concerned Biracials have just as much right to claim there Black side as they do there White. When are Black people going to get rid of this “one drop” bullcrap?
Aaron Sailor says:August 13, 2013 at 10:55 pmThese people aren’t Black! And as far as I am concerned Biracials have just as much right to claim there Black side as they do there White. When are Black people going to get rid of this “one drop” bullcrap?
Aaron Charles Sailor says:August 13, 2013 at 10:55 pmThese people aren’t Black! And as far as I am concerned Biracials have just as much right to claim there Black side as they do there White. When are Black people going to get rid of this “one drop” bullcrap?
Sabella Abidde says:August 13, 2013 at 11:02 pm…then you are missing the point
Sabella Abidde says:August 13, 2013 at 11:02 pm…then you are missing the point
Tish Newton Virgues says:August 13, 2013 at 11:03 pmlazy journalism full of assumptions and half truths
Tish Newton Virgues says:August 13, 2013 at 11:03 pmlazy journalism full of assumptions and half truths
Bill Herder says:August 13, 2013 at 11:17 pmRight on, brother. You’re one color, I’m another. God made us both and he made us that way. Let’s start trying to solve some real problems, like family, jobs, etc. and stop worrying about something as unimportant as skin color.
Bill Herder says:August 13, 2013 at 11:17 pmRight on, brother. You’re one color, I’m another. God made us both and he made us that way. Let’s start trying to solve some real problems, like family, jobs, etc. and stop worrying about something as unimportant as skin color.
The Digital Political says:August 13, 2013 at 11:23 pmBlack people are shallow?
The Digital Political says:August 13, 2013 at 11:23 pmBlack people are shallow?
The Digital Political says:August 13, 2013 at 11:25 pmBill Herder Skin color is unimportant? Hmmm…So the NYC “Search and Frisk Law” impacts who the most?
The Digital Political says:August 13, 2013 at 11:25 pmBill Herder Skin color is unimportant? Hmmm…So the NYC “Search and Frisk Law” impacts who the most?
Nebuwah Hutip says:August 13, 2013 at 11:26 pmFence hoppers.. lol not hatin though. Scilians have a considerable amount of blood admixture from the motherland. Both her parents are probably Italian.
Nebuwah Hutip says:August 13, 2013 at 11:26 pmFence hoppers.. lol not hatin though. Scilians have a considerable amount of blood admixture from the motherland. Both her parents are probably Italian.
Kristal K’Sera says:August 13, 2013 at 11:29 pmWhoever wrote this garbage needs to be fired.
Eleshia L. Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 12:19 amInteresting though…didn’t know about chick from PLL. I find this stuff fascinating.
Eleshia L. Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 12:19 amInteresting though…didn’t know about chick from PLL. I find this stuff fascinating.
Michael W. Corbett Sr. says:August 14, 2013 at 12:22 amIts a non-issue. They are not passing, unless they pretend not to be black or of mixed heritage. Even if you changed the name of the article to “Actors you might not have known are black” it would still be poorly researched. The only one passing is the older woman….
Michael W. Corbett Sr. says:August 14, 2013 at 12:22 amIts a non-issue. They are not passing, unless they pretend not to be black or of mixed heritage. Even if you changed the name of the article to “Actors you might not have known are black” it would still be poorly researched. The only one passing is the older woman….
Wardell Benford says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 amIts alot of blacks like this! I blamed the mothers for this shit. They are first teachers. Regardless if they are white, latino, asian and black.
Wardell Benford says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 amIts alot of blacks like this! I blamed the mothers for this shit. They are first teachers. Regardless if they are white, latino, asian and black.
Kay Dejavu says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 amDamn is that Melissa? Anyhooo none of these people are black, they are part black. Let us stop the one-dropping!
Kay Dejavu says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 amDamn is that Melissa? Anyhooo none of these people are black, they are part black. Let us stop the one-dropping!
Steve Edmonds says:August 14, 2013 at 12:45 amPeople, the term “passing” actually came from American white people. America need to really know their history before saying this is shallow or is garbage. Google Plessy vs Ferguson and read about the “one drop rule” Black people did not make this rule…White people did. Whether we like it or not its a ugly part of American History.
Steven Michael says:August 14, 2013 at 12:45 amPeople, the term “passing” actually came from American white people. America need to really know their history before saying this is shallow or is garbage. Google Plessy vs Ferguson and read about the “one drop rule” Black people did not make this rule…White people did. Whether we like it or not its a ugly part of American History.
Tre Baker says:August 14, 2013 at 1:01 amI knew all of these people were Black except the first guy. I don’t understand how this wasn’t obvious unless you know zero lightskinned Black people.
Tre Baker says:August 14, 2013 at 1:01 amI knew all of these people were Black except the first guy. I don’t understand how this wasn’t obvious unless you know zero lightskinned Black people.
Brad Isaac says:August 14, 2013 at 1:56 amThis is a misleading list as most of the people here are obviously biracial and they all really do nothing to hide that they are biracial. If you are really interested in whichever actor then a little looking will let you know. Besides who cares..
Brad Isaac says:August 14, 2013 at 1:56 amThis is a misleading list as most of the people here are obviously biracial and they all really do nothing to hide that they are biracial. If you are really interested in whichever actor then a little looking will let you know. Besides who cares..
Joy Foster says:August 14, 2013 at 2:06 amI get what you’re saying, but if ‘we Black people’ are to ‘drop’ the one drop bull, then “we” Black Americans wouldn’t be “Black” either due to a few centuries worth of miscegenation starting with slavery, and would have to right to claim the white ancestry that a MAJORITY of us have, for many generations past. Unfortunately, that would make a plethora of people really uncomfortable, making it not quite as simple a task as you make it sound. Maybe in the next century we can actually be “post racial”, but it’s not here yet.
Joy Foster says:August 14, 2013 at 2:06 amI get what you’re saying, but if ‘we Black people’ are to ‘drop’ the one drop bull, then “we” Black Americans wouldn’t be “Black” either due to a few centuries worth of miscegenation starting with slavery, and would have to right to claim the white ancestry that a MAJORITY of us have, for many generations past. Unfortunately, that would make a plethora of people really uncomfortable, making it not quite as simple a task as you make it sound. Maybe in the next century we can actually be “post racial”, but it’s not here yet.
Joy Foster says:August 14, 2013 at 2:06 amI get what you’re saying, but if ‘we Black people’ are to ‘drop’ the one drop bull, then “we” Black Americans wouldn’t be “Black” either due to a few centuries worth of miscegenation starting with slavery, and would have to right to claim the white ancestry that a MAJORITY of us have, for many generations past. Unfortunately, that would make a plethora of people really uncomfortable, making it not quite as simple a task as you make it sound. Maybe in the next century we can actually be “post racial”, but it’s not here yet.
Cheapo Comics says:August 14, 2013 at 2:12 amYou’re right, who cares about their ethnicity? The article’s title alone is annoying. So much crap about race these days it gets a bit much at times.
La Yoli says:August 14, 2013 at 2:22 amI wonder why the insecure person who wrote this is attempting to cause a stir? Soledad does a lot of activism and discussions about biraciality and black/ latin perception and experience in america. Some of the other’s mentioned jobs are to entertain, not make categorizing narrow minded and announcements to make silly people feel better #stopthewitchhunt.
La Yoli says:August 14, 2013 at 2:22 amI wonder why the insecure person who wrote this is attempting to cause a stir? Soledad does a lot of activism and discussions about biraciality and black/ latin perception and experience in america. Some of the other’s mentioned jobs are to entertain, not make categorizing narrow minded and announcements to make silly people feel better #stopthewitchhunt.
La Yoli says:August 14, 2013 at 2:22 amI wonder why the insecure person who wrote this is attempting to cause a stir? Soledad does a lot of activism and discussions about biraciality and black/ latin perception and experience in america. Some of the other’s mentioned jobs are to entertain, not make categorizing narrow minded and announcements to make silly people feel better #stopthewitchhunt.
SekhmetAsare Asare says:August 14, 2013 at 2:32 amThe Digital Political explain
Trice Heard says:August 14, 2013 at 2:32 amThe Digital Political explain
Hrh Elizabeth Eff Obisanya says:August 14, 2013 at 2:52 amif their daddies are white they are white,(bible definition of where you are from – on fathers side sorry folks) those whose daddies are black are considered as black folks.
Parker Hellsin says:August 14, 2013 at 2:54 amMelissa looks cute I can tell in the curly haired picture she got some black in her(high five)…
Parker Hellsin says:August 14, 2013 at 2:54 amMelissa looks cute I can tell in the curly haired picture she got some black in her(high five)…
Parker Hellsin says:August 14, 2013 at 2:55 amoh I loves me some Rashida Jones…
Parker Hellsin says:August 14, 2013 at 2:55 amoh I loves me some Rashida Jones…
Joe Masse says:August 14, 2013 at 3:22 amBy far, this is the most racist article I’ve read in a while… “celebrated black” and “another caucasian.” Please. Not to mention, none one of these actors/celebs are full black, they are bi-racial or bi-regional, like most of the U.S. So use that in your title, “Bi-racial celebs who pass white.” OHHH..That won’t grab a readers attention. Amateur racist bullshit. Get a new job, Mr. A Moore.
Joe Masse says:August 14, 2013 at 3:22 amBy far, this is the most racist article I’ve read in a while… “celebrated black” and “another caucasian.” Please. Not to mention, none one of these actors/celebs are full black, they are bi-racial or bi-regional, like most of the U.S. So use that in your title, “Bi-racial celebs who pass white.” OHHH..That won’t grab a readers attention. Amateur racist bullshit. Get a new job, Mr. A Moore.
Perttu Superjood says:August 14, 2013 at 3:26 amWHO CARES
Perttu Super says:August 14, 2013 at 3:26 amWHO CARES
Matt Degrelle Xvii says:August 14, 2013 at 3:31 amWhat retard follows bible definitions? Everything is genetics. These people are mixed race, not black or white.
Timo Partanen says:August 14, 2013 at 4:20 amW.H.O. slogan: “WHO CARES”
Atty Earlyne McCalister Thomas says:August 14, 2013 at 4:26 amExcuse me, but most of the people you listed HAVE NOT made it a point to deny their Black ancestry. Rashida Jones–who doesn’t know that her father is Black? Soledad O’Brien has made it a point, well before her documentaries, that she is part Black. Same thing for Maya Rudolph. Oh, BTW, Maya’s character in Bridesmaids could hardly have been considered to have been a “white” woman, when the man who played her father in the movie, was BLACK, and the mother was white. Just because some of the people mentioned are biracial, and may play white roles, doesn’t necessarily mean they are passing–with the exception of Carol Channing–who didn’t find out until she was in college, and living in an age when it wasn’t unusual for very light-skinned Blacks to PASS.
Atty Earlyne McCalister Thomas says:August 14, 2013 at 4:26 amExcuse me, but most of the people you listed HAVE NOT made it a point to deny their Black ancestry. Rashida Jones–who doesn’t know that her father is Black? Soledad O’Brien has made it a point, well before her documentaries, that she is part Black. Same thing for Maya Rudolph. Oh, BTW, Maya’s character in Bridesmaids could hardly have been considered to have been a “white” woman, when the man who played her father in the movie, was BLACK, and the mother was white. Just because some of the people mentioned are biracial, and may play white roles, doesn’t necessarily mean they are passing–with the exception of Carol Channing–who didn’t find out until she was in college, and living in an age when it wasn’t unusual for very light-skinned Blacks to PASS.
Perttu Superjood says:August 14, 2013 at 4:52 amnot bad
Perttu Superjood says:August 14, 2013 at 4:52 amnot bad
Perttu Super says:August 14, 2013 at 4:52 amnot bad
Ed Violette says:August 14, 2013 at 6:31 amFunny how these people are white while our President is black??
Ed Violette says:August 14, 2013 at 6:31 amFunny how these people are white while our President is black??
Ed Violette says:August 14, 2013 at 6:31 amFunny how these people are white while our President is black??
Ed Violette says:August 14, 2013 at 6:31 amWhat are the rules man?
Ed Violette says:August 14, 2013 at 6:31 amWhat are the rules man?
Paulette Purvis says:August 14, 2013 at 7:22 amBlack people are shallow? Then, what that makes you?
Paulette Purvis says:August 14, 2013 at 7:22 amBlack people are shallow? Then, what that makes you?
Black-Women Empowerment says:August 14, 2013 at 7:26 amThese are ALL biracial or multiracial people. They are NOT black.
Black-Women Empowerment says:August 14, 2013 at 7:26 amThese are ALL biracial or multiracial people. They are NOT black.
Val Hagans says:August 14, 2013 at 7:26 amThanks for the education on Plessy vs Ferguson.
Val Hagans says:August 14, 2013 at 7:26 amThanks for the education on Plessy vs Ferguson.
Paulette Purvis says:August 14, 2013 at 7:27 amIf you really want to know the truth, at least 60% of all people are biracial in one way or another. Sorry, but true. If this stings, then you must have been bitten. Next subject please. This topic doesn’t interest me one way or another.
Paulette Purvis says:August 14, 2013 at 7:27 amIf you really want to know the truth, at least 60% of all people are biracial in one way or another. Sorry, but true. If this stings, then you must have been bitten. Next subject please. This topic doesn’t interest me one way or another.
Sharon L. Carnahan says:August 14, 2013 at 7:31 amI found this offensive; the intimation was that people gain by “passing” as White.
Sharon L. Carnahan says:August 14, 2013 at 7:31 amI found this offensive; the intimation was that people gain by “passing” as White.
Dani Lazarus says:August 14, 2013 at 7:58 amRe Ms. Gorga: many Italians deny their African heritage. Nothing new. #Moors
Dani Lazarus says:August 14, 2013 at 7:58 amRe Ms. Gorga: many Italians deny their African heritage. Nothing new. #Moors
Eva Keane says:August 14, 2013 at 8:01 amCorrect! Black people need to stop trying to “claim” people who dont want the label “black”.
Eva Keane says:August 14, 2013 at 8:01 amCorrect! Black people need to stop trying to “claim” people who dont want the label “black”.
Eva Keane says:August 14, 2013 at 8:02 amFor instance, Tiger Woods has TOLD YOU he’s “Cablasian” so just move on!
Eva Keane says:August 14, 2013 at 8:02 amFor instance, Tiger Woods has TOLD YOU he’s “Cablasian” so just move on!
Dani Lazarus says:August 14, 2013 at 8:03 amSoledad O’Brien has never tried to ‘pass’. She has always and continues to be ridiculed as a white face trying to pass for Black, in fact.
Dani Lazarus says:August 14, 2013 at 8:03 amSoledad O’Brien has never tried to ‘pass’. She has always and continues to be ridiculed as a white face trying to pass for Black, in fact.
Arthur Vee says:August 14, 2013 at 8:46 amYep, great article WAY TO PERPETUATE RACISM IN AMERICA
Arthur Vee says:August 14, 2013 at 8:46 amYep, great article WAY TO PERPETUATE RACISM IN AMERICA
Arthur Vee says:August 14, 2013 at 8:46 amSabella Abidde no he’s not. The only one missing the point is closeted bigots like yourself.
Arthur Vee says:August 14, 2013 at 8:46 amSabella Abidde no he’s not. The only one missing the point is closeted bigots like yourself.
LaVinnia Bright says:August 14, 2013 at 9:04 amthe one drop rule was started by slave master not black people. you don’t know your history
LaVinnia Bright says:August 14, 2013 at 9:04 am@Aaron Sailor the one drop rule was started by slave masters not black people. you don’t know your history
Glen Alcorn says:August 14, 2013 at 9:26 amwho cares….
Glen Alcorn says:August 14, 2013 at 9:26 amwho cares….
Rickey Fuller says:August 14, 2013 at 9:30 amthe bible is wrong about a whole lot of things
Rickey Fuller says:August 14, 2013 at 9:30 amthe bible is wrong about a whole lot of things
Danielle Tate says:August 14, 2013 at 9:31 amMaya Rudolph had a SNL alum, who is African American with locks play her father in Bridesmaids. Along with other mistakes in this article. The journalist here did no research before allowing this print. Where is thfe fact checker or is this a gossip site?
Danielle Tate says:August 14, 2013 at 9:31 amMaya Rudolph had a SNL alum, who is African American with locks play her father in Bridesmaids. Along with other mistakes in this article. The journalist here did no research before allowing this print. Where is thfe fact checker or is this a gossip site?
Aquil ExportQuality Hall says:August 14, 2013 at 9:47 amRight, nobody wants to mention that. White people have the shortest selective memory!
Aquil ExportQuality Hall says:August 14, 2013 at 9:47 amRight, nobody wants to mention that. White people have the shortest selective memory!
Terence Tramp Abney says:August 14, 2013 at 9:58 amThis is your “editorial”? who cares? awesome job blackstar.com, you have successfully proven your worthlessness.
Claire Simba says:August 14, 2013 at 10:01 amUmm excuse me… in this list there’s NO BLACK PERSON, only MIXED! Very different!
Claire Simba says:August 14, 2013 at 10:01 amUmm excuse me… in this list there’s NO BLACK PERSON, only MIXED! Very different!
Marc Reid says:August 14, 2013 at 10:04 amWhy is this news?
Marc Reid says:August 14, 2013 at 10:04 amWhy is this news?
Milton Kaseke says:August 14, 2013 at 10:07 amI just wasted 30 seconds of my life!
Nayo Luv says:August 14, 2013 at 10:08 amHahahaa…this posted to my wall….thank you for saving 30 seconds of my life!
Angela Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 10:13 amWhy is that supposed to be a success? lol. ijs
Angela Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 10:13 amWhy is that supposed to be a success? lol. ijs
Fani Lou Taylor says:August 14, 2013 at 10:15 amBill Herder “Right On Bill”
Fani Lou Taylor says:August 14, 2013 at 10:15 amBill Herder “Right On Bill”
Sharon D Brown says:August 14, 2013 at 10:24 amI would agree with you that following the father’s ancestral line makes sense, but since we live in the USA and in order to continue and maintain slavery the race was assigned according to the mother.
Sharon D Brown says:August 14, 2013 at 10:24 amI would agree with you that following the father’s ancestral line makes sense, but since we live in the USA and in order to continue and maintain slavery the race was assigned according to the mother.
Hodari Lewis says:August 14, 2013 at 10:32 amIf your father is biracial it makes u black? Why is that only the case with black people? If my mother was half Italian I wouldn’t be considered Italian passing for black. Being multiracial doesn’t catogorize everybody mixed with everything BUT black. My son is half black, a quarter Hispanic, & a quarter white. I feel like its just as wrong to tell him that he’s not white or Hispanic as it is to tell him he’s not black
Hodari Lewis says:August 14, 2013 at 10:32 amIf your father is biracial it makes u black? Why is that only the case with black people? If my mother was half Italian I wouldn’t be considered Italian passing for black. Being multiracial doesn’t catogorize everybody mixed with everything BUT black. My son is half black, a quarter Hispanic, & a quarter white. I feel like its just as wrong to tell him that he’s not white or Hispanic as it is to tell him he’s not black
Jones Andrea says:August 14, 2013 at 10:34 amSo the person who wrote this, didn’t see Bridesmaids cuz Rudolf’s dad in the movie was black. SMH
Andrea Rochester says:August 14, 2013 at 10:34 amSo the person who wrote this, didn’t see Bridesmaids cuz Rudolf’s dad in the movie was black. SMH
Kenneth Armour says:August 14, 2013 at 10:44 amThis is the kind of garbage that keeps racial issues alive in America. People are people. Talent is talent. Who gives a damn what color they are? This is super frustrating.
Necie Coles says:August 14, 2013 at 10:46 amWhat a negative racially charged piece of garbage. The author
Is no journalist. What a waste. One little point. Did you watch
The movie bridesmaids? Maya Rudolph’s character had a white mother and an African American father. You did even get that small
fact correct. The rest of this is just BS fuel.
Necie Coles says:August 14, 2013 at 10:46 amWhat a negative racially charged piece of garbage. The author
Is no journalist. What a waste. One little point. Did you watch
The movie bridesmaids? Maya Rudolph’s character had a white mother and an African American father. You did even get that small
fact correct. The rest of this is just BS fuel.
Alborz Mohtashami says:August 14, 2013 at 10:54 amIS THAT THE GIRL FROM SUITS?!?!? Crazy. I like her a lot more now
Alborz Mohtashami says:August 14, 2013 at 10:54 amIS THAT THE GIRL FROM SUITS?!?!? Crazy. I like her a lot more now
Chevas Samuels says:August 14, 2013 at 10:55 amI don’t believe the author meant these people were actually trying to pass as white (other than Melissa who denied her black ancestry). I think the author meant that these people could pass for white if they wanted to. Most of us knew the ancestry of these people without being told. “We know our people when we see them,” is what my grandmother used to say.
Chevas Samuels says:August 14, 2013 at 10:55 amI don’t believe the author meant these people were actually trying to pass as white (other than Melissa who denied her black ancestry). I think the author meant that these people could pass for white if they wanted to. Most of us knew the ancestry of these people without being told. “We know our people when we see them,” is what my grandmother used to say.
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 10:56 amI don’t believe the article says that they denied their blackness, it states that they have successfully passed for white. (basically they were able to do so in their film careers.
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 10:56 amI don’t believe the article says that they denied their blackness, it states that they have successfully passed for white. (basically they were able to do so in their film careers.
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 10:58 amI don’t see what is wrong with the article. No one was disrespected. The author never stated that anyone denied their blackness. What is the problem?
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 10:58 amI don’t see what is wrong with the article. No one was disrespected. The author never stated that anyone denied their blackness. What is the problem?
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 11:01 amPeople on this post do not read. The author never stated that any of these people purposely tried to pass for white, deny their African ancestry or anything else. This is simply a list compiled to show what actors are able to successfully pass as white in tv series and films. What is the big deal? They can’t help how they look. ughhhh
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 11:01 amPeople on this post do not read. The author never stated that any of these people purposely tried to pass for white, deny their African ancestry or anything else. This is simply a list compiled to show what actors are able to successfully pass as white in tv series and films. What is the big deal? They can’t help how they look. ughhhh
Kris Janelle says:August 14, 2013 at 11:07 amThis is a dumb ass article.. Plain and simple.. Maya Rudolph, Rasheeda Jones and Soledad O’Brien will glady say they are AFRICAN AMERICAN. Just because you dont look what they think is standard then ur passing for white??? Ignorance.
Kris Janelle says:August 14, 2013 at 11:07 amThis is a dumb ass article.. Plain and simple.. Maya Rudolph, Rasheeda Jones and Soledad O’Brien will glady say they are AFRICAN AMERICAN. Just because you dont look what they think is standard then ur passing for white??? Ignorance.
Albert Assoon says:August 14, 2013 at 11:10 amThe question is can they pass for black!
Albert Assoon says:August 14, 2013 at 11:10 amThe question is can they pass for black!
Rhonda Ovist says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amI think what is most interesting in this article is the notion of what makes a person “black” in the first place. Apparently, for this writer, it is about “ancestors” – a reliance on the old American rule of “one drop of ‘black blood’ [sic]” prevails. Of course, we know that race, as a set of mutually exclusive biological categories, does not exist, despite the repeated efforts of some scientists to prove otherwise. Race – White, Black – are social construction. This is nicely illustrated when you ask students to explain how they know someone is white – it turns out that the criteria we assume to be quite settled are in fact very shaky and rather arbitrary. Although, I have to agree that it is much easier to be seen as a handsome or beautiful “star” if one is identified by others as White as opposed to Black. There is a great deal of research that examines the definition of beauty and attractiveness in our society as being intrinsically “white.” There is no doubt that those Identified (and who identify as) Black are under represented in mainstream entertainment media, with exception of rap performers. And those same Black men and women find far fewer options and opportunities in movies, television and advertisements. Thus, I would argue that yes, being identified as White instead of Black probably does prove advantageous. But I see this as less of a confirmation of the desirability of the category of White over Black, but rather an indication of the degree to which those identified as Black are seen as inferior in relation to Whites, and thus treated as if inferior (sociological definition of racism) persists in our society. Furthermore, this article insures that we know that even if someone “looks” white, they might still really be “black,” reinforcing the belief that there is some real, absolute definitions of these racial categories, and the notion that being white is obviously preferable. In a way, the article has the danger of acting as an “outing” of those who dare pass as something they aren’t, as something they can’t be, as undeserving impostors to the exclusive club of being White (I think, Sharon, this latter aspect of the article might be the source of your discomfort – something I agree with. )
Rhonda Ovist says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amI think what is most interesting in this article is the notion of what makes a person “black” in the first place. Apparently, for this writer, it is about “ancestors” – a reliance on the old American rule of “one drop of ‘black blood’ [sic]” prevails. Of course, we know that race, as a set of mutually exclusive biological categories, does not exist, despite the repeated efforts of some scientists to prove otherwise. Race – White, Black – are social construction. This is nicely illustrated when you ask students to explain how they know someone is white – it turns out that the criteria we assume to be quite settled are in fact very shaky and rather arbitrary. Although, I have to agree that it is much easier to be seen as a handsome or beautiful “star” if one is identified by others as White as opposed to Black. There is a great deal of research that examines the definition of beauty and attractiveness in our society as being intrinsically “white.” There is no doubt that those Identified (and who identify as) Black are under represented in mainstream entertainment media, with exception of rap performers. And those same Black men and women find far fewer options and opportunities in movies, television and advertisements. Thus, I would argue that yes, being identified as White instead of Black probably does prove advantageous. But I see this as less of a confirmation of the desirability of the category of White over Black, but rather an indication of the degree to which those identified as Black are seen as inferior in relation to Whites, and thus treated as if inferior (sociological definition of racism) persists in our society. Furthermore, this article insures that we know that even if someone “looks” white, they might still really be “black,” reinforcing the belief that there is some real, absolute definitions of these racial categories, and the notion that being white is obviously preferable. In a way, the article has the danger of acting as an “outing” of those who dare pass as something they aren’t, as something they can’t be, as undeserving impostors to the exclusive club of being White (I think, Sharon, this latter aspect of the article might be the source of your discomfort – something I agree with. )
Edward Wandrick says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amIt appears the only one in denial is Melissa Gorga.
Edward Wandrick says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amIt appears the only one in denial is Melissa Gorga.
Edward Wandrick says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amAgreed.
Edward Wandrick says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amAgreed.
Francine Bw says:August 14, 2013 at 11:20 amyou are what you look period, if you look black then wear it proudly, if you look white wear that as well because in the end no one walks around with pictures of their parent pasted to their forehead. In society people are going to base you on how you look, that’s just the way our society is.
Francine Bw says:August 14, 2013 at 11:20 amyou are what you look period, if you look black then wear it proudly, if you look white wear that as well because in the end no one walks around with pictures of their parent pasted to their forehead. In society people are going to base you on how you look, that’s just the way our society is.
Mike Stoan says:August 14, 2013 at 11:22 amsuccessfully lol
Mike Stoan says:August 14, 2013 at 11:22 amsuccessfully lol
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 11:27 amThe thing is everyone, except that Italian woman, on the list is a person with only a small amount of Black ancestry. They’re “passing” for what they mostly are. That’s like Tyson Beckford showing up on a list of Asian celebrities who pass for Black.By the way, I didn’t get the impression that apparently half the commentators walked away with that the author of this article was insinuating the folks on the list were hiding or in any way denying having black ancestry.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 11:27 amThe thing is everyone, except that Italian woman, on the list is a person with only a small amount of Black ancestry. They’re “passing” for what they mostly are. That’s like Tyson Beckford showing up on a list of Asian celebrities who pass for Black.By the way, I didn’t get the impression that apparently half the commentators walked away with: that the author of this article was insinuating the folks on the list were hiding or in any way denying having black ancestry. I think Moore was simply saying they are often mistaken for white.
Kahala Lei Azuma Maui says:August 14, 2013 at 11:47 amEdward Wandrick Many Italians say that because they are descendants of Hannibal and the Elephant Invasion, where Africans raided Cicily. The old school Italians don’t like that history, so it angers them into denial.
On a similar note, some of Thomas Jefferson’s descendants argue about the black side of their family. They didn’t want to believe it really existed.
Kahala Lei Azuma Maui says:August 14, 2013 at 11:47 amEdward Wandrick Many Italians say that because they are descendants of Hannibal and the Elephant Invasion, where Africans raided Cicily. The old school Italians don’t like that history, so it angers them into denial.
On a similar note, some of Thomas Jefferson’s descendants argue about the black side of their family. They didn’t want to believe it really existed.
Edward Gay says:August 14, 2013 at 11:48 amso what are you afraid of
Edward Gay says:August 14, 2013 at 11:48 amso what are you afraid of
Kristal K’Sera says:August 14, 2013 at 11:50 amThe problem is that the author is flat out saying these actors are passing for white and that’s not true. He’s making the determination that they’ve clearly hid their blackness which is why they’re successful…that’s not true.So the problem is the article is a lie.
Kristal K’Sera says:August 14, 2013 at 11:51 amThe only one that passed for white is the old lady who keep her biracial father a secret until she turned 80. Hell….they don’t even have to identify as white OR black when they’re both….So the author is on some bullshit…if anything they’re passing for BIRACIAL/MULTIRACIAL which they are…and the world seems to be ok with biracial people. The only people who make an issue of it are racist white and black people.
Tom Murphy says:August 14, 2013 at 11:52 amit’s hard to deny at least some black ancestry for all of us since it is pretty much acknowledged that the “Human” race began in Africa. I had mentioned in a prior post that I am half Italian. In history Italy was overran by an influx of people from many other countries, most of them from the African continent. It’s not too difficult to make that leap. Humm! I wonder how I can profit from that?
Tom Murphy says:August 14, 2013 at 11:52 amit’s hard to deny at least some black ancestry for all of us since it is pretty much acknowledged that the “Human” race began in Africa. I had mentioned in a prior post that I am half Italian. In history Italy was overran by an influx of people from many other countries, most of them from the African continent. It’s not too difficult to make that leap. Humm! I wonder how I can profit from that?
Matthew Damion Taylor says:August 14, 2013 at 11:54 amBill Herder RIGHT ON BROTHER SOUNDS (SUSPECT)
Matthew Damion Taylor says:August 14, 2013 at 11:54 amBill Herder RIGHT ON BROTHER SOUNDS (SUSPECT)
Clifton Richie says:August 14, 2013 at 12:00 pmI agree, this has to be one of the most simple minded pieces of journalism ever.
Clifton Richie says:August 14, 2013 at 12:00 pmI agree, this has to be one of the most simple minded pieces of journalism ever.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 12:03 pmAbsolutely. Indirectly, everyone is 100% African. But some of us have a more…direct lineage than others. :-D. Regarding Italy, I’ve met so many Italians who I mistook for black, that I don’t blink an eye when a person I thought was black turns out to be Italian. Same deal with a few Spaniards who I mistook for black.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 12:03 pmAbsolutely. Indirectly, everyone is 100% African. But some of us have a more…direct lineage than others. :-D. Regarding Italy, I’ve met so many Italians who I mistook for black, that I don’t blink an eye when a person I thought was black turns out to be Italian. Same deal with a few Spaniards who I mistook for black.
Bryan K Lee says:August 14, 2013 at 12:04 pmWhite people started that Mr.Sailor
Bryan K Lee says:August 14, 2013 at 12:04 pmWhite people started that Mr.Sailor
Tru Locs says:August 14, 2013 at 12:11 pmYou’re an idiot dim wit, you don’t even know what with being racist is! Typical argument coming from a white individual… You created the ideology of racism and now have the nerve to call someone else out, SMH what an ass!
Tru Locs says:August 14, 2013 at 12:11 pmYou’re an idiot dim wit, you don’t even know what with being racist is! Typical argument coming from a white individual… You created the ideology of racism and now have the nerve to call someone else out, SMH what an ass!
Nikolai Snow says:August 14, 2013 at 12:13 pmSabella Abidde and what is the point?
Nikolai Snow says:August 14, 2013 at 12:13 pmSabella Abidde and what is the point?
Nikolai Snow says:August 14, 2013 at 12:13 pmSabella Abidde and what is the point?
Franny Ryan says:August 14, 2013 at 12:16 pmIt’s weird that the article claims that Maya Rudolph played a white woman in Bridesmaids – her character’s father was black. Maybe in another generation or two people will stop writing these stories.
Franny Ryan says:August 14, 2013 at 12:16 pmIt’s weird that the article claims that Maya Rudolph played a white woman in Bridesmaids – her character’s father was black. Maybe in another generation or two people will stop writing these stories.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 12:17 pmMaybe.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 12:17 pmMaybe.
Keith Josef Adkins says:August 14, 2013 at 12:21 pmI just find it frustrating that we continue to have this conversation around “passing” or not looking “black”. What does “black” supposed to look like? Americans of African descent are ALL mixed-race people, in varying degrees. Black is a cultural/social (and sometimes political) identity attached to our west African ancestors and the slave industry. There are communities in Ohio where everyone is very light skinned, but all identify, willingly and proudly, as black people. I think what we need to say is that some of us don’t necessarily show any west African physical traits. But black? How are we defining “black”?
Keith Josef Adkins says:August 14, 2013 at 12:21 pmI just find it frustrating that we continue to have this conversation around “passing” or not looking “black”. What does “black” supposed to look like? Americans of African descent are ALL mixed-race people, in varying degrees. Black is a cultural/social (and sometimes political) identity attached to our west African ancestors and the slave industry. There are communities in Ohio where everyone is very light skinned, but all identify, willingly and proudly, as black people. I think what we need to say is that some of us don’t necessarily show any west African physical traits. But black? How are we defining “black”?
Sameerah Luqmaan-Harris says:August 14, 2013 at 12:26 pmhopefully someday we’ll get to be defined as “human”.
Sameerah Luqmaan-Harris says:August 14, 2013 at 12:26 pmhopefully someday we’ll get to be defined as “human”.
Jade Bryan says:August 14, 2013 at 12:27 pmI agree, Keith.
Jade Bryan says:August 14, 2013 at 12:27 pmI agree, Keith.
Courtney Harge says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 pmGood points Keith. I’m also really concerned with the notion of “outing” people as Black. It feels a bit like a witch hunt while simultaneously posting Blackness as something to hide or be ashamed of.
Courtney Harge says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 pmGood points Keith. I’m also really concerned with the notion of “outing” people as Black. It feels a bit like a witch hunt while simultaneously positing Blackness as something to hide or be ashamed of.
Ray Washington says:August 14, 2013 at 12:30 pmAre you serious? Let me ask you this, “were you born with straight BLONDE hair???” Enough said! Sit down and be quiet…
Keith Josef Adkins says:August 14, 2013 at 12:32 pmCourtney Harge – Yes, Courtney. This “outing” blackness is equally insane.
Keith Josef Adkins says:August 14, 2013 at 12:32 pmCourtney Harge – Yes, Courtney. This “outing” blackness is equally insane.
Ray Washington says:August 14, 2013 at 12:32 pmTom Murphy Good post Tom…
Ray Mega Broker Washington says:August 14, 2013 at 12:32 pmTom Murphy Good post Tom…
Carol Daniel-Faust says:August 14, 2013 at 12:34 pmYes Paulette, please, lets move on…..no interest here either.
Carol Daniel-Faust says:August 14, 2013 at 12:34 pmYes Paulette, please, lets move on…..no interest here either.
Ron Cephas Jones says:August 14, 2013 at 12:36 pmAmen!!
Ron Cephas Jones says:August 14, 2013 at 12:36 pmAmen!!
Erica Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 12:46 pmThank you for bringing this up because they make African American people seem as if we are delusional when it comes to race matters.
Erica Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 12:46 pmThank you for bringing this up because they make African American people seem as if we are delusional when it comes to race matters.
Richard Morrison says:August 14, 2013 at 12:48 pmI find this whole think offensive. The idea of passing is offensive. The idea that any of this makes a difference is offensive. Who cares what your back ground is.
Richard Morrison says:August 14, 2013 at 12:48 pmI find this whole think offensive. The idea of passing is offensive. The idea that any of this makes a difference is offensive. Who cares what your back ground is.
Erica Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 12:55 pmWhen it comes to ethnicity people get uncomfortable. People pride is deeply rooted into what ethical background they are. We know our history in America and blacks is not a group that people like to claim when it comes to pride. That’s how the world goes unfortunately.
Erica Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 12:55 pmWhen it comes to ethnicity people get uncomfortable. People pride is deeply rooted into what ethical background they are. We know our history in America and blacks is not a group that people like to claim when it comes to pride. That’s how the world goes unfortunately.
Adrienne D. Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 1:05 pmI watched Imitation of Life this weekend, and I was thinking about if this movie would be relevant in 2013. I think you answered my question.
Adrienne D. Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 1:05 pmI watched Imitation of Life this weekend, and I was thinking about if this movie would be relevant in 2013. I think you answered my question.
Adrienne D. Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 1:05 pmI watched Imitation of Life this weekend, and I was thinking about if this movie would be relevant in 2013. I think you answered my question.
Gee Flex says:August 14, 2013 at 1:12 pmKewl! Let’s have them infiltrate the Teabillies!
Gee Flex says:August 14, 2013 at 1:12 pmKewl! Let’s have them infiltrate the Teabillies!
Gevon Monique says:August 14, 2013 at 1:12 pmEva Keane We don’t claim Tiger…trust me.
Gevon Monique says:August 14, 2013 at 1:12 pmEva Keane We don’t claim Tiger…trust me.
Alexander Thomas says:August 14, 2013 at 1:17 pmFunny you bring this up. I’ve been wondering lately about how we’ve taken the colors black & white – give them a value (ie the whole white is pure black is evil thing) ok, fine, but then we assign them inaccurately to the color of our skin – there are some people of African descent whose skin is actually black, most of us are varying shades of brown. Any child will tell you that. There are absolutely no white people – people who’s skin are white – (beige maybe?) With the exception maybe of a percentage of Albino skinned people and a number of “them” are in fact African. And then society ascribes the value that has been ascribed to the color to the people that we pretend are those colors but are actually not. Go figure.
Alexander Thomas says:August 14, 2013 at 1:17 pmFunny you bring this up. I’ve been wondering lately about how we’ve taken the colors black & white – give them a value (ie the whole white is pure black is evil thing) ok, fine, but then we assign them inaccurately to the color of our skin – there are some people of African descent whose skin is actually black, most of us are varying shades of brown. Any child will tell you that. There are absolutely no white people – people who’s skin are white – (beige maybe?) With the exception maybe of a percentage of Albino skinned people and a number of “them” are in fact African. And then society ascribes the value that has been ascribed to the color to the people that we pretend are those colors but are actually not. Go figure.
Nick Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 1:19 pmI was reading that. I cringe when I see people comment on facebook. Exposes alot of stupidity
Nick Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 1:19 pmI was reading that. I cringe when I see people comment on facebook. Exposes alot of stupidity
Donna Duplantier says:August 14, 2013 at 1:23 pmThe problem is that is STILL SOMETHING THAT WE IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY STILL HAVE ISSUES WITH!! THIS IS SO STUPID!!! FIRE THIS IDIOT! PASSING????!!! F OFF!
Donna Duplantier says:August 14, 2013 at 1:23 pmThe problem is that is STILL SOMETHING THAT WE IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY STILL HAVE ISSUES WITH!! THIS IS SO STUPID!!! FIRE THIS IDIOT! PASSING????!!! F OFF!
Donna Duplantier says:August 14, 2013 at 1:26 pmTru Locs GET A LIFE!!! this article STUPID!!! BLACK PEOPLE PLEASE STOP FIXATING ON THIS!!! WE HAVE TO GROW!!! FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!!!
Marilyn Garrison says:August 14, 2013 at 1:32 pmThis has put being Black and proud back to 100 years ago. Not good. Very sad in fact!
Micah El Mugabe Beckford says:August 14, 2013 at 1:35 pmOK NOW FOR SCIENCE….BLACKS ARE THE ONLY PEOPLE ON THIS PLANER THAT IS 100% HUMAN EVERYONE ELSE IS AN ADMIXTURE OF HUMAN NEANDERTHAL/RHESUS MONKEY DNA….I LOVE SCIENCE WHY? BECAUSE IT DOES NOT CARE ABOUT MY OPINON OR THE REST OF YOU FUCKS ON HERE!
Andrew Knoll says:August 14, 2013 at 1:43 pmI agree with most that the people on this list are largely a reach in terms of “passing,” in fact this list probably has Nella Larsen spinning in her grave. I think it’s considerably more interesting that we now have a large number of white entertainers “passing” for black, and now in a sanitized sort of way that old time rock n rollers may have. You look at contemporary R&B, it’s filled with white guys who would consider “Wow, from your record I thought you were black!” to be very high praise.
Shelly Hunt says:August 14, 2013 at 1:49 pmAll this is is drama who cares it doesn’t bother then so why are mad blk ppl crack up smh sad
Frank Nemec says:August 14, 2013 at 1:53 pmWith mobile society and intermarriage, race is quickly becoming obsolete.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 1:55 pmFrank, I kind of wish the process would speed up!
Ben Kahn says:August 14, 2013 at 2:30 pmI really needed this today. Thank You.
Joseph Flores says:August 14, 2013 at 3:14 pmNo “black” people on this list, theyre all bi/multiracial. No surprises here.
Sandy McIntire says:August 14, 2013 at 3:18 pmHistory repeats itself doesn’t it? Sometimes I feel like I’m back in the fifties again.
Chike Nwabukwu says:August 14, 2013 at 3:20 pmGood point. I agree it is probably better to say some people don’t show any west African physical traits. If not for the ‘1 drop’ rule, would it even be an issue? Anyway, to another point, I have to disagree that all Americans of African descent are mixed race people. There is a new generation of Americans of African descent whose parents recently settled in this country. As their children continue to integrate and contribute to American society, I forsee these terms “Black” and “African-American” getting a bit more…interesting?
Carly Prentis Jones says:August 14, 2013 at 3:58 pmThis is absolutely sickening to me! I am a biracial actress as well and very proud of my Black father – I just don’t fit into what society is comfortable calling “Black” in a lot of cases – which is their problem. There are many times I don’t look “black enough” for the categorized “black female role” – are we supposed to turn down racially ambiguous roles just because people who don’t know us will criticize us and say we are “passing”? We are ACTING! – that is what we do – we become other people…If it is not a direct reflection of who we are- who cares? Just because you have the ability to play multiple types of roles does not mean you are disowning your black heritage. I don’t believe Rashida Jones has ever denounced her father – and I’m pretty positive Maya Rudolf has always been open about the fact that she is mixed. This article saddens me – we have so far to go. Why must we be constantly ridiculed by our own people?
Michael Fromla says:August 14, 2013 at 3:58 pmThe author dug deep into their “one drop” bias to scribble this article, and assigned a lot of convictions on these people that we don’t know if they believe or not. Without hearing from the subjects themselves on the issue, this was a speculative exercise.
Aurelia Belfield says:August 14, 2013 at 4:09 pmThis article is 100% bizarre. I haven’t heard anyone (Black or otherwise) say that any of these people are “passing”. What I have noticed is that people seem to confuse “passing” and “presenting”, “presenting” being a passive action; when people assume you are a certain race/ethnicity on their own without your consult, and “passing” being an active action to portray oneself as a particular race/ethnicity. And at least with all the contemporary actors on the list as far as I know NONE of them have played an explicitly White character, they’ve always played Black or Bi/Multi-racial characters, or characters assumed to be Multi-racial and we never actually see their parents (like Ann on Parks and Rec or Karen on The Office, both played by Rashida Jones). I can’t remember if we saw Jennifer Beals’ parents in Flashdance, but I’m almost positive she was bi-racial on The L Word, and as for Carol Channing, she was at he peak in the 40s/50s, which was an extraordinarily different environment than it is now, so I don’t know what point exactly the author was trying to make, aside from asserting their own ignorance.
Sharon L. Carnahan says:August 14, 2013 at 4:09 pm@ Rchard, for a lot of Black people, the notion that we think we’re in a post-racial world (where race doesn’t matter) is offensive, too.
Vitamin Q says:August 14, 2013 at 4:18 pmHere’s a hint..w hen u say something and only the white people agree…u might wanna reevaluate your stance!
Vitamin Q says:August 14, 2013 at 4:18 pmSameerah Luqmaan-Harris nto me.. i always wanna be classified as black. I love being black!
Vitamin Q says:August 14, 2013 at 4:19 pmI’m from New orleans….none of em fooled me!
Theresia Tange says:August 14, 2013 at 4:32 pmthey are all biracial and biracial is not black so what was the point of this article!
Kevin Paul Gonzales says:August 14, 2013 at 5:54 pmThey’re not Black, these people are multi racial, the 1 drop rule went out with Jim Crow!
Kevin Paul Gonzales says:August 14, 2013 at 5:59 pm“SAY IT LOUD, I’M BLACK AND I’M PROUD” JAMES BROWN: SOUL BROTHA #1! Y’ALL CAN KEEP THEM MIXIES!
Ursula Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 6:07 pmHaving been born in Texas, raised in Southern California and lived most of my adult life in Northern California where I’ve come across folks from all over the diaspora I’m always surprised and often amused at people’s amazement when their perceptions of what a “black” person is “supposed” to look like! It is proven on a daily basis how unique and diverse “we” are. The folks listed in this article have, for the most part, all made a decision at some point in their life to claim that part of their ancestry with which they can most relate, accepting all the joy and pain that came with that decision. How others react to that decision is NOT something for which these individuals are responsible. They appear to be living their lives in a manner that honors both themselves and their ancestors, ALL OF THEM! It is now our responsibility to move this conversation forward.
Charles Campbell says:August 14, 2013 at 6:17 pmJust another reminder to those that would like to pretend that racism does not exist anymore. If America was not such a racist country, these people would not have had to hide their heritage to be successful.
Sara Abernethy says:August 14, 2013 at 6:18 pmPREACH
Bryant Sadiku says:August 14, 2013 at 6:28 pmThis list, is full of stupid.
Michael Hill says:August 14, 2013 at 6:29 pmChuck, Only one of these people listed has been accused of trying to hide their heritage. If you google the rest of them anyone who cares to know learns they are black. It literally takes seconds. Now when most of them are actively and vehemently denying their black heritage, the author may have a point. I mean the name ‘Rashida Jones’ immediately leads me to think black. If someone chooses to look at them and assume otherwise, it’s not their fault nor are they hiding anything.
Andrew James Bernard Kay says:August 14, 2013 at 6:30 pm…so stupid…and Maya didn’t play a “white woman” in Bridesmaids anyway… wtf?
Derrick Braud says:August 14, 2013 at 6:33 pmThis is really stupid. Black is not a race its a color. WHY do black people insist every person with some negro descent declare himself black or else. If you define black by how a person looks then these people do not fit the black phenotype. If you define black by the “one drop rule”, which is clearly retarded, then these people obviously have a lot more other drops in them. If you define black as a cultural or ethnic identity then one would be hard pressd to define that identity as it applies to all black people. What these people are are racial hybrids. they bear Simlilarities to their parent races but because of their mixture they are uniquely different from them. I think the reason blacks always bring this up is because they feel that people who are able to “pass” are somehow getting a benefit that they themselves aren’t able to recieve. Like crabs in a barrel some folks hate to see others succeed and throw off the label of Black.
Jess Nelson says:August 14, 2013 at 6:42 pmThese people are worst than the stereotypical ambiguous brown.
Geo Rule says:August 14, 2013 at 7:06 pm“one drop” (of African blood) as context is sooooo 19th century.
Elisabeth Penn Jones says:August 14, 2013 at 7:09 pmThis is my issue with “online journalism”—sometimes it’s just stupid. I actually feel like I may have lost a few brain cells reading that. I should have known by the ignorant title…it’s interesting how in today’s standards none of these people are considered black…people really shouldn’t compose articles without their brains…
Erica Taylor says:August 14, 2013 at 7:21 pmEveryone is mixed with something. Doing slavery nothing was just pure. Genes have a habit of coming out and surprising everybody. What is done in the dark will come .
Ayo Millions says:August 14, 2013 at 7:30 pmI’m agreeing with my homie Q, I’m from New Orleans and this is the home of the “passe’ Blancs” aka The black people that can pass off as white. You people from Hollywood don’t understand or see what we see, I could pick all of them out of a line up with I was given the chance. F*ck the skin color, All them mofo’s got nappy ass hair!! Look at them roots!!! Look at ya boy with that slick hair and nappy ass beard!! Come on man!! They ain’t fooling me!!!
Toni Tay says:August 14, 2013 at 7:37 pmI saw some surprises in here but for the most part, most of them were not passing for white bec they admitted their ancestry. They just look more white than black. The “passing” for black part is kind of putting a negative spin on something that isn’t negative.
Dawn Walker says:August 14, 2013 at 8:07 pmOmg !!!!!!!! Wentworth Miller I kinda knew it…. Love him to fine…..LOL
Joseph Arechavala says:August 14, 2013 at 8:13 pmI’m just wondering who has been appointed to judge whether someone is black or not…just so I know who the ultimate authority is.
Carl Webb says:August 14, 2013 at 8:27 pmEva Keane I only see one of the people listed as someone who didnt want the label “black.
Acacia Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 8:31 pmI cannot presume why or if they tried to pass. But, some biracial people think it easier to be white. They have said, they have no problems. But, I beg to differ on that issue. “What is so easy in this day and age is being white going to bring you”? If anything, I would say it’s very hard. I know to many people like this, and they call their self “family”. Give me a break!
Maya Zimmermann says:August 14, 2013 at 8:37 pmVin Diesel
Carl Webb says:August 14, 2013 at 8:46 pmKrystal Williams That’s why it’s called ‘passing’ because you can’t tell that they’re part black.
Carl Webb says:August 14, 2013 at 8:48 pmHow can someone that is half Black be said to only have a small amount of Black ancestry?
Carl Webb says:August 14, 2013 at 8:56 pmRegina Taylorhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passing_(racial_identity)
Patrice Barge-Munden says:August 14, 2013 at 9:48 pmEva Larue, The Rock, Wentworth Miller, Jessica Alba & on and on……………………….
Wotless Watty says:August 14, 2013 at 10:06 pmPerhaps I’m naive, but isn’t about time we stop labeling people? I am of Caribbean heritage (Trinidad % Tobago) and as such my ancestry is as colourful as the rainbow and I am proud to be human!
Robin M Fay says:August 14, 2013 at 10:25 pmI agree, Toni. And that kind of headline is reinforcing yet another racial sterotype…
Rachelle Miller says:August 14, 2013 at 10:30 pmFolks seem so ready to criticize and feign outrage about this story. I’m not so sure I understand why? No one said anything about what the folks pictured here say about their ancestry (except the Italian lady who seems to be in denial). Many of us are missing the obvious in this dialogue—it’s how OTHER people perceive them based on their appearance alone.When you see most of these folks on tv, they look mainstream—caucasian, and all the intricacies of their ethnicity are not readily apparent. Hollywood has coined the term “racially ambiguous” for a reason.Why are folks “outraged” over the expression of what is simply fact? Some people’s race just isn’t so obviously clear. And I’m ok with that…because race isn’t how I’m judging them anyway.Remember the Dr. King color of skin vs content of character thing?PS
I hope more of us will actually research “passing” in its historical context to discover what it truly meant and how it effected people’s lives for better and worse.
Toni Tay says:August 14, 2013 at 10:30 pmSdot Chambers Actually, the term “passing for white” used to mean that someone WAS denying their heritage. The terminology used was the only thing I found wrong with the article. It was inaccurate. But I guess they did that to get more views.
V Michelle Bernard says:August 14, 2013 at 10:50 pmThis isn’t surprising since most of them are half-white.
Jeretha Lomax says:August 14, 2013 at 10:52 pmI was watching a talk show, don’t remember the name , when Wentworth Miller stated he was biracial. However, his character on television was Caucasian. I was not surprised when he indicated he was biracial – he has beautiful coarse hair.
Chagasca Gagniere says:August 14, 2013 at 10:59 pmBest comment so far Derrick Braud. Thank you (from a biracial person.)
Dorothy Ann Porawski-Orzechowska says:August 14, 2013 at 11:00 pmyeah, i don’t get that. what is this article trying to say? it’s like, OOOH! these’s people are liars or are closet blacks! some people treat ‘black’ or ‘white’ like an issue or nationality instead of an issue of genetics. just like with Obama. his momma is WHITE people!… and who cares!!!! not. me. don’t know why i am commenting though. now because i spoke up and wrote above quoted adjectives someone is bound to say i’m racist….. beh!
Seem Park says:August 14, 2013 at 11:02 pmI don’t see the author as bashing mixed actors who pass for white, but rather criticizing the system for a limited selection of similarly strong and well developed black roles for these actors. Again, we don’t need to jump on people who discuss race. The author didn’t put-down any of those people in the descriptions and the article wasn’t negative in any way. Also, “passing” is still relevant in a country where black people “as a whole” are still on the bottom and “passing” gets you benefits. For example- roles that other blacks are denied. Again, I’m not dogging anyone for “passing”, just don’t look down on those people you “pass” moving up the ladder.
Seem Park says:August 14, 2013 at 11:05 pmWhy aren’t people similarly “upset” and “disgusted” with the lack of great black roles for these actors instead of taking issue with the author for writing an article discussing racial topics?? #societynotpostracialyet
Mimi Brooks says:August 14, 2013 at 11:28 pmI pass for Dominican at best, lol
Mimi Brooks says:August 14, 2013 at 11:31 pmThe chick from NJ Housewives is technically “Dark” Italian, Moor from 500 years ago running in that hair and nose before she anglofied herself. But never call them a “Moolie”, lol
Hugh Holmes says:August 14, 2013 at 11:37 pmAin’t NONE of them white. And Melissa’s really trippin’ if she thinks she doesn’t have any Black in her. It goes waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay back.
Hugh Holmes says:August 14, 2013 at 11:38 pmAnd Carol Channing? Her lips are bigger than mine. I could’ve told you THAT.
Eddie Pryce says:August 14, 2013 at 11:42 pmI actually know Megan Markle. Went to school with her….too funny
Eddie Pryce says:August 14, 2013 at 11:42 pmanyways you go head girl…great points!
Hugh Holmes says:August 14, 2013 at 11:52 pmKahala Lei Azuma Maui One of the oldest Italian family names is LoNegro, so what’s THAT tell you? And don’t forget Nigro, Nero, etc….
Hugh Holmes says:August 15, 2013 at 12:08 amAnd even in the “after” photo, she looks like Jayne Kennedy meets a young Dihann Carroll….
Hugh Holmes says:August 15, 2013 at 12:19 amSadik Bey And also, Julius Caesar (and you can’t get any more Italian than him) had African troops in his legions stationed in Italy. Looks like the Coal Man has been making deliveries there for a helllllllllalong time.
Rob Maysey says:August 15, 2013 at 12:47 amWow
Simon Pheenix says:August 15, 2013 at 1:58 amCarol Channing, wow!
Lucien Darthard says:August 15, 2013 at 2:52 amWhy no Mariah Carey ?
Donna J. Nicol says:August 15, 2013 at 2:58 amThis is garbage because “passing” assumes denial of their Black heritage. So even if the author didn’t say it outright, it was implied. It is utterly ridiculous to hold people to the “one-drop” rule when DNA testing services all conclude that the average African American is at least 30% non-Black. It is even more ridiculous when you consider that the “one-drop” rule was a creation of racist white people who wanted to deny fathering Black children or providing equal protection under the law. Why would oppressed people side with the policy perspectives of their oppressors is beyond me….
Clinton Andrews says:August 15, 2013 at 3:09 amcrazy
Aj Barber says:August 15, 2013 at 3:34 amwhy Bill Clinton’s name not up here? he’s the only white guy in America that knows all the words to the Black National Anthem, “Life every voice and sing” many blacks never heard that song before.
Leanne Marshall says:August 15, 2013 at 5:28 amIts a bit of a strange article. I didn’t assume that that Maya Rudolf was playing a white women in Bridesmaids.
Iris Deveney-Doughty says:August 15, 2013 at 5:35 amDoes it matter. Why can we all judge persons by their character?
Chloe Paul says:August 15, 2013 at 6:05 amYou can be what you want to be as long as you feel comfortable with it.
Walter BlackBond Cobb says:August 15, 2013 at 7:33 amI think passing is a wrong word in this story. For most of those mentioned they should have used “mistaken” for white. Perhaps the title is just an attempt to grab attention and spark debate.
Tyrone Kirk says:August 15, 2013 at 8:02 am“However, as the daughter of well-known music mogul, Quincy Jones, she can’t hide from her black side.”Looks like the author is implying here that Rashida Jones is indeed trying to hide that she is black. The tone of the article (and the headline) is written to get us to read it with contempt towards the people listed.
Stacey Ellis says:August 15, 2013 at 8:16 amThis article is misleading. These people are not trying to pass. Everyone that I recognized on this list has revealed their blackness. Just because some people assume they are white, doesn’t mean they are trying to pass.
Garikai Nyeke says:August 15, 2013 at 10:25 amStupid article and a hollow attempt at race baiting for hits. Only positive is I get to see Rachel Meghan Markle who even if she was green I would gladly hand my penis to exclusively. Stupid article I see some “journalists” are stealing a living these days.
Maureen McKenna says:August 15, 2013 at 10:34 amMaybe we have come to a place where we don’t have to identify w/one or the other. Particularly if you/they are bi-racial. Realize the history but why does the white side of the coin get ignored and they check the box “African/Black” only? Maybe it’s time to check the “melting pot” box.
Maribel Nuno says:August 15, 2013 at 10:42 amThe celebrities they are showcasing all have one whit/light skinned parent, this article fails to acknowledge that these particular celebs are both black and white… This article feels contrived.
Jorge Barreiro Pelegrin says:August 15, 2013 at 11:02 amWith articles like this, we’ll never end the racial issue! I bet the writer woudn’t say a thing if these actors would play a “Black Race” Character! The writer is extremely a racist one! She could have written the same without racial connotations!
Sharon Denise says:August 15, 2013 at 11:36 amWhy is this article relevant when their parentage is known…they are not passing…they are biracial and that’s it. The title is definitely wrong! Please go back and research the subject matter before writing an article!
Jarrett Milton says:August 15, 2013 at 12:40 pmFor reference sake, Maya Rudolph did not play a white woman in Bridesmaids. She actually played a bi-racial role as evident of her Black father played by actor/comedian, Franklyn Ajaye. If you recall the movie, he spoke during her engagement party.
Phoenix LaFemme says:August 15, 2013 at 10:43 pmThis is reaching. First off, it’s not like these people are denying their heritage. But what’s the point of them going around yelling “hey guys did you know I’m Black?!?!” Please stop reaching.
Richard Wootton says:August 16, 2013 at 12:24 amI just stumbled across this and expected to be wowed and suprised…. must say who ever bothered to write this is an idiot the people listed are biracial and most listed are with REALLY white parents like the Irish this isn’t black passing as white these are biracial you cant claim them to be any race they are simply fair skinned people some very sexy at that but anyways… author wrote an idiotic piece..
Sam Arojo says:August 16, 2013 at 6:56 amShouldn’t the piece be called “10 PART black celebs who successfully pass for white”? I mean how do we know these people don’t want to be seen and celebrated as mixed race rather than black or white?
Morgan James says:August 16, 2013 at 8:16 amI watch Pretty Little Liars. Didn’t expect Trojan to be partially black. However her mother is half black, not 100%. Making Trojan as black as Mariah Carey.
Christian-Joy Ttiremed says:August 16, 2013 at 8:30 amUm, Melissa had on a hoop earrings and a name plate chain! If that ain’t black IDK what is! Lol! j/k
Leslie Clarke says:August 16, 2013 at 10:46 amHonestly Mellisa Gorga could be all Italian the nose and hair do show traits but Jewish Italians and even full fledge Italians have black features that’s a hard one to pin down!
Roja Horchata Kurtz says:August 16, 2013 at 1:44 pmIn Bridesmaids, Maya Rudolph’s character isn’t passing for a white woman. Her “parents” are shown a few times in the movie and her “father” is black and her “mother” is white. Also, I don’t really like that the author uses the word “passing” for white people. These are multiracial people with diverse ancestries who aren’t trying to hide their “blackness” (other than Carol Channing). I don’t have any black ancestry, but I find this article a little offensive. Why do we need to fit people into boxes?
Yolanda Stanislas says:August 16, 2013 at 7:52 pmCarly Simon is also half black.
Alexia Taylor says:August 17, 2013 at 10:36 ampardon me , but aren’t most people in the worl a good mix of a lil bit of this and a lil bit of that? I considermyself a hinz 57 mix lol
Paul V. Oates Jr. says:August 17, 2013 at 11:44 amThis article misleading makes it look like these people purposefully tried to ‘pass’.
My question: is the burden on them to scream at the top of their lunges that they’re black just to prove they’re ‘Down’
Dru Daniels says:August 17, 2013 at 12:28 pmThis is one of the most perplexing and insulting articles I’ve read in a while. Passing? Really? We’re in freaking America. Mr.Moore must think it’s still a melting pot with some “unmeltables”. I hope someday we can go from melting pot to salad bowl…but clearly, it’s going to take much longer than I thought.
Wehttam Selrahc Legeis says:August 17, 2013 at 5:29 pmWhat a snarky and judgmental article. I particularly liked the one about Rashida Jones passing along with the rest of the “white cast” of Community……ignoring Ken Jeong, Donald Glover, Danny Pudi, Nicole Yvette Brown, and numerous other cameos by people of color. I completely understand having certain sensitivities about race given the history of humanity, and this country in particular, but constantly viewing the world in terms of race only reinforces race as a central defining characteristic of who we are—which isn’t that dissimilar from racism insofar as it privileges the color of skin as our most important defining characteristic. As much as racism is perpetuated by systems of oppression and discrimination, it’s also reinforced by those who try to impose their own view of what it is to be “black” and then police anyone who departs from that stereotype–something Donald Glover, one of those members of the “white” cast of Community talks about in his music (Childish Gambino).
B.j. Trammell says:August 19, 2013 at 1:50 pmI thought everybody knew jessica beals…
Paige Stewart says:August 19, 2013 at 2:15 pmClearly somebodies doesn’t know a lot about Italian. My dad’s half Italian and I grew up going to Italy. Italians have kinky hair just like black people. It’s so common. Could there have been some mixing back in the day since Africa and Italy are so close? Sure, but it’s not uncommon at all for someone to have two Italian parents and have kinky, kinky hair. That’s not odd or Atypical. That’s typical.
Jordan Walker says:August 19, 2013 at 2:37 pmBy the criterion of this article, _all_ of black america is white passing for black (black americans are on average something like 30-40% white).And the Italian woman, if all she knows is Italian ancestors, then that is all she can say. North Africa was part of the Roman Empire once, and Italy was also invaded by various North African groups before and after.I’m a little disturbed that one-drop white racial purity is still how people see this. But if the black category is the strongest where one-drop overrides everything else, then the whole world is going to be black.
Kaila Shivers says:August 19, 2013 at 7:59 pmUm, Maya Rudolf does not play a white woman in Bridesmaids.Moreover, I find this whole article offensive and a reproduction of a racially divided society. The connotations of “passing” are widely negative and implies something about the people that you are labeling here.
Tshepo Mokoena says:August 19, 2013 at 8:25 pmAmerican hypodescent is odd. In other cultures, these celebs are mixed-race, afforded their own ethnicity and culture, and not “classified” as black. I wonder when the one drop rule’s going to lose its hold on people’s minds here.
Iteref Ankh El says:August 19, 2013 at 11:07 pmTHE POINT IS IF THEY LOOK WHITE, THEY DOn’t HANG OUT WITH BLACKS OR THEY WOULDn’t ACCEPT ALL OR ONLY WHITE IMAGERY ROLES..PEOPLE DOn’t WANT TO ACCEPT THAT PEOPLE MAGNETIZE TOWARDS THIER SKIN COMPLEXION..PLAIN & SIMPLE..WHEN IM OUT @ NIGHT THEIR IS NO ONE AROUND ME BRIGHT & ITS THE SAME FOR THEM, [BUT YOU CAN IF ITS A MENTAL CONNECTION & TOO MANY PEOPLE ARE SCARED TO DO THAT]NO MATTER WHAT THEY LOOK LIKE!
Diamond Intheruff says:August 20, 2013 at 9:24 amOMG! Carol Channing? Well I guess back then you had to do what you had to do in order to succeed in your craft. SS. As for Soledad O’Brien has never hidden her blackness, but has proudly mentioned it several time.
Diamond Intheruff says:August 20, 2013 at 9:27 amWentworth Miller, he is fine though. When he played on Prison Break; he played brother to a white man, which I thought was cool. Even that show was biracial. there were several character who were biracial. Thanks for putting it in the mix!
Xavier J. Mejido says:August 20, 2013 at 9:38 amIncluding Melissa Gorga on this list highlights the problematic concept of race. There is no reason to doubt she is “100% Italian,” Sicilian to be exact. The problem is that the Mediterranean has a very different take on race than the United States for which this article was intended. There is absolutely no insidious notion of a “one drop rule” in that part of the world. The Mediterranean region, both north and south is genetically varied and the genetic tests bear that out. This is why many southern Italians, Spaniards, Portuguese and North Africans can look “black” to many Americans accustomed to the old “one drop” paradigm. The same may be said of Latin Americans and West Indians which are descended from Iberians, Africans, Amerindians, etc.
Bonnie BrushGirl Sporn says:August 20, 2013 at 12:34 pmGood piece, I think the author meant these actors could ‘pass’ for white AND many other ethnicities, a la Vin Diesel. He wrote, directed, produced, and starred in a really good short film Multi-Facial , a short semi-autobiographical film where he tries out for film roles as a Puerto Rican, African American, Italian, Caucasian and the casting director have no idea what to do with him. Also, why is Maya Rudolph’s mother listed as black but her father is an “Ashkanzi Jew”? Being Jewish is a RELIGION not a race. You can be an Italian Jew, a Irish Jew…
Russ Rogers says:August 20, 2013 at 6:06 pmThe concept of “Passing for White” and who might be able to “Pass for White” has a horrible history of racism and black on black racism. Seriously, it’s pretty ugly. Why not just have your next article be, “Which Celebrities Would Be Allowed into a Brown Paper Bag Party?”
Roma Maffia says:August 20, 2013 at 10:00 pmI agree with most of the comments on the topic, especially with the discussion of Maya’s character in Bridemaids, where and why would it be stated that her character was “White”. Because she had white girlfriends or a black issue wasn’t at the center of the movie? I found that to be very confusing.
Robert Byrd says:August 20, 2013 at 10:23 pmThis is a pretty nasty article. I don’t think many of these people try to pass for white. the author of this piece seems to have some sort of chip his or her shoulder. This is ridiculous.
Christian Johnson says:August 21, 2013 at 9:48 amWith all the bi-racial people mentioned here, you could have called the article “10 White Celebs That Successfully Pass for Black” and it would have been equally as pointless.
Jasmin Darshana Dickerson says:October 8, 2013 at 6:49 pmthnaks keith,well put! i live in germany and i am so sick and tired of people telling me i am not black because in their opinion my skin colour is supposed to be tar like in order to “pass” as black
Jasmin Darshana Dickerson says:October 8, 2013 at 6:50 pmcarly: i am a biracial actress myself but in germany.needless to say i work 3 jobs and none of them are on stage,right?
Janessa Brown says:October 8, 2013 at 7:50 pmI get what you are saying. But how can someone who is half black and white become black? or if your ancestry is 75-95 white how is that black? I am Haitian I am pretty black so people who are actually black should define whos black and not and by the way my son is mixed he isn’t black and he isn’t white but mixed :)Black Americans just like the White Americans did are forcing mixed race people to pick black one drop rules whites created. My mixed son will not be considered black or white but mixed because why should pure blacks compete with mixed people? Halle Barry is not black and my pure black ass says so
Ruby Bennett says:October 9, 2013 at 12:13 pmMost of American history is ugly if you’re black.
Mario Loredo Jr. says:October 9, 2013 at 12:23 pm…
Corey Hardin says:October 9, 2013 at 12:33 pmMaya Rudolph’s dad in Bridesmaids was a black man, so I don’t think her character was white. Remember the wedding party speech by him?? They just had her marrying a goofy, corny white dude which is the more acceptable manner of interracial relationship in Hollywood.
Teresa Achong says:October 9, 2013 at 1:01 pmReally, in this 21st century we still talking colour ???? …who gives a flying horse ?? What does it matter if we’re black, white, Chinese, Indian, red or not ?? Are they nice persons ? Do you enjoy their performances ? Sheesh…can’t believe this crap, still going on. This is why we will never evolve…the Apes have, but not us humans. Now for those who subscribe to this type of thinking…GO GET A LIFE !!!!
Pat Sha-Mac says:October 9, 2013 at 1:14 pmDo they know that half of the ‘Caribbean’ successfully passing for ‘Red’…lol woot woot, let’s hear it for ‘Red people’ (LOL.. ah have way too much time on meh hands.. LOL)
Kina Watson says:October 9, 2013 at 1:59 pmAlot of people must didnt get that memo about Barack Obama…cause they damn show giving him a hard time because of his skin color!
Kina Watson says:October 9, 2013 at 2:06 pmJanessa Brown good luck with that hun. I work in school system and have seen mixed children not treated equal to whites, they are grouped in with the blacks.
Blak Smith says:October 9, 2013 at 2:47 pmMost of ’em are MULATTOES & therefore get an *! Check this series out athttp://black2afrika.blogspot.com/2013/05/mullatoes-other-half-breed-nikkkas_20.html.
Alyssa Haskins says:October 9, 2013 at 2:57 pmMelissa Gorga can deny it all that she wants but Italy’s history, especially Southern Italy, states otherwise. She needs to do her research. There are no 100 % pure anything in Italy. Everyone from the Moors, the Phoenicians, the Normans . . . she is so mixed up and it’s apparent.
Donna Turner says:October 9, 2013 at 3:10 pmGillian Hendricks – But here in America we place others in caste systems based on mixed race categorizations. That was dark and horrible part of SA’s history.
Heru Salmon says:October 9, 2013 at 3:15 pmWho cares we all human. Doesn’t matter to me anymore. As long they living a good life and contributing and help building a better society for the future. Vamos!!!!!!
Donna Beasley says:October 9, 2013 at 3:59 pmHow does being 1/2 black and 1/2 white make you black????? It does not add up!
Mark Holder says:October 9, 2013 at 4:11 pmEcckie becky or paint brush…
Tamara Digginditches Graham says:October 9, 2013 at 4:13 pmBill Herder it has never been unimportant in this country. It shouldn’t matter and it doesn’t, but the fact that people don’t know what we look like, every way that we do look, is a problem. The content of your character is the real judge, but until we aren’t discriminating on the basis of looks then it matters
Rochelle A. Bradley says:October 9, 2013 at 4:17 pmAlani, I was thinking the same thing about Maya Rudolph, she did not play a white woman, Her father in the movie was played by Franklyn Ajaye
Ranata D. Clark says:October 9, 2013 at 4:53 pmMelissa Gorga is a liar. You looking dead on Tia and Tamera but you all white? SUUUUURRRREEEE.
Kobie Andry says:October 9, 2013 at 4:59 pmthis is dumb. they mixed and not trying to pass. wait, is this out of ashy ass Atlanta?
Author James W. Lewis says:October 9, 2013 at 5:30 pmDamn, we are so obsessed with the color of skin, aren’t we?
Ranata D. Clark says:October 9, 2013 at 5:47 pmYep. And they aren’t saying they trying to pass, but that they CAN pass. I think it was just worded differently.
Lula Jackson says:October 9, 2013 at 6:26 pmI these people are black then someone need to tell us if u have 2 black parent what are they considered…if you are half and half..when I was in school it equaled to being half and half…if you are black and white thats what u r..u r not black…2 black parent makes u black..some people need to go back to school…
Lula Jackson says:October 9, 2013 at 6:32 pmForget about the 1 drop rule..thats Bull S…my grand daughter is 75% white and 25% black..she is considered white and looking at her u would never in a million years think she has a drop of black in her…I love her with all my life but I will tell her about my back ground and why we look different..she will know she has black in her…sorry to say she will fit in where she feels more comfortable..society can be a bitch…
Von Omari says:October 9, 2013 at 6:57 pmCourtney Harge , none of these actors were outed. They’ve all acknowledged at some point in their careers that they are part Black and very proud of it. Jennifer Beals, in an interview in Ebony years ago, said that when her hair dresser wants to straighten the waved roots, she tells her not to. It’s the only thing that reminds her of her late father. It’s her own little way of staying connected to him……But I understand what you’re saying. Opps………my bad, I didn’t scroll all the way down. Yep, they did some outing……
Elvis Wong-You says:October 9, 2013 at 7:22 pmI would say, either a wonderful/happy person or a miserable/confused person.
Bruns-wade LMichelle says:October 9, 2013 at 7:52 pmMost of them have acknowledged who they are, but Melissa Gorga insists she doesn’t have a drop. She’s right..She has a whole damn bucket!
Yea Understanding Shabazz says:October 9, 2013 at 8:17 pmNot the crab there’s 16 shade of black 8shade of brown 8shade yellow dna will tell you if you if u black or not because it is a difference in race and not just the color
Sandra Bankston says:October 9, 2013 at 8:23 pmThe title of this article is misleading. By saying “successfully passing for white”, the inference is that the person is making a deliberate attempt to deny their black heritage. As stated in other posts, there is only one denial
Rodney Neal Powell says:October 9, 2013 at 8:47 pmwhere is Van Diesel?
Sayeed Sanders says:October 9, 2013 at 9:27 pmSameerah Luqmaan-Harris Hopefully those who are Black humans get to see themselves as human without denying being Black.
Juan Pablo Rivas says:October 9, 2013 at 10:43 pmI don’t know you guys but I think apparence plays an important role on this, I’m not saying that these celebrities don’t have to recognize their african heritage, but to my standards they don’t look basically black, why we blacks insist on this? if a bird looks closer to a duck, why we have to say that this animal is a lion?
Sirraj Alim says:October 9, 2013 at 11:15 pmBill Herder Let’s not forget skin color has and is a deciding factor in money allocation for schools and neighborhoods, that in turn is a heavy factor in determining education quality, which affects secondary and/or vocational education quality(if any), which dictates job selection, which impacts how you can support your family and where you can live. Which brings you right back to now what schools and neighborhoods the next generation of kids will excel or be hindered in. You following the pattern? It’s 2013 and skin color is still very relevant in the real of society. Think it’s not? Go to new york, visit manhattan and take a drive down park avenue. Let me know how the scenery changes when you cross the harlem river into bronx. Then when you’re done there come back to my home, Richmond,VA. One of america’s corner stones of deep seeded racism. The effects of Jim Crow runs deep in many black people even today. Crime, the penal system, the education system all reflect ‘color’ differences. The concentration of liquor stores. Brand new Dollar General built across the street from a Family Dollar on northside of richmond but nowhere to buy fresh produce in sight! I could go on for days about this. Don’t get me wrong though, I’m doing good. I saw the mistakes and pitfalls from an early age and was able to maneuver around them. But I have a laundry list of friends that didn’t and I can easily the mental and exposure limitations. Theoretically color should not be important but factually it is. Very much so. Mr. Herder you seem old enough to know that very well.
Sirraj Alim says:October 9, 2013 at 11:20 pmThen I guess we should stop claiming Barack Obama as the first black president… Right. Good luck winning that campaign.
Dee Vine says:October 9, 2013 at 11:43 pmThe only problem I have with this article is that it says Maya Rudolph played a white woman in Bridesmaids. Ummm if I’m not mistaken she played a Bi/Multiracial woman, remember her father was a Black man with Locs, go to the wedding scene A Moore and see for yourself.
Ifeanyi Labicas Enyia says:October 10, 2013 at 12:17 amBlack is black, white is white, whether mixed race or not, being black is a thing of the mind, you know within yourself who you are, you can deny all ur life, but u know deep down in ya soul where u belong.
I don’t care what anyone thinks, i mustn’t be compelled or reminded i am black, everyone knows who he/she is.
I am black,I love being black and would always want to remain black and am proud I am.
Sandra Serrao says:October 10, 2013 at 7:31 amOr both …lol
Chelsia Latney says:October 10, 2013 at 10:00 amSdot Chambers The implication is DEFINITELY that they tried to hide it especially the last post. And saying that Rashida Jones “couldnt deny her blackness”.
Chelsia Latney says:October 10, 2013 at 10:05 amMost of the people posted I knew were black and I don’t think they were “hiding” it. This isn’t the 40s LMAO I can’t even believe I see the word “passing” in 2013. Especially Soledad (duh!), and Maya Rudolph? Come on everyone knows who her mom was. She didn’t “play a white woman” in that movie..she played a woman, and she didn’t once say HEY I’M WHITE. Maybe the child who posted this article is the one more shocked about these people actually being black. I was surprised about Cash Warren but since he’s pretty much out of the limelight who cares. I think it matters most in Hollywood with the# of roles you are able to get because you look racially ambiguous. Maybe the title should have been “10 celebrities who look like they could be white but they are really black”
Chelsia Latney says:October 10, 2013 at 11:07 amCuff Lynks I agree, however I think The President very much considers himself a black man. Even thought he was raised by his white mother and grandparents…its just something that happesn ALOT with biracial (black and white) people…I think he times have a huge part in that…it may not be the same for biracial children born today…but back in the day? oh yeah you’re black. I was really expecting to see something jaw dropping in this article. Soledad? The creator of “Being Black in America” ? HA!
Vatrice George says:October 10, 2013 at 11:29 am@Keith Josef Adkins, I listened to that same docu about Ohio’s fair skinned black community and several of the folks did have a problem with their black identity.Pike County, Ohio – As Black as We Wish to Be. http://www.prx.org/pieces/85361-pike-county-ohio-as-black-as-we-wish-to-be
Vatrice George says:October 10, 2013 at 11:32 amEva Keane I totally agree with you Eva, why are we begging this people to accept us? We try to force Afro Latinos to admit they are black, if Sammy Sosa doesn’t believe he’s black let him be.
Vatrice George says:October 10, 2013 at 11:33 am@Carly, they should make more biracial
film roles, because I would prefer to see women who look like Sana Lathan than Rashida Jones representing black women.
ShaRall Willis says:October 10, 2013 at 12:25 pmWe all have African blood because the first man came out of Africa. The only one on this list who denies having African ancestry is rhat you lady from the reality show however, claiming to be 100% Italian and not acknowledged that Hannibal and the Moors ruled the Mediterranean for hundreds of years show how deep White supremacy and White skin privilege is in this day and time.
Crystal SQeek DaPrima says:October 10, 2013 at 1:08 pm@Eva…Sista if you knew your history, (and it’s apparent you don’t) then you would know that all African American people are of a mixed race. So ummm…yes, they are black. We all are.
Sensible Fanatic says:October 10, 2013 at 1:15 pmThis is really silly.Recognition of the one-drop-rule (or really any color based politics) is a nod to the existence of white supremacy and subservience to a “white” system, which really doesn’t exist, except in the mind of those who allow it to.People of African descent in the United States, who are the only ones on earth who actually still subscribe to this silly one-drop rule, really need to stop allowing their identity to be dictated by white southern politics put in place to protect jobs more than 100 years ago.The problem is that today here is a whole economic community built around the one-drop rule via music, movies, TV stations, businesses and organizations that benefit from keeping this USA phenomenon in existence.They have their cultural police also who accuse anyone who has African ancestry, but recognizes any other heritage, as being anti-black or in denial because they don’t subscribe to the false, non-scientific one-drop belief system.Take back your power and write your destiny with our own pen. BE FREE or cease to be a relevant voice in the diaspora.Remember 95% of all Africans brought to the Americas went to Latin America and speak Spanish, Portuguese and French and don’t follow the one drop rule.As the world becomes more global, USA-based, one-drop rule centrists, risk becoming an even more marginalized sub-culture, even among people of African descent in the Americas. Be careful.
Sensible Fanatic says:October 10, 2013 at 1:30 pmEXACTLY.A whole community exists in the USA because of supreme court decision.The recognition of the one-drop rule is an act of subservience to white supremacy. Even down to calling yourself “black”. It all is a reaction to white action.People who asserting their mixed race heritage are heroes, because they are rebelling against the white-supremacist system that forced the one-drop rule on a whole people.Mixed-race people are not “in-denial” because they don’t pick one crayon like white people want them to.They are fighting back for the freedom to define themselves outside of this crayon based system created by white supremacists. They are not passing, they are gaining access to systematic knowledge that is kept secret from as many outside of the white mainstream as possible.They are like spooks by the door.Beware of all “black” people who accuse them of being sellouts… they benefit in keeping the races separate.BET, Centric, black movies, black radio would have to change if the country becomes more mixed. Its always been about money, not race.The one-drop rule protected jobs for Hence Plessy vs Ferguson.Stop following this silly one drop rule. BE FREE. Nobody else in the WORLD follows it.
Sandi Buckland says:October 10, 2013 at 1:41 pmI used to just be a person before coming to the US. Now every form I fill out needs to categorize me by race. It was unnerving at first. Now I just fill in whatever I feel like that day!!! I can lay claim to a multiplicity of lineages. Someone is obsessed. But some how Blacks seem to always be the ones accused of being so. Don’t think we are the one (for the most part) designing the forms. I took my personhood back!!!! Today I feel ASIAN
Melissa Yasmin says:October 10, 2013 at 5:55 pmMaya Rudolf did not “play a white woman” in Bridesmaids, her character’s father was a black man with locs! Maybe you should do some research before you begin to write an article…
J’Ann Walters says:October 10, 2013 at 6:39 pmDwl, quite so. Loovev it Sandi !
Robert L Browning III says:October 10, 2013 at 9:51 pmMaya Rudolf didn’t play white in Bridesmaids, her father was black in the movie…
Debbie Silburn says:October 10, 2013 at 11:34 pmDwl! that”s a good one mi still laugh.
Karen Holgate-Morgan says:October 11, 2013 at 2:11 amDWL Sandi am ok wit that ,it should not matter nayway
M LaVora Perry says:October 12, 2013 at 6:58 pmIt says a lot about our society that in 2013 we are even having this conversation. Sad.
Rebecca Wiggins says:October 15, 2013 at 2:02 amSdot Chambers -yes but under Quincy Jones daughters picture the writer says “she can’t hide from being black and that she is trying to blend in with the other white cast mates. to me the writer is saying that these individuals are trying to hide and deny being black by “passing” and are successful at it.
Chantel Thebasedgod says:October 15, 2013 at 10:39 pmAmen….these people are biracial.
Tarnii Lee says:October 16, 2013 at 5:00 amRight on, right on … its our differences that are educating & soul inspiring, I mean who wants to be all the same anyhow.
I mean culture & its influence are important & all cultures I believe need to adhere to their own truths, of course (in the best & most uplifting way possible) but also while understanding that we are people of many races, many faces & many colours all coming together to be hopefully a better human being, one of the earth & all that encompasses.
Let us look toward the things that really matter like child welfare, poverty, famine sickness, education, science, socialisation, community interaction & support, environmental & humane issues effecting us all. All for one & one for all lol, ok ok .. well maybe that ain’t gone happen but we can try in our community’s & work our way out like a ripple in a still pond.
Tarnii Lee says:October 16, 2013 at 5:02 amThe Digital Political many people are shallow shit I see em’ everyday & they ain’t all black … infact hardly are where I am at the mo’ but I will say that ignorance get everybody & I have had my fair share of racial taunts for not being black enough though I love my darker skin brothers & sisters sometimes the sword cuts both ways.
Tarnii Lee says:October 16, 2013 at 5:06 amRashida Jones is Quincy Jones’s child if I remember correctly.
Anani Elioenai says:October 18, 2013 at 12:37 amVery astute!! Now give one of those ladies on this list the role to play Nina Simone and watch what happens. Do a research on the backlash poor Zoe Salanda(so) received when she was given the role. These hypocrites show their hate.
Damola Ifaturoti says:October 18, 2013 at 1:03 pmSpot on, sir Mr. Bill Herder. God doesn’t recognize colors only character
Damola Ifaturoti says:October 18, 2013 at 1:11 pmthis feature just confirms the racial inferiority complex suffered by it’s authors, whatever race they may be!
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:32 pmDonna J. Nicol you are incorrect you meant to say on average African Americans are 20% non-Black, not “the average African American,” meaning some are more (mixed race people) & most of us are less. The majority of Black Americans are an extremely high percentage of African and that’s the only part we should be focused on.
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:39 pmValerie Harper People of African descent would vary in skin tone, facial features, hair types, etc…with or without race mixing. Black people need to stop thinking that without “race mixing” we would ALL look the same or a certain way, that is BS.
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:42 pmPaulette Purvis “bi” means two so you meant to say that all human beings are multi-racial not biracial.
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:44 pmBill Clinton is white so why would he be on this list? Bill Clinton is no different than any other racist white man. Black people please stop acting like coons, accepting this man just because he can play the saxophone & used to eat at McDonald’s.
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:49 pmDerrick Braud the last part of your comment I am confused about. The fact that you see “passing” as some sort of “success” is disturbing.
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:52 pmAny person that is less than 50% African ancestry cannot be considered Black.
Naykishia D. Head says:October 28, 2013 at 11:43 amSdot Chambers… That’s not what “passing” means….
London Swain says:October 31, 2013 at 1:24 pmMy Son is Of Mixed heritage. However both his mother and I have raised him to see himself as a individual. He is NOT going to live his life living inside a box others( White or Black ) have made for him. When He looks in the mirror the first thing he sees is himself, not the colour of his skin. If others cant deal with that, then they don’t deserve to interact with him at all. Thank God he has grown with self love and an attitude of acceptance, of both himself and others. Catch up people, a lot of your views belong in the history books.
Dimitri James Bumbaca says:November 1, 2013 at 10:30 amEdward Wandrick Melissa Gorga is southern Italian. The hair, tan and facial structure is very similar to someone of Calabrian or Sicilian heritage.
Frances Bates says:November 5, 2013 at 3:03 amThat’s rude of you to say. I’m biracial and I AM BLACK. I’m proud of it. Shame on you for telling me I’m not.
Rasheedah May-Jenkins says:November 14, 2013 at 2:05 amOnly thing I have a problem with is this article simply seems like its saying Becuase most of these actors have some black blood in them that makes them black, They are not BLACK actors they are Bi-racial or multi-racial, whatever, The thing with Melissa Gorga made me a little mad because she said she wasnt black, she might not be she might be, but the writer of the article(just my opinion) put it as if it was shameful for her to deny her black side (if she is even part black-no one knows) but it wouldnt be shameful if she were to deny having a “White” side….People should be proud of their heritage/ethnicity why is race always end up in an argument like we have to choose sides when most are equally of both. I did enjoy reading this article I learned a lot abt actors I didnt know was Bi/Multi-racial. But I think the writer should have came with a different approach.
Ayn Marx says:November 14, 2013 at 12:55 pmEdward Wandrick It’s not just one invasion: it’s most of their history. Sicily has been a crossroads of the Mediterranean for thousands of years, and many of the people settling there have been dark: Moors, darker Arabs, darker Jews, and sub-Saharan African blacks…and because racism is useful, Northern Italians like to ‘politely’ remind Sicilians about this, and the traditional reaction has been to deny rather than to revel in their hybrid vigour So an Italian-American might know as little about her black ancestors as I know about whatever Gentile French[wo]men in my ancestry led me to resemble a Frenchman slightly more than does the average Semite on our native turf.It also reflects that the ‘one drop rule’ is a peculiarly American institution….
Pamela Ivins Dobuler says:November 15, 2013 at 11:12 pmKahala Lei Azuma Maui – Yes – you probably know that Italian American immigrants in New York City around the turn of the century were looked down upon by other white people there – the were actually called blacks. I did not know this until recently.
Pamela Ivins Dobuler says:November 15, 2013 at 11:16 pmCourtney Harge _ White people go tanning to get darker – and I see some black people want to be white(?) Let’s meet in the middle and be happy.
Francesca Ford says:November 16, 2013 at 2:54 amA couple of these are OBVIOUSLY black. How could you not tell Jennifer Beals is black? And Maya Rudolf SCREAMS black jew. Don’t have to know a damn thing about her parents to know that. Just need to see one picture. And about half the rest I would have guessed were biracial, one part of which being black. But yeah, a few I wouldn’t have guessed right away.
Ashley Swift says:November 16, 2013 at 3:22 amI am biracial (Haitian and Irish-American) and it irritates me that that these people have been characterized as black celebrities “passing” as white. They can do that b/c most, if not all, of them are white, too. They are not black “passing” as white, they ARE white just as much as they are black.As a person of mixed race, I refuse to give into societal pressure to choose one race over the other to identify with just so the rest of the world knows how to define me. I am insanely proud of my heritage on both sides and they are both equally important. Sorry I’m not sorry if that makes it hard for some people to label, categorize, and file me away in their brains as BLACK or WHITE. Maybe it’s time we ditch the race labels and file people under what actually defines us as people: SMART, KIND, TRUSTWORTHY, GENEROUS, HONEST, etc.
Rudy Daniels says:November 16, 2013 at 4:27 amBecause most of the people commenting so loosely fail to really understand the implications of the social and political and economical constricts, content and context of race and how it;s played out in the media as a ocializing element to demean and devalue blackness/african-ness. you guys are polling the superficial surface of these ideoligies and dumbing it down to a personal relatinship paradigm. ‘The implications for being ambigious or non-descript when having african bloodlines is akin to a devaluation process of black people that is now being fully perpetuated by black people because of white supremacy/racism’s powerful yet subtle processes to produce a demeaned concept of blackness.Keep asking the question WHY and continue to DIG DEEPER into history and truths will begin to reveal themselves bout the process and products of a system that racializes a society for control of power paradigms only. It is predicated through wealth access and consumption, but anchored in absulute Power Dominance. White Skin = Power & Value & Control. Yet those who classify themselves as “white” deeply understand this paradigm power dynamic because they only represent less than 10 percent of the world population and survival “instincts” have been activated to achieve, maintain and retain global dominance even though they represent a recessive gene trait population.Pathological Obsession with this particular power dynamic (RACE) would become a “natural” impetus for an individual or a group in this position. With this backdrop, I ask you to now review history with this lucid lense and tell me if it makes more sense to you. It is not about good or bad, right or wrong — but survival ….and what people will do to ensure their own survival even if it means others must suffer. It’s deeper than we all can contemplate. There is no moral compass when one’s own physical and genetic survival is at stake.This process isn’t about who we expect and accept as being part of the Black Parent People/Family of this Planet, but about what and how people identify and preserve the value of that identification. The context is NOT about skin color, but a dynamic and cultural connection that is unashammed to preserve itself amid pressures and methodologies of social dilution, decadence and degradation. This is a social directive that supplants and supercedes as well as undercuts our concepts and conversations about overt manifestations of racial classification. The construct of race was developed to isolate undesireables and caste them into a perpetual lifecycle of constant and persistent devaluation by all means necessary…and at the same time, promote, protect and produce access of life-sustaining resources to the most desirable of group members.The line of distinction made was isolated to skin color and a man-made value was given to it. Those who classified themselves as white pronounced ultimate god-given value to their own white skin thus creating a social, political, cultural and economic hierarchy based of the values attributted to white skin versus other people’s skin tones. The dehumanization process of blackness begin right there and is woven into the fabric of everything we see and do, believe and think, dream and invision — due to our edu-trainment (education and conditioning) — everything around us reinforces the value of whiteness and in so doing, also — the invalidity and devaluation of blackness in our social construct and context. This is our unescapable lense whether we want to agree with it or not. But those who cannot or refuse not to see clearly through that truthful lense of clarity will only suffer from their own ignorance.The people pictured or mentioned here, who clearly value thier black ancestry will self-identify. Those who don’t won’t. We have no control over that. And the fact that the construct of white supremacy plays into that acknowlegement or rejection is a real phenomena. We can’t keep ignoring this FACT. We can’t blame people for being subjected to the forces of it’s POWER and the real affects and effects of doin or not doing so. That would be playing to stupidity and even denial and amnesia. But those are 2 very real options offered to people when we begin to uncover racial classification and it’s purpose, processes, products, presentations and permissions. We speak too fast, teach too little, learn not enough and preach to ferverently without clue or study. We become too easily hippocrates of our own ignorance. It is complex and complicated and layed and lofty —- this thing called RACE. But we judge too swiftly and harshly without the evidence nor license to do so. If we would only seek to understand, before trying to be understood when we engage in our “1-way conversations.” Take time to aske questions, engage in critical thought (*does NOT mean to critisize everything and everyone) and dig deeper for knowledge and more questions. Most of are answers are the shallow representations for all we think we know. Become a commited learner, before you seek to be a teacher….because soem of the respnses I read on here are so telling of the respondents command of the information they are espousing about — and NOT in a good way. Talking just to Talk become just unwarranted NOISE if it is noy grounded in purpose and wisdom. Just take NOTE.
Kayla Parisi says:November 16, 2013 at 7:59 amUmm what’s a biracial black man? Either or… Either or.
Dionne McCollum says:November 16, 2013 at 8:14 amThat mindset—that any black blood makes you black—stems from past racist American laws, implemented during slavery times. They believed back then, and some still do (they just don’t enforce it) that if an ancestor was black, the person is. They used terms like these:
. #onedroprule #oneblackancestorrule
#traceableamountrule
#hyperdescentrule
That’s why you hear the phrase “passing for white”. Biracial people who were part black and were very light complected would live their lives as white people bcuz they were better accepted by society, had more advantages in life, and we’re not kept as slaves. That “passing” behavior stayed around after slavery ended for some of the same reasons. The mindset is so ingrained in our culture that people still think that way—including me, unfortunately. Ever seen the old movie called “Imitation of Life”? Very good movie about this topic!! People who were “passing” years ago LIVED IN FEAR of their ethnic background being found out bcuz their lives would immediately change!! They would lose their jobs, their homes, and would be treated like the dregs of society. Smh
Anissa Parisi says:November 16, 2013 at 10:16 amu can be biracial with other races..they just saying “black” is one of his races..if he was white n latino he would b biracial latino
Kayla Parisi says:November 16, 2013 at 12:47 pmThe term “biracial” typically means African American and Caucasian tho. You can say one race without the other in that sense. If he’s a biracial black man.. Is he black and white or black and Asian? It just doesn’t make sense
Vicki A. Chappell says:November 16, 2013 at 1:34 pmWhy is this important? They are good actors – the end.
Vicki A. Chappell says:November 16, 2013 at 3:03 pmInteresting! I commented on this article “on the site,” and it showed up on my FB feed…. hmmm. Anyway, I didn’t like the article. Why should we care about such things?
Pauline Strickland Nichols says:November 16, 2013 at 5:05 pmI agree. What difference does it make if someone is of mixed heritage?
Alvin Williams says:November 16, 2013 at 9:45 pmWell I don’t know what they are going to do once America turns to a non-white majority as the population growth trends seems to indicate to happen in less than 50 years? I guess there will be a rush to claim their racial identity; but the question is should the rest of us let them in?
Vincent Parrish says:November 17, 2013 at 9:43 amThere’s a nation called Black?? I was unaware of that, maybe someday I will go on vacation there.
Vincent Parrish says:November 17, 2013 at 9:52 amOnly 1/6 of the entire planet is considered “caucasion”.
Lynn Wagner says:November 17, 2013 at 1:43 pmAnd the reason for this article is? Who really cares anyway. We are a nation of mixed nationalities. It is what makes our Nation great! If anything, having mixed bloodlines whether Asian, German, Italian, or Black, etc. I believe in Hollywood today would only help expand the careers of these stars by opening up more acting opportunities. Love who you are and the skin that you live in!!
William Lewis says:November 18, 2013 at 11:54 amExactly how do you think we become light skinned black people?
William Lewis says:November 18, 2013 at 11:56 amSusonya Davenport: That is absolutely not true.
William Lewis says:November 18, 2013 at 2:46 pmLelani and anyone that thinks like you; your rant was quite ridiculous. Acknowledging the different races we have been mixed with is NOT a cover up for any insecurites we have. It is simply the full package of what we are. I have heard too many white people say they are part Irish and Italian and German. Are they insecure? Or simply acknowledging their heritage? Yes, many of us are mixed with Indian in this country and that should not be a shock to you, yet we don’t say I don’t want to be black and call ourselves Indians.
Binky Jewel says:November 18, 2013 at 3:00 pmEdward Wandrick Honey, have you seen many Italians? Many have hair like that and are darker, Caucasians come in many shades as all people do.
Marcus Rogers says:November 25, 2013 at 7:02 amThe title of this article makes a silly implication. Since when did any of these people TRY to PASS for white? Words are power…
Marcus Rogers says:November 25, 2013 at 7:04 amEva in that term isn’t Tiger alluding to his Black ancestry as well?
See, come people aint satisfied unless a Black person has a pick in their hair wearing a 40 Acres and a Mule shirt…
Diane Cook says:November 25, 2013 at 7:59 amAnd why was it a success? As if passing for white is an accomplishment that people strive for or so desperately want. Really, seriously. How about this, I not only pass for, but I excel at being black and proud!!!
Wayne Gaskins says:November 28, 2013 at 10:00 pmLois Magnotti let me take you to Mississippi in case you get confused and think you are “mixed”….
Kelly Powell says:December 1, 2013 at 11:11 pmMaya rudolph played a bi-racial girl.in bridesmaids… her father is bkack in the movie
Olga Tsvintarnaya says:November 10, 2015 at 1:09 pmIt’s not fair to call them just black when they are a mixture. They are as much black as white)
Elijah Dennis says:December 3, 2015 at 4:47 pmPerhaps but some of them never acknowledge their black heritage and use the white heritage to gain success when they could make the difference between the races
Olga Tsvintarnaya says:December 3, 2015 at 8:34 pmElijah Dennis ,Rachel Meghan Markle in many episodes reminds of her being black. I don’t live in the US, but I don’t believe that races matter there, though americans like to make a lot of noice around this problem, I guess, due to the history that was really terrible. Now there are black and white movie and pop stars who are loved by people of all the races. Was it hard for Will Smith or Whitney Houston to become popular? Or any other black star…
Aspyn Walton says:December 9, 2015 at 12:14 amOlga Tsvintarnaya Perhaps for celebrities its not an issue but when a white man convicted of a crime has more chance of getting a job than a black man with no record, that constitutes some “noise.” The biggest setback to equality is people who think racism no longer exists. So yes races matter here, it is still an issue, and showing that sometimes most people cannot even tell that a “race” is present is important to getting rid of the idea of race in general.
Jojo Snow says:December 18, 2015 at 5:21 amMelissa Gorga looks Italian in her before picture to me. Is it the super kinky-curly hair? Lots of Italians and Jews have that hair texture. Not that it matters what her race is, but why call her a liar? Not cool.
Jojo Snow says:December 18, 2015 at 5:25 amMaya Rudolph didn’t play a white woman in Bridesmaids. You need to rewatch the film without your bias. In the movie, her character’s father is Black.
Stacey Lucas says:December 18, 2015 at 8:55 pmShe half black she a shame of who she is this is why she changed everything about she don’t want to say she half black she feel people will judge her but she judge her self
Nathaniel Hopkins says:December 20, 2015 at 5:02 amGod and/or nature makes it impossible for any Black gene being dominate to be alterned by any other gene because the Black gene was the beginning of all subsequent genes and races. The child cannot chage the race of the parents. One Black always Black. It is biologically impossible for any Black man or woman to multiply itself by having a White baby. Atter the first Black gene infiltrates any non-Black gene pool it cosumes and changes those and all subsqent offspings into the Black family tree. It is not possible to produce Black from White, but you can produce all other colors from Black. Once Black all future generation shall remain Black. The other features may change however the genetic code is still fundamentally Balck
Nathaniel Hopkins says:December 20, 2015 at 5:06 amBlacks: Abraham Lincolin, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Andrew Jackson, J.EdgarHoover, Jacquelyn Kennedy, Woodrow Wilson… Once Black you can never go back.
Nathaniel Hopkins says:December 20, 2015 at 5:36 amLet me get this straight. Now you create a non-existent race of “Mixed People” then you claim the athority to alter natural history from the beginning of human until the present by declaring that the sons and daugher of the First Black humans are not of and from the Black male spern and the Black woman womb? The so called American Negro is not mixed until we as a people give credit to the White men that enslaves our foreparentes and ravished our Mothers, Sisters, Daughter at will produces not a Bastard Race, Not a mixed race, but a Black N slave race to be held as the White man personal property forever. Those rape based babies were born into our status, suffers as one of us and die at one with us. As a people and recognized race of under international law the old divide and conquer trick no longer works The racial screen for the so called American Negro is very simple and direct; “Do you claim, and prove under sworn affidavits that one of your grandparents was an African Slave legally recognized not as a humban being but as proeprty to the White property owners?” When you can do that then you may come to us and discuss race with your Black Brothers and sisters. Until then go sell that b.s. to all the grandchildren of the salve traders that tortured and murdered our African Grandparents by the millions. This is not academic with us it is flesh and blood real life based on 400 years of legal enslavement in this country. You young white girl and boy do not educate us on our race, color, family or culture. We not you define who is or who is not a part of us.
Olga Tsvintarnaya says:December 20, 2015 at 9:06 amAspyn Walton It’s so sad if it’s so.
Lydia L Reese-Burns says:December 23, 2015 at 6:14 amSoledad O’Brian has always claimed her ethnicity. That’s one of the reasons she created the Black in America series. She said ‘I never saw myself as mixed. I am Black because my mother is Black. I was raised n a Black home. There was never any confusion’.
Tamiko Lemon says:July 24, 2023 at 7:17 pm1st of all. If your mother is black n your dad is whyte. That means you are whyte. If you mom is whyte and your dad is black, then you are black. You are the seed of your father not your mom.

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10 Black Celebs Who Successfully Pass For White

Posted byBy A Moore | Published on: August 13, 2013 | Updated on April 26, 2018 CommentsComments (421)

What people are saying

421 thoughts on “10 Black Celebs Who Successfully Pass For White”

Michael Funso says:August 13, 2013 at 10:31 pmBlack people and in particular the author of this piece are shallow. What is the big deal if they did pass for white? I think the idle hand who thought this is a great “research” should go and get a real job.
Michael Funso says:August 13, 2013 at 10:31 pmBlack people and in particular the author of this piece are shallow. What is the big deal if they did pass for white? I think the idle hand who thought this is a great “research” should go and get a real job.
Michael Rene’e Daniels says:August 13, 2013 at 10:38 pmMost of the folks on this list haven’t hidden their race or ethnicity with the exception of Carol Channing. In fact Soledad O’brien has always been very specific and clear about her ehtnicity. Never heard of the young lady on the the reality show.
Michael Rene’e Daniels says:August 13, 2013 at 10:38 pmMost of the folks on this list haven’t hidden their race or ethnicity with the exception of Carol Channing. In fact Soledad O’brien has always been very specific and clear about her ehtnicity. Never heard of the young lady on the the reality show.
Aaron Sailor says:August 13, 2013 at 10:55 pmThese people aren’t Black! And as far as I am concerned Biracials have just as much right to claim there Black side as they do there White. When are Black people going to get rid of this “one drop” bullcrap?
Aaron Sailor says:August 13, 2013 at 10:55 pmThese people aren’t Black! And as far as I am concerned Biracials have just as much right to claim there Black side as they do there White. When are Black people going to get rid of this “one drop” bullcrap?
Aaron Charles Sailor says:August 13, 2013 at 10:55 pmThese people aren’t Black! And as far as I am concerned Biracials have just as much right to claim there Black side as they do there White. When are Black people going to get rid of this “one drop” bullcrap?
Sabella Abidde says:August 13, 2013 at 11:02 pm…then you are missing the point
Sabella Abidde says:August 13, 2013 at 11:02 pm…then you are missing the point
Tish Newton Virgues says:August 13, 2013 at 11:03 pmlazy journalism full of assumptions and half truths
Tish Newton Virgues says:August 13, 2013 at 11:03 pmlazy journalism full of assumptions and half truths
Bill Herder says:August 13, 2013 at 11:17 pmRight on, brother. You’re one color, I’m another. God made us both and he made us that way. Let’s start trying to solve some real problems, like family, jobs, etc. and stop worrying about something as unimportant as skin color.
Bill Herder says:August 13, 2013 at 11:17 pmRight on, brother. You’re one color, I’m another. God made us both and he made us that way. Let’s start trying to solve some real problems, like family, jobs, etc. and stop worrying about something as unimportant as skin color.
The Digital Political says:August 13, 2013 at 11:23 pmBlack people are shallow?
The Digital Political says:August 13, 2013 at 11:23 pmBlack people are shallow?
The Digital Political says:August 13, 2013 at 11:25 pmBill Herder Skin color is unimportant? Hmmm…So the NYC “Search and Frisk Law” impacts who the most?
The Digital Political says:August 13, 2013 at 11:25 pmBill Herder Skin color is unimportant? Hmmm…So the NYC “Search and Frisk Law” impacts who the most?
Nebuwah Hutip says:August 13, 2013 at 11:26 pmFence hoppers.. lol not hatin though. Scilians have a considerable amount of blood admixture from the motherland. Both her parents are probably Italian.
Nebuwah Hutip says:August 13, 2013 at 11:26 pmFence hoppers.. lol not hatin though. Scilians have a considerable amount of blood admixture from the motherland. Both her parents are probably Italian.
Kristal K’Sera says:August 13, 2013 at 11:29 pmWhoever wrote this garbage needs to be fired.
Eleshia L. Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 12:19 amInteresting though…didn’t know about chick from PLL. I find this stuff fascinating.
Eleshia L. Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 12:19 amInteresting though…didn’t know about chick from PLL. I find this stuff fascinating.
Michael W. Corbett Sr. says:August 14, 2013 at 12:22 amIts a non-issue. They are not passing, unless they pretend not to be black or of mixed heritage. Even if you changed the name of the article to “Actors you might not have known are black” it would still be poorly researched. The only one passing is the older woman….
Michael W. Corbett Sr. says:August 14, 2013 at 12:22 amIts a non-issue. They are not passing, unless they pretend not to be black or of mixed heritage. Even if you changed the name of the article to “Actors you might not have known are black” it would still be poorly researched. The only one passing is the older woman….
Wardell Benford says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 amIts alot of blacks like this! I blamed the mothers for this shit. They are first teachers. Regardless if they are white, latino, asian and black.
Wardell Benford says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 amIts alot of blacks like this! I blamed the mothers for this shit. They are first teachers. Regardless if they are white, latino, asian and black.
Kay Dejavu says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 amDamn is that Melissa? Anyhooo none of these people are black, they are part black. Let us stop the one-dropping!
Kay Dejavu says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 amDamn is that Melissa? Anyhooo none of these people are black, they are part black. Let us stop the one-dropping!
Steve Edmonds says:August 14, 2013 at 12:45 amPeople, the term “passing” actually came from American white people. America need to really know their history before saying this is shallow or is garbage. Google Plessy vs Ferguson and read about the “one drop rule” Black people did not make this rule…White people did. Whether we like it or not its a ugly part of American History.
Steven Michael says:August 14, 2013 at 12:45 amPeople, the term “passing” actually came from American white people. America need to really know their history before saying this is shallow or is garbage. Google Plessy vs Ferguson and read about the “one drop rule” Black people did not make this rule…White people did. Whether we like it or not its a ugly part of American History.
Tre Baker says:August 14, 2013 at 1:01 amI knew all of these people were Black except the first guy. I don’t understand how this wasn’t obvious unless you know zero lightskinned Black people.
Tre Baker says:August 14, 2013 at 1:01 amI knew all of these people were Black except the first guy. I don’t understand how this wasn’t obvious unless you know zero lightskinned Black people.
Brad Isaac says:August 14, 2013 at 1:56 amThis is a misleading list as most of the people here are obviously biracial and they all really do nothing to hide that they are biracial. If you are really interested in whichever actor then a little looking will let you know. Besides who cares..
Brad Isaac says:August 14, 2013 at 1:56 amThis is a misleading list as most of the people here are obviously biracial and they all really do nothing to hide that they are biracial. If you are really interested in whichever actor then a little looking will let you know. Besides who cares..
Joy Foster says:August 14, 2013 at 2:06 amI get what you’re saying, but if ‘we Black people’ are to ‘drop’ the one drop bull, then “we” Black Americans wouldn’t be “Black” either due to a few centuries worth of miscegenation starting with slavery, and would have to right to claim the white ancestry that a MAJORITY of us have, for many generations past. Unfortunately, that would make a plethora of people really uncomfortable, making it not quite as simple a task as you make it sound. Maybe in the next century we can actually be “post racial”, but it’s not here yet.
Joy Foster says:August 14, 2013 at 2:06 amI get what you’re saying, but if ‘we Black people’ are to ‘drop’ the one drop bull, then “we” Black Americans wouldn’t be “Black” either due to a few centuries worth of miscegenation starting with slavery, and would have to right to claim the white ancestry that a MAJORITY of us have, for many generations past. Unfortunately, that would make a plethora of people really uncomfortable, making it not quite as simple a task as you make it sound. Maybe in the next century we can actually be “post racial”, but it’s not here yet.
Joy Foster says:August 14, 2013 at 2:06 amI get what you’re saying, but if ‘we Black people’ are to ‘drop’ the one drop bull, then “we” Black Americans wouldn’t be “Black” either due to a few centuries worth of miscegenation starting with slavery, and would have to right to claim the white ancestry that a MAJORITY of us have, for many generations past. Unfortunately, that would make a plethora of people really uncomfortable, making it not quite as simple a task as you make it sound. Maybe in the next century we can actually be “post racial”, but it’s not here yet.
Cheapo Comics says:August 14, 2013 at 2:12 amYou’re right, who cares about their ethnicity? The article’s title alone is annoying. So much crap about race these days it gets a bit much at times.
La Yoli says:August 14, 2013 at 2:22 amI wonder why the insecure person who wrote this is attempting to cause a stir? Soledad does a lot of activism and discussions about biraciality and black/ latin perception and experience in america. Some of the other’s mentioned jobs are to entertain, not make categorizing narrow minded and announcements to make silly people feel better #stopthewitchhunt.
La Yoli says:August 14, 2013 at 2:22 amI wonder why the insecure person who wrote this is attempting to cause a stir? Soledad does a lot of activism and discussions about biraciality and black/ latin perception and experience in america. Some of the other’s mentioned jobs are to entertain, not make categorizing narrow minded and announcements to make silly people feel better #stopthewitchhunt.
La Yoli says:August 14, 2013 at 2:22 amI wonder why the insecure person who wrote this is attempting to cause a stir? Soledad does a lot of activism and discussions about biraciality and black/ latin perception and experience in america. Some of the other’s mentioned jobs are to entertain, not make categorizing narrow minded and announcements to make silly people feel better #stopthewitchhunt.
SekhmetAsare Asare says:August 14, 2013 at 2:32 amThe Digital Political explain
Trice Heard says:August 14, 2013 at 2:32 amThe Digital Political explain
Hrh Elizabeth Eff Obisanya says:August 14, 2013 at 2:52 amif their daddies are white they are white,(bible definition of where you are from – on fathers side sorry folks) those whose daddies are black are considered as black folks.
Parker Hellsin says:August 14, 2013 at 2:54 amMelissa looks cute I can tell in the curly haired picture she got some black in her(high five)…
Parker Hellsin says:August 14, 2013 at 2:54 amMelissa looks cute I can tell in the curly haired picture she got some black in her(high five)…
Parker Hellsin says:August 14, 2013 at 2:55 amoh I loves me some Rashida Jones…
Parker Hellsin says:August 14, 2013 at 2:55 amoh I loves me some Rashida Jones…
Joe Masse says:August 14, 2013 at 3:22 amBy far, this is the most racist article I’ve read in a while… “celebrated black” and “another caucasian.” Please. Not to mention, none one of these actors/celebs are full black, they are bi-racial or bi-regional, like most of the U.S. So use that in your title, “Bi-racial celebs who pass white.” OHHH..That won’t grab a readers attention. Amateur racist bullshit. Get a new job, Mr. A Moore.
Joe Masse says:August 14, 2013 at 3:22 amBy far, this is the most racist article I’ve read in a while… “celebrated black” and “another caucasian.” Please. Not to mention, none one of these actors/celebs are full black, they are bi-racial or bi-regional, like most of the U.S. So use that in your title, “Bi-racial celebs who pass white.” OHHH..That won’t grab a readers attention. Amateur racist bullshit. Get a new job, Mr. A Moore.
Perttu Superjood says:August 14, 2013 at 3:26 amWHO CARES
Perttu Super says:August 14, 2013 at 3:26 amWHO CARES
Matt Degrelle Xvii says:August 14, 2013 at 3:31 amWhat retard follows bible definitions? Everything is genetics. These people are mixed race, not black or white.
Timo Partanen says:August 14, 2013 at 4:20 amW.H.O. slogan: “WHO CARES”
Atty Earlyne McCalister Thomas says:August 14, 2013 at 4:26 amExcuse me, but most of the people you listed HAVE NOT made it a point to deny their Black ancestry. Rashida Jones–who doesn’t know that her father is Black? Soledad O’Brien has made it a point, well before her documentaries, that she is part Black. Same thing for Maya Rudolph. Oh, BTW, Maya’s character in Bridesmaids could hardly have been considered to have been a “white” woman, when the man who played her father in the movie, was BLACK, and the mother was white. Just because some of the people mentioned are biracial, and may play white roles, doesn’t necessarily mean they are passing–with the exception of Carol Channing–who didn’t find out until she was in college, and living in an age when it wasn’t unusual for very light-skinned Blacks to PASS.
Atty Earlyne McCalister Thomas says:August 14, 2013 at 4:26 amExcuse me, but most of the people you listed HAVE NOT made it a point to deny their Black ancestry. Rashida Jones–who doesn’t know that her father is Black? Soledad O’Brien has made it a point, well before her documentaries, that she is part Black. Same thing for Maya Rudolph. Oh, BTW, Maya’s character in Bridesmaids could hardly have been considered to have been a “white” woman, when the man who played her father in the movie, was BLACK, and the mother was white. Just because some of the people mentioned are biracial, and may play white roles, doesn’t necessarily mean they are passing–with the exception of Carol Channing–who didn’t find out until she was in college, and living in an age when it wasn’t unusual for very light-skinned Blacks to PASS.
Perttu Superjood says:August 14, 2013 at 4:52 amnot bad
Perttu Superjood says:August 14, 2013 at 4:52 amnot bad
Perttu Super says:August 14, 2013 at 4:52 amnot bad
Ed Violette says:August 14, 2013 at 6:31 amFunny how these people are white while our President is black??
Ed Violette says:August 14, 2013 at 6:31 amFunny how these people are white while our President is black??
Ed Violette says:August 14, 2013 at 6:31 amFunny how these people are white while our President is black??
Ed Violette says:August 14, 2013 at 6:31 amWhat are the rules man?
Ed Violette says:August 14, 2013 at 6:31 amWhat are the rules man?
Paulette Purvis says:August 14, 2013 at 7:22 amBlack people are shallow? Then, what that makes you?
Paulette Purvis says:August 14, 2013 at 7:22 amBlack people are shallow? Then, what that makes you?
Black-Women Empowerment says:August 14, 2013 at 7:26 amThese are ALL biracial or multiracial people. They are NOT black.
Black-Women Empowerment says:August 14, 2013 at 7:26 amThese are ALL biracial or multiracial people. They are NOT black.
Val Hagans says:August 14, 2013 at 7:26 amThanks for the education on Plessy vs Ferguson.
Val Hagans says:August 14, 2013 at 7:26 amThanks for the education on Plessy vs Ferguson.
Paulette Purvis says:August 14, 2013 at 7:27 amIf you really want to know the truth, at least 60% of all people are biracial in one way or another. Sorry, but true. If this stings, then you must have been bitten. Next subject please. This topic doesn’t interest me one way or another.
Paulette Purvis says:August 14, 2013 at 7:27 amIf you really want to know the truth, at least 60% of all people are biracial in one way or another. Sorry, but true. If this stings, then you must have been bitten. Next subject please. This topic doesn’t interest me one way or another.
Sharon L. Carnahan says:August 14, 2013 at 7:31 amI found this offensive; the intimation was that people gain by “passing” as White.
Sharon L. Carnahan says:August 14, 2013 at 7:31 amI found this offensive; the intimation was that people gain by “passing” as White.
Dani Lazarus says:August 14, 2013 at 7:58 amRe Ms. Gorga: many Italians deny their African heritage. Nothing new. #Moors
Dani Lazarus says:August 14, 2013 at 7:58 amRe Ms. Gorga: many Italians deny their African heritage. Nothing new. #Moors
Eva Keane says:August 14, 2013 at 8:01 amCorrect! Black people need to stop trying to “claim” people who dont want the label “black”.
Eva Keane says:August 14, 2013 at 8:01 amCorrect! Black people need to stop trying to “claim” people who dont want the label “black”.
Eva Keane says:August 14, 2013 at 8:02 amFor instance, Tiger Woods has TOLD YOU he’s “Cablasian” so just move on!
Eva Keane says:August 14, 2013 at 8:02 amFor instance, Tiger Woods has TOLD YOU he’s “Cablasian” so just move on!
Dani Lazarus says:August 14, 2013 at 8:03 amSoledad O’Brien has never tried to ‘pass’. She has always and continues to be ridiculed as a white face trying to pass for Black, in fact.
Dani Lazarus says:August 14, 2013 at 8:03 amSoledad O’Brien has never tried to ‘pass’. She has always and continues to be ridiculed as a white face trying to pass for Black, in fact.
Arthur Vee says:August 14, 2013 at 8:46 amYep, great article WAY TO PERPETUATE RACISM IN AMERICA
Arthur Vee says:August 14, 2013 at 8:46 amYep, great article WAY TO PERPETUATE RACISM IN AMERICA
Arthur Vee says:August 14, 2013 at 8:46 amSabella Abidde no he’s not. The only one missing the point is closeted bigots like yourself.
Arthur Vee says:August 14, 2013 at 8:46 amSabella Abidde no he’s not. The only one missing the point is closeted bigots like yourself.
LaVinnia Bright says:August 14, 2013 at 9:04 amthe one drop rule was started by slave master not black people. you don’t know your history
LaVinnia Bright says:August 14, 2013 at 9:04 am@Aaron Sailor the one drop rule was started by slave masters not black people. you don’t know your history
Glen Alcorn says:August 14, 2013 at 9:26 amwho cares….
Glen Alcorn says:August 14, 2013 at 9:26 amwho cares….
Rickey Fuller says:August 14, 2013 at 9:30 amthe bible is wrong about a whole lot of things
Rickey Fuller says:August 14, 2013 at 9:30 amthe bible is wrong about a whole lot of things
Danielle Tate says:August 14, 2013 at 9:31 amMaya Rudolph had a SNL alum, who is African American with locks play her father in Bridesmaids. Along with other mistakes in this article. The journalist here did no research before allowing this print. Where is thfe fact checker or is this a gossip site?
Danielle Tate says:August 14, 2013 at 9:31 amMaya Rudolph had a SNL alum, who is African American with locks play her father in Bridesmaids. Along with other mistakes in this article. The journalist here did no research before allowing this print. Where is thfe fact checker or is this a gossip site?
Aquil ExportQuality Hall says:August 14, 2013 at 9:47 amRight, nobody wants to mention that. White people have the shortest selective memory!
Aquil ExportQuality Hall says:August 14, 2013 at 9:47 amRight, nobody wants to mention that. White people have the shortest selective memory!
Terence Tramp Abney says:August 14, 2013 at 9:58 amThis is your “editorial”? who cares? awesome job blackstar.com, you have successfully proven your worthlessness.
Claire Simba says:August 14, 2013 at 10:01 amUmm excuse me… in this list there’s NO BLACK PERSON, only MIXED! Very different!
Claire Simba says:August 14, 2013 at 10:01 amUmm excuse me… in this list there’s NO BLACK PERSON, only MIXED! Very different!
Marc Reid says:August 14, 2013 at 10:04 amWhy is this news?
Marc Reid says:August 14, 2013 at 10:04 amWhy is this news?
Milton Kaseke says:August 14, 2013 at 10:07 amI just wasted 30 seconds of my life!
Nayo Luv says:August 14, 2013 at 10:08 amHahahaa…this posted to my wall….thank you for saving 30 seconds of my life!
Angela Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 10:13 amWhy is that supposed to be a success? lol. ijs
Angela Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 10:13 amWhy is that supposed to be a success? lol. ijs
Fani Lou Taylor says:August 14, 2013 at 10:15 amBill Herder “Right On Bill”
Fani Lou Taylor says:August 14, 2013 at 10:15 amBill Herder “Right On Bill”
Sharon D Brown says:August 14, 2013 at 10:24 amI would agree with you that following the father’s ancestral line makes sense, but since we live in the USA and in order to continue and maintain slavery the race was assigned according to the mother.
Sharon D Brown says:August 14, 2013 at 10:24 amI would agree with you that following the father’s ancestral line makes sense, but since we live in the USA and in order to continue and maintain slavery the race was assigned according to the mother.
Hodari Lewis says:August 14, 2013 at 10:32 amIf your father is biracial it makes u black? Why is that only the case with black people? If my mother was half Italian I wouldn’t be considered Italian passing for black. Being multiracial doesn’t catogorize everybody mixed with everything BUT black. My son is half black, a quarter Hispanic, & a quarter white. I feel like its just as wrong to tell him that he’s not white or Hispanic as it is to tell him he’s not black
Hodari Lewis says:August 14, 2013 at 10:32 amIf your father is biracial it makes u black? Why is that only the case with black people? If my mother was half Italian I wouldn’t be considered Italian passing for black. Being multiracial doesn’t catogorize everybody mixed with everything BUT black. My son is half black, a quarter Hispanic, & a quarter white. I feel like its just as wrong to tell him that he’s not white or Hispanic as it is to tell him he’s not black
Jones Andrea says:August 14, 2013 at 10:34 amSo the person who wrote this, didn’t see Bridesmaids cuz Rudolf’s dad in the movie was black. SMH
Andrea Rochester says:August 14, 2013 at 10:34 amSo the person who wrote this, didn’t see Bridesmaids cuz Rudolf’s dad in the movie was black. SMH
Kenneth Armour says:August 14, 2013 at 10:44 amThis is the kind of garbage that keeps racial issues alive in America. People are people. Talent is talent. Who gives a damn what color they are? This is super frustrating.
Necie Coles says:August 14, 2013 at 10:46 amWhat a negative racially charged piece of garbage. The author
Is no journalist. What a waste. One little point. Did you watch
The movie bridesmaids? Maya Rudolph’s character had a white mother and an African American father. You did even get that small
fact correct. The rest of this is just BS fuel.
Necie Coles says:August 14, 2013 at 10:46 amWhat a negative racially charged piece of garbage. The author
Is no journalist. What a waste. One little point. Did you watch
The movie bridesmaids? Maya Rudolph’s character had a white mother and an African American father. You did even get that small
fact correct. The rest of this is just BS fuel.
Alborz Mohtashami says:August 14, 2013 at 10:54 amIS THAT THE GIRL FROM SUITS?!?!? Crazy. I like her a lot more now
Alborz Mohtashami says:August 14, 2013 at 10:54 amIS THAT THE GIRL FROM SUITS?!?!? Crazy. I like her a lot more now
Chevas Samuels says:August 14, 2013 at 10:55 amI don’t believe the author meant these people were actually trying to pass as white (other than Melissa who denied her black ancestry). I think the author meant that these people could pass for white if they wanted to. Most of us knew the ancestry of these people without being told. “We know our people when we see them,” is what my grandmother used to say.
Chevas Samuels says:August 14, 2013 at 10:55 amI don’t believe the author meant these people were actually trying to pass as white (other than Melissa who denied her black ancestry). I think the author meant that these people could pass for white if they wanted to. Most of us knew the ancestry of these people without being told. “We know our people when we see them,” is what my grandmother used to say.
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 10:56 amI don’t believe the article says that they denied their blackness, it states that they have successfully passed for white. (basically they were able to do so in their film careers.
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 10:56 amI don’t believe the article says that they denied their blackness, it states that they have successfully passed for white. (basically they were able to do so in their film careers.
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 10:58 amI don’t see what is wrong with the article. No one was disrespected. The author never stated that anyone denied their blackness. What is the problem?
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 10:58 amI don’t see what is wrong with the article. No one was disrespected. The author never stated that anyone denied their blackness. What is the problem?
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 11:01 amPeople on this post do not read. The author never stated that any of these people purposely tried to pass for white, deny their African ancestry or anything else. This is simply a list compiled to show what actors are able to successfully pass as white in tv series and films. What is the big deal? They can’t help how they look. ughhhh
Sdot Chambers says:August 14, 2013 at 11:01 amPeople on this post do not read. The author never stated that any of these people purposely tried to pass for white, deny their African ancestry or anything else. This is simply a list compiled to show what actors are able to successfully pass as white in tv series and films. What is the big deal? They can’t help how they look. ughhhh
Kris Janelle says:August 14, 2013 at 11:07 amThis is a dumb ass article.. Plain and simple.. Maya Rudolph, Rasheeda Jones and Soledad O’Brien will glady say they are AFRICAN AMERICAN. Just because you dont look what they think is standard then ur passing for white??? Ignorance.
Kris Janelle says:August 14, 2013 at 11:07 amThis is a dumb ass article.. Plain and simple.. Maya Rudolph, Rasheeda Jones and Soledad O’Brien will glady say they are AFRICAN AMERICAN. Just because you dont look what they think is standard then ur passing for white??? Ignorance.
Albert Assoon says:August 14, 2013 at 11:10 amThe question is can they pass for black!
Albert Assoon says:August 14, 2013 at 11:10 amThe question is can they pass for black!
Rhonda Ovist says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amI think what is most interesting in this article is the notion of what makes a person “black” in the first place. Apparently, for this writer, it is about “ancestors” – a reliance on the old American rule of “one drop of ‘black blood’ [sic]” prevails. Of course, we know that race, as a set of mutually exclusive biological categories, does not exist, despite the repeated efforts of some scientists to prove otherwise. Race – White, Black – are social construction. This is nicely illustrated when you ask students to explain how they know someone is white – it turns out that the criteria we assume to be quite settled are in fact very shaky and rather arbitrary. Although, I have to agree that it is much easier to be seen as a handsome or beautiful “star” if one is identified by others as White as opposed to Black. There is a great deal of research that examines the definition of beauty and attractiveness in our society as being intrinsically “white.” There is no doubt that those Identified (and who identify as) Black are under represented in mainstream entertainment media, with exception of rap performers. And those same Black men and women find far fewer options and opportunities in movies, television and advertisements. Thus, I would argue that yes, being identified as White instead of Black probably does prove advantageous. But I see this as less of a confirmation of the desirability of the category of White over Black, but rather an indication of the degree to which those identified as Black are seen as inferior in relation to Whites, and thus treated as if inferior (sociological definition of racism) persists in our society. Furthermore, this article insures that we know that even if someone “looks” white, they might still really be “black,” reinforcing the belief that there is some real, absolute definitions of these racial categories, and the notion that being white is obviously preferable. In a way, the article has the danger of acting as an “outing” of those who dare pass as something they aren’t, as something they can’t be, as undeserving impostors to the exclusive club of being White (I think, Sharon, this latter aspect of the article might be the source of your discomfort – something I agree with. )
Rhonda Ovist says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amI think what is most interesting in this article is the notion of what makes a person “black” in the first place. Apparently, for this writer, it is about “ancestors” – a reliance on the old American rule of “one drop of ‘black blood’ [sic]” prevails. Of course, we know that race, as a set of mutually exclusive biological categories, does not exist, despite the repeated efforts of some scientists to prove otherwise. Race – White, Black – are social construction. This is nicely illustrated when you ask students to explain how they know someone is white – it turns out that the criteria we assume to be quite settled are in fact very shaky and rather arbitrary. Although, I have to agree that it is much easier to be seen as a handsome or beautiful “star” if one is identified by others as White as opposed to Black. There is a great deal of research that examines the definition of beauty and attractiveness in our society as being intrinsically “white.” There is no doubt that those Identified (and who identify as) Black are under represented in mainstream entertainment media, with exception of rap performers. And those same Black men and women find far fewer options and opportunities in movies, television and advertisements. Thus, I would argue that yes, being identified as White instead of Black probably does prove advantageous. But I see this as less of a confirmation of the desirability of the category of White over Black, but rather an indication of the degree to which those identified as Black are seen as inferior in relation to Whites, and thus treated as if inferior (sociological definition of racism) persists in our society. Furthermore, this article insures that we know that even if someone “looks” white, they might still really be “black,” reinforcing the belief that there is some real, absolute definitions of these racial categories, and the notion that being white is obviously preferable. In a way, the article has the danger of acting as an “outing” of those who dare pass as something they aren’t, as something they can’t be, as undeserving impostors to the exclusive club of being White (I think, Sharon, this latter aspect of the article might be the source of your discomfort – something I agree with. )
Edward Wandrick says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amIt appears the only one in denial is Melissa Gorga.
Edward Wandrick says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amIt appears the only one in denial is Melissa Gorga.
Edward Wandrick says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amAgreed.
Edward Wandrick says:August 14, 2013 at 11:15 amAgreed.
Francine Bw says:August 14, 2013 at 11:20 amyou are what you look period, if you look black then wear it proudly, if you look white wear that as well because in the end no one walks around with pictures of their parent pasted to their forehead. In society people are going to base you on how you look, that’s just the way our society is.
Francine Bw says:August 14, 2013 at 11:20 amyou are what you look period, if you look black then wear it proudly, if you look white wear that as well because in the end no one walks around with pictures of their parent pasted to their forehead. In society people are going to base you on how you look, that’s just the way our society is.
Mike Stoan says:August 14, 2013 at 11:22 amsuccessfully lol
Mike Stoan says:August 14, 2013 at 11:22 amsuccessfully lol
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 11:27 amThe thing is everyone, except that Italian woman, on the list is a person with only a small amount of Black ancestry. They’re “passing” for what they mostly are. That’s like Tyson Beckford showing up on a list of Asian celebrities who pass for Black.By the way, I didn’t get the impression that apparently half the commentators walked away with that the author of this article was insinuating the folks on the list were hiding or in any way denying having black ancestry.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 11:27 amThe thing is everyone, except that Italian woman, on the list is a person with only a small amount of Black ancestry. They’re “passing” for what they mostly are. That’s like Tyson Beckford showing up on a list of Asian celebrities who pass for Black.By the way, I didn’t get the impression that apparently half the commentators walked away with: that the author of this article was insinuating the folks on the list were hiding or in any way denying having black ancestry. I think Moore was simply saying they are often mistaken for white.
Kahala Lei Azuma Maui says:August 14, 2013 at 11:47 amEdward Wandrick Many Italians say that because they are descendants of Hannibal and the Elephant Invasion, where Africans raided Cicily. The old school Italians don’t like that history, so it angers them into denial.
On a similar note, some of Thomas Jefferson’s descendants argue about the black side of their family. They didn’t want to believe it really existed.
Kahala Lei Azuma Maui says:August 14, 2013 at 11:47 amEdward Wandrick Many Italians say that because they are descendants of Hannibal and the Elephant Invasion, where Africans raided Cicily. The old school Italians don’t like that history, so it angers them into denial.
On a similar note, some of Thomas Jefferson’s descendants argue about the black side of their family. They didn’t want to believe it really existed.
Edward Gay says:August 14, 2013 at 11:48 amso what are you afraid of
Edward Gay says:August 14, 2013 at 11:48 amso what are you afraid of
Kristal K’Sera says:August 14, 2013 at 11:50 amThe problem is that the author is flat out saying these actors are passing for white and that’s not true. He’s making the determination that they’ve clearly hid their blackness which is why they’re successful…that’s not true.So the problem is the article is a lie.
Kristal K’Sera says:August 14, 2013 at 11:51 amThe only one that passed for white is the old lady who keep her biracial father a secret until she turned 80. Hell….they don’t even have to identify as white OR black when they’re both….So the author is on some bullshit…if anything they’re passing for BIRACIAL/MULTIRACIAL which they are…and the world seems to be ok with biracial people. The only people who make an issue of it are racist white and black people.
Tom Murphy says:August 14, 2013 at 11:52 amit’s hard to deny at least some black ancestry for all of us since it is pretty much acknowledged that the “Human” race began in Africa. I had mentioned in a prior post that I am half Italian. In history Italy was overran by an influx of people from many other countries, most of them from the African continent. It’s not too difficult to make that leap. Humm! I wonder how I can profit from that?
Tom Murphy says:August 14, 2013 at 11:52 amit’s hard to deny at least some black ancestry for all of us since it is pretty much acknowledged that the “Human” race began in Africa. I had mentioned in a prior post that I am half Italian. In history Italy was overran by an influx of people from many other countries, most of them from the African continent. It’s not too difficult to make that leap. Humm! I wonder how I can profit from that?
Matthew Damion Taylor says:August 14, 2013 at 11:54 amBill Herder RIGHT ON BROTHER SOUNDS (SUSPECT)
Matthew Damion Taylor says:August 14, 2013 at 11:54 amBill Herder RIGHT ON BROTHER SOUNDS (SUSPECT)
Clifton Richie says:August 14, 2013 at 12:00 pmI agree, this has to be one of the most simple minded pieces of journalism ever.
Clifton Richie says:August 14, 2013 at 12:00 pmI agree, this has to be one of the most simple minded pieces of journalism ever.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 12:03 pmAbsolutely. Indirectly, everyone is 100% African. But some of us have a more…direct lineage than others. :-D. Regarding Italy, I’ve met so many Italians who I mistook for black, that I don’t blink an eye when a person I thought was black turns out to be Italian. Same deal with a few Spaniards who I mistook for black.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 12:03 pmAbsolutely. Indirectly, everyone is 100% African. But some of us have a more…direct lineage than others. :-D. Regarding Italy, I’ve met so many Italians who I mistook for black, that I don’t blink an eye when a person I thought was black turns out to be Italian. Same deal with a few Spaniards who I mistook for black.
Bryan K Lee says:August 14, 2013 at 12:04 pmWhite people started that Mr.Sailor
Bryan K Lee says:August 14, 2013 at 12:04 pmWhite people started that Mr.Sailor
Tru Locs says:August 14, 2013 at 12:11 pmYou’re an idiot dim wit, you don’t even know what with being racist is! Typical argument coming from a white individual… You created the ideology of racism and now have the nerve to call someone else out, SMH what an ass!
Tru Locs says:August 14, 2013 at 12:11 pmYou’re an idiot dim wit, you don’t even know what with being racist is! Typical argument coming from a white individual… You created the ideology of racism and now have the nerve to call someone else out, SMH what an ass!
Nikolai Snow says:August 14, 2013 at 12:13 pmSabella Abidde and what is the point?
Nikolai Snow says:August 14, 2013 at 12:13 pmSabella Abidde and what is the point?
Nikolai Snow says:August 14, 2013 at 12:13 pmSabella Abidde and what is the point?
Franny Ryan says:August 14, 2013 at 12:16 pmIt’s weird that the article claims that Maya Rudolph played a white woman in Bridesmaids – her character’s father was black. Maybe in another generation or two people will stop writing these stories.
Franny Ryan says:August 14, 2013 at 12:16 pmIt’s weird that the article claims that Maya Rudolph played a white woman in Bridesmaids – her character’s father was black. Maybe in another generation or two people will stop writing these stories.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 12:17 pmMaybe.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 12:17 pmMaybe.
Keith Josef Adkins says:August 14, 2013 at 12:21 pmI just find it frustrating that we continue to have this conversation around “passing” or not looking “black”. What does “black” supposed to look like? Americans of African descent are ALL mixed-race people, in varying degrees. Black is a cultural/social (and sometimes political) identity attached to our west African ancestors and the slave industry. There are communities in Ohio where everyone is very light skinned, but all identify, willingly and proudly, as black people. I think what we need to say is that some of us don’t necessarily show any west African physical traits. But black? How are we defining “black”?
Keith Josef Adkins says:August 14, 2013 at 12:21 pmI just find it frustrating that we continue to have this conversation around “passing” or not looking “black”. What does “black” supposed to look like? Americans of African descent are ALL mixed-race people, in varying degrees. Black is a cultural/social (and sometimes political) identity attached to our west African ancestors and the slave industry. There are communities in Ohio where everyone is very light skinned, but all identify, willingly and proudly, as black people. I think what we need to say is that some of us don’t necessarily show any west African physical traits. But black? How are we defining “black”?
Sameerah Luqmaan-Harris says:August 14, 2013 at 12:26 pmhopefully someday we’ll get to be defined as “human”.
Sameerah Luqmaan-Harris says:August 14, 2013 at 12:26 pmhopefully someday we’ll get to be defined as “human”.
Jade Bryan says:August 14, 2013 at 12:27 pmI agree, Keith.
Jade Bryan says:August 14, 2013 at 12:27 pmI agree, Keith.
Courtney Harge says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 pmGood points Keith. I’m also really concerned with the notion of “outing” people as Black. It feels a bit like a witch hunt while simultaneously posting Blackness as something to hide or be ashamed of.
Courtney Harge says:August 14, 2013 at 12:28 pmGood points Keith. I’m also really concerned with the notion of “outing” people as Black. It feels a bit like a witch hunt while simultaneously positing Blackness as something to hide or be ashamed of.
Ray Washington says:August 14, 2013 at 12:30 pmAre you serious? Let me ask you this, “were you born with straight BLONDE hair???” Enough said! Sit down and be quiet…
Keith Josef Adkins says:August 14, 2013 at 12:32 pmCourtney Harge – Yes, Courtney. This “outing” blackness is equally insane.
Keith Josef Adkins says:August 14, 2013 at 12:32 pmCourtney Harge – Yes, Courtney. This “outing” blackness is equally insane.
Ray Washington says:August 14, 2013 at 12:32 pmTom Murphy Good post Tom…
Ray Mega Broker Washington says:August 14, 2013 at 12:32 pmTom Murphy Good post Tom…
Carol Daniel-Faust says:August 14, 2013 at 12:34 pmYes Paulette, please, lets move on…..no interest here either.
Carol Daniel-Faust says:August 14, 2013 at 12:34 pmYes Paulette, please, lets move on…..no interest here either.
Ron Cephas Jones says:August 14, 2013 at 12:36 pmAmen!!
Ron Cephas Jones says:August 14, 2013 at 12:36 pmAmen!!
Erica Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 12:46 pmThank you for bringing this up because they make African American people seem as if we are delusional when it comes to race matters.
Erica Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 12:46 pmThank you for bringing this up because they make African American people seem as if we are delusional when it comes to race matters.
Richard Morrison says:August 14, 2013 at 12:48 pmI find this whole think offensive. The idea of passing is offensive. The idea that any of this makes a difference is offensive. Who cares what your back ground is.
Richard Morrison says:August 14, 2013 at 12:48 pmI find this whole think offensive. The idea of passing is offensive. The idea that any of this makes a difference is offensive. Who cares what your back ground is.
Erica Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 12:55 pmWhen it comes to ethnicity people get uncomfortable. People pride is deeply rooted into what ethical background they are. We know our history in America and blacks is not a group that people like to claim when it comes to pride. That’s how the world goes unfortunately.
Erica Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 12:55 pmWhen it comes to ethnicity people get uncomfortable. People pride is deeply rooted into what ethical background they are. We know our history in America and blacks is not a group that people like to claim when it comes to pride. That’s how the world goes unfortunately.
Adrienne D. Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 1:05 pmI watched Imitation of Life this weekend, and I was thinking about if this movie would be relevant in 2013. I think you answered my question.
Adrienne D. Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 1:05 pmI watched Imitation of Life this weekend, and I was thinking about if this movie would be relevant in 2013. I think you answered my question.
Adrienne D. Williams says:August 14, 2013 at 1:05 pmI watched Imitation of Life this weekend, and I was thinking about if this movie would be relevant in 2013. I think you answered my question.
Gee Flex says:August 14, 2013 at 1:12 pmKewl! Let’s have them infiltrate the Teabillies!
Gee Flex says:August 14, 2013 at 1:12 pmKewl! Let’s have them infiltrate the Teabillies!
Gevon Monique says:August 14, 2013 at 1:12 pmEva Keane We don’t claim Tiger…trust me.
Gevon Monique says:August 14, 2013 at 1:12 pmEva Keane We don’t claim Tiger…trust me.
Alexander Thomas says:August 14, 2013 at 1:17 pmFunny you bring this up. I’ve been wondering lately about how we’ve taken the colors black & white – give them a value (ie the whole white is pure black is evil thing) ok, fine, but then we assign them inaccurately to the color of our skin – there are some people of African descent whose skin is actually black, most of us are varying shades of brown. Any child will tell you that. There are absolutely no white people – people who’s skin are white – (beige maybe?) With the exception maybe of a percentage of Albino skinned people and a number of “them” are in fact African. And then society ascribes the value that has been ascribed to the color to the people that we pretend are those colors but are actually not. Go figure.
Alexander Thomas says:August 14, 2013 at 1:17 pmFunny you bring this up. I’ve been wondering lately about how we’ve taken the colors black & white – give them a value (ie the whole white is pure black is evil thing) ok, fine, but then we assign them inaccurately to the color of our skin – there are some people of African descent whose skin is actually black, most of us are varying shades of brown. Any child will tell you that. There are absolutely no white people – people who’s skin are white – (beige maybe?) With the exception maybe of a percentage of Albino skinned people and a number of “them” are in fact African. And then society ascribes the value that has been ascribed to the color to the people that we pretend are those colors but are actually not. Go figure.
Nick Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 1:19 pmI was reading that. I cringe when I see people comment on facebook. Exposes alot of stupidity
Nick Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 1:19 pmI was reading that. I cringe when I see people comment on facebook. Exposes alot of stupidity
Donna Duplantier says:August 14, 2013 at 1:23 pmThe problem is that is STILL SOMETHING THAT WE IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY STILL HAVE ISSUES WITH!! THIS IS SO STUPID!!! FIRE THIS IDIOT! PASSING????!!! F OFF!
Donna Duplantier says:August 14, 2013 at 1:23 pmThe problem is that is STILL SOMETHING THAT WE IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY STILL HAVE ISSUES WITH!! THIS IS SO STUPID!!! FIRE THIS IDIOT! PASSING????!!! F OFF!
Donna Duplantier says:August 14, 2013 at 1:26 pmTru Locs GET A LIFE!!! this article STUPID!!! BLACK PEOPLE PLEASE STOP FIXATING ON THIS!!! WE HAVE TO GROW!!! FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!!!
Marilyn Garrison says:August 14, 2013 at 1:32 pmThis has put being Black and proud back to 100 years ago. Not good. Very sad in fact!
Micah El Mugabe Beckford says:August 14, 2013 at 1:35 pmOK NOW FOR SCIENCE….BLACKS ARE THE ONLY PEOPLE ON THIS PLANER THAT IS 100% HUMAN EVERYONE ELSE IS AN ADMIXTURE OF HUMAN NEANDERTHAL/RHESUS MONKEY DNA….I LOVE SCIENCE WHY? BECAUSE IT DOES NOT CARE ABOUT MY OPINON OR THE REST OF YOU FUCKS ON HERE!
Andrew Knoll says:August 14, 2013 at 1:43 pmI agree with most that the people on this list are largely a reach in terms of “passing,” in fact this list probably has Nella Larsen spinning in her grave. I think it’s considerably more interesting that we now have a large number of white entertainers “passing” for black, and now in a sanitized sort of way that old time rock n rollers may have. You look at contemporary R&B, it’s filled with white guys who would consider “Wow, from your record I thought you were black!” to be very high praise.
Shelly Hunt says:August 14, 2013 at 1:49 pmAll this is is drama who cares it doesn’t bother then so why are mad blk ppl crack up smh sad
Frank Nemec says:August 14, 2013 at 1:53 pmWith mobile society and intermarriage, race is quickly becoming obsolete.
Nth Bar-Fields says:August 14, 2013 at 1:55 pmFrank, I kind of wish the process would speed up!
Ben Kahn says:August 14, 2013 at 2:30 pmI really needed this today. Thank You.
Joseph Flores says:August 14, 2013 at 3:14 pmNo “black” people on this list, theyre all bi/multiracial. No surprises here.
Sandy McIntire says:August 14, 2013 at 3:18 pmHistory repeats itself doesn’t it? Sometimes I feel like I’m back in the fifties again.
Chike Nwabukwu says:August 14, 2013 at 3:20 pmGood point. I agree it is probably better to say some people don’t show any west African physical traits. If not for the ‘1 drop’ rule, would it even be an issue? Anyway, to another point, I have to disagree that all Americans of African descent are mixed race people. There is a new generation of Americans of African descent whose parents recently settled in this country. As their children continue to integrate and contribute to American society, I forsee these terms “Black” and “African-American” getting a bit more…interesting?
Carly Prentis Jones says:August 14, 2013 at 3:58 pmThis is absolutely sickening to me! I am a biracial actress as well and very proud of my Black father – I just don’t fit into what society is comfortable calling “Black” in a lot of cases – which is their problem. There are many times I don’t look “black enough” for the categorized “black female role” – are we supposed to turn down racially ambiguous roles just because people who don’t know us will criticize us and say we are “passing”? We are ACTING! – that is what we do – we become other people…If it is not a direct reflection of who we are- who cares? Just because you have the ability to play multiple types of roles does not mean you are disowning your black heritage. I don’t believe Rashida Jones has ever denounced her father – and I’m pretty positive Maya Rudolf has always been open about the fact that she is mixed. This article saddens me – we have so far to go. Why must we be constantly ridiculed by our own people?
Michael Fromla says:August 14, 2013 at 3:58 pmThe author dug deep into their “one drop” bias to scribble this article, and assigned a lot of convictions on these people that we don’t know if they believe or not. Without hearing from the subjects themselves on the issue, this was a speculative exercise.
Aurelia Belfield says:August 14, 2013 at 4:09 pmThis article is 100% bizarre. I haven’t heard anyone (Black or otherwise) say that any of these people are “passing”. What I have noticed is that people seem to confuse “passing” and “presenting”, “presenting” being a passive action; when people assume you are a certain race/ethnicity on their own without your consult, and “passing” being an active action to portray oneself as a particular race/ethnicity. And at least with all the contemporary actors on the list as far as I know NONE of them have played an explicitly White character, they’ve always played Black or Bi/Multi-racial characters, or characters assumed to be Multi-racial and we never actually see their parents (like Ann on Parks and Rec or Karen on The Office, both played by Rashida Jones). I can’t remember if we saw Jennifer Beals’ parents in Flashdance, but I’m almost positive she was bi-racial on The L Word, and as for Carol Channing, she was at he peak in the 40s/50s, which was an extraordinarily different environment than it is now, so I don’t know what point exactly the author was trying to make, aside from asserting their own ignorance.
Sharon L. Carnahan says:August 14, 2013 at 4:09 pm@ Rchard, for a lot of Black people, the notion that we think we’re in a post-racial world (where race doesn’t matter) is offensive, too.
Vitamin Q says:August 14, 2013 at 4:18 pmHere’s a hint..w hen u say something and only the white people agree…u might wanna reevaluate your stance!
Vitamin Q says:August 14, 2013 at 4:18 pmSameerah Luqmaan-Harris nto me.. i always wanna be classified as black. I love being black!
Vitamin Q says:August 14, 2013 at 4:19 pmI’m from New orleans….none of em fooled me!
Theresia Tange says:August 14, 2013 at 4:32 pmthey are all biracial and biracial is not black so what was the point of this article!
Kevin Paul Gonzales says:August 14, 2013 at 5:54 pmThey’re not Black, these people are multi racial, the 1 drop rule went out with Jim Crow!
Kevin Paul Gonzales says:August 14, 2013 at 5:59 pm“SAY IT LOUD, I’M BLACK AND I’M PROUD” JAMES BROWN: SOUL BROTHA #1! Y’ALL CAN KEEP THEM MIXIES!
Ursula Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 6:07 pmHaving been born in Texas, raised in Southern California and lived most of my adult life in Northern California where I’ve come across folks from all over the diaspora I’m always surprised and often amused at people’s amazement when their perceptions of what a “black” person is “supposed” to look like! It is proven on a daily basis how unique and diverse “we” are. The folks listed in this article have, for the most part, all made a decision at some point in their life to claim that part of their ancestry with which they can most relate, accepting all the joy and pain that came with that decision. How others react to that decision is NOT something for which these individuals are responsible. They appear to be living their lives in a manner that honors both themselves and their ancestors, ALL OF THEM! It is now our responsibility to move this conversation forward.
Charles Campbell says:August 14, 2013 at 6:17 pmJust another reminder to those that would like to pretend that racism does not exist anymore. If America was not such a racist country, these people would not have had to hide their heritage to be successful.
Sara Abernethy says:August 14, 2013 at 6:18 pmPREACH
Bryant Sadiku says:August 14, 2013 at 6:28 pmThis list, is full of stupid.
Michael Hill says:August 14, 2013 at 6:29 pmChuck, Only one of these people listed has been accused of trying to hide their heritage. If you google the rest of them anyone who cares to know learns they are black. It literally takes seconds. Now when most of them are actively and vehemently denying their black heritage, the author may have a point. I mean the name ‘Rashida Jones’ immediately leads me to think black. If someone chooses to look at them and assume otherwise, it’s not their fault nor are they hiding anything.
Andrew James Bernard Kay says:August 14, 2013 at 6:30 pm…so stupid…and Maya didn’t play a “white woman” in Bridesmaids anyway… wtf?
Derrick Braud says:August 14, 2013 at 6:33 pmThis is really stupid. Black is not a race its a color. WHY do black people insist every person with some negro descent declare himself black or else. If you define black by how a person looks then these people do not fit the black phenotype. If you define black by the “one drop rule”, which is clearly retarded, then these people obviously have a lot more other drops in them. If you define black as a cultural or ethnic identity then one would be hard pressd to define that identity as it applies to all black people. What these people are are racial hybrids. they bear Simlilarities to their parent races but because of their mixture they are uniquely different from them. I think the reason blacks always bring this up is because they feel that people who are able to “pass” are somehow getting a benefit that they themselves aren’t able to recieve. Like crabs in a barrel some folks hate to see others succeed and throw off the label of Black.
Jess Nelson says:August 14, 2013 at 6:42 pmThese people are worst than the stereotypical ambiguous brown.
Geo Rule says:August 14, 2013 at 7:06 pm“one drop” (of African blood) as context is sooooo 19th century.
Elisabeth Penn Jones says:August 14, 2013 at 7:09 pmThis is my issue with “online journalism”—sometimes it’s just stupid. I actually feel like I may have lost a few brain cells reading that. I should have known by the ignorant title…it’s interesting how in today’s standards none of these people are considered black…people really shouldn’t compose articles without their brains…
Erica Taylor says:August 14, 2013 at 7:21 pmEveryone is mixed with something. Doing slavery nothing was just pure. Genes have a habit of coming out and surprising everybody. What is done in the dark will come .
Ayo Millions says:August 14, 2013 at 7:30 pmI’m agreeing with my homie Q, I’m from New Orleans and this is the home of the “passe’ Blancs” aka The black people that can pass off as white. You people from Hollywood don’t understand or see what we see, I could pick all of them out of a line up with I was given the chance. F*ck the skin color, All them mofo’s got nappy ass hair!! Look at them roots!!! Look at ya boy with that slick hair and nappy ass beard!! Come on man!! They ain’t fooling me!!!
Toni Tay says:August 14, 2013 at 7:37 pmI saw some surprises in here but for the most part, most of them were not passing for white bec they admitted their ancestry. They just look more white than black. The “passing” for black part is kind of putting a negative spin on something that isn’t negative.
Dawn Walker says:August 14, 2013 at 8:07 pmOmg !!!!!!!! Wentworth Miller I kinda knew it…. Love him to fine…..LOL
Joseph Arechavala says:August 14, 2013 at 8:13 pmI’m just wondering who has been appointed to judge whether someone is black or not…just so I know who the ultimate authority is.
Carl Webb says:August 14, 2013 at 8:27 pmEva Keane I only see one of the people listed as someone who didnt want the label “black.
Acacia Smith says:August 14, 2013 at 8:31 pmI cannot presume why or if they tried to pass. But, some biracial people think it easier to be white. They have said, they have no problems. But, I beg to differ on that issue. “What is so easy in this day and age is being white going to bring you”? If anything, I would say it’s very hard. I know to many people like this, and they call their self “family”. Give me a break!
Maya Zimmermann says:August 14, 2013 at 8:37 pmVin Diesel
Carl Webb says:August 14, 2013 at 8:46 pmKrystal Williams That’s why it’s called ‘passing’ because you can’t tell that they’re part black.
Carl Webb says:August 14, 2013 at 8:48 pmHow can someone that is half Black be said to only have a small amount of Black ancestry?
Carl Webb says:August 14, 2013 at 8:56 pmRegina Taylorhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passing_(racial_identity)
Patrice Barge-Munden says:August 14, 2013 at 9:48 pmEva Larue, The Rock, Wentworth Miller, Jessica Alba & on and on……………………….
Wotless Watty says:August 14, 2013 at 10:06 pmPerhaps I’m naive, but isn’t about time we stop labeling people? I am of Caribbean heritage (Trinidad % Tobago) and as such my ancestry is as colourful as the rainbow and I am proud to be human!
Robin M Fay says:August 14, 2013 at 10:25 pmI agree, Toni. And that kind of headline is reinforcing yet another racial sterotype…
Rachelle Miller says:August 14, 2013 at 10:30 pmFolks seem so ready to criticize and feign outrage about this story. I’m not so sure I understand why? No one said anything about what the folks pictured here say about their ancestry (except the Italian lady who seems to be in denial). Many of us are missing the obvious in this dialogue—it’s how OTHER people perceive them based on their appearance alone.When you see most of these folks on tv, they look mainstream—caucasian, and all the intricacies of their ethnicity are not readily apparent. Hollywood has coined the term “racially ambiguous” for a reason.Why are folks “outraged” over the expression of what is simply fact? Some people’s race just isn’t so obviously clear. And I’m ok with that…because race isn’t how I’m judging them anyway.Remember the Dr. King color of skin vs content of character thing?PS
I hope more of us will actually research “passing” in its historical context to discover what it truly meant and how it effected people’s lives for better and worse.
Toni Tay says:August 14, 2013 at 10:30 pmSdot Chambers Actually, the term “passing for white” used to mean that someone WAS denying their heritage. The terminology used was the only thing I found wrong with the article. It was inaccurate. But I guess they did that to get more views.
V Michelle Bernard says:August 14, 2013 at 10:50 pmThis isn’t surprising since most of them are half-white.
Jeretha Lomax says:August 14, 2013 at 10:52 pmI was watching a talk show, don’t remember the name , when Wentworth Miller stated he was biracial. However, his character on television was Caucasian. I was not surprised when he indicated he was biracial – he has beautiful coarse hair.
Chagasca Gagniere says:August 14, 2013 at 10:59 pmBest comment so far Derrick Braud. Thank you (from a biracial person.)
Dorothy Ann Porawski-Orzechowska says:August 14, 2013 at 11:00 pmyeah, i don’t get that. what is this article trying to say? it’s like, OOOH! these’s people are liars or are closet blacks! some people treat ‘black’ or ‘white’ like an issue or nationality instead of an issue of genetics. just like with Obama. his momma is WHITE people!… and who cares!!!! not. me. don’t know why i am commenting though. now because i spoke up and wrote above quoted adjectives someone is bound to say i’m racist….. beh!
Seem Park says:August 14, 2013 at 11:02 pmI don’t see the author as bashing mixed actors who pass for white, but rather criticizing the system for a limited selection of similarly strong and well developed black roles for these actors. Again, we don’t need to jump on people who discuss race. The author didn’t put-down any of those people in the descriptions and the article wasn’t negative in any way. Also, “passing” is still relevant in a country where black people “as a whole” are still on the bottom and “passing” gets you benefits. For example- roles that other blacks are denied. Again, I’m not dogging anyone for “passing”, just don’t look down on those people you “pass” moving up the ladder.
Seem Park says:August 14, 2013 at 11:05 pmWhy aren’t people similarly “upset” and “disgusted” with the lack of great black roles for these actors instead of taking issue with the author for writing an article discussing racial topics?? #societynotpostracialyet
Mimi Brooks says:August 14, 2013 at 11:28 pmI pass for Dominican at best, lol
Mimi Brooks says:August 14, 2013 at 11:31 pmThe chick from NJ Housewives is technically “Dark” Italian, Moor from 500 years ago running in that hair and nose before she anglofied herself. But never call them a “Moolie”, lol
Hugh Holmes says:August 14, 2013 at 11:37 pmAin’t NONE of them white. And Melissa’s really trippin’ if she thinks she doesn’t have any Black in her. It goes waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay back.
Hugh Holmes says:August 14, 2013 at 11:38 pmAnd Carol Channing? Her lips are bigger than mine. I could’ve told you THAT.
Eddie Pryce says:August 14, 2013 at 11:42 pmI actually know Megan Markle. Went to school with her….too funny
Eddie Pryce says:August 14, 2013 at 11:42 pmanyways you go head girl…great points!
Hugh Holmes says:August 14, 2013 at 11:52 pmKahala Lei Azuma Maui One of the oldest Italian family names is LoNegro, so what’s THAT tell you? And don’t forget Nigro, Nero, etc….
Hugh Holmes says:August 15, 2013 at 12:08 amAnd even in the “after” photo, she looks like Jayne Kennedy meets a young Dihann Carroll….
Hugh Holmes says:August 15, 2013 at 12:19 amSadik Bey And also, Julius Caesar (and you can’t get any more Italian than him) had African troops in his legions stationed in Italy. Looks like the Coal Man has been making deliveries there for a helllllllllalong time.
Rob Maysey says:August 15, 2013 at 12:47 amWow
Simon Pheenix says:August 15, 2013 at 1:58 amCarol Channing, wow!
Lucien Darthard says:August 15, 2013 at 2:52 amWhy no Mariah Carey ?
Donna J. Nicol says:August 15, 2013 at 2:58 amThis is garbage because “passing” assumes denial of their Black heritage. So even if the author didn’t say it outright, it was implied. It is utterly ridiculous to hold people to the “one-drop” rule when DNA testing services all conclude that the average African American is at least 30% non-Black. It is even more ridiculous when you consider that the “one-drop” rule was a creation of racist white people who wanted to deny fathering Black children or providing equal protection under the law. Why would oppressed people side with the policy perspectives of their oppressors is beyond me….
Clinton Andrews says:August 15, 2013 at 3:09 amcrazy
Aj Barber says:August 15, 2013 at 3:34 amwhy Bill Clinton’s name not up here? he’s the only white guy in America that knows all the words to the Black National Anthem, “Life every voice and sing” many blacks never heard that song before.
Leanne Marshall says:August 15, 2013 at 5:28 amIts a bit of a strange article. I didn’t assume that that Maya Rudolf was playing a white women in Bridesmaids.
Iris Deveney-Doughty says:August 15, 2013 at 5:35 amDoes it matter. Why can we all judge persons by their character?
Chloe Paul says:August 15, 2013 at 6:05 amYou can be what you want to be as long as you feel comfortable with it.
Walter BlackBond Cobb says:August 15, 2013 at 7:33 amI think passing is a wrong word in this story. For most of those mentioned they should have used “mistaken” for white. Perhaps the title is just an attempt to grab attention and spark debate.
Tyrone Kirk says:August 15, 2013 at 8:02 am“However, as the daughter of well-known music mogul, Quincy Jones, she can’t hide from her black side.”Looks like the author is implying here that Rashida Jones is indeed trying to hide that she is black. The tone of the article (and the headline) is written to get us to read it with contempt towards the people listed.
Stacey Ellis says:August 15, 2013 at 8:16 amThis article is misleading. These people are not trying to pass. Everyone that I recognized on this list has revealed their blackness. Just because some people assume they are white, doesn’t mean they are trying to pass.
Garikai Nyeke says:August 15, 2013 at 10:25 amStupid article and a hollow attempt at race baiting for hits. Only positive is I get to see Rachel Meghan Markle who even if she was green I would gladly hand my penis to exclusively. Stupid article I see some “journalists” are stealing a living these days.
Maureen McKenna says:August 15, 2013 at 10:34 amMaybe we have come to a place where we don’t have to identify w/one or the other. Particularly if you/they are bi-racial. Realize the history but why does the white side of the coin get ignored and they check the box “African/Black” only? Maybe it’s time to check the “melting pot” box.
Maribel Nuno says:August 15, 2013 at 10:42 amThe celebrities they are showcasing all have one whit/light skinned parent, this article fails to acknowledge that these particular celebs are both black and white… This article feels contrived.
Jorge Barreiro Pelegrin says:August 15, 2013 at 11:02 amWith articles like this, we’ll never end the racial issue! I bet the writer woudn’t say a thing if these actors would play a “Black Race” Character! The writer is extremely a racist one! She could have written the same without racial connotations!
Sharon Denise says:August 15, 2013 at 11:36 amWhy is this article relevant when their parentage is known…they are not passing…they are biracial and that’s it. The title is definitely wrong! Please go back and research the subject matter before writing an article!
Jarrett Milton says:August 15, 2013 at 12:40 pmFor reference sake, Maya Rudolph did not play a white woman in Bridesmaids. She actually played a bi-racial role as evident of her Black father played by actor/comedian, Franklyn Ajaye. If you recall the movie, he spoke during her engagement party.
Phoenix LaFemme says:August 15, 2013 at 10:43 pmThis is reaching. First off, it’s not like these people are denying their heritage. But what’s the point of them going around yelling “hey guys did you know I’m Black?!?!” Please stop reaching.
Richard Wootton says:August 16, 2013 at 12:24 amI just stumbled across this and expected to be wowed and suprised…. must say who ever bothered to write this is an idiot the people listed are biracial and most listed are with REALLY white parents like the Irish this isn’t black passing as white these are biracial you cant claim them to be any race they are simply fair skinned people some very sexy at that but anyways… author wrote an idiotic piece..
Sam Arojo says:August 16, 2013 at 6:56 amShouldn’t the piece be called “10 PART black celebs who successfully pass for white”? I mean how do we know these people don’t want to be seen and celebrated as mixed race rather than black or white?
Morgan James says:August 16, 2013 at 8:16 amI watch Pretty Little Liars. Didn’t expect Trojan to be partially black. However her mother is half black, not 100%. Making Trojan as black as Mariah Carey.
Christian-Joy Ttiremed says:August 16, 2013 at 8:30 amUm, Melissa had on a hoop earrings and a name plate chain! If that ain’t black IDK what is! Lol! j/k
Leslie Clarke says:August 16, 2013 at 10:46 amHonestly Mellisa Gorga could be all Italian the nose and hair do show traits but Jewish Italians and even full fledge Italians have black features that’s a hard one to pin down!
Roja Horchata Kurtz says:August 16, 2013 at 1:44 pmIn Bridesmaids, Maya Rudolph’s character isn’t passing for a white woman. Her “parents” are shown a few times in the movie and her “father” is black and her “mother” is white. Also, I don’t really like that the author uses the word “passing” for white people. These are multiracial people with diverse ancestries who aren’t trying to hide their “blackness” (other than Carol Channing). I don’t have any black ancestry, but I find this article a little offensive. Why do we need to fit people into boxes?
Yolanda Stanislas says:August 16, 2013 at 7:52 pmCarly Simon is also half black.
Alexia Taylor says:August 17, 2013 at 10:36 ampardon me , but aren’t most people in the worl a good mix of a lil bit of this and a lil bit of that? I considermyself a hinz 57 mix lol
Paul V. Oates Jr. says:August 17, 2013 at 11:44 amThis article misleading makes it look like these people purposefully tried to ‘pass’.
My question: is the burden on them to scream at the top of their lunges that they’re black just to prove they’re ‘Down’
Dru Daniels says:August 17, 2013 at 12:28 pmThis is one of the most perplexing and insulting articles I’ve read in a while. Passing? Really? We’re in freaking America. Mr.Moore must think it’s still a melting pot with some “unmeltables”. I hope someday we can go from melting pot to salad bowl…but clearly, it’s going to take much longer than I thought.
Wehttam Selrahc Legeis says:August 17, 2013 at 5:29 pmWhat a snarky and judgmental article. I particularly liked the one about Rashida Jones passing along with the rest of the “white cast” of Community……ignoring Ken Jeong, Donald Glover, Danny Pudi, Nicole Yvette Brown, and numerous other cameos by people of color. I completely understand having certain sensitivities about race given the history of humanity, and this country in particular, but constantly viewing the world in terms of race only reinforces race as a central defining characteristic of who we are—which isn’t that dissimilar from racism insofar as it privileges the color of skin as our most important defining characteristic. As much as racism is perpetuated by systems of oppression and discrimination, it’s also reinforced by those who try to impose their own view of what it is to be “black” and then police anyone who departs from that stereotype–something Donald Glover, one of those members of the “white” cast of Community talks about in his music (Childish Gambino).
B.j. Trammell says:August 19, 2013 at 1:50 pmI thought everybody knew jessica beals…
Paige Stewart says:August 19, 2013 at 2:15 pmClearly somebodies doesn’t know a lot about Italian. My dad’s half Italian and I grew up going to Italy. Italians have kinky hair just like black people. It’s so common. Could there have been some mixing back in the day since Africa and Italy are so close? Sure, but it’s not uncommon at all for someone to have two Italian parents and have kinky, kinky hair. That’s not odd or Atypical. That’s typical.
Jordan Walker says:August 19, 2013 at 2:37 pmBy the criterion of this article, _all_ of black america is white passing for black (black americans are on average something like 30-40% white).And the Italian woman, if all she knows is Italian ancestors, then that is all she can say. North Africa was part of the Roman Empire once, and Italy was also invaded by various North African groups before and after.I’m a little disturbed that one-drop white racial purity is still how people see this. But if the black category is the strongest where one-drop overrides everything else, then the whole world is going to be black.
Kaila Shivers says:August 19, 2013 at 7:59 pmUm, Maya Rudolf does not play a white woman in Bridesmaids.Moreover, I find this whole article offensive and a reproduction of a racially divided society. The connotations of “passing” are widely negative and implies something about the people that you are labeling here.
Tshepo Mokoena says:August 19, 2013 at 8:25 pmAmerican hypodescent is odd. In other cultures, these celebs are mixed-race, afforded their own ethnicity and culture, and not “classified” as black. I wonder when the one drop rule’s going to lose its hold on people’s minds here.
Iteref Ankh El says:August 19, 2013 at 11:07 pmTHE POINT IS IF THEY LOOK WHITE, THEY DOn’t HANG OUT WITH BLACKS OR THEY WOULDn’t ACCEPT ALL OR ONLY WHITE IMAGERY ROLES..PEOPLE DOn’t WANT TO ACCEPT THAT PEOPLE MAGNETIZE TOWARDS THIER SKIN COMPLEXION..PLAIN & SIMPLE..WHEN IM OUT @ NIGHT THEIR IS NO ONE AROUND ME BRIGHT & ITS THE SAME FOR THEM, [BUT YOU CAN IF ITS A MENTAL CONNECTION & TOO MANY PEOPLE ARE SCARED TO DO THAT]NO MATTER WHAT THEY LOOK LIKE!
Diamond Intheruff says:August 20, 2013 at 9:24 amOMG! Carol Channing? Well I guess back then you had to do what you had to do in order to succeed in your craft. SS. As for Soledad O’Brien has never hidden her blackness, but has proudly mentioned it several time.
Diamond Intheruff says:August 20, 2013 at 9:27 amWentworth Miller, he is fine though. When he played on Prison Break; he played brother to a white man, which I thought was cool. Even that show was biracial. there were several character who were biracial. Thanks for putting it in the mix!
Xavier J. Mejido says:August 20, 2013 at 9:38 amIncluding Melissa Gorga on this list highlights the problematic concept of race. There is no reason to doubt she is “100% Italian,” Sicilian to be exact. The problem is that the Mediterranean has a very different take on race than the United States for which this article was intended. There is absolutely no insidious notion of a “one drop rule” in that part of the world. The Mediterranean region, both north and south is genetically varied and the genetic tests bear that out. This is why many southern Italians, Spaniards, Portuguese and North Africans can look “black” to many Americans accustomed to the old “one drop” paradigm. The same may be said of Latin Americans and West Indians which are descended from Iberians, Africans, Amerindians, etc.
Bonnie BrushGirl Sporn says:August 20, 2013 at 12:34 pmGood piece, I think the author meant these actors could ‘pass’ for white AND many other ethnicities, a la Vin Diesel. He wrote, directed, produced, and starred in a really good short film Multi-Facial , a short semi-autobiographical film where he tries out for film roles as a Puerto Rican, African American, Italian, Caucasian and the casting director have no idea what to do with him. Also, why is Maya Rudolph’s mother listed as black but her father is an “Ashkanzi Jew”? Being Jewish is a RELIGION not a race. You can be an Italian Jew, a Irish Jew…
Russ Rogers says:August 20, 2013 at 6:06 pmThe concept of “Passing for White” and who might be able to “Pass for White” has a horrible history of racism and black on black racism. Seriously, it’s pretty ugly. Why not just have your next article be, “Which Celebrities Would Be Allowed into a Brown Paper Bag Party?”
Roma Maffia says:August 20, 2013 at 10:00 pmI agree with most of the comments on the topic, especially with the discussion of Maya’s character in Bridemaids, where and why would it be stated that her character was “White”. Because she had white girlfriends or a black issue wasn’t at the center of the movie? I found that to be very confusing.
Robert Byrd says:August 20, 2013 at 10:23 pmThis is a pretty nasty article. I don’t think many of these people try to pass for white. the author of this piece seems to have some sort of chip his or her shoulder. This is ridiculous.
Christian Johnson says:August 21, 2013 at 9:48 amWith all the bi-racial people mentioned here, you could have called the article “10 White Celebs That Successfully Pass for Black” and it would have been equally as pointless.
Jasmin Darshana Dickerson says:October 8, 2013 at 6:49 pmthnaks keith,well put! i live in germany and i am so sick and tired of people telling me i am not black because in their opinion my skin colour is supposed to be tar like in order to “pass” as black
Jasmin Darshana Dickerson says:October 8, 2013 at 6:50 pmcarly: i am a biracial actress myself but in germany.needless to say i work 3 jobs and none of them are on stage,right?
Janessa Brown says:October 8, 2013 at 7:50 pmI get what you are saying. But how can someone who is half black and white become black? or if your ancestry is 75-95 white how is that black? I am Haitian I am pretty black so people who are actually black should define whos black and not and by the way my son is mixed he isn’t black and he isn’t white but mixed :)Black Americans just like the White Americans did are forcing mixed race people to pick black one drop rules whites created. My mixed son will not be considered black or white but mixed because why should pure blacks compete with mixed people? Halle Barry is not black and my pure black ass says so
Ruby Bennett says:October 9, 2013 at 12:13 pmMost of American history is ugly if you’re black.
Mario Loredo Jr. says:October 9, 2013 at 12:23 pm…
Corey Hardin says:October 9, 2013 at 12:33 pmMaya Rudolph’s dad in Bridesmaids was a black man, so I don’t think her character was white. Remember the wedding party speech by him?? They just had her marrying a goofy, corny white dude which is the more acceptable manner of interracial relationship in Hollywood.
Teresa Achong says:October 9, 2013 at 1:01 pmReally, in this 21st century we still talking colour ???? …who gives a flying horse ?? What does it matter if we’re black, white, Chinese, Indian, red or not ?? Are they nice persons ? Do you enjoy their performances ? Sheesh…can’t believe this crap, still going on. This is why we will never evolve…the Apes have, but not us humans. Now for those who subscribe to this type of thinking…GO GET A LIFE !!!!
Pat Sha-Mac says:October 9, 2013 at 1:14 pmDo they know that half of the ‘Caribbean’ successfully passing for ‘Red’…lol woot woot, let’s hear it for ‘Red people’ (LOL.. ah have way too much time on meh hands.. LOL)
Kina Watson says:October 9, 2013 at 1:59 pmAlot of people must didnt get that memo about Barack Obama…cause they damn show giving him a hard time because of his skin color!
Kina Watson says:October 9, 2013 at 2:06 pmJanessa Brown good luck with that hun. I work in school system and have seen mixed children not treated equal to whites, they are grouped in with the blacks.
Blak Smith says:October 9, 2013 at 2:47 pmMost of ’em are MULATTOES & therefore get an *! Check this series out athttp://black2afrika.blogspot.com/2013/05/mullatoes-other-half-breed-nikkkas_20.html.
Alyssa Haskins says:October 9, 2013 at 2:57 pmMelissa Gorga can deny it all that she wants but Italy’s history, especially Southern Italy, states otherwise. She needs to do her research. There are no 100 % pure anything in Italy. Everyone from the Moors, the Phoenicians, the Normans . . . she is so mixed up and it’s apparent.
Donna Turner says:October 9, 2013 at 3:10 pmGillian Hendricks – But here in America we place others in caste systems based on mixed race categorizations. That was dark and horrible part of SA’s history.
Heru Salmon says:October 9, 2013 at 3:15 pmWho cares we all human. Doesn’t matter to me anymore. As long they living a good life and contributing and help building a better society for the future. Vamos!!!!!!
Donna Beasley says:October 9, 2013 at 3:59 pmHow does being 1/2 black and 1/2 white make you black????? It does not add up!
Mark Holder says:October 9, 2013 at 4:11 pmEcckie becky or paint brush…
Tamara Digginditches Graham says:October 9, 2013 at 4:13 pmBill Herder it has never been unimportant in this country. It shouldn’t matter and it doesn’t, but the fact that people don’t know what we look like, every way that we do look, is a problem. The content of your character is the real judge, but until we aren’t discriminating on the basis of looks then it matters
Rochelle A. Bradley says:October 9, 2013 at 4:17 pmAlani, I was thinking the same thing about Maya Rudolph, she did not play a white woman, Her father in the movie was played by Franklyn Ajaye
Ranata D. Clark says:October 9, 2013 at 4:53 pmMelissa Gorga is a liar. You looking dead on Tia and Tamera but you all white? SUUUUURRRREEEE.
Kobie Andry says:October 9, 2013 at 4:59 pmthis is dumb. they mixed and not trying to pass. wait, is this out of ashy ass Atlanta?
Author James W. Lewis says:October 9, 2013 at 5:30 pmDamn, we are so obsessed with the color of skin, aren’t we?
Ranata D. Clark says:October 9, 2013 at 5:47 pmYep. And they aren’t saying they trying to pass, but that they CAN pass. I think it was just worded differently.
Lula Jackson says:October 9, 2013 at 6:26 pmI these people are black then someone need to tell us if u have 2 black parent what are they considered…if you are half and half..when I was in school it equaled to being half and half…if you are black and white thats what u r..u r not black…2 black parent makes u black..some people need to go back to school…
Lula Jackson says:October 9, 2013 at 6:32 pmForget about the 1 drop rule..thats Bull S…my grand daughter is 75% white and 25% black..she is considered white and looking at her u would never in a million years think she has a drop of black in her…I love her with all my life but I will tell her about my back ground and why we look different..she will know she has black in her…sorry to say she will fit in where she feels more comfortable..society can be a bitch…
Von Omari says:October 9, 2013 at 6:57 pmCourtney Harge , none of these actors were outed. They’ve all acknowledged at some point in their careers that they are part Black and very proud of it. Jennifer Beals, in an interview in Ebony years ago, said that when her hair dresser wants to straighten the waved roots, she tells her not to. It’s the only thing that reminds her of her late father. It’s her own little way of staying connected to him……But I understand what you’re saying. Opps………my bad, I didn’t scroll all the way down. Yep, they did some outing……
Elvis Wong-You says:October 9, 2013 at 7:22 pmI would say, either a wonderful/happy person or a miserable/confused person.
Bruns-wade LMichelle says:October 9, 2013 at 7:52 pmMost of them have acknowledged who they are, but Melissa Gorga insists she doesn’t have a drop. She’s right..She has a whole damn bucket!
Yea Understanding Shabazz says:October 9, 2013 at 8:17 pmNot the crab there’s 16 shade of black 8shade of brown 8shade yellow dna will tell you if you if u black or not because it is a difference in race and not just the color
Sandra Bankston says:October 9, 2013 at 8:23 pmThe title of this article is misleading. By saying “successfully passing for white”, the inference is that the person is making a deliberate attempt to deny their black heritage. As stated in other posts, there is only one denial
Rodney Neal Powell says:October 9, 2013 at 8:47 pmwhere is Van Diesel?
Sayeed Sanders says:October 9, 2013 at 9:27 pmSameerah Luqmaan-Harris Hopefully those who are Black humans get to see themselves as human without denying being Black.
Juan Pablo Rivas says:October 9, 2013 at 10:43 pmI don’t know you guys but I think apparence plays an important role on this, I’m not saying that these celebrities don’t have to recognize their african heritage, but to my standards they don’t look basically black, why we blacks insist on this? if a bird looks closer to a duck, why we have to say that this animal is a lion?
Sirraj Alim says:October 9, 2013 at 11:15 pmBill Herder Let’s not forget skin color has and is a deciding factor in money allocation for schools and neighborhoods, that in turn is a heavy factor in determining education quality, which affects secondary and/or vocational education quality(if any), which dictates job selection, which impacts how you can support your family and where you can live. Which brings you right back to now what schools and neighborhoods the next generation of kids will excel or be hindered in. You following the pattern? It’s 2013 and skin color is still very relevant in the real of society. Think it’s not? Go to new york, visit manhattan and take a drive down park avenue. Let me know how the scenery changes when you cross the harlem river into bronx. Then when you’re done there come back to my home, Richmond,VA. One of america’s corner stones of deep seeded racism. The effects of Jim Crow runs deep in many black people even today. Crime, the penal system, the education system all reflect ‘color’ differences. The concentration of liquor stores. Brand new Dollar General built across the street from a Family Dollar on northside of richmond but nowhere to buy fresh produce in sight! I could go on for days about this. Don’t get me wrong though, I’m doing good. I saw the mistakes and pitfalls from an early age and was able to maneuver around them. But I have a laundry list of friends that didn’t and I can easily the mental and exposure limitations. Theoretically color should not be important but factually it is. Very much so. Mr. Herder you seem old enough to know that very well.
Sirraj Alim says:October 9, 2013 at 11:20 pmThen I guess we should stop claiming Barack Obama as the first black president… Right. Good luck winning that campaign.
Dee Vine says:October 9, 2013 at 11:43 pmThe only problem I have with this article is that it says Maya Rudolph played a white woman in Bridesmaids. Ummm if I’m not mistaken she played a Bi/Multiracial woman, remember her father was a Black man with Locs, go to the wedding scene A Moore and see for yourself.
Ifeanyi Labicas Enyia says:October 10, 2013 at 12:17 amBlack is black, white is white, whether mixed race or not, being black is a thing of the mind, you know within yourself who you are, you can deny all ur life, but u know deep down in ya soul where u belong.
I don’t care what anyone thinks, i mustn’t be compelled or reminded i am black, everyone knows who he/she is.
I am black,I love being black and would always want to remain black and am proud I am.
Sandra Serrao says:October 10, 2013 at 7:31 amOr both …lol
Chelsia Latney says:October 10, 2013 at 10:00 amSdot Chambers The implication is DEFINITELY that they tried to hide it especially the last post. And saying that Rashida Jones “couldnt deny her blackness”.
Chelsia Latney says:October 10, 2013 at 10:05 amMost of the people posted I knew were black and I don’t think they were “hiding” it. This isn’t the 40s LMAO I can’t even believe I see the word “passing” in 2013. Especially Soledad (duh!), and Maya Rudolph? Come on everyone knows who her mom was. She didn’t “play a white woman” in that movie..she played a woman, and she didn’t once say HEY I’M WHITE. Maybe the child who posted this article is the one more shocked about these people actually being black. I was surprised about Cash Warren but since he’s pretty much out of the limelight who cares. I think it matters most in Hollywood with the# of roles you are able to get because you look racially ambiguous. Maybe the title should have been “10 celebrities who look like they could be white but they are really black”
Chelsia Latney says:October 10, 2013 at 11:07 amCuff Lynks I agree, however I think The President very much considers himself a black man. Even thought he was raised by his white mother and grandparents…its just something that happesn ALOT with biracial (black and white) people…I think he times have a huge part in that…it may not be the same for biracial children born today…but back in the day? oh yeah you’re black. I was really expecting to see something jaw dropping in this article. Soledad? The creator of “Being Black in America” ? HA!
Vatrice George says:October 10, 2013 at 11:29 am@Keith Josef Adkins, I listened to that same docu about Ohio’s fair skinned black community and several of the folks did have a problem with their black identity.Pike County, Ohio – As Black as We Wish to Be. http://www.prx.org/pieces/85361-pike-county-ohio-as-black-as-we-wish-to-be
Vatrice George says:October 10, 2013 at 11:32 amEva Keane I totally agree with you Eva, why are we begging this people to accept us? We try to force Afro Latinos to admit they are black, if Sammy Sosa doesn’t believe he’s black let him be.
Vatrice George says:October 10, 2013 at 11:33 am@Carly, they should make more biracial
film roles, because I would prefer to see women who look like Sana Lathan than Rashida Jones representing black women.
ShaRall Willis says:October 10, 2013 at 12:25 pmWe all have African blood because the first man came out of Africa. The only one on this list who denies having African ancestry is rhat you lady from the reality show however, claiming to be 100% Italian and not acknowledged that Hannibal and the Moors ruled the Mediterranean for hundreds of years show how deep White supremacy and White skin privilege is in this day and time.
Crystal SQeek DaPrima says:October 10, 2013 at 1:08 pm@Eva…Sista if you knew your history, (and it’s apparent you don’t) then you would know that all African American people are of a mixed race. So ummm…yes, they are black. We all are.
Sensible Fanatic says:October 10, 2013 at 1:15 pmThis is really silly.Recognition of the one-drop-rule (or really any color based politics) is a nod to the existence of white supremacy and subservience to a “white” system, which really doesn’t exist, except in the mind of those who allow it to.People of African descent in the United States, who are the only ones on earth who actually still subscribe to this silly one-drop rule, really need to stop allowing their identity to be dictated by white southern politics put in place to protect jobs more than 100 years ago.The problem is that today here is a whole economic community built around the one-drop rule via music, movies, TV stations, businesses and organizations that benefit from keeping this USA phenomenon in existence.They have their cultural police also who accuse anyone who has African ancestry, but recognizes any other heritage, as being anti-black or in denial because they don’t subscribe to the false, non-scientific one-drop belief system.Take back your power and write your destiny with our own pen. BE FREE or cease to be a relevant voice in the diaspora.Remember 95% of all Africans brought to the Americas went to Latin America and speak Spanish, Portuguese and French and don’t follow the one drop rule.As the world becomes more global, USA-based, one-drop rule centrists, risk becoming an even more marginalized sub-culture, even among people of African descent in the Americas. Be careful.
Sensible Fanatic says:October 10, 2013 at 1:30 pmEXACTLY.A whole community exists in the USA because of supreme court decision.The recognition of the one-drop rule is an act of subservience to white supremacy. Even down to calling yourself “black”. It all is a reaction to white action.People who asserting their mixed race heritage are heroes, because they are rebelling against the white-supremacist system that forced the one-drop rule on a whole people.Mixed-race people are not “in-denial” because they don’t pick one crayon like white people want them to.They are fighting back for the freedom to define themselves outside of this crayon based system created by white supremacists. They are not passing, they are gaining access to systematic knowledge that is kept secret from as many outside of the white mainstream as possible.They are like spooks by the door.Beware of all “black” people who accuse them of being sellouts… they benefit in keeping the races separate.BET, Centric, black movies, black radio would have to change if the country becomes more mixed. Its always been about money, not race.The one-drop rule protected jobs for Hence Plessy vs Ferguson.Stop following this silly one drop rule. BE FREE. Nobody else in the WORLD follows it.
Sandi Buckland says:October 10, 2013 at 1:41 pmI used to just be a person before coming to the US. Now every form I fill out needs to categorize me by race. It was unnerving at first. Now I just fill in whatever I feel like that day!!! I can lay claim to a multiplicity of lineages. Someone is obsessed. But some how Blacks seem to always be the ones accused of being so. Don’t think we are the one (for the most part) designing the forms. I took my personhood back!!!! Today I feel ASIAN
Melissa Yasmin says:October 10, 2013 at 5:55 pmMaya Rudolf did not “play a white woman” in Bridesmaids, her character’s father was a black man with locs! Maybe you should do some research before you begin to write an article…
J’Ann Walters says:October 10, 2013 at 6:39 pmDwl, quite so. Loovev it Sandi !
Robert L Browning III says:October 10, 2013 at 9:51 pmMaya Rudolf didn’t play white in Bridesmaids, her father was black in the movie…
Debbie Silburn says:October 10, 2013 at 11:34 pmDwl! that”s a good one mi still laugh.
Karen Holgate-Morgan says:October 11, 2013 at 2:11 amDWL Sandi am ok wit that ,it should not matter nayway
M LaVora Perry says:October 12, 2013 at 6:58 pmIt says a lot about our society that in 2013 we are even having this conversation. Sad.
Rebecca Wiggins says:October 15, 2013 at 2:02 amSdot Chambers -yes but under Quincy Jones daughters picture the writer says “she can’t hide from being black and that she is trying to blend in with the other white cast mates. to me the writer is saying that these individuals are trying to hide and deny being black by “passing” and are successful at it.
Chantel Thebasedgod says:October 15, 2013 at 10:39 pmAmen….these people are biracial.
Tarnii Lee says:October 16, 2013 at 5:00 amRight on, right on … its our differences that are educating & soul inspiring, I mean who wants to be all the same anyhow.
I mean culture & its influence are important & all cultures I believe need to adhere to their own truths, of course (in the best & most uplifting way possible) but also while understanding that we are people of many races, many faces & many colours all coming together to be hopefully a better human being, one of the earth & all that encompasses.
Let us look toward the things that really matter like child welfare, poverty, famine sickness, education, science, socialisation, community interaction & support, environmental & humane issues effecting us all. All for one & one for all lol, ok ok .. well maybe that ain’t gone happen but we can try in our community’s & work our way out like a ripple in a still pond.
Tarnii Lee says:October 16, 2013 at 5:02 amThe Digital Political many people are shallow shit I see em’ everyday & they ain’t all black … infact hardly are where I am at the mo’ but I will say that ignorance get everybody & I have had my fair share of racial taunts for not being black enough though I love my darker skin brothers & sisters sometimes the sword cuts both ways.
Tarnii Lee says:October 16, 2013 at 5:06 amRashida Jones is Quincy Jones’s child if I remember correctly.
Anani Elioenai says:October 18, 2013 at 12:37 amVery astute!! Now give one of those ladies on this list the role to play Nina Simone and watch what happens. Do a research on the backlash poor Zoe Salanda(so) received when she was given the role. These hypocrites show their hate.
Damola Ifaturoti says:October 18, 2013 at 1:03 pmSpot on, sir Mr. Bill Herder. God doesn’t recognize colors only character
Damola Ifaturoti says:October 18, 2013 at 1:11 pmthis feature just confirms the racial inferiority complex suffered by it’s authors, whatever race they may be!
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:32 pmDonna J. Nicol you are incorrect you meant to say on average African Americans are 20% non-Black, not “the average African American,” meaning some are more (mixed race people) & most of us are less. The majority of Black Americans are an extremely high percentage of African and that’s the only part we should be focused on.
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:39 pmValerie Harper People of African descent would vary in skin tone, facial features, hair types, etc…with or without race mixing. Black people need to stop thinking that without “race mixing” we would ALL look the same or a certain way, that is BS.
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:42 pmPaulette Purvis “bi” means two so you meant to say that all human beings are multi-racial not biracial.
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:44 pmBill Clinton is white so why would he be on this list? Bill Clinton is no different than any other racist white man. Black people please stop acting like coons, accepting this man just because he can play the saxophone & used to eat at McDonald’s.
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:49 pmDerrick Braud the last part of your comment I am confused about. The fact that you see “passing” as some sort of “success” is disturbing.
Susonya Davenport says:October 27, 2013 at 5:52 pmAny person that is less than 50% African ancestry cannot be considered Black.
Naykishia D. Head says:October 28, 2013 at 11:43 amSdot Chambers… That’s not what “passing” means….
London Swain says:October 31, 2013 at 1:24 pmMy Son is Of Mixed heritage. However both his mother and I have raised him to see himself as a individual. He is NOT going to live his life living inside a box others( White or Black ) have made for him. When He looks in the mirror the first thing he sees is himself, not the colour of his skin. If others cant deal with that, then they don’t deserve to interact with him at all. Thank God he has grown with self love and an attitude of acceptance, of both himself and others. Catch up people, a lot of your views belong in the history books.
Dimitri James Bumbaca says:November 1, 2013 at 10:30 amEdward Wandrick Melissa Gorga is southern Italian. The hair, tan and facial structure is very similar to someone of Calabrian or Sicilian heritage.
Frances Bates says:November 5, 2013 at 3:03 amThat’s rude of you to say. I’m biracial and I AM BLACK. I’m proud of it. Shame on you for telling me I’m not.
Rasheedah May-Jenkins says:November 14, 2013 at 2:05 amOnly thing I have a problem with is this article simply seems like its saying Becuase most of these actors have some black blood in them that makes them black, They are not BLACK actors they are Bi-racial or multi-racial, whatever, The thing with Melissa Gorga made me a little mad because she said she wasnt black, she might not be she might be, but the writer of the article(just my opinion) put it as if it was shameful for her to deny her black side (if she is even part black-no one knows) but it wouldnt be shameful if she were to deny having a “White” side….People should be proud of their heritage/ethnicity why is race always end up in an argument like we have to choose sides when most are equally of both. I did enjoy reading this article I learned a lot abt actors I didnt know was Bi/Multi-racial. But I think the writer should have came with a different approach.
Ayn Marx says:November 14, 2013 at 12:55 pmEdward Wandrick It’s not just one invasion: it’s most of their history. Sicily has been a crossroads of the Mediterranean for thousands of years, and many of the people settling there have been dark: Moors, darker Arabs, darker Jews, and sub-Saharan African blacks…and because racism is useful, Northern Italians like to ‘politely’ remind Sicilians about this, and the traditional reaction has been to deny rather than to revel in their hybrid vigour So an Italian-American might know as little about her black ancestors as I know about whatever Gentile French[wo]men in my ancestry led me to resemble a Frenchman slightly more than does the average Semite on our native turf.It also reflects that the ‘one drop rule’ is a peculiarly American institution….
Pamela Ivins Dobuler says:November 15, 2013 at 11:12 pmKahala Lei Azuma Maui – Yes – you probably know that Italian American immigrants in New York City around the turn of the century were looked down upon by other white people there – the were actually called blacks. I did not know this until recently.
Pamela Ivins Dobuler says:November 15, 2013 at 11:16 pmCourtney Harge _ White people go tanning to get darker – and I see some black people want to be white(?) Let’s meet in the middle and be happy.
Francesca Ford says:November 16, 2013 at 2:54 amA couple of these are OBVIOUSLY black. How could you not tell Jennifer Beals is black? And Maya Rudolf SCREAMS black jew. Don’t have to know a damn thing about her parents to know that. Just need to see one picture. And about half the rest I would have guessed were biracial, one part of which being black. But yeah, a few I wouldn’t have guessed right away.
Ashley Swift says:November 16, 2013 at 3:22 amI am biracial (Haitian and Irish-American) and it irritates me that that these people have been characterized as black celebrities “passing” as white. They can do that b/c most, if not all, of them are white, too. They are not black “passing” as white, they ARE white just as much as they are black.As a person of mixed race, I refuse to give into societal pressure to choose one race over the other to identify with just so the rest of the world knows how to define me. I am insanely proud of my heritage on both sides and they are both equally important. Sorry I’m not sorry if that makes it hard for some people to label, categorize, and file me away in their brains as BLACK or WHITE. Maybe it’s time we ditch the race labels and file people under what actually defines us as people: SMART, KIND, TRUSTWORTHY, GENEROUS, HONEST, etc.
Rudy Daniels says:November 16, 2013 at 4:27 amBecause most of the people commenting so loosely fail to really understand the implications of the social and political and economical constricts, content and context of race and how it;s played out in the media as a ocializing element to demean and devalue blackness/african-ness. you guys are polling the superficial surface of these ideoligies and dumbing it down to a personal relatinship paradigm. ‘The implications for being ambigious or non-descript when having african bloodlines is akin to a devaluation process of black people that is now being fully perpetuated by black people because of white supremacy/racism’s powerful yet subtle processes to produce a demeaned concept of blackness.Keep asking the question WHY and continue to DIG DEEPER into history and truths will begin to reveal themselves bout the process and products of a system that racializes a society for control of power paradigms only. It is predicated through wealth access and consumption, but anchored in absulute Power Dominance. White Skin = Power & Value & Control. Yet those who classify themselves as “white” deeply understand this paradigm power dynamic because they only represent less than 10 percent of the world population and survival “instincts” have been activated to achieve, maintain and retain global dominance even though they represent a recessive gene trait population.Pathological Obsession with this particular power dynamic (RACE) would become a “natural” impetus for an individual or a group in this position. With this backdrop, I ask you to now review history with this lucid lense and tell me if it makes more sense to you. It is not about good or bad, right or wrong — but survival ….and what people will do to ensure their own survival even if it means others must suffer. It’s deeper than we all can contemplate. There is no moral compass when one’s own physical and genetic survival is at stake.This process isn’t about who we expect and accept as being part of the Black Parent People/Family of this Planet, but about what and how people identify and preserve the value of that identification. The context is NOT about skin color, but a dynamic and cultural connection that is unashammed to preserve itself amid pressures and methodologies of social dilution, decadence and degradation. This is a social directive that supplants and supercedes as well as undercuts our concepts and conversations about overt manifestations of racial classification. The construct of race was developed to isolate undesireables and caste them into a perpetual lifecycle of constant and persistent devaluation by all means necessary…and at the same time, promote, protect and produce access of life-sustaining resources to the most desirable of group members.The line of distinction made was isolated to skin color and a man-made value was given to it. Those who classified themselves as white pronounced ultimate god-given value to their own white skin thus creating a social, political, cultural and economic hierarchy based of the values attributted to white skin versus other people’s skin tones. The dehumanization process of blackness begin right there and is woven into the fabric of everything we see and do, believe and think, dream and invision — due to our edu-trainment (education and conditioning) — everything around us reinforces the value of whiteness and in so doing, also — the invalidity and devaluation of blackness in our social construct and context. This is our unescapable lense whether we want to agree with it or not. But those who cannot or refuse not to see clearly through that truthful lense of clarity will only suffer from their own ignorance.The people pictured or mentioned here, who clearly value thier black ancestry will self-identify. Those who don’t won’t. We have no control over that. And the fact that the construct of white supremacy plays into that acknowlegement or rejection is a real phenomena. We can’t keep ignoring this FACT. We can’t blame people for being subjected to the forces of it’s POWER and the real affects and effects of doin or not doing so. That would be playing to stupidity and even denial and amnesia. But those are 2 very real options offered to people when we begin to uncover racial classification and it’s purpose, processes, products, presentations and permissions. We speak too fast, teach too little, learn not enough and preach to ferverently without clue or study. We become too easily hippocrates of our own ignorance. It is complex and complicated and layed and lofty —- this thing called RACE. But we judge too swiftly and harshly without the evidence nor license to do so. If we would only seek to understand, before trying to be understood when we engage in our “1-way conversations.” Take time to aske questions, engage in critical thought (*does NOT mean to critisize everything and everyone) and dig deeper for knowledge and more questions. Most of are answers are the shallow representations for all we think we know. Become a commited learner, before you seek to be a teacher….because soem of the respnses I read on here are so telling of the respondents command of the information they are espousing about — and NOT in a good way. Talking just to Talk become just unwarranted NOISE if it is noy grounded in purpose and wisdom. Just take NOTE.
Kayla Parisi says:November 16, 2013 at 7:59 amUmm what’s a biracial black man? Either or… Either or.
Dionne McCollum says:November 16, 2013 at 8:14 amThat mindset—that any black blood makes you black—stems from past racist American laws, implemented during slavery times. They believed back then, and some still do (they just don’t enforce it) that if an ancestor was black, the person is. They used terms like these:
. #onedroprule #oneblackancestorrule
#traceableamountrule
#hyperdescentrule
That’s why you hear the phrase “passing for white”. Biracial people who were part black and were very light complected would live their lives as white people bcuz they were better accepted by society, had more advantages in life, and we’re not kept as slaves. That “passing” behavior stayed around after slavery ended for some of the same reasons. The mindset is so ingrained in our culture that people still think that way—including me, unfortunately. Ever seen the old movie called “Imitation of Life”? Very good movie about this topic!! People who were “passing” years ago LIVED IN FEAR of their ethnic background being found out bcuz their lives would immediately change!! They would lose their jobs, their homes, and would be treated like the dregs of society. Smh
Anissa Parisi says:November 16, 2013 at 10:16 amu can be biracial with other races..they just saying “black” is one of his races..if he was white n latino he would b biracial latino
Kayla Parisi says:November 16, 2013 at 12:47 pmThe term “biracial” typically means African American and Caucasian tho. You can say one race without the other in that sense. If he’s a biracial black man.. Is he black and white or black and Asian? It just doesn’t make sense
Vicki A. Chappell says:November 16, 2013 at 1:34 pmWhy is this important? They are good actors – the end.
Vicki A. Chappell says:November 16, 2013 at 3:03 pmInteresting! I commented on this article “on the site,” and it showed up on my FB feed…. hmmm. Anyway, I didn’t like the article. Why should we care about such things?
Pauline Strickland Nichols says:November 16, 2013 at 5:05 pmI agree. What difference does it make if someone is of mixed heritage?
Alvin Williams says:November 16, 2013 at 9:45 pmWell I don’t know what they are going to do once America turns to a non-white majority as the population growth trends seems to indicate to happen in less than 50 years? I guess there will be a rush to claim their racial identity; but the question is should the rest of us let them in?
Vincent Parrish says:November 17, 2013 at 9:43 amThere’s a nation called Black?? I was unaware of that, maybe someday I will go on vacation there.
Vincent Parrish says:November 17, 2013 at 9:52 amOnly 1/6 of the entire planet is considered “caucasion”.
Lynn Wagner says:November 17, 2013 at 1:43 pmAnd the reason for this article is? Who really cares anyway. We are a nation of mixed nationalities. It is what makes our Nation great! If anything, having mixed bloodlines whether Asian, German, Italian, or Black, etc. I believe in Hollywood today would only help expand the careers of these stars by opening up more acting opportunities. Love who you are and the skin that you live in!!
William Lewis says:November 18, 2013 at 11:54 amExactly how do you think we become light skinned black people?
William Lewis says:November 18, 2013 at 11:56 amSusonya Davenport: That is absolutely not true.
William Lewis says:November 18, 2013 at 2:46 pmLelani and anyone that thinks like you; your rant was quite ridiculous. Acknowledging the different races we have been mixed with is NOT a cover up for any insecurites we have. It is simply the full package of what we are. I have heard too many white people say they are part Irish and Italian and German. Are they insecure? Or simply acknowledging their heritage? Yes, many of us are mixed with Indian in this country and that should not be a shock to you, yet we don’t say I don’t want to be black and call ourselves Indians.
Binky Jewel says:November 18, 2013 at 3:00 pmEdward Wandrick Honey, have you seen many Italians? Many have hair like that and are darker, Caucasians come in many shades as all people do.
Marcus Rogers says:November 25, 2013 at 7:02 amThe title of this article makes a silly implication. Since when did any of these people TRY to PASS for white? Words are power…
Marcus Rogers says:November 25, 2013 at 7:04 amEva in that term isn’t Tiger alluding to his Black ancestry as well?
See, come people aint satisfied unless a Black person has a pick in their hair wearing a 40 Acres and a Mule shirt…
Diane Cook says:November 25, 2013 at 7:59 amAnd why was it a success? As if passing for white is an accomplishment that people strive for or so desperately want. Really, seriously. How about this, I not only pass for, but I excel at being black and proud!!!
Wayne Gaskins says:November 28, 2013 at 10:00 pmLois Magnotti let me take you to Mississippi in case you get confused and think you are “mixed”….
Kelly Powell says:December 1, 2013 at 11:11 pmMaya rudolph played a bi-racial girl.in bridesmaids… her father is bkack in the movie
Olga Tsvintarnaya says:November 10, 2015 at 1:09 pmIt’s not fair to call them just black when they are a mixture. They are as much black as white)
Elijah Dennis says:December 3, 2015 at 4:47 pmPerhaps but some of them never acknowledge their black heritage and use the white heritage to gain success when they could make the difference between the races
Olga Tsvintarnaya says:December 3, 2015 at 8:34 pmElijah Dennis ,Rachel Meghan Markle in many episodes reminds of her being black. I don’t live in the US, but I don’t believe that races matter there, though americans like to make a lot of noice around this problem, I guess, due to the history that was really terrible. Now there are black and white movie and pop stars who are loved by people of all the races. Was it hard for Will Smith or Whitney Houston to become popular? Or any other black star…
Aspyn Walton says:December 9, 2015 at 12:14 amOlga Tsvintarnaya Perhaps for celebrities its not an issue but when a white man convicted of a crime has more chance of getting a job than a black man with no record, that constitutes some “noise.” The biggest setback to equality is people who think racism no longer exists. So yes races matter here, it is still an issue, and showing that sometimes most people cannot even tell that a “race” is present is important to getting rid of the idea of race in general.
Jojo Snow says:December 18, 2015 at 5:21 amMelissa Gorga looks Italian in her before picture to me. Is it the super kinky-curly hair? Lots of Italians and Jews have that hair texture. Not that it matters what her race is, but why call her a liar? Not cool.
Jojo Snow says:December 18, 2015 at 5:25 amMaya Rudolph didn’t play a white woman in Bridesmaids. You need to rewatch the film without your bias. In the movie, her character’s father is Black.
Stacey Lucas says:December 18, 2015 at 8:55 pmShe half black she a shame of who she is this is why she changed everything about she don’t want to say she half black she feel people will judge her but she judge her self
Nathaniel Hopkins says:December 20, 2015 at 5:02 amGod and/or nature makes it impossible for any Black gene being dominate to be alterned by any other gene because the Black gene was the beginning of all subsequent genes and races. The child cannot chage the race of the parents. One Black always Black. It is biologically impossible for any Black man or woman to multiply itself by having a White baby. Atter the first Black gene infiltrates any non-Black gene pool it cosumes and changes those and all subsqent offspings into the Black family tree. It is not possible to produce Black from White, but you can produce all other colors from Black. Once Black all future generation shall remain Black. The other features may change however the genetic code is still fundamentally Balck
Nathaniel Hopkins says:December 20, 2015 at 5:06 amBlacks: Abraham Lincolin, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Andrew Jackson, J.EdgarHoover, Jacquelyn Kennedy, Woodrow Wilson… Once Black you can never go back.
Nathaniel Hopkins says:December 20, 2015 at 5:36 amLet me get this straight. Now you create a non-existent race of “Mixed People” then you claim the athority to alter natural history from the beginning of human until the present by declaring that the sons and daugher of the First Black humans are not of and from the Black male spern and the Black woman womb? The so called American Negro is not mixed until we as a people give credit to the White men that enslaves our foreparentes and ravished our Mothers, Sisters, Daughter at will produces not a Bastard Race, Not a mixed race, but a Black N slave race to be held as the White man personal property forever. Those rape based babies were born into our status, suffers as one of us and die at one with us. As a people and recognized race of under international law the old divide and conquer trick no longer works The racial screen for the so called American Negro is very simple and direct; “Do you claim, and prove under sworn affidavits that one of your grandparents was an African Slave legally recognized not as a humban being but as proeprty to the White property owners?” When you can do that then you may come to us and discuss race with your Black Brothers and sisters. Until then go sell that b.s. to all the grandchildren of the salve traders that tortured and murdered our African Grandparents by the millions. This is not academic with us it is flesh and blood real life based on 400 years of legal enslavement in this country. You young white girl and boy do not educate us on our race, color, family or culture. We not you define who is or who is not a part of us.
Olga Tsvintarnaya says:December 20, 2015 at 9:06 amAspyn Walton It’s so sad if it’s so.
Lydia L Reese-Burns says:December 23, 2015 at 6:14 amSoledad O’Brian has always claimed her ethnicity. That’s one of the reasons she created the Black in America series. She said ‘I never saw myself as mixed. I am Black because my mother is Black. I was raised n a Black home. There was never any confusion’.
Tamiko Lemon says:July 24, 2023 at 7:17 pm1st of all. If your mother is black n your dad is whyte. That means you are whyte. If you mom is whyte and your dad is black, then you are black. You are the seed of your father not your mom.

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