Da'Vine Joy Randolph

8kiu...dByY

28 Feb 2024

Da'Vine Joy Randolph

Da'Vine Joy Randolph, born on May 21, 1986, is an American actress celebrated for her diverse contributions across stage and screen. She initially garnered acclaim for her portrayal of psychic Oda Mae Brown in the Broadway production of Ghost in 2012, earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. Randolph's talent transcended the stage as she ventured into the realm of film, appearing in productions like The Angriest Man in Brooklyn (2014) and Office Christmas Party (2016).

However, it was her standout performances in Dolemite Is My Name (2019) and The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2020) that propelled her to new heights of recognition. Randolph's portrayal of a grieving mother in the film The Holdovers (2023) further solidified her status as a formidable talent, earning her prestigious awards such as the Golden Globe Award, Critics' Choice Award, BAFTA Award, and Screen Actors Guild Award, in addition to an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

On the small screen, Randolph showcased her versatility with roles in various television series, including Selfie (2014), This Is Us (2016), People of Earth (2016–2017), Empire (2017–2018), High Fidelity (2020), Only Murders in the Building (2021–present), and The Idol (2023). With each project, Randolph continues to captivate audiences with her undeniable talent and commitment to her craft.

Da'Vine Joy Randolph's formative years were spent in the Mount Airy neighborhood of Philadelphia and Hershey, Pennsylvania. During her youth, she honed her craft at the Interlochen Arts Camp, immersing herself in the study of theatre. While her initial focus was on classical vocal performance and opera at Temple University, she transitioned to musical theatre during her junior year, realizing her true passion. After completing her undergraduate studies at Temple, Randolph pursued further education at the prestigious Yale School of Drama, graduating with a master's degree in 2011.

Additionally, Randolph enriched her theatrical education by attending the British American Drama Academy (BADA), where she delved into the nuances of Shakespearean drama during a summer program at the University of Oxford. Her dedication to mastering her craft is evident in her extensive training and academic achievements, which have undoubtedly contributed to her success as a versatile and accomplished actress.

Randolph's journey to Broadway stardom began unexpectedly when she auditioned for an understudy role in the Broadway transfer of Ghost: the Musical, which was originally playing in London's West End. However, fate had bigger plans for her as the producers saw her potential and cast her in the principal role of Oda Mae Brown. This decision came about when Sharon D. Clarke, who had been portraying Oda Mae in the London run, suffered a minor knee injury. Randolph was swiftly flown to London to cover the role in Clarke's absence. Her debut performance occurred on December 16, 2011, and she continued to impress audiences alongside understudy Lisa Davina Phillip until Clarke's return in early January 2012.

Following a preview period, the Broadway production officially opened on April 23, 2012, with Randolph shining opposite Richard Fleeshman and Caissie Levy in leading roles. Her stellar performance earned her a nomination for the prestigious Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. In 2013, Randolph made her feature film debut in the supporting role of a nurse in Mother of George, directed by Andrew Dosunmu, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival to critical acclaim.

The following year, she showcased her versatility by portraying Charmonique Whitaker, a memorable character in the comedy-drama series Selfie, which premiered on September 30, 2014. Despite receiving mixed reviews and being canceled after one season, Selfie developed a dedicated cult following. Randolph expressed her fondness for the show and her character, stating that she would eagerly return for a revival in the form of a movie or limited series if given the opportunity. Her time on Selfie remains a cherished highlight in her career, resonating deeply with both the cast and fans alike.

From 2015 to 2017, Randolph showcased her versatility by lending her voice to the character Christine in the animated series The Mr. Peabody & Sherman Show. Her talent was further demonstrated through guest appearances on notable shows such as The Good Wife (2013), See Dad Run (2014), Life in Pieces (2015), and Veep (2017). She secured a recurring role as Tanya in the acclaimed drama series This Is Us (2016) and also appeared in the comedy film Office Christmas Party (2016).

In a pivotal career move, Randolph starred as Yvonne Watson, a postal worker, in the sitcom People of Earth for two successful seasons from 2016 to 2017. She continued to make waves with recurring roles in Empire from 2017 to 2018 and in On Becoming a God in Central Florida in 2019.
However, it was her breakout role as Lady Reed in the biographical comedy Dolemite Is My Name (2019) that truly propelled Randolph into the spotlight. Her stellar performance alongside Eddie Murphy garnered widespread acclaim, earning her nominations for esteemed awards such as the African-American Film Critics Association, Black Reel Awards, and NAACP Image Awards for Best Supporting Actress.

Randolph's star continued to rise as she ventured into various projects, including the films Kajillionaire (2020) and The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021), along with a main role in the series High Fidelity (2020). She also made significant contributions to the world of animation with voice roles in Madagascar: A Little Wild, Tuca & Bertie, Ultra City Smiths, Chicago Party Aunt, and Birdgirl.

In 2023, Randolph delivered a poignant portrayal of Mary Lamb, a grieving mother and cook, in Alexander Payne's coming-of-age film The Holdovers. Her performance garnered widespread acclaim, with critics praising her depth and emotional resonance in the role. This culminated in her winning the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress and receiving a nomination for the prestigious Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Additionally, Randolph showcased her versatility by portraying gospel singer Mahalia Jackson in the political drama film Rustin. She is set to appear in the upcoming action comedy film Bride Hard alongside Rebel Wilson, further solidifying her status as a versatile and accomplished actress in both film and television.