Da’Vine Joy Randolph, an American actress, made history at the 2024 Academy Awards, winning the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Mary Lamb in “The Holdovers.“
Originally from Philadelphia, Randolph earned her bachelor’s degree in classical vocal performance from Temple University before pursuing acting at Yale School of Drama. Her talent shone on regional stages, including notable performances in productions like “Servant of Two Masters” at Yale Repertory Theater and “Hair” at Prince Music Theater.
Randolph’s breakthrough came with her portrayal of psychic Oda Mae Brown in the Broadway production of “Ghost” in 2012, earning her a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical.
Her recent Oscar win solidified her status as a powerhouse in Hollywood. In her acceptance speech, Randolph expressed gratitude to her former drama teacher, Ron Van Lieu, highlighting his encouragement during her early days in the industry. “When I was the only Black girl in that class, when you saw me and you told me I was enough,” she recalled.
Randolph’s success was no surprise, as she had already clinched other prestigious awards, including a Golden Globe, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and a Critics’ Choice Award.
In “The Holdovers,” Randolph portrays a prep school cook dealing with the loss of her son, delivering a performance that captivated audiences and critics alike. Her Oscar win was the culmination of a remarkable journey marked by resilience and self-discovery.
Reflecting on her win, Randolph described it as a “moment of completion,” emphasizing the significance of being recognized for her authenticity and talent. Randolph expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent Black women and the Black experience with dignity and pride, remarking on the monumental journey of self-discovery and acceptance that led her to this moment.
Her journey from Broadway to Oscar glory serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors and underscores the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of adversity. As Randolph eloquently stated during her acceptance speech, “I’ve always wanted to be different, now I realize I just need to be myself.”
