10 Final Black Girls Who Empower the Horror Genre

The final girl in a horror movie is an essential element of this genre, as she represents women who survive the worst tragedies. Several Black actresses have played this role with great talent, enriching horror movies.

The emergence of Black final girls has introduced more nuanced and complex representations, reflecting broader societal issues and the intersectionality of race and gender.

Here are ten standout Black final girls who have made significant impacts in horror cinema.

1. Selena - 28 Days Later (2002)

Portrayed by Naomie Harris, Selena is a fierce survivor in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a virus. Her character is notable for her strength, resourcefulness, and leadership, making her one of the most memorable final girls in horror history.

2. Jerilyn - Demon Knight (1995)

Jada Pinkett Smith's Jerilyn is significant as one of the first Black final girls in mainstream horror. Although she survives by default, her character's journey and resilience in the face of supernatural threats set a precedent for future Black heroines in the genre.

3. Maggie - 13 Ghosts (2001)

Rah Digga plays Maggie, a character who not only survives but also fights against the malevolent spirits inhabiting a haunted house. Her role showcases a blend of humor and bravery, contributing to the evolution of Black women in horror.

4. Karla Wilson - I Still Know What You Did Last Summer (1998)

Brandy's Karla defies the typical fate of Black characters in horror films by surviving the events of this slasher sequel. Her character's resilience and loyalty to her friends make her a standout in the genre.

5. Adelaide Wilson - Us (2019)

Lupita Nyong'o's dual role as both the protagonist and her doppelgänger in Us showcases her versatility. Adelaide's fierce determination to protect her family against terrifying foes solidifies her status as a modern final girl.

6. Lex Woods - Alien vs. Predator (2004)

Sanaa Lathan's Lex is a resourceful and strong character who earns the respect of her peers and even the alien predators. Her survival against overwhelming odds marks her as a significant figure in the horror genre.

7. Jenn - Sweetheart (2019)

Kiersey Clemons plays Jenn, who finds herself stranded on a deserted island and must confront a sea monster. Her character's ingenuity and survival instincts highlight a new wave of Black final girls in horror.

8. Frida - Blink Twice (2024)

Naomi Ackie's portrayal of Frida in Blink Twice presents a strong female character who faces terrifying challenges. Her role adds to the growing representation of Black women as resilient survivors in horror films.

9. Jessica - Imaginary (2024)

DeWanda Wise's character Jessica battles a possessed teddy bear in this horror film, showcasing her strength and cleverness. Her survival against such a bizarre threat emphasizes the diversity of final girl narratives.

10. Rial Majur - His House (2020)

Wunmi Mosaku is currently nominated for an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her incredible performance in Sinners, the film that has received the most nominations in the history of the award.

In the film His House, Mosaku plays Rial Majur, a woman of intense emotions, great determination, and strong convictions. The artist expresses how the traumas of war can manifest themselves in the worst ways. It is a truly shocking story that blends supernatural and human horrors, but the persistence of this infinitely empathetic character elevates the plot beyond the traditional slasher film.

Conclusion

These characters not only survive but also challenge stereotypes, bringing depth and complexity to the horror genre. Their stories reflect a broader shift towards inclusivity and representation in film, allowing Black women to take center stage in narratives that were once dominated by their white counterparts.