Black Actresses Who Should Portray the President on Screen

You already know we’re 100 percent here for Maya Rudolph’s banner year bringing back her spot-on Kamala Harris impression for “Saturday Night Live.”

Based on her performance as “Abbott Elementary’s” principal, Janelle James would have a lot of fun bringing her hilarious energy to the Oval Office.

In a “Designated Survivor” style story, Simone Missick would be perfect to fight against conspiracies looking to take her down. You know she’s not letting any power players keep her from taking office.

If there’s ever a version of “The Office” set in the West Wing, Robin Thede would be the president we’d like to see commenting on the absurdity around her.

Danai Gurira speaks with an authority that can’t be denied. If her president gives you an order, you better follow it to the letter. And in the words of RuPaul, “Don’t f**k it up.”

Every time she’s on screen, S. Epatha Merkerson brings a power to her roles that can’t be taught. She has a powerful presence that commands respect and attention...qualities you need from your movie and TV presidents.

Niecy’s “no time for your foolishness” vibe makes her perfect to be the president in a disaster movie, or a mystery-filled political thriller where she gets the last laugh. We definitely want to see her one-up some smug senator who thinks their evil plan worked.

You’d be hard pressed to find someone with more gravitas than CCH Pounder. When she speaks, we all listen.

If there’s one thing we know about Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, she can literally play any role...whether it’s action, drama or comedy. We know she would absolutely nail being the president.

If you need someone to deliver the inspirational speech to the troops before the big battle, look no further than the Emmy winner.

Jenifer Lewis has played everything else in her long, storied career, it’s only right that she play POTUS. I see her as “Auntie President” who is fed up with America’s bullshit.

The “SNL” vet would be hilarious in an outrageous, over the top comedy. And if Kevin James can play the president, Jones certainly can.

Tell me you don’t want to see Tracee Ellis Ross deal with the absurdity of being the only woman in a room full of men, who are talking down to her like she’s not the president.

The actress/director is a smart, witty activist who doesn’t suffer fools and always brings something interesting to her characters. You know you want to see the Maverick as president.

You know how Harrison Ford, Jamie Foxx or Aaron Eckhart play presidents who also end up kicking the bad guys’ asses? Queen Latifah would definitely be perfect as a POTUS who fights off a bunch of evildoers.

If we ever get a “Scandal” revival, it should absolutely revolve around President Olivia Pope.

A president who reads useless senators and congresspeople they way Bailey reads her young doctors would be endlessly entertaining.

Uzo Aduba has a regal presence that makes her feel like she should always be in charge.

Octavia Spencer has an innate air of leadership that makes her feel like someone who would be fair and wise. But she’s also not afraid to put her foot in someone’s ass when necessary.

Do I really need to explain why Oprah should play the president? She’s already been running Black Hollywood for years.

Jackée Harry as President of the United States sounds like the start of an amazing limited series where women are finally ruling the world. Just so you know, peace reigns under President Jackée.

When Regina King talks, we all listen. Her words carry a weight that is undeniable. It’s the kind of strength you want to see in an on-screen president.

Alfre Woodard has that same fierce demeanor as your mom or aunt. She can stop you in your tracks by saying your name in that voice we all know. Imagine her using that with foreign enemies, other politicians or military leaders who don’t respect the chain of command.

Whether it’s “Suits’” Jessica Pearson or “Firefly’s” Zoe, Gina Torres always manages to make her characters the most interesting in the room. Her president would be someone we love rooting for. She’d also be amazing at cutting down mediocre white men.

If you’re looking for the wise, experienced world leader who’s seen it all, look no further than Whoopi. She doesn’t always say the right thing, but her words always have meaning and depth.