Edna Mae Harris
ActingAbout Edna Mae Harris
Edna Mae Harris was one of the best-known Black actresses of the 1930s and 1940s. She starred in many all-black cast independently produced movies of the day. An attractive woman who had a soulful voice, personality and sex appeal, she could sing, dance and act. The personification of a Harlem performer, Edna found fame by playing in both stage and screen versions of The Green Pastures (1936) as Zeba. Audiences loved her, and she received glorious reviews, so it was no surprise when Hollywood asked her to repeat her role on screen to wide acclaim. Edna Mae was very much in demand starring in some of the top Black movies such as Spirit of Youth (1938), Paradise in Harlem (1939), Sunday Sinners (1940), The Notorious Elinor Lee (1940), and Tall, Tan, and Terrific (1946), showing her excellent acting skills in drama and comedy. Edna Mae Harris got to tell her story in her later years in the documentary, Midnight Ramble (1994), about independently produced Black films.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Edna Mae Harris reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 13 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Drama
The majority of Edna Mae Harris's filmography leans towards the Drama genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 31% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Edna Mae Harris remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Fury, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Edna Mae Harris Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Edna Mae Harris's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Edna Mae Harris.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1994 | Midnight Ramble | Self - Actress | Hit | Similar → |
| 1943 | Stage Door Canteen | Sun Tan Girl (uncredited) | Average | Similar → |
| 1942 | Legs Ain't No Good | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1940 | Stolen Paradise | Maid | Flop | Similar → |
| 1940 | Sunday Sinners | Corrine Aiken | Flop | Similar → |
| 1940 | The Notorious Elinor Lee | Fredi Welsh | Flop | Similar → |
| 1939 | Lying Lips | Elsie Bellwood | Flop | Similar → |
| 1939 | Paradise in Harlem | Doll Davis | Flop | Similar → |
| 1938 | Spirit of Youth | Mary Bowdin | Average | Similar → |
| 1936 | The Green Pastures | Zeba | Average | Similar → |
| 1936 | Bullets or Ballots | Rose - Lee's Maid (uncredited) | Hit | Similar → |
| 1936 | Fury | Black Woman (uncredited) | Hit | Similar → |
| 1936 | Private Number | Lulu (Uncredited) | Hit | Similar → |
Edna Mae Harris - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Edna Mae Harris?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Edna Mae Harris is "Fury" with a rating of 7.4/10.
How many movies has Edna Mae Harris acted in?
Edna Mae Harris has been featured in at least 13 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Edna Mae Harris?
Other notable films include "Midnight Ramble", "Bullets or Ballots", and "Private Number".