Nina Mae McKinney
ActingAbout Nina Mae McKinney
Nina Mae McKinney (June 12, 1912 – May 3, 1967) was an American actress who worked internationally during the 1930s and in the postwar period in theatre, film and television, after beginning her career on Broadway and in Hollywood. Dubbed "The Black Garbo" in Europe because of her striking beauty, McKinney was both one of the first African-American film stars in the United States and one of the first African-Americans to appear on British television.
Nina Mae McKinney Movies & Career Overview
The filmography of Nina Mae McKinney reflects a strong mix of popular and critically appreciated roles. Across 25 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.
Dominant Genre
A large portion of Nina Mae McKinney's work falls within the Music genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.
Success Ratio
Approximately 52% of Nina Mae McKinney's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.
One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains Kentucky Minstrels, which stands out as a key performance.
Best Nina Mae McKinney Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Nina Mae McKinney's career based on audience ratings.
Full Filmography
Every movie Nina Mae McKinney has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1950 | Copper Canyon | Theresa | Average | Similar → |
| 1949 | Pinky | Rozelia | Hit | Similar → |
| 1947 | Danger Street | Veronica | Hit | Similar → |
| 1946 | Night Train to Memphis | Maid | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1946 | Mantan Messes Up | Nina | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1945 | The Power of the Whistler | Flotilda | Average | Similar → |
| 1944 | Together Again | Maid in Nightclub Powder Room (uncredited) | Average | Similar → |
| 1944 | Dark Waters | Florella | Average | Similar → |
| 1940 | Swanee Showboat | - | Hit | Similar → |
| 1939 | The Devil's Daughter | Isabelle Walton | Flop | Similar → |
| 1939 | Straight to Heaven | Ida Williams | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1938 | Gang Smashers | Laura Jackson | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1937 | Television Demonstration Film | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1936 | The Lonely Trail | Dancer (uncredited) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1936 | The Black Network | Nina Mae - Radio Singer | Average | Similar → |
| 1935 | Sanders of the River | Lilongo | Average | Similar → |
| 1935 | Reckless | Nina Mae McKinney - Singer | Flop | Similar → |
| 1934 | Kentucky Minstrels | - | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1934 | What Price Jazz | Dancer | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1933 | Blood Money | Rebecca, Ruby's maid (uncredited) | Hit | Similar → |
| 1932 | Pie, Pie Blackbird | Miss Nina | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1931 | Safe in Hell | Leonie | Hit | Similar → |
| 1930 | They Learned About Women | Specialty Singer - Harlem Madness | Flop | Similar → |
| 1929 | Manhattan Serenade | Singer / Dancer | Flop | Similar → |
| 1929 | Hallelujah | Chick | Hit | Similar → |
Nina Mae McKinney - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Nina Mae McKinney?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Nina Mae McKinney is "Kentucky Minstrels" with a rating of 10.0/10.
How many movies has Nina Mae McKinney acted in?
Nina Mae McKinney has been featured in at least 25 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Nina Mae McKinney?
Other notable films include "Night Train to Memphis", "Gang Smashers", and "Straight to Heaven".