Defying The Odds: Regina King’s Movies And TV Shows Ranked

Regina King is a highly acclaimed actor and director who has made a significant impact in both the film and television industries. With a career spanning several decades, she has consistently delivered outstanding performances, earning her numerous accolades and recognition from audiences and critics alike.

King has broken barriers and shown her wide ranging talent in her career, making her a household name. Now take a closer look at Regina King’s impressive filmography, listing out some of her most notable movies and TV shows, and providing Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb rankings to give a sense of their critical and audience reception.

Boyz n the Hood (1991)

Rotten Tomatoes: 96%

IMDb: 7.7/10

Regina King’s breakout role came in John Singleton’s iconic coming-of-age drama “Boyz n the Hood.” The film was a critical and commercial success, and King’s performance as Shalika Gerald earned her recognition as a rising star in Hollywood. Shalika is the supportive and caring girlfriend of Tre Styles, one of the film’s main characters. She provides emotional depth to the story as she navigates the challenges and dangers of life in a tough Los Angeles neighborhood alongside Tre. 

Jerry Maguire (1996)

Rotten Tomatoes: 83%

IMDb: 7.3/10

In Cameron Crowe’s “Jerry Maguire,” King played Marcee Tidwell, the wife of Cuba Gooding Jr.’s character. Marcee is a strong, supportive and no-nonsense character who adds depth to the film’s exploration of relationships and the challenges faced by professional athletes. King’s performance brings warmth and authenticity to the role of Marcee, making her a memorable part of the film’s ensemble cast.

Ray (2004)

Rotten Tomatoes: 81%

IMDb: 7.7/10

Regina King’s role as Margie Hendricks, a member of Ray Charles’ backup group, in the biographical film “Ray” showcased her versatility as an actress. The film was highly acclaimed and won Jamie Foxx an Academy Award for his portrayal of Ray Charles. In the film, Margie is a member of Ray Charles’ backup group, The Raelettes. The character not only contributes her exceptional singing talent but also forms a close and complicated relationship with Ray Charles. King’s portrayal of Margie in the movie is pivotal in highlighting the complex dynamics within the world of music and the personal challenges faced by Charles, the iconic musician.

Daddy Day Care (2003)

Rotten Tomatoes: 27%

IMDb: 5.6/10

In “Daddy Day Care” (2003), King plays the role of Kim Hinton, a mother and wife of Charlie Hinton, portrayed by Eddie Murphy. Kim is a supportive and humorous character who becomes involved in the chaos that ensues when Charlie and his friend start a daycare center for children. While “Daddy Day Care” received mixed reviews, King’s comedic timing and charm shone through in her role as Kim, adding a memorable element to the family-friendly comedy that many grew up watching or played for their children.

If Beale Street Could Talk (2018)

Rotten Tomatoes: 95%

IMDb: 7.1/10

In “If Beale Street Could Talk” (2018), King delivers a powerful performance as Sharon Rivers, the mother of the film’s protagonist, Tish. Sharon is a loving and determined mother who supports her daughter’s relationship with her fiancé, Fonny, despite the challenges they face in a racist and discriminatory America. King’s portrayal of Sharon is both emotionally moving and critically acclaimed, earning her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her character serves as a pillar of strength and resilience in the face of adversity, contributing significantly to the film’s themes of love, family and social justice. 

227 (1985–1990)

IMDb: 6.7/10

Regina King’s early television career took off with her role as Brenda Jenkins in the popular sitcom “227.” Brenda is a smart, witty and relatable character who is part of a close-knit community in a Washington, D.C. apartment building. King’s portrayal of Brenda endeared her to viewers, showcasing her talent and charisma even in her early career. Brenda’s interactions and adventures with her neighbors were a central focus of the show, making King’s character a beloved part of the ensemble cast.

The Boondocks (2005–2014)

IMDb: 8.4/10

In the animated television series “The Boondocks” (2005–2014), King provided the voices for two of the main characters: Huey Freeman and Riley Freeman. Huey is a politically aware and socially conscious young boy who often serves as the voice of reason in the series, while Riley is his younger brother, known for his mischievous and rebellious nature. King’s versatile voice acting talents brought both characters to life, making her arguably the essential part of the show’s success. Her work in “The Boondocks” contributed to the series’ reputation for its sharp social satire and humor, making it a beloved series for Black audiences spanning across generations.

Southland (2009–2013)

IMDb: 8.4/10

In the television series “Southland” (2009–2013), King portrayed the character of Detective Lydia Adams. Detective Adams is a strong and dedicated officer working in the gritty and challenging environment of the Los Angeles Police Department. King’s performance in this role showcased her dramatic range and ability to portray a complex and determined character. Detective Adams’ character added depth and authenticity to the show’s realistic portrayal of law enforcement and urban crime, making King an integral part of the series’ success.

American Crime (2015–2017)

IMDb: 7.6/10

In the anthology television series “American Crime” (2015–2017), King delivered exceptional performances across multiple seasons. Her portrayal varied from season to season, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Notably, she won two Primetime Emmy Awards for her roles in the series. In the first season, she played Aliyah Shadeed, the sister of a murder victim, and her performance delved into the complexities of race, class and the criminal justice system. In the second season, King returned to play the character Terri LaCroix, a mother struggling to cope with the aftermath of a sexual assault involving her son. Her powerful and emotionally charged performances in “American Crime” earned critical acclaim and further solidified her reputation as a highly talented actress capable of tackling challenging and socially relevant roles.

From her early days in “227” to her Oscar-winning performance in “If Beale Street Could Talk,” King has consistently delivered remarkable performances that have left a lasting impact on audiences. Her work in television, including “The Boondocks,” “Southland” and “American Crime,” further showcases her range and ability to excel in a variety of roles. With an impressive array of critically acclaimed films and TV shows, Regina King’s legacy in the entertainment industry is one of excellence and artistic integrity.