Thank you Diahann

We are all gifted and have a purpose on earth.  
Sometimes one just knows from birth what they should do and others discover it later in life. 
Koraspeaks remembers a true pioneer, Diahann Carroll. 
Carroll died on Friday, October 4, 2019, at 84 years old after a battle with cancer. 
She broke ground as the very first African-American woman to lead a primetime network series in Julia.  
It was essential because it was the first time a black woman played in a non-stereotypical television role. 
She starred as Julia Baker, a strong nurse raising her young son, after losing her husband.
The show premiered on NBC, in 1968, and a year later she earned a Golden Globe Award for the role. 

This was the first portrayal of a black working woman on television.  
Carroll wore many hats within her career.  She started as a model, recorded albums, sung on stages across the world and starred on Broadway. 

She showcased her talent and grace every chance she could.
A visionary she had a level of confidence and sophistication all her own. 
Carroll was also known for her role in A Different World, where she played Marion Gilbert’s–mom of Whitley Gilbert (Jasmine Guy).
And who could forget her guest appearance in the 1999 movie Jackie’s Back?
When Jackie, played by Jenifer Lewis, goes down a list of famous stars who she claims “stole from her”, 
Diahann Caroll replies :
“I am sick and tired of Jackie Washington saying that I stole from her. I built Diahann Carroll from the ground up.”

In 2009, Essence honored Carroll at the Black Women in Hollywood Awards hosted in California. 
Carroll earned a Tony Award in 1962 for her role in the musical, No Strings. 
She was also inducted into the Television Hall of Fame. 
There would be no Angela Bassett, Regina King, Taraji P. Henson, Viola Davis, Kerry Washington, Meagan Good, Octavia Spencer, Kimberly Elise, Nicole Ari Parker, Halle Berry, Kyla Pratt without Lady Diahann. 

Dynamic

Illuminated 
Astonishing 

Harmonious
Amazing 
Noble 
Notable 

Diahann taught us how to own it & to do your best every time you have an opportunity. 
She is survived by her daughter, Kay. 
A class act she was!