Ellen Holly - Actor Profile

Ellen Holly

Acting
Updated: Apr 11, 2026
6Total Films
5.7 Highest Rated
Born: Jan 16, 1931
Birth Place: Manhattan, New York City, New York, USA

About Ellen Holly

Ellen Virginia Holly (January 16, 1931 – December 5, 2023) was an American actress. Beginning her career on stage in the late 1950s, Holly was perhaps best known for her role as Carla Gray–Hall on the ABC soap opera One Life to Live. Holly is noted as the first African American to appear on daytime television in a leading role.

Ellen Holly Movies & Career Overview

The filmography of Ellen Holly reflects a career marked by diverse experimentation. Across 6 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.

Dominant Genre

A large portion of Ellen Holly's work falls within the Drama genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.

Success Ratio

Approximately 0% of Ellen Holly'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 School Daze, which stands out as a key performance.

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Best Ellen Holly Movies Ranked

Must-watch hits from Ellen Holly's career based on audience ratings.

Full Filmography

Every movie Ellen Holly has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.

YearMovieCharacterSuccessMore
2002 10,000 Black Men Named George Selena Frey Flop Similar →
1988 School Daze Odrie McPherson Average Similar →
1985 High School Narc Mrs. Robbins Flop Similar →
1978 Sergeant Matlovich vs. the U.S. Air Force Amy Flop Similar →
1974 King Lear Regan Flop Similar →
1959 Take a Giant Step The Girl in the Bar Flop Similar →

Ellen Holly - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best movie of Ellen Holly?

According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Ellen Holly is "School Daze" with a rating of 5.7/10.

How many movies has Ellen Holly acted in?

Ellen Holly has been featured in at least 6 major films throughout their career.

What are some other popular movies by Ellen Holly?

Other notable films include "Take a Giant Step", "Sergeant Matlovich vs. the U.S. Air Force", and "10,000 Black Men Named George".

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