Cast and Crew of The Color Purple

The Color Purple

It's about life. It's about love. It's about us.

"The Color Purple" is a powerful and moving film that explores the life of Celie Harris Johnson, played by the talented Whoopi Goldberg. The story takes place in the South and covers a significant period of forty years in Celie's life. As an African-American woman, Celie faces unimaginable hardships and prejudice, but her resilience and determination to overcome her circumstances are truly inspiring.

The film begins with Celie's father arranging her marriage to Albert Johnson, also known as "Mister," played by Danny Glover. This marriage is anything but a happy union, as Mister is just as abusive and debasing as Celie's father. Celie's life is a series of painful experiences, but she finds solace in her friendship with Shug Avery, a blues singer and Mister's mistress. Through her relationship with Shug, Celie begins to find her voice and stand up for herself, realizing that she deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.

As the story progresses, Celie's dreams of reuniting with her sister in Africa keep her going. She endures years of abuse and hardship, but her spirit remains unbroken. The film is a testament to the human spirit's ability to triumph over adversity, and it highlights the importance of friendship, love, and self-discovery. With its powerful performances, poignant storytelling, and beautiful cinematography, "The Color Purple" is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates great cinema.

Full Cast of The Color Purple

Whoopi Goldberg as Celie Harris Johnson

Whoopi Goldberg

as Celie Harris Johnson
Whoopi Goldberg's performance as Celie Harris Johnson in 'The Color Purple' is nothing short of extraordinary. Goldberg, in her film debut, brings an incredible depth and vulnerability to the character, making her transformation from a timid, abused young woman to a confident, self-assured individual all the more powerful. Her ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and grace is truly commendable, and her portrayal of Celie's resilience in the face of adversity is both moving and inspiring. Goldberg's performance earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress, and it's easy to see why - she truly shines in this role.
Danny Glover as Albert Johnson ('Mister')

Danny Glover

as Albert Johnson ('Mister')
Danny Glover delivers a powerful and moving performance as Albert Johnson, also known as 'Mister', in the film 'The Color Purple'. His portrayal of the complex character, who evolves from a stern and abusive husband to a more understanding and compassionate man, is both nuanced and heartfelt. Glover's ability to convey the inner turmoil and eventual transformation of his character is a testament to his exceptional acting skills. His performance adds depth and emotion to the film, making it a memorable and impactful cinematic experience.
Margaret Avery as Shug Avery

Margaret Avery

as Shug Avery
Margaret Avery's portrayal of Shug Avery in 'The Color Purple' is a standout performance that adds depth and complexity to the film. Avery brings a captivating presence to the screen, embodying the character's charisma, vulnerability, and resilience. Her nuanced portrayal of Shug's struggle with her past and her journey towards self-discovery and redemption is both moving and inspiring. Avery's powerful singing voice also adds another layer to her performance, showcasing Shug's talent and passion for music. Overall, Margaret Avery's performance as Shug Avery is a highlight of 'The Color Purple' and a testament to her skill as an actress.
Oprah Winfrey as Sofia Johnson

Oprah Winfrey

as Sofia Johnson
Oprah Winfrey's performance as Sofia Johnson in "The Color Purple" is a standout, showcasing her exceptional acting skills. As a strong-willed and independent woman, Winfrey brings a fierce energy to the role, portraying Sofia's unwavering spirit even in the face of adversity. Her powerful screen presence and emotive expressions beautifully capture Sofia's resilience and determination, making her character one of the most memorable in the film. Winfrey's performance is a testament to her talent and versatility as an actress, earning her a well-deserved nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Willard E. Pugh as Harpo Johnson

Willard E. Pugh

as Harpo Johnson
In the movie 'The Color Purple', Willard E. Pugh delivers a memorable performance as Harpo Johnson. Pugh's portrayal of Harpo, the son of the abusive Albert, showcases his range as an actor, capturing the character's transformation from a meek and obedient son to a man finding his own path. Pugh's performance is nuanced, balancing humor and vulnerability, making Harpo a standout character in this powerful and moving film.
Akosua Busia as Nettie Harris

Akosua Busia

as Nettie Harris
Akosua Busia delivers a captivating performance as Nettie Harris in the movie 'The Color Purple'. Her portrayal of the intelligent and compassionate Nettie, who is Celie's sister and confidante, adds depth and warmth to the story. Busia's nuanced acting, filled with genuine affection and empathy, beautifully captures Nettie's unwavering love and loyalty towards her sister. Her performance is a testament to her talent and skill, making her character a memorable and beloved part of the film.
Rae Dawn Chong as Squeak (Mary Agnes)

Rae Dawn Chong

as Squeak (Mary Agnes)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Rae Dawn Chong (born February 28, 1961) is a Canadian-American actress. Descr...

Bennet Guillory as Grady

Bennet Guillory

as Grady

Bennet Guillory was born on November 7, 1949 and is currently 75 years old.

John Patton Jr.

as Preacher

James Tillis

as Henry "Buster" Broadnax

Phillip Strong

as Mayor
Laurence Fishburne as Swain

Laurence Fishburne

as Swain

Laurence John Fishburne III (born July 30, 1961) is an American actor and producer. He has been critically hailed for...

Peto Kinsaka

as Adam

Lelo Masamba

as Olivia

Margaret Freeman

as Odessa

Howard Starr

as Young Harpo

Daphaine Oliver

as Young Olivia

Jadili Johnson

as Young Adam

Lillian Njoki Distefano

as Young Tashi

Donna Buie

as Daisy
Leon Rippy as Store Clerk

Leon Rippy

as Store Clerk

Leon Rippy (born October 30, 1949, Rock Hill, South Carolina) is an American character actor. Active on screen since ...

John R. Hart

as Mailman

David Thomas

as Road Gang Leader

Carrie Murphy

as Loretta

Juliet Poe

as Church Sister

Katie Simon

as Church Sister

Ethel Taylor

as Church Sister

Marcus Covington

as Boy

Marcus Liles

as Boy

April Myers

as Emma

Maurice Moore

as Child #1

Lechanda Latharp

as Child #2

Roy Gaines

as Jook Joint Musician

Nana Yaw Asiedu

as African Musician

Bayo Martin

as African Musician

Ndugu Chandler

as African Musician

Jeffrey Kwashi

as African Musician

Pete Munzhi

as African Musician

Aniijia Rae Schockley

as African Musician
Gayle King as Church-goer (uncredited)

Gayle King

as Church-goer (uncredited)

Gayle King was born on December 28, 1954 and is currently 69 years old.


Crew of The Color Purple

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