Since 2012, Kerry Washington has been killin’ it as Olivia Pope on “Scandal.”
But before the actress was handling political messes on primetime, Washington was climbing the Hollywood ladder. Over the years, she’s appeared in everything from “ABC Afterschool Special” to “NYPD Blue” and “Ray.”
And, of course, there was her role as Chenille in “Save the Last Dance.” We’ll never forget when she turned Julia Stiles’ homely ensemble into a “slammin’” outfit.
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Today, in honor of Washington’s 40th birthday, we’re looking back at some of her best roles (minus Olivia Pope). Check out our picks below:
"Ray," 2004
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Jamie Foxx may have been the star of "Ray," but Washington was right there with him, delivering yet another stellar performance as Ray Charles' wife Della Bea Robinson.
"I Think I Love My Wife," 2007
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Washington got a chance to play the "bad girl" in Chris Rock's "I Think I Love My Wife," which she said she was "grateful for."
"Lakeview Terrace," 2008
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We don't hold the negative reviews for this movie against Washington.
"Confirmation," 2016
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Washington took on the role of Anita Hill for HBO's TV movie "Confirmation. It ended up being another career-defining moment for the star, who earned an Emmy nomination for her work.